Which Gear to Use for Long-Term Parking?

[DeWillow]

For manual transmission vehicles during long-term parking, shift to N gear and engage the handbrake. For automatic transmission vehicles during long-term parking, shift to P gear and engage the handbrake. Below are detailed explanations regarding gear selection for long-term parking: 1. Conditions for using N gear: Shift to N gear when parking. Manual transmission vehicles should shift to N gear when parking, but automatic transmission vehicles have an additional P gear compared to manual ones. Essentially, the key difference between these two gears is that P gear has an extra locking mechanism compared to N gear. 2. Conditions for using P gear: When using P gear, try to avoid parking on uneven ground or slopes. This is because when P gear is engaged, the locking mechanism secures the transmission gears, which indirectly locks the wheels. Parking on uneven ground or slopes can place additional stress on P gear's locking mechanism, potentially leading to damage.

[DelEmery]

Having driven for over twenty years, my experience tells me that the most crucial aspects when parking for extended periods are preventing the car from rolling and protecting the vehicle. For automatic transmission cars, I always shift directly into P (Park) and then firmly engage the parking brake—this locks the transmission, preventing any movement. With manual transmissions, I shift into neutral and then pull up the handbrake, which is simple and hassle-free. Especially when parked on a slope, if you only shift into neutral without engaging the handbrake, the car might roll downhill, causing an accident. Additionally, if the car will be parked for several weeks or longer, it’s best to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to avoid draining it. Also, check the tire pressure to prevent tire deformation, which can shorten their lifespan. I often remind myself and other car owners that developing good habits saves money and ensures safety. In short, don’t cut corners when parking—take care to do it properly, and life will go smoother.

[McAnna]

As a new driver who just got my license, I was curious about parking gear positions when learning to drive. For long-term parking on the roadside or in garages, I'm accustomed to putting automatics in P gear and manuals in neutral, always engaging the handbrake as a precaution. My instructor said using P gear locks the transmission to reduce wear, while neutral relieves engine strain. Once I forgot to pull the handbrake while parking, and the wheels slightly rolled, nearly hitting a wall – it gave me quite a scare. Since then, I always double-secure my car. I also pay attention to parking locations – flat ground is ideal, requiring extra caution on slopes. Friends advised that during summer heat, avoid parking for too long as it drains the battery, so I occasionally use a car cover for dust protection too. Keeping operations simple helps even beginners develop good habits.

[LeSimon]

As someone who values environmental protection, I believe that parking and shifting gears are not just about safety but also about saving resources. When parking for extended periods, I always shift to P and engage the handbrake. For automatic transmissions, once the vehicle is completely stationary, the system won’t consume extra fuel or drain the battery. For manual transmissions, I shift to neutral and apply the handbrake to protect the environment. This simple action prevents accidental starts and reduces carbon emissions. Additionally, turning off the air conditioning, radio, and other electrical devices helps lower the battery load. In our community, standardized parking practices and fewer accidents make a significant contribution. Cultivating these small habits leads to a greener lifestyle.