Should You Shift to P Gear First or Apply the Handbrake First When Parking?
2 Answers
When parking, you should first apply the handbrake and then shift to P gear. The correct parking sequence is as follows: After the vehicle comes to a complete stop, first engage the handbrake, then shift to P gear, release the clutch, and finally release the brake and turn off the turn signal before shutting off the engine. The handbrake, professionally referred to as an auxiliary brake, operates differently from the main braking system. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the vehicle. Developing the habit of applying the handbrake when parking significantly enhances safety. However, due to vehicle wear, unnecessary accidents can still occur when shifting to neutral and applying the handbrake, primarily because the handbrake may fail, leading to the vehicle rolling downhill.
I've been driving my own car for many years, and I often notice people taking shortcuts by simply shifting into P gear and leaving when parking on slopes in residential areas or shopping malls. The next day, the transmission makes clicking noises when starting. From my practical experience, the correct approach is always to firmly engage the handbrake before shifting into P gear: the handbrake keeps the wheels from moving, preventing the car from rolling on slopes. Doing it the other way around, even slight vehicle movement can impact the locking mechanism of the P gear. Over time, this leads to rough shifting or costly repairs. Especially when parking in rainy weather or on mountainous roads, pulling the handbrake a bit higher ensures stability. I also make it a habit to keep my foot on the brake for a few seconds before operating the gear when parking. These small details may seem minor, but they can extend the transmission's lifespan and reduce unnecessary repair expenses. Safety-wise, securing the car properly before locking the doors prevents accidental sliding that could harm people or damage the chassis.
