Should You Use Neutral Gear or Handbrake First When Parking?
4 Answers
It is generally acceptable to either engage the handbrake first or shift to neutral first, as there is no fixed sequence. Below are some methods for gear shifting in cars: 1. For automatic transmission vehicles, you need to shift into P (Park) before turning off the engine. For manual transmission vehicles, shift into N (Neutral) when parking and turning off the engine. 2. If an automatic transmission vehicle is not shifted into P (Park) when parking, the key cannot be removed, and the engine cannot be turned off. 3. The P (Park) gear in automatic transmission vehicles has a locking mechanism. After shifting into P (Park), the locking mechanism secures the transmission gears, which indirectly locks the wheels.
Parking is all about the right sequence. With a decade of driving experience, I always insist on pressing the brake first to stabilize the car before shifting to neutral. This prevents the engine from dragging the transmission and reduces impact. Only after the car comes to a complete stop do I engage the handbrake to lock the wheels, eliminating any slight rolling—especially crucial on slopes where an unsecured car could slide and potentially cause harm. Developing this habit protects both the braking system and transmission, extending their lifespan. Safe driving starts with small details, gradually becoming instinctive—never cut corners for speed. Remember the sequence: brake, neutral, handbrake, and a final check before turning off the engine.
I always make it a habit to pull the handbrake first and then shift to neutral when parking daily. Only after the car comes to a complete stop do I adjust to other gears. Last year, on the slope in my neighborhood, I shifted to neutral first but forgot to pull the handbrake, and the car quietly rolled toward my neighbor's garage door, nearly causing an accident. Since then, I've strictly followed the rule: always secure the wheels with the handbrake first. A simple method that can prevent major troubles and also reduce transmission wear. Consistently operating this way keeps the car in better condition and saves unnecessary repair costs. I recommend developing this routine to boost driving confidence.
From a mechanical perspective, when parking, you should always engage the handbrake first before shifting into neutral. This sequence protects the transmission by preventing it from operating under load, which accelerates gear wear. After the handbrake is securely engaged, shifting into neutral allows the engine to relax without pressure and prevents the risk of rolling. Incorrect sequences, such as shifting into neutral first, leave the wheels unsecured and subject the transmission to shocks, causing long-term damage to the vehicle. Following the correct procedure extends the lifespan of components, saving money and ensuring safety. I always teach my friends this method—simple, practical, and effective.
