What to Do If You Can't Reverse Park?
3 Answers
First, visually assess the width of the parking space, check for any obstacles behind, whether there are cars parked on both sides, and if the length suits your vehicle. When reversing, try to choose to back in from the left side. The left side makes it easier for the driver to observe. During the reversing process, first look behind, then focus on the side mirrors. Maintain an idle speed while reversing and adjust the car body promptly. Each car has different reference points, so the timing for steering varies. When steering during reversing, do it quickly to straighten the car body in a short time. Sometimes it may not be possible to align the car perfectly in one go, requiring multiple attempts to park properly.
I'm a friend who often teaches others how to drive, and reversing is a fundamental skill in driving that many people struggle with at first. Start by finding an open space to practice, such as a corner of a parking lot or an empty field in the suburbs, so you don't disrupt traffic. Here are a few tips I can share: sit up straight and look in the rearview mirror, gently press the brake, turn the steering wheel slowly, and avoid sharp turns; use the reversing radar or camera if you have one—they help judge distance. Practice moving back and forth a few times to get familiar with the steering feel; having someone stand behind the car to guide you is safer. Don’t worry about hitting things—use old boxes as obstacles for practice. Always prioritize safety and check your surroundings each time. Practice makes perfect, and you’ll get the hang of it in about a month.
When I first started learning to drive, I was completely clueless about reversing and would get so nervous that my palms would sweat. But then I forced myself to practice more, starting with the quiet street in front of my house, spending ten minutes every evening repeatedly backing into parking spaces. I watched a lot of YouTube videos to learn techniques, like aligning with target points and controlling my speed to go slower; I also asked a friend who had been driving for years to sit beside me and correct my mistakes. After persisting for a week or two, I realized that reversing is actually about feeling and familiarity, and not putting too much pressure on yourself. Now I can easily reverse into tight parking spaces—the key is not to give up too easily, because everyone can do it.
