What are the correct parking steps for an automatic transmission car?
3 Answers
Correct parking steps for an automatic transmission car are: 1. Press the foot brake to stop the car; 2. Shift the gear from D to N; 3. Engage the handbrake and turn off the engine; 4. Release the foot brake, but it is recommended not to turn off the power at this time to ensure the car is completely stationary under the handbrake; 5. Press the foot brake again and shift the gear from N to P; 6. Release the foot brake; 7. Turn the key back, turn off the power, and remove the key. It is important to note that the handbrake should be engaged first, and the gear must be shifted to P. After shifting to P, the locking gear can lock the gear on the output shaft of the transmission, thereby securing the stationary vehicle.
When I first started learning to drive, I was most afraid of making mistakes while parking. Later, I gradually mastered the steps: first, slowly decelerate to the parking spot, and after coming to a complete stop, don’t rush to shift gears. Remember to keep your foot on the brake pedal to ensure the car doesn’t roll. Then, shift the gear from D to P (Park), and only then engage the handbrake or press the electronic button. Release the foot brake, and finally turn off the engine. Before shutting down, check your surroundings for safety. Developing this habit can prevent transmission damage and extend the car’s lifespan, especially for automatic transmissions—getting the sequence wrong can accelerate component wear. Don’t rush when parking. Beginners are advised to practice several times in an empty space; once familiar, the nervousness will fade. This basic operation is simple but crucial.
Parking safely is all about the right technique. From my experience, first gradually slow down to the stopping point, then firmly press the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a complete halt. Immediately shift into P (Park), engage the parking brake to lock the wheels, and then slowly release the foot brake before turning off the engine. Extra caution is needed when parking on slopes: turn the wheels to the right when facing uphill, and to the left when facing downhill—this way, if the car rolls, it will be stopped by the curb. Always maintain safe distances and check mirrors as good habits to prevent accidents. Don’t overlook regular maintenance of vehicle systems either, like the parking brake, which can fail if it becomes loose.
