72) Automatic transmission: key off, then Park

[Coast108]

Hi, new here but I have been practicing eco-driving for many years. Came here to hone my skills and add new tactics.

I can't seem to fully understand this one:

72) Automatic transmission: key off, then Park
Save a few drops of fuel by modifying your shutdown procedure: when parking, turn off the key *before* shifting to Park and setting the parking brake.

I drive an automatic 2003 CRV. So, does this mean that when I park, I leave it on D (or R), and while it is running, then turn the key off? ...then shift to park and then parking brake? What is the logic behind this one? Anyone care to explain?

[MetroMPG]

It's splitting hairs. Tiny benefit.

It saves you a second or two if you stop the engine before shifting to park.

You save another second or two of fuel if you stop the engine *before* you come to a complete stop in your parking spot.

I do this regularly in automatic cars I drive.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

I don't remember having ever done that in an automatic, but I often turned off cars with manual transmission on gear. Some required the clutch to be depressed in order to turn on again anyway, so it was not much of an issue.