[MLJ]

I suspect most here want to keep their investment pristine for as long as possible. We can coat, wash, and wax all we want, but others that use public parking lots don't really seem to care how we maintain our vehicles or how much it took to get to the point of being able to purchase one (some might actually be resentful). When I finally get mine, mid-2018, I'm going to go nuts anytime I park in public parking. I've tried several strategies on former new cars, but not sure there is a real difference in the outcome. I've tried the lone-wolf strategy where I park far away from other vehicles. This obviously makes the vehicle stand out and any would-be nefarious individual could take advantage of the isolation. The other option I've used (usually after already having door dings) is to mingle with the crowd and park strategically in among the rest of the crowd (next to a curb exposing only one side). Avoiding such circumstances is difficult if you are using the vehicle as a DD or at least more than a weekend driver. I'm wondering if anyone has a preference or alternative method?

 

[RussellHodgson]

I try to park in the largest possible space. In my building there are spaces that are larger than others - so if I can get those I do. I don't park by myself as it draws attention like you said (not that the car doesn't draw attention anyway!) I also don't park where another car could park nose to nose because most other cars are huge SUVs and I've had one drive into my hood once (not in this car but in a previous one). Their high front fenders end up denting and scratching the front hood. So I always avoid that.

 

[Furbish]

I like to park next to unoccupied Handicap spaces, especially on their passenger's side. Their spaces are wider, which I think may prevent the usual dings from them opening their door. Also, their car may not have any passengers and their space may still be empty when you return.

 

[Gallatin]

I find placing cones and crime scene tape around my car works pretty well.

 

[GregW]

I choose the parking lot with the widest spaces.
I always park as close to the centre of the space as I can get.
I avoid parking next to: large SUVs, trucks, and cars with child/baby seats.
Keeping the car clean seems to help too.

 

[TheLip]

Don't park next to two-door cars as their doors tend to be longer to allow access to the back seats.
Don't park next to crappy, beat up cars because their owners clearly don't care.
Don't park under trees that drip sap or drop berries.

 

[RussellHodgson]

Don't park next to two-door cars as their doors tend to be longer to allow access to the back seats.

This is why you should never park next to a 911. Or even a 981 - they are the worst offenders!

 

[Ironman]

Try parking next to other nice/expensive vehicles.

Also place a fake dome camera on the roof ;-)

 

[Yipekiye]

I try to park with the drivers side next to an open space or preferably some kind of landscape bed. It makes it easier to open my door all the way and cuts my ding chances in half.

 

[sgt770]

Be careful parking next to those handicap spots. Most are seniors and have forgot how to park no matter how big the spot is. I should know, I am over 70 and we have a legal handicap permit. Most will drive around forever looking for a spot closest to the store front door. I drive around looking for a safe spot for our babies.