Should You Use the Handbrake When Parking an Automatic Transmission Car?
3 Answers
When parking an automatic transmission car, it is advisable to use the handbrake for your own and others' safety, especially when parking on a slope. Engaging the handbrake can prevent the car from rolling away. However, it's important not to pull the mechanical handbrake too tightly, as over time this can cause the handbrake to become loose or the cable to snap. Automatic transmission generally refers to a car's automatic gear-shifting mechanism, where the automatic transmission's control system selects the appropriate gear based on the engine's speed and load, eliminating the need for manual gear shifting. Automatic transmission cars typically have six gear positions, listed from top to bottom as: P, R, N, D, S, L.
During my driving school lessons, I was always told to engage the handbrake when parking, whether it's an automatic or manual transmission. As a novice driver, I asked this question many times. While the 'P' (Park) position in an automatic transmission does lock the drivetrain, using the handbrake provides an extra layer of protection—especially when parking on slopes—to prevent the car from rolling and damaging the transmission. Forming the habit of pulling the handbrake is quick and easy when parking in lots or by the roadside; however, it's unnecessary for brief stops like waiting at traffic lights. Once, I forgot to engage it, and my car slightly moved on a slope, giving me quite a scare—since then, I've remembered this detail. Regular maintenance checks on the handbrake are also crucial to avoid failure-related risks. New drivers shouldn't overlook it; safe driving starts with small habits.
With twenty years of driving experience, I can share my insight: engaging the handbrake when parking is essential, even for automatic transmissions. While the 'P' (Park) gear provides a basic locking function, the handbrake adds an extra layer of security, especially useful on slopes or uneven surfaces. I recall once parking on a snowy roadside without the handbrake, resulting in slight slippage—fortunately, no accident occurred. Cultivating this habit prevents unexpected incidents, offering peace of mind and preventing vehicle damage. It takes just seconds to apply the handbrake in a parking space, but it's unnecessary for brief stops like at traffic lights. Regularly inspect the handbrake's condition, such as checking for cable wear to avoid potential hazards. This is crucial advice for beginners—don’t assume automatic transmissions eliminate the need for attention to detail.
