Parking your Toyota Corolla safely involves bringing the vehicle to a complete stop, engaging the correct gear, and securing it with the parking brake.
Step-by-Step Parking Process
Parking a Toyota Corolla with an automatic transmission (like models with a Continuously Variable Transmission - CVT without paddle shifters, as mentioned in the reference) follows a standard procedure to ensure the vehicle is securely stopped.
Here are the general steps:
- Find a Suitable Parking Spot: Locate a safe and legal parking space, whether parallel, perpendicular, or in a garage.
- Approach and Align: Carefully maneuver your Corolla towards the parking spot, using your mirrors and surroundings to align the vehicle correctly.
- Bring the Vehicle to a Stop: With the shift lever in D, depress the brake pedal to stop the vehicle completely. This is the crucial first step to halt the vehicle's motion.
- Engage Park (P): Once the vehicle is fully stopped, shift the shift lever to P. This gear locks the transmission, preventing the wheels from turning. The reference notes that you should shift the shift lever to P if the vehicle is to be stopped for an extended period of time.
- Apply the Parking Brake: Firmly engage the parking brake (also known as the emergency brake or handbrake). The reference mentions the Parking brake in conjunction with shifting to P for extended stops. This brake applies pressure to the wheels (often the rear wheels) mechanically, adding an extra layer of security and taking stress off the transmission's parking pawl, especially on inclines.
- Turn Off the Engine: Once the gear is in P and the parking brake is set, turn off the engine and remove the key (if applicable).
- Exit Safely: Ensure all passengers are ready, check your surroundings, and exit the vehicle carefully.
Important Actions from the Reference
The provided reference material highlights key actions for parking:
- "With the shift lever in D, depress the brake pedal to stop the vehicle completely." - This emphasizes the initial stopping procedure using the service brake while still in the Drive gear.
- "If the vehicle is to be stopped for an extended period of time, shift the shift lever to P." - This specifies the use of the Park gear, particularly when the stop is not just temporary (like at a traffic light) but for parking. It's best practice to always use P when parking.
- The Parking brake is also mentioned as important when the vehicle is stopped for an extended period.
Securing Your Corolla
Utilizing both the Park (P) gear and the parking brake is essential for safety. The P gear locks the transmission internally, while the parking brake provides mechanical resistance at the wheels. Using both systems reduces strain on the transmission and ensures the vehicle remains stationary, especially on slopes.
Here's a summary of the main steps:
| Action | Purpose | Key Point from Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Depress Brake Pedal (in D) | Stop the vehicle's motion | With the shift lever in D, depress the brake pedal to stop the vehicle completely. |
| Shift to Park (P) | Lock the transmission | Shift the shift lever to P (for extended stops). |
| Apply Parking Brake | Mechanical wheel lock, added security | Mentioned for extended stops. |
By following these steps, you ensure your Toyota Corolla is parked securely and safely.
