What are the tips for parallel parking for beginners?
2 Answers
Here are the detailed tips for parallel parking for beginners: 1. Adjust the distance between the car body and the parking line: Generally, 30cm is the optimal distance. You can observe from the driver's seat. When the parking line is at one-third of the engine cover, it's approximately 30cm. 2. Timing for steering: When the right rear wheel is parallel to the parking line, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. When you see the inner corner of the parking space in the left rearview mirror, straighten the steering wheel. When the left rear wheel touches the parking line, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left. When both sides of the car body are parallel to the parking line in the rearview mirror, straighten the steering wheel.
New drivers, don’t be afraid to take it slow when parallel parking. As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I believe it’s all about practice. First, find a larger parking space—ideally one that’s about a meter longer than your car—and avoid slopes. Align your car parallel to the one in front, with your right side mirror in line with the rear wheel of the front car. Shift into reverse and slowly back up, keeping an eye on the right side mirror. When the entire rear of the car behind the parking space appears in the mirror, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left. Continue reversing until your car is at a 45-degree angle, then straighten the wheel. Once you’re nearly in position, adjust to align the car properly. Move as slowly as if you’re practicing a dance, and always check the mirrors for pedestrians or obstacles. Practice in an empty parking lot a few times—safety first, no need to rush. Once you get used to it, the nerves will fade.
