Parallel Parking Tips: Steps for Squeezing into Tight Spaces
Parallel parking gets dramatically easier once you learn the flow: line up, enter at an angle, then counter-steer straight. Here it is in four steps.
1. Pull up beside the car in front
Stop side by side with the car parked ahead of your target space, about 50cm–1m away. This is your reference position.
2. Turn the wheel and reverse in
Shift into reverse, turn the wheel fully toward the space, and back up — aiming your rear wheel at the corner of the space.
3. At about 45 degrees, straighten the wheel
Once your car sits at roughly 45 degrees to the curb, bring the wheel back to straight and keep reversing.
4. Counter-steer to straighten out
When you are clear of the car behind, turn the wheel the other way to bring the car parallel. Finish by adjusting your position front to back.
Points that make it go smoothly
- Set the reference position carefully — everything after gets easier.
- Track the car behind you in the mirrors; if unsure, get out and look.
- Do not aim for one perfect attempt. Assume corrections and you will stay calm.
Practice in the game
Level 3 of the parking game is parallel parking. Watch from above how steering translates into car movement, and repeat as many times as you like.