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If you think parallel parking is tricky, try getting out of a New York City parking spot after you get sandwiched between two cars. And I mean tight.
Parallel parking can be difficult, but imagine the heart-stopping challenge of extracting your car when it's utterly encased, front and back, by just an inch of clearance on either end.
This was the precise predicament a Subaru Outback owner faced after a recent shopping excursion in New York City with her friend.
Picture this: the resourceful driver and her friend, fresh from a fun NY shopping trip, returned to find the Subaru held captive.
Do you think drivers park crazily where you live?
A Toyota Camry had snuggled up impossibly close to her front bumper. At the same time, a Honda Civic had mirrored the maneuver at the rear, leaving mere inches – just enough for a coat of paint, or perhaps a credit card if you're lucky – between the two Japanese vehicles.
What Would You Do?
Most people would throw their hands up in despair. Indeed, as she assessed the impossible tight spot she found herself in, a passerby scoffed, muttering, "There's no way," before quickly moving on, clearly unwilling to witness, let alone partake in, what seemed like an exercise in futility.
But this Outback owner, undeterred and determined not to let a parking snafu ruin her day, took a deep breath. "I can do this," she thought, a flicker of defiance in her eyes.
Between a Rock and a Hard Place
As fate would have it, their predicament soon caught the eye of a young man, seemingly drawn in by the duo's predicament – and perhaps, by their charm. Eager to impress, he offered his assistance.
While he couldn't physically move the obstructing vehicles, his offer of an extra set of eyes proved invaluable.
With a young, good-looking guy willing to help, the Subaru owner carefully slipped into her driver's seat. The ordeal began, a painstaking dance of inches. She inched forward, then back, the tires turning but barely moving, as she attempted to coax her car free.
It's death by inches.
As documented in a now-viral TikTok video, the driver, focused and meticulous, continued her arduous task. "This nice gentleman stopped to help," she narrated in the clip, acknowledging her unlikely assistant.
Minutes crawled by, each one filled with agonizingly slow, deliberate movements. The young man, initially confident, soon found himself utterly engrossed, his disbelief growing with every precise maneuver.
After one particularly impressive back-and-forth, he exclaimed, "You are going to (expletive) do this!" – a testament to her unwavering determination against what seemed like insurmountable odds.
The escape wasn't instantaneous. It took multiple attempts, a relentless ballet of slight turns and micro-adjustments. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the Subaru emerged, freed from the Japanese competition's embrace.
A wave of triumphant relief washed over the scene. "Way to go!" her friend shrieked, her voice echoing with exhilaration. “Houdini couldn’t have pulled that off!”
The helpful bystander, shaking his head in sheer amazement, added, "Oh my gosh, you got it!”
It’s important to note: she did not touch either car’s bumper as she got out of the tight spot.
And with that, a seemingly impossible feat was accomplished, proving that sometimes, all it takes is a little ingenuity, a lot of patience, and maybe a helpful stranger to conquer even the most daunting of New York City parking nightmares.
How To Get Out Of a Tight Spot
This Outback owner did exactly what you should do if you find yourself in her situation.
Here are a few additional tips for success.
- Go Slow: In tight situations, speed is your enemy. Proceed with caution, especially when reversing. Remember, patience is key in these moments, keeping you calm and in control.
- Use Mirrors and Cameras: Rely on your side and rearview mirrors to get a clear view of your surroundings.
- Get Help if Needed: If you're struggling or unsure, don't hesitate to ask someone for assistance.
- Use Your Backup Camera: Most cars, such as the Subaru Outback, come equipped with a rearview camera. A backup camera can significantly improve your confidence and safety.
Conclusion:
What I want to know is, did the young guy who helped get her out of a tight spot at least get the attractive Subaru Outback driver's phone number? We’ll never know.
How About You?
Have you been in an ultra-tight parking spot? How were you able to get out? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.
Check out my Subaru Outback story: I Was Excited, My Grandparents Gifted Me a 2024 Subaru Outback - As I Lay On My Side After a Huge Crash, I Screamed Because of My Anguish For Losing My Car I Loved So Much
I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram
Photo credit: Denis Flierl via TikTok
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