Should You Shift to P or N Gear When Parking?
4 Answers
For automatic transmission vehicles, shift to N gear when parking: move the gear lever from D to N, engage the handbrake, release the foot brake, and then turn off the engine. Below are detailed introductions to automatic transmission gear positions: 1. R Gear (Reverse Gear): When engaged, it connects the hydraulic system's reverse gear circuit, causing the drive wheels to rotate in reverse for backward movement. Never force the gear into 'R' position when the vehicle is not completely stationary, as this may damage the transmission. 2. N Gear (Neutral Gear): When in neutral, the planetary gear system idles without power output. 3. D Gear (Drive Gear): When the gear selector is in this position, the hydraulic control unit automatically connects the corresponding forward gear circuit based on throttle opening and vehicle speed signals. It automatically shifts up or down with speed changes, achieving automatic transmission functionality. 4. P Gear (Parking Gear): Uses a mechanical device to lock the vehicle's rotating components, preventing movement.
I've been driving for twenty years and have some knowledge about transmissions. When parking, you must shift into P (Park) because it mechanically locks the output shaft to prevent the wheels from rolling, which is especially safe. Never park in N (Neutral), as it's just a free gear with no locking function—if the vehicle slides, it can be dangerous. For example, when parking on a slope, using N might cause the car to roll, so it's best to first engage the handbrake and then shift into P to protect the transmission gears from jamming. Some friends have the habit of shifting into N at red lights, thinking it saves a bit of fuel—short durations are fine, but for long-term parking, always choose P. Automatic transmissions are designed for this scenario, and incorrect operation can lead to expensive repairs, so developing good habits is crucial.
As a commuter who drives to work every day, I often encounter parking-related questions. Briefly shifting to N (Neutral) gear at red lights or in traffic jams is acceptable—it saves some fuel and reduces transmission overheating—but ultimately, parking must be done in P (Park) gear to ensure the car stays firmly in place. I remember once shifting to N gear at an intersection, only for my foot to slip off the brake, causing the car to almost roll forward—quite a scare. Essentially, the locking mechanism of P gear is like securing the wheels to prevent accidents. The standard procedure when parking in a garage or on the roadside is to engage the handbrake first and then shift to P gear. Don’t skip steps for convenience—safety comes first. Long-term parking in N gear may also wear out components, so proper operation is both worry-free and cost-effective in the long run.
When I was teaching beginners at the driving school, I always emphasized that parking must be done in P gear. The P gear has a wheel-locking mechanism to prevent rolling. The N gear is neutral and should only be used temporarily for car washing or towing. Parking in N gear under normal circumstances is unsafe as the vehicle may roll downhill. Developing the good habit of engaging the handbrake before shifting to P gear can protect the transmission. Remember to check the dashboard prompts.
