Parallel parking is a real challenge that is a real beauty to behold, especially when an expert does it. It’s mind-baffling how they manage to make something so complicated look so easy. Not to mention very useful in different situations. For city people, learning how to parallel park is a necessary skill because it is hard to find good parking spaces.

How To Parallel Park Step-By-Step

So, how do you parallel park? Is there magic involved? Do you need years of apprenticeship to do it? Truth be told, parallel parking is a mix of familiarity with the vehicle you are using and a little bit of logic.

Depending on who you ask, there will be a good mix of answers. But here’s a definitive guide that can help you parallel park just about anywhere.

1. Remember when I told you about familiarity with the vehicle you are using? This is why. To parallel park safely, you need to be able to ensure that you find a parking spot that your car can actually fit in.
2. Line up the back of your car with the back of the front car. It does not have to be exact but you need to be as close as possible to completely lined up.
3. Stop. Breathe and relax.
4. While not moving (not moving forward or reversing), turn the wheel of your car all the way to the right – as far as it will go. Remember, your car should not be moving as you are turning the wheel.
5. Set your sights on the back of your car to make sure there are no obstructions in the way.
6. Start to back up slowly. Don’t change the orientation of the wheel. Check your left side mirror and wait until you see the license plates of the vehicle at the back. At this point, your car should be on a 45 degree angle. Stop.
7. If you see the license plate of the vehicle behind you, bring the wheel back to the middle position. Slowly back up again.
8. Wait for your front bumpers to be lined up with the rear bumper of the front car, then stop.
9. Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left to slowly position your car to be properly aligned with the rest of the cars.
10. Straighten your wheel and adjust accordingly. Make sure you give enough space in your front and back for everybody to be able to comfortably and safely drive away if needed.

But What If I Am Not Good At Parallel Parking?

Good question. You won’t learn to parallel park in a day. If you live in the city then you know parallel parking is a necessary skill. Should you just leave your car at home? Not necessarily.

While parallel parking can be hard, everybody can learn it. But expect to hit a few bumps along the way (in this case, a few front or rear bumpers). If you are not yet confident, you can install parking bumpers on your car to make sure you don’t sour another person’s day.

Keep Your Car In Tip-Top Shape At T3 Atlanta

We may not be able to grab the wheel and parallel park your car on demand, but we’re always available for advice about how to parallel park and other helpful car care tips. Give us a call whether you need routine maintenance or an in-depth repair. We’ll help you get back on the road quickly!