What is the correct sequence for parking and shifting gears?

[Rocha]

The correct sequence for parking and shifting gears is to press the brake pedal, shift from D (Drive) to P (Park), engage the handbrake, release the foot brake, and then turn off the engine and remove the key. Below is relevant information about car gears: 1. P (Park) gear: This is the parking and starting gear. When the car is parked and not in use, it mechanically locks the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. 2. N (Neutral) gear: This is the neutral gear. It is used for temporary stops (such as at traffic lights). Since this gear position means the transmission is disengaged, you must keep your foot on the brake to prevent the car from rolling on a slope. 3. Operation steps: For automatic transmission vehicles, simply push the gear lever to the corresponding position. Manual-automatic transmission vehicles may not have as many gear positions. Besides P, R (Reverse), and N (these three gears are essential for automatic transmission vehicles), the forward gear is usually just D (Drive) (for example, in the FAW Mazda 6). Other gear functions can be achieved through manual mode.

[Kennedy]

As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, the sequence for parking and shifting gears is fundamental. After coming to a complete stop, don't rush to turn off the engine. For manual transmission vehicles, press the clutch and shift to neutral; for automatic transmission vehicles, simply shift to Park (P). Then engage the handbrake or electronic parking brake to ensure the vehicle is securely immobilized before finally turning off the engine. This procedure protects the transmission and prevents excessive wear on the parking pawl when parked on slopes. I remember once during a mountain vacation when I forgot to engage the handbrake, and the car slid a few meters—fortunately, it didn't hit a tree, but it was a close call. Safe driving starts with small details and forming good habits. Be especially meticulous when parking at night; even in poor lighting, rely on the handbrake to secure the vehicle and prevent accidents, taking responsibility for yourself and others on the road.

[OPeyton]

When I first started learning to drive, the instructor always emphasized the parking sequence: press the brake to come to a complete stop, and for manual transmissions, don't forget to press the clutch before shifting to neutral; for automatic transmissions, simply shift into P gear. Then quickly pull up the handbrake, check that the dashboard light is on, and confirm the car isn't sliding before turning off the engine. In the beginning, I often forgot the handbrake step, and coming home to find the car had moved was nerve-wracking. With more practice, it became muscle memory. New drivers, take note: it's okay to go slow, safety first. Start forming good habits from parking to minimize small mistakes that could lead to big trouble. Be extra careful on slopes or during rainy, slippery conditions to protect your new car and extend its lifespan.

[Joseph]

Having studied car mechanisms for years, I've found that the parking sequence significantly impacts mechanical longevity. For manual transmissions, shifting to neutral after stopping reduces component stress. For automatics, it's best to shift to Neutral first, engage the handbrake to stabilize the vehicle, then shift to Park before turning off the engine. This prevents transmission deformation from gravitational impact, especially effective when parking on slopes, preventing metal fatigue damage. Through discussions with mechanic friends, I've learned that regularly checking handbrake tension is crucial to ensure it reliably supports the vehicle's weight. Good habits make your car more dependable for long journeys, saving money and hassle by reducing frequent repairs.

[AshleyAnn]

As a family car owner who frequently picks up and drops off kids, I have a systematic parking routine: immediately shift to neutral for manual transmissions or P for automatics after stopping the car. Then engage the handbrake and wait for the locking signal before finally turning off the engine and exiting the vehicle. On weekends when parking in shopping mall underground garages with many slopes, applying the handbrake first to prevent slipping is essential. Since adopting this routine, I've had zero incidents, saving both money and peace of mind. I recommend all car owners, whether driving manual or automatic, follow this procedure—especially on rainy days when roads are slippery—prioritizing safety controls to ensure worry-free asset protection.