Turn Off the Engine Before or After Applying the Handbrake

[DeJasper]

You should apply the handbrake before turning off the engine. Here are some precautions for using the handbrake: 1. Avoid pulling the handbrake to 100%: The handbrake is used to stabilize the vehicle after stopping and prevent accidents caused by rolling. However, pulling the handbrake to its maximum is not ideal—applying it to 70%-80% is sufficient. Fully engaging the handbrake can shorten the lifespan of the handbrake cable. 2. Never use the handbrake for braking at high speeds: Applying the handbrake while driving at high speeds is extremely dangerous. Since the handbrake typically acts on the rear wheels, sudden braking with the handbrake can cause one of the rear wheels to lock up, leading to skidding or even a rollover.

[RosalieFitz]

As an experienced driver, when it comes to the parking sequence, I must say that applying the handbrake first and then turning off the engine is the right way. Back when I was learning to drive, I didn't pay attention and turned off the engine before pulling the handbrake on a slope. The car slowly rolled downhill and almost hit another car—luckily, it was moving slowly, so nothing serious happened. Later, my instructor scolded me, explaining that even after the engine is off, the car can still move, especially automatic transmission models, which are at higher risk of sliding on slopes. After developing the habit, I now instinctively pull the handbrake first every time I park, ensuring the car is stable before shutting off the engine—it’s much more worry-free. Safety comes first; don’t cut corners and risk the car moving. If it rolls out in a parking lot and gets scratched, the repair hassle is just not worth it. Remember this sequence, and your driving life will go much smoother.

[BradleyRose]

As a young person who enjoys road trips, I also struggled with this sequence when I first started driving. I tried pulling the handbrake after stalling a few times, but later realized that while the car might be fine on flat ground, it could be dangerous on a slope. Once, my car stalled at the garage entrance and slid forward a short distance, nearly scraping the wall. After checking car forums online, many bloggers emphasized the importance of engaging the handbrake first to lock the wheels. Now, I follow the proper procedure every time: stop the car, press the brake, pull the handbrake, confirm the handbrake indicator on the dashboard, and finally turn off the engine and remove the key. Once this became a habit, I never encountered similar issues again, and I feel especially at ease when parking at night, without worrying about the car moving.

[DiJosie]

From a safety perspective, I emphasize that the correct parking sequence is absolutely to engage the handbrake first and then turn off the engine. If done in reverse, after turning off the engine, the engine stops working, leaving the car in a free state, making it highly prone to sliding on slopes. For manual transmission models, this can also damage the gearbox because once the power is cut, moving the car while it's still in motion wears out the components. Cultivate the correct sequence to prevent accidents—don't wait until something happens to regret it.

[AdalineMarie]

From a vehicle maintenance perspective, my experience suggests that applying the handbrake before turning off the engine can extend component lifespan. After engine shutdown, the loss of power may cause vehicle movement, especially for manual transmission cars on slopes, which places extra stress on the clutch and gears. Prolonged exposure to such conditions may lead to issues. The same applies to automatic transmission models, where sliding could impose additional pressure on the braking system. I recommend developing standardized parking habits to minimize wear and maintain optimal vehicle condition.

[DiColeman]

I remember last year when I went on a road trip with my friend, he always liked to pull the handbrake after turning off the engine when parking. As a result, the car rolled on a mountain roadside and hit a rock, costing several hundred dollars in repairs. I reminded him to change the sequence in the future: first pull the handbrake to ensure the car is securely parked, then turn off the engine. As a reminder, such a small detail can make a big difference in safety.