Driving expert's genius tip helps you nail parallel parking every time

01 June 2024 , 12:00

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Parallel parking can be tricky (stock image) (Image: Getty Images)

Whether you're practicing for your upcoming driving test, or need to squeeze between some cars, parallel parking can be daunting.

Parallel parking is the art of parking your vehicle parallel to the road - usually to fit in-between other vehicles. The words 'parallel parking' are enough to strike fear into any learner driver, as it's generally known to be one of the tricker skills to learn. But, once you know how, it becomes second nature - and is essential for when you're hunting for a parking space in a busy street.

TikTok user @tonggeshuoche often shares tips and tricks when it comes to driving, and in one recent video he shared a genius tip which helps you nail your parallel park every time. According to the content creator, it will only take you 15 seconds to learn the tip - and then you'll be good to go.

First, you should make sure to "drive forward along the parking space lines" until your rearview mirror is aligned with the first of the two cars you're parking between. Then, start turning "the steering wheel full to the right" before you start reversing the car.

The content creator continued: "When the left rearview mirror sees the corner" of the bonnet, you should "reset" the steering wheel. Then you can continue reversing until the "tyre comes in contact with the white line, turn the steering wheel full to the left, continue to reverse" until you are in the space. You can see the full instructions in the video below.

'My neighbours parked on my drive so I blocked them in - now they're furious'

It's also worth remembering that, according to the RAC, you should always indicate before doing a parallel park. You should also check that there's a minimum of two feet at either end.

Hundreds of people commented on the driving tip video, with many saying it was a "very helpful" instruction video. Several others warned: "Never turn a car while it’s still. You destroy the rubber of your tires that way."

According to the Highway Code, "turning the steering wheel when the car is stationary can cause unnecessary wear to the tyres and steering mechanism", and it's also known as 'dry steering'. According to a TikTok from Green Signals Driving School, you can "avoid dry steering by simply moving the car first, then moving the steering wheel".

Ariane Sohrabi-Shiraz