What is the correct parking method for a manual transmission car?
2 Answers
Correct parking method for manual transmission: 1. First press the brake to slow down the car, then press the clutch to cut off the power output, continue pressing the brake to stop the vehicle, shift to neutral, pull the handbrake, turn off the engine, exit the car, and lock the doors; 2. If the speed is relatively high, first press the brake, and when the speed drops to the minimum allowable value for the gear, simultaneously press the clutch to bring the car to a gradual stop, then shift to neutral; 3. When driving at 90 km/h in the highest gear and suddenly encountering a red light, only press the brake to reduce the speed to the minimum allowable value for the highest gear, such as 30 km/h, then press the clutch.
Stopping a manual transmission car seems simple but requires attention to detail. When I was learning to drive in my youth, my instructor always emphasized the key steps: first, slow down until the car comes to a complete stop, and never rush to turn off the engine. Depressing the clutch pedal is essential to prevent damage to the transmission, then firmly secure the car with the foot brake. Engaging the handbrake is crucial, especially on slopes, as it provides an extra layer of safety. Next, shift into gear—choose reverse or first gear depending on the slope. For example, use reverse gear when parking downhill and first gear when parking uphill to prevent the car from rolling. Safety comes first. Only then should you turn off the engine and leave. Once this becomes a habit, every stop will go smoothly, and it can also extend the life of your brake pads. If you're a new driver, I recommend practicing several times on flat ground and always double-checking that the handbrake is fully engaged to avoid unexpected jerks when starting.
