If you want to fit into that tight space, or if you're going to be driving in the city, parallel parking knowledge is a major key. Obviously, parallel parking is the most hated part of any driving course, as well as a tricky task overall, but you're bound to have to do it sometime. It's all about skill, and patience, and possibly a bunch of broken cones or trash cans. Once you get it down, you'll be good for life.
Step 1: Find a suitable space. Look for a space you can safely get your car into without hitting another car. It's best to find a space that's a few feet longer than your car, or in a bind, you may be able to park in a tighter space!
Step 2: Study the space as you drive up. Consider the following dangers: Is it really at least a little longer than your car? (check to make sure) If not, go find another spot. …show more content…
Are there obstructions, including a very high curb next to the road? If so, straighten the rear end of the car out slowly as you back it in so that you don't hit anything.
Step 3: Call dibs on the space and position yourself to back in. When you see the space, signal toward it and slow down. Check your rear-view mirror for someone who could be close behind, approaching quickly, or in a truck, in which case you should brake gently at first so they can see the lights and slow down safely. Pull up next to the car in front of the space (or, at the end of the row of cars, where that car would be), close beside it and with the middle of your car even with the rear of the next car.
Step 4: Turn and prepare to back in. Shift your vehicle into reverse. Check the driver-side mirror to make sure the street behind you is clear of traffic before you begin to back up. Look over your other shoulder at the space to assess the gap. Turn the steering wheel hard right, creating a 45 degree angle. When reversing, think of pushing the wheel the way you want the car to