What is the correct method for parking an automatic transmission car?
3 Answers
The correct method for parking an automatic transmission car is: 1. After reaching the parking spot, press the brake pedal until the vehicle comes to a complete stop; 2. Shift the gear lever to N (Neutral) without releasing the brake; 3. Engage the handbrake, adjusting its tightness according to the slope of the ground—pull it tighter when parking on a slope; 4. After engaging the handbrake, release the foot brake. If parked on a slope, the vehicle may slightly move; 5. Once the vehicle is stable, press the brake again and shift to P (Park), then exit and lock the car. Explanation of automatic transmission gears: P (Park) is used when the vehicle is parked and not in use, locking the wheels mechanically to prevent rolling; R (Reverse) is for reversing; N (Neutral) is for temporary stops (e.g., at traffic lights); D (Drive) is the forward gear, used for normal driving.
I've been driving for many years, and automatic transmission parking requires attention to detail. After the car comes to a complete stop, I first keep my foot on the brake, engage the handbrake or electronic parking brake to ensure the vehicle doesn't move, then shift to the P gear, and finally turn off the engine. The whole process should be smooth and not rushed. Why this order? Because engaging the handbrake first allows the parking system to bear the main load, reducing stress on the transmission and preventing internal gears from jamming. Extra caution is needed when parking on slopes, or the car might roll and damage components. I also make it a habit to check the dashboard before turning off the engine to ensure all lights are off. Additional reminder: electronic parking brake models are simpler to operate, but the principle remains the same. In cold weather, don’t forget to let the engine idle for a few seconds to protect the electronic systems. These steps may seem minor, but doing them correctly over time can extend the transmission's lifespan and ensure safety without mishaps.
I always come to a gradual stop and wait until the car is completely stationary before taking action. Firmly pressing the brake and engaging the parking brake is the first step, which shares the parking load, then shifting to P gear and turning off the engine. This sequence is crucial, especially for new cars or models with electronic parking brakes; reversing the order by shifting to P gear first may cause uneven stress on the transmission gear positions, leading to abnormal noises or malfunctions over time. I've seen car owners overlook this, resulting in shockingly high repair costs. Extra tip: On slippery surfaces or slopes, pull the parking brake higher to prevent sliding; after turning off the engine, don’t rush to exit—confirm that doors and windows are locked before leaving. In daily maintenance, this simple parking method can reduce component wear, saving money and ensuring peace of mind. Remember, habits become second nature—don’t skip steps to save a second.
