Should You Shift to P or Pull the Handbrake First When Parking?
2 Answers
When parking, you should first pull the handbrake and then shift to P gear. The car should be in a completely stopped state before applying the handbrake and then shifting to P gear. Otherwise, the mechanical parts of the car's transmission may experience abnormal wear, leading to potential malfunctions. The P gear in a car locks the transmission, while the handbrake locks the wheels. After the car engine is started, the braking system can function normally, with small cars typically using an oil pump-assisted system. With the continuous development of the automotive industry, electronic handbrakes are gradually replacing foot brakes. Electronic handbrakes are operated via electronic buttons. Both are important components of the car's braking system, and the braking effectiveness is determined by the brake pads, which generally need to be replaced every 30,000 kilometers to ensure optimal braking performance.
I always make it a habit to engage the parking brake before shifting into P when parking. This helps better protect the car's transmission. If you shift directly into P, especially in slightly inclined parking lots, the entire weight of the vehicle may rest on the transmission gears, leading to premature wear or failure over time. Engaging the parking brake first ensures the wheels are locked by the braking system, distributing the pressure and allowing the transmission to park with ease. Even on flat surfaces, I stick to this sequence—it makes the operation smoother once it becomes a habit and extends the car's lifespan. On steep slopes, extra caution is needed: I shift into neutral first, wait until the parking brake is firmly engaged and stable, release the foot brake to confirm the car doesn't roll, and then shift into P. This small habit has saved me a lot of hassle, avoiding potential safety risks and future repair costs. In short, paying attention to these details in daily driving brings significant benefits.
