What happens if you don't engage the parking brake when parking an automatic transmission car?
3 Answers
Not engaging the parking brake when parking an automatic transmission car can damage the vehicle's transmission, affecting subsequent driving and gear shifting. For automatic transmission models parked on uneven surfaces, it's recommended to first engage the parking brake before shifting to P (Park) mode to protect the transmission. The P mode is the parking gear - when the vehicle is in P position, the parking lock mechanism locks the transmission output shaft, preventing rotation of gears inside the transmission. For prolonged parking on slopes, first use the parking brake, then place bricks or similar objects against the front wheels facing downhill to transfer the load to the wheels before reapplying the parking brake.
Having driven automatic transmission cars for decades, I know how dangerous it is to park without engaging the handbrake. I once witnessed a car rolling down a slope and crashing straight into a railing. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the repairs cost thousands. Although the P (Park) gear locks the transmission gears, it's not foolproof. Relying on it long-term can wear out the internal ratchet mechanism, leading to staggering repair costs. This is especially risky on steep slopes, where the car might slide toward other vehicles or pedestrians, causing serious trouble. I've made it a habit to always engage the handbrake when parking: first press the foot brake and shift to P, then pull the handbrake and release the foot brake—this double safety measure. Remember, this small action can save big money and ensure safety.
I always put safety first because I get nervous thinking about my family riding in the car. Forgetting to engage the handbrake is my biggest fear, especially when parked on a slope where unstable tires might cause the car to slide into the middle of the road and cause an accident. The P (Park) gear helps somewhat, but it can fail under extreme conditions, potentially damaging the transmission or causing the car to lose control. A friend's car once got stuck in a roadside ditch because they forgot to engage the handbrake, making it difficult to even call a tow truck. Every time I park, I remind myself: don't be lazy—engage the handbrake immediately after stopping. Developing this habit is a basic responsibility, protecting not just myself but also pedestrians.
