What is the correct procedure for parking an automatic transmission car?

[McReed]

When the car comes to a stop, first slow down, press the brake pedal, shift into N (Neutral) gear, and turn off the engine. At this point, the power won't be completely cut off because you haven't shifted into P (Park) gear yet, and the key cannot be removed. Engage the parking brake firmly, then release the foot brake. After the vehicle is completely stationary, shift to P (Park) gear to avoid putting stress on the transmission. Finally, turn off all power and remove the key.

[VonAva]

When parking, I always firmly press the brake pedal to bring the car to a complete stop, then shift the gear to P (Park), and engage the handbrake or electronic parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Finally, I turn off the engine. This sequence is crucial because skipping the handbrake and shifting directly to P on a slope can place extra stress on the transmission, increasing the risk of wear. I've also developed the habit of checking the surroundings for safety after parking, such as using wheel chocks on steep slopes to prevent rolling. This routine not only protects the car but also prevents accidental roll-away incidents. It's advisable to make this a habit every time you park. Beginners might find it hard to remember at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Remember, safety comes first—don't rush to exit the car until all steps are confirmed.

[LeGabriella]

As someone knowledgeable about cars, I first press the brake to come to a complete stop when parking, then shift the gear to P (Park) to lock the transmission and prevent rolling. Engaging the handbrake is crucial as it shares the load with the P gear, protecting the drivetrain. After that, I turn off the engine. Skipping the handbrake or messing up the sequence, such as shifting directly to P without engaging the handbrake, can lead to long-term transmission damage or additional repair costs. When parking, make sure the car is on level ground. If on a slope, take an extra second to adjust the position. Developing these habits can extend your car's lifespan. I recommend following this routine every time you park—don’t cut corners for convenience. Additionally, don’t open the car door immediately after turning off the engine; ensure the surroundings are safe before moving. These small details, when consistently practiced, make your car more durable.

[Maxine]

When I first started driving, I learned that parking was simple: first press the brake to stop, shift the gear lever to the P position, pull the handbrake lever or press the electronic button, and finally turn off the engine. This sequence is important to avoid the car shaking. It's best to park on level ground, and parking on a slope requires extra caution. Why pull the handbrake first? Because it reduces gear wear. I often practice to stay calm, as beginners tend to make mistakes, such as forgetting to engage the handbrake, which can lead to the car rolling. I recommend reviewing the steps multiple times—don’t rush when parking, just take it step by step. Once it becomes a habit, driving will be stress-free.