What are the key reference points for reverse parking?
4 Answers
Whether it's right-side or left-side reverse parking, there are two most crucial reference points: The first point is when you need to fully turn the steering wheel left/right during reversing. The indicator is when the lower edge of the left rearview mirror aligns with the starting line (dashed line). The second point occurs when the vehicle has completely entered the parking space, is properly aligned and centered in the space - this signals the right-side parking is nearly complete and it's time to stop, which is the second reference point. Fasten seat belt for Subject 2 exam: Always fasten your seat belt immediately after entering the vehicle. Remember not to buckle it incorrectly or fasten it to the passenger seat, otherwise the system will directly judge the test as failed. Do not unfasten the seat belt during the entire examination process. Adjust seat and other preparations for Subject 2 exam: After entering the vehicle, adjust the seat, adjust rearview mirrors, fasten seat belt, turn on left turn signal, engage first gear, and release handbrake. These six steps are indispensable. Ensure all preparations are thoroughly completed before starting. No stopping during Subject 2 exam: There's no time limit for reverse parking, but it's important to note that you cannot stop during the parking process. If wheels remain stationary for 3 seconds, the system will judge it as mid-process stopping. Therefore, controlling vehicle speed is crucial. 30-second time limit for hill start: The hill start must be completed within 30 seconds. The system will give voice reminders every 10 seconds, and exceeding 30 seconds will result in immediate failure.
When I was learning to drive, the reference points for reverse parking were what I remembered most clearly. The instructor taught us to first look at the left rearview mirror, wait until it covered the first line inside the parking space, then turn the steering wheel fully to the right. Next, check the right rearview mirror, and as soon as the car body was about to touch the corner of the parking space, immediately straighten the steering wheel. Finally, focus on the position of the rear wheel in the mirror, and stop steadily once it touches the parking line. The entire process requires coordinating with the shoulder position and the landmarks seen in the rearview mirrors. People of different heights might have reference points differing by a few centimeters, so beginners should try a few times to get the feel. It's best for novices to practice in standard parking spaces rather than rushing to narrow ones. Once these three key positions are mastered, you can usually park successfully nine out of ten times. Remember to drive slowly and frequently check the rearview mirrors—never rely solely on the central display's reversing camera!
The reference points for reverse parking are essentially a few key markers. When I was learning to drive, I mainly focused on three positions: first, the distance between the shoulder and the roadside line during parallel parking, usually keeping it about one meter parallel; second, watching the rearview mirror, when the angle of the parking space line in the mirror reaches about 45 degrees, quickly turn the steering wheel; third, observing the distance between the rear of the car and the obstacle behind, starting to reverse at about two meters is generally the most suitable. In actual operation, adjustments should be made based on the length of the vehicle. For example, an SUV needs about half a meter more space than a sedan. Once you’re familiar with these points, it’s best to have a friend observe from outside the car to tell you the exact position of the rear wheels—this is the fastest way to improve. Don’t rely too much on the rigid methods taught in driving schools, as the ground markings in different parking lots may be unclear. Try it a few times yourself, and you’ll find the rhythm.
The reference points for reverse parking are essentially a visual reference system, with two key elements: first, the angle between the vehicle and the parking space—it's generally safest to start turning the steering wheel at a 45-degree angle; second, the intersection of the side mirror and the ground marking line—when the rear wheel covers the parking line, straighten the wheel. The specific operation depends on personal preference. I prefer to start reversing when the lower edge of the left side mirror aligns with the parking line, then watch the right side mirror for the parking space corner to appear. Experienced drivers mentally set four reference points: the steering wheel position, the side mirror position, the rear wheel position, and the rear bumper distance. Beginners can use colored tape on the ground for assistance, but remember that adjusting the side mirrors is crucial—they must be set at the correct angle beforehand to identify the reference points accurately.
