How to parallel park

For new drivers who freeze at curb spots, this gets you into the space on the first calm try.

Parallel parking works when you use the rear of the car as the pivot point and let the front swing in last. That one principle keeps every turn from hitting the cars or the curb.

Have a spot at least six feet longer than your car, mirrors adjusted for the sides and rear, and your seat set so you can see the curb line easily.

Step 01
STOP beside the car ahead with your rear bumpers even.
Leave two to three feet between the vehicles. Glance over your shoulder and in the mirrors for traffic. The position is good when you sit parallel and can see their full side in your passenger window.
Step 02
SHIFT into reverse with your foot firm on the brake.
Signal right if you have not already. Scan mirrors and blind spots once more. You are ready when the gear is in reverse and no traffic closes from behind.

Step 03

TURN the steering wheel all the way to the right.

Keep the brake held while you crank it to full lock. Only after the wheel stops do you begin to roll. The turn is complete when the wheel hits its stop and the front tires point hard right.

Step 04

REVERSE slowly until your car sits at a forty-five degree angle to the curb.

Watch the curb and the car behind in your right mirror. Stop when your right rear corner nears the curb and your front end clears the car ahead. If the swing feels wide, pull forward and start over.

Step 05

STRAIGHTEN the wheel to center and keep reversing straight.

Roll back until your front bumper clears the rear of the car ahead. The view is right when that car appears fully in your left mirror without turning your head. Hold the brake if you need a pause.

Step 06

TURN the wheel all the way left and finish backing in.

Crank to full left lock so the front swings toward the curb. Stop when the car is parallel and about six inches from the curb. Pull forward to center if needed; you are done when the car sits straight with equal space front and back.

The most common mistake

Most drivers begin turning the wheel while still rolling forward, which flattens the entry angle and clips the car ahead. Lock the wheel fully while stopped, then move only after it hits the end.

Pro tip

Practice the same angles in an empty lot with cones until the forty-five degree sight picture in the mirror feels automatic.

Say it every time

Even bumpers, full right, forty-five, center, full left, six inches

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