Which gear should be engaged for long-term parking?
2 Answers
For long-term parking, it is usually recommended to engage the P (Park) gear. After parking, you should first apply the handbrake, then shift the gear to P, and finally release the brake, turn off the engine, and remove the key. This ensures that the vehicle has braking force, making it safer. Below is an introduction to the specific gears of a vehicle: 1. D gear, also known as the Drive gear, is used for forward movement. 2. P gear, the Park gear, is used when the vehicle is parked for an extended period. 3. R gear, the Reverse gear, is engaged when the vehicle needs to move backward. 4. N gear is the Neutral gear. 5. S stands for Sport mode.
As someone who drives frequently, I find that leaving the car in P (for automatic transmission) or neutral (for manual transmission) when parked for long periods is the most worry-free option. Just don't forget to engage the handbrake—that's basic practice! Whether in a parking lot or at home for extended periods like several days or more, using these gear positions keeps the car stable and prevents accidental rolling. For manual transmission cars, leaving it in 1st gear or reverse also works, but adding the handbrake is safer. I once left my car in neutral without the handbrake, and it rolled a short distance—luckily, no one was hurt. If parking on a slope, check that the ground is level after shifting gears. Starting the engine periodically helps protect the battery and extends the car's lifespan.
