What is the correct parking procedure for an automatic transmission?

[ValentinaLee]

Automatic transmission is a type of transmission that does not require the driver to manually shift gears; the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on the driving speed and traffic conditions. The correct parking procedure for an automatic transmission is: place your right foot on the brake, then engage the handbrake, shift into P (Park) gear, lift your right foot, and turn off the engine to complete the process. Generally, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions, arranged from top to bottom as: P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), S (Sport), and L (Low). Driving an automatic transmission car using only P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), and D (Drive) gears can fully meet the needs of general driving. However, in some special driving environments, other functional gears may be required.

[DiKhloe]

I've always driven automatic transmission cars and think the parking procedure is both important and simple. Here's the correct sequence: First, bring the car to a complete stop in a flat and safe location, keeping your foot firmly on the brake pedal. Then shift the gear lever from D (Drive) to N (Neutral). Next, engage the parking brake, whether it's an old-fashioned hand lever or a modern electronic button type. Once the car is secured, shift into P (Park). Finally, turn off the engine and remove the key. Remember this sequence, especially when parking on slopes—getting it wrong can put pressure on transmission components, leading to wear and costly repairs over time. Beginners often rush to shift into P, but once you develop the habit, your car will run smoothly without strange noises. Having driven for ten years using this method, my car has never had issues, saving me a lot on maintenance costs. Just five easy-to-remember, practical steps.

[Wright]

The automatic transmission parking method taught by my driving instructor: After coming to a complete stop with the brakes, don't release the pedal immediately. First shift to neutral (N), then engage the handbrake to secure the vehicle. Make sure the car is stable before shifting to park (P). Finally, turn off the engine and leave. I found this sequence protects the automatic transmission. If you shift directly to P, the car might roll on slopes or put pressure on internal components, accelerating wear over time. Take it slow when practicing – like me at driving school, doing multiple simulations helps form the habit. I recommend beginners follow a similar sequence after starting up, prioritizing safety over haste. When parking, choose level ground to avoid unexpected risks. These simple steps become effortless and worry-free once mastered.

[SanAbel]

Correct procedure for parking an automatic transmission: Step on the brake to come to a complete stop, shift to Neutral (N), engage the parking brake, then shift to Park (P) and turn off the engine. This key sequence protects the transmission from getting stuck. Beginners should memorize and practice this routine for safety and longevity.

[DeWalker]

When driving an automatic transmission car, I always follow this procedure when parking: press the brake pedal until the car comes to a complete stop, then shift the gear to N (neutral) to stabilize. If the car is equipped with an electronic parking brake, simply press the button to engage it, which is convenient and quick. Only after confirming that the car is securely parked do I shift to P (park), and finally turn off the engine. This sequence avoids potential impact on the transmission caused by directly shifting to P. Although modern cars have automatic functions, developing good manual operation habits is the safest. I often park at highway rest areas and use this method to prevent accidents, making it effortless and hassle-free.