We have all dreaded learning how to parallel park, and sometimes we are tempted to find another parking spot elsewhere. But fear not. At DARCARS Nissan of Rockville, we want you to feel confident grabbing that parallel spot anywhere around Rockville, MD, or wherever your Nissan takes you.
Perks of Knowing How to Parallel Park in Rockville, MD
You may be wondering why you need to know this driving skill when you can find a nearby parking lot. In general, it helps you learn the size and length of your car. It also stops you from needing to drive around to find a spot you can enter head-first!
Get Your Car Into Position
Not all parking spots are created equal, and you need to find a long enough spot for you to maneuver into. Don’t feel committed to a spot just because you’ve made the cars behind you wait while you evaluate your situation. Once you’ve found one, steer your car slowly to become parallel to the parked car in front of your space. There should be about 2-3 feet between the side of your vehicle and the parked car.
Check the Mirrors Before Backing Up
Use your left and right side mirrors and the rearview mirror to look for other moving traffic. When you are confident, no vehicles are in your blind spot, put the car in reverse.
Turning the Wheel
Begin reversing your vehicle slowly, turning your steering wheel as you back into the spot at an angle. As your car enters the space, slowly begin to straighten the steering wheel while continuing to move in reverse. Continue to check all mirrors, windows, and windshields. Once your vehicle’s front end has passed the vehicle’s back end, start turning the steering wheel fully to the opposite direction.
Check Your Distance
As you slowly inch backward, begin straightening the steering wheel. Continually check the rearview mirror to check how close your own vehicle is to the vehicle parked behind you. Using a backup camera is a useful tool but does not replace checking your mirrors. You should also make sure your final position will be no more than 18 inches away from the curb.
Adjust the Position of Your Vehicle
If you find your car is still at an angle and not yet parallel with the curb, you may need to continue adjusting. Turning your wheel right or left and inching forward or backward can help you straighten out. Once your vehicle is straight and close to the curb, move forward or back to try to get into the center of the space.
As with all things, learning to park in parallel spots becomes easier with practice. If you’re in the market for a vehicle with the most state-of-the-art parking features, head on over to DARCARS Nissan of Rockville or learn about the many Nissan models with park assist technology, like the Nisan Rouge, ARIYA, and the Altima!
Connect with us
