Did You Know? - How to Parallel Park an Automatic Transmission Car

Parallel parking can often be challenging, particularly in tight spaces. In automatic vehicles, many drivers wonder how to keep the car in neutral while parked so it can be easily moved.

The process is actually quite simple, as long as it is done in the correct order. Here are the steps you can follow to safely park an automatic car while still making it easier to move when needed:

Steps to Safely Park an Automatic Car

1. Move the Transmission Shifter to the P Position. The first step is to move the transmission from D to P to ensure the vehicle is secure and the engine can be turned off properly. Avoid shifting directly to N, as some systems may remain active and potentially drain the battery.
2. Engage the Hand Brake. Once the transmission is in position P, turn off the engine using the engine start/stop button or ignition key. Then, engage the parking brake, which functions to keep the vehicle stable and prevent it from moving while preparing to shift the transmission to N in the next step. 
3. Activate the Shift Lock Feature. Next, activate the Shift Lock feature. In some vehicles, this feature is a small button located near the transmission lever. In others, it appears as a small slot that must be pressed using a key or a similar object. The purpose of the Shift Lock is to release the transmission lock so the lever can be moved from P to N when the engine is off. Without activating this feature, the transmission lever is typically locked and cannot be shifted.
4. Move the Lever to Position N. After activating the Shift Lock, the transmission lever can be moved from P to N. In neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or repositioned more easily if needed.
5. Release the Hand Brake. As the final step, release the parking brake so that the wheels are no longer locked. The vehicle can now be left in a neutral position.

Placing an automatic car in neutral while parallel parked is generally done to make it easier to move the vehicle when necessary. By understanding and following the correct steps, parallel parking with an automatic vehicle becomes more practical, safer, and more considerate of other road users, especially when your vehicle is obstructing access.

Hopefully, the above information enriches your knowledge about how to parallel park an automatic transmission car. For more information about MSIG Indonesia’s insurance products, please visit our official website at www.msig.co.id or call our contact center at 1500 674 (MSI) to find comprehensive information and interactive services.