What is the correct procedure for parking an automatic transmission car with an electronic parking brake?
4 Answers
After coming to a complete stop, shift to N gear, then engage the parking brake, and finally shift to P gear and turn off the engine. Below is a detailed introduction to the electronic parking brake: 1. The electronic parking brake is a technology that achieves parking braking through electronic control. Its working principle is the same as that of a mechanical handbrake, both achieving parking control through the friction generated between the brake disc and brake pads, except that the control method has changed from the previous mechanical handbrake lever to an electronic button. 2. The electronic parking brake system integrates the temporary braking function during driving with the long-term braking function after parking, and realizes parking braking through electronic control technology. 3. The electronic parking brake extends from the basic parking function to the automatic parking function. The application of automatic parking technology allows drivers to avoid prolonged braking when the vehicle is stationary. When the automatic electronic parking brake is activated, it can prevent unnecessary sliding of the vehicle.
Here's how I always park: First, I drive the car into the parking spot, firmly press the brake pedal to bring the car to a complete stop, then immediately shift the gear to P (Park), which is the position that fully locks the transmission and prevents the wheels from moving. Next, I pull up the electronic parking brake button, making sure its indicator light is on to confirm activation, before releasing the foot brake with peace of mind. Finally, I turn off the engine. The entire process is concise and efficient, taking just about ten seconds. I've found that not following this sequence—for example, turning off the engine before shifting gears on a slope—can put excessive pressure on the transmission, leading to long-term wear, or forgetting to engage the parking brake may cause the car to slide unexpectedly, which is quite dangerous. After years of driving an automatic, developing this habit has saved me a lot of trouble, especially during rush hour when I'm in a hurry to get home—quick actions without panic.
Parking safety should never be overlooked. My practice is to firmly press the brake pedal after stopping, then decisively shift into P (Park) to lock the drivetrain. Immediately after, I engage the electronic parking brake to reinforce the hold, ensuring the vehicle is securely anchored before releasing the foot brake. Only then do I turn off the engine and exit the car. On steep slopes, I take extra precautions: after coming to a complete stop, I first shift to N (Neutral) to test the parking brake, confirming there's no rolling before switching to P (Park). This prevents potential risks such as vehicle rollaway causing injury or mechanical damage. Remember, the sequence matters—electronic parking brakes respond quickly, and proper coordination ensures safer driving. This routine saves time during daily commutes while protecting your beloved car.
When I first bought the car, I was always confused about the parking steps. The instructor said it's simple with three steps: press the brake to stop completely; shift into P gear; pull the electronic parking brake button and turn off the engine. Now that I'm familiar with it, I can do it quickly. Before releasing the foot brake, I make sure the parking brake light is on to avoid rolling. Practicing a few more times helps form a habit, making it easy and stress-free.
