Should the parking brake be set before placing the vehicle in park?

Setting the parking brake before placing the vehicle in park is considered a good practice for several important reasons.

Firstly, using the parking brake helps to secure the vehicle, especially on an incline. The parking brake, also known as the handbrake, provides an additional layer of safety by preventing the car from rolling away if the transmission fails or if the vehicle is parked on a slope. If the parking brake is engaged first, it takes the pressure off the transmission, which could otherwise contribute to wear over time.

Secondly, it instills a habit of securing the vehicle whenever it is parked. By consistently using the parking brake, drivers reinforce the proper protocol for parking, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents or unexpected movements.

Additionally, setting the parking brake can also serve as a physical reminder for the driver to check that the vehicle is truly stationary before exiting. This practice emphasizes safety for the driver and others around, ensuring that the vehicle is not left in a potentially dangerous situation.

While it may seem like a minor detail, the habit of engaging the parking brake before shifting into park contributes to overall vehicle safety and shows good responsibility in vehicle operation.