Reverse parallel parking
park like a pro
Reverse parallel parking can be challenging to learn but here is my simple formula to nail it every time
Step One
- Stop the vehicle one metre from and parallel to the other vehicle in line with the driver’s seat or until both rear bumpers are level
- Select reverse gear
- Lower the left mirror if required
- Turn wheel one full turn to the left
- Scan around the vehicle, checking mirrors and blind spots, starting at the right blind spot
- Look back over your left shoulder and move back slowly
Step Two
- Stop when the car is at a 40 - 45° angle to the kerb.
- Turn the wheel one full turn to the right (wheels to straight)
- Move back slowly
Step Three
- Stop when the rear of the car is 45 to 50 cm from the kerb
- Move back slowly, at the same time turn the wheel to the full right lock
Step Four
- Stop the car when it's parallel to the kerb
- Select first gear/drive
- Straighten the wheels
- Move forward until the car is one to two metres from the vehicle in front
- Select park and apply the handbrake
