How to Parallel Park Your Car

Learning how to properly parallel park is like a badge of honor for many drivers. While the thought of squeezing your car between two vehicles may seem intimidating at first, it’s smooth sailing – or parking – once you get the hang of it.

If you’re a new driver learning the ropes, here’s a quick crash course (no pun) on how to parallel park your car:

1. Find a parking spot with the right amount of space for your vehicle.
   As you approach a parking spot, be sure to check your mirrors, turn on your right signal, and check your mirrors again before you proceed to park your vehicle.


2. Put your vehicle in reverse.
   After pulling up next to the vehicle you wish to park behind, reverse slowly until the middle of your car lines up with the other car’s rear bumper.


3. Back up your vehicle toward the curb.
   Once the coast is clear and there’s no oncoming traffic, cut the steering wheel sharply and start backing your vehicle into the parking spot at a 45-degree angle. Continue straightening and cutting your wheel until you are in the parking space.


4. Straighten and align your vehicle.
   Once you are in the parking space, straighten and align your car between the two vehicles. Your vehicle should be parallel to the curb.

For more car driving tips and resources, visit our Car Buyer Resource Center.

Are you in the market to purchase a vehicle? A car dealer enrolled in the Credit Acceptance auto finance program can help you get approved for financing. Simply fill out the auto finance pre-qualification form on our website to get started.

Click here to begin your online pre-qualification process