Did you know that there are almost 284 million registered vehicles in the United States of America? Learning how to park on a hill is one of the trickier aspects of owning and operating a vehicle, but learning will save you tons of money while keeping those around you safe. It’s not as easy as simply parking on a hill and turning your car off.
There are certain things that you should do to ensure that your car will stay where it’s at when you park it, lock it, and walk away. Little things like turning your wheels toward the curb will prevent dangerous situations and costly accidents.
The good news is that you’re in the right place to learn from a helpful hill parking guide so that you’re prepared the next time you drive a car. Keep reading this article to learn more today!
Parking an Automatic Transmission
Parking an automatic transmission has a much different process compared to parking manual transmission vehicles on a hill. The steps are different with these two different transmission types, so double-check your vehicle to make sure you drive an automatic before following these steps for the best results.
Park Parallel to the Curb
The first thing that you should do when you park a car on a hill is to do your best to get your vehicle parallel to the curb on the side of the road. If you’re parking on a road that is heading uphill then you need to make sure that you have at least one car length behind your vehicle since this allows you to back into the curb.
If you’re planning to park on a downhill section of the road then you’ll work in the opposite direction. You should leave yourself a full car length in front of your so that you can turn your wheels into the curb as you park.
Turn the Wheels Toward the Curb
Once you have your vehicle parallel with the curb the next step is to turn the wheels away from the street curb. It’s an essential step to take if you want to learn how to park on a hill because it ensures that your car isn’t going anywhere if the brakes fail. When you’re ready to park a car, put it in neutral and turn the steering wheel in the proper direction while keeping your foot on the brake.
Taking this step will ensure that your car rolls into the grass or the sidewalk rather than oncoming traffic if something goes wrong after you park on a hill. It’s the most efficient way of protecting your investment by taking extra safety steps.
Roll Into the Curb
Now that your wheels are facing in the right direction it’s time to let your car roll into the curb. You can gradually remove your foot from the brake in order to control the roll of the vehicle into the curb. Once you feel your tire hit the curb you should reengage the brake and place your vehicle in the “Park” setting.
Make sure that you check your mirrors prior to exiting the vehicle to make sure that no one is coming behind you. You should check your mirrors as well as look over your shoulder before you attempt to exit the vehicle after parking on a hill. You can check out here the ways that taking these steps will benefit your quest of getting your driving license.
Leave the Car
Double-check to make sure that you placed the vehicle in park prior to exiting and heading to your destination. Another great idea if you’re worried about your car rolling away while you’re gone is to engage the parking brake. Some vehicles have this brake located in between the two front seats while others have a foot brake for parking.
Parking a Manual Transmission
The process of how to park on a hill with a manual transmission is quite similar to parking an automatic but there are some major differences that you need to be aware of. Here is a closer look at how to go about parking on a hill with your manual transmission vehicle.
Park Parallel to the Curb
You need to make sure that your vehicle is parallel to the street curb when you have to park on a hill with your vehicle. A good rule of thumb is to aim for around six inches from the curb when parking on a hill. If you’re parking uphill then leave a car length behind your vehicle, and if you’re parking downhill then leave a car length in front of you.
Turn Toward the Curb
If you’re planning on parking on a downhill section of the road then you’ll need to make sure that your wheels are turned toward the curb before letting off the brake. Put the vehicle in neutral and gradually let gravity take your car toward the curb. For your vehicle’s longevity, you should try to avoid dry steering when parking on a hill.
Roll Into the Curb
After you’ve placed the vehicle in neutral you’re good to slowly let off the brake. The car will start to roll in a slow and controlled manner as you roll toward the curb until you feel the tire touch. Make sure that no cars are coming by checking your mirrors before you exit.
Use the Handbrake
The main difference between the two transmission options is the need to use the handbrake when parking a manual transmission vehicle. Always make sure to engage the handbrake and lock it in place when you’re parking on a hill.
Now You Know How to Park on a Hill
Learning how to drive is complex and takes time, and a big part of becoming a well-rounded driver is learning how to park on a hill. Make sure that you have your wheels pointed in the proper direction so that your vehicle won’t roll into oncoming traffic. You should also remember to use the handbrake if you’re parking a manual transmission vehicle on a hill.
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