“Why should I bother learning to drive stick?”
It’s a fair question. Today, less than 3 percent of new cars and trucks in the U.S. are made with a manual transmission, according to the Environmental Protection Agency—a number down from nearly 35 percent in 1980.
That number makes sense. After all, an automatic transmission does the work of shifting gears for you as you speed up or slow down. But learning how to drive stick is easier than you might think, says auto expertLauren Fix, the “Car Coach.” True, it does take some practice to find the sweet spot between pushing down on the gas pedal and easing up on the clutch as you shift gears. But Fix notes that there are some compelling reasons to learn this skill; and once you do, you may never want to go back. Here’s why.
It’s Way More Fun
With a manual transmission, you’re the one shifting into a higher gear—exactly when you want to—instead of relying on your car to do it for you. “It unlocks an entirely new world of driving,” says Fix, who likens the releasing of the clutch and the pushing of the gas pedal to a dance. “You get the control, the enjoyment and the freedom. It’s a blast. I think it’s the best way to drive.”
It’s Handy In A Pinch
You never know when you might need to drive a stick. Say you’re out with a friend in a manual-transmission car, and an emergency requires you to drive it—what then? Also, you may find yourself on vacation overseas, where manual transmissions are far more common. “There should be no car on the road today that you can’t drive,” says Fix.
You Could Save Money
When you’re buying a new car, one with a manual transmission may cost less—as much as $1,200 less, according to one report. Fix found the same, looking at several top-selling new manual-transmission cars and seeing list prices at least $1,000 cheaper than their automatic counterparts.
You May Get Better Gas Mileage
It used to be generally accepted that manual-transmission cars got better gas mileage than automatics. The EPA says this is generally no longer the case, but some testing found better fuel economy on some (though not all) manuals. Nevertheless, says Fix, you can still improve your gas mileage using a stick—if you know what you’re doing. “Like when a light turns red,” she says, “you can drop the car into neutral, coast to the light and use the brakes to stop.”
You’re Less Likely To Be Distracted
Since you need both hands to drive stick—at least, when not cruising along on a highway—it’s much harder to send a text at the same time (or to eat, or change your playlist). “You really have to be paying attention,” says Fix. Of course, no matter what kind of transmission you have, it’s essential to avoid distracted driving.
The Skills Are Transferable
Some of the techniques you use when driving stick—namely, using your left foot on the clutch and your right on the accelerator and the brake—will come in handy when you’re riding a motorcycle or ATV, which also have both left- and right-foot controls.
Another good thing to stick with?Car insurance from GEICO. See what you could save with afast, free quote.
Read more: Here are 5 other smart tips on how to get better gas mileage.
By Mark Yarm
FAQs
Because driving a manual transmission gives you more control over your car's engine, driving is gentler on car brakes. This is because the process of downshifting lets you slow your vehicle, which saves your brakes from wear.
What are the benefits of learning to drive a manual car? ›
Benefits of Manual Car Control
Manual cars provide a level of control and responsiveness that is often absent in automatic transmissions. By manually shifting gears, drivers have the ability to fine-tune acceleration, improve engine braking, and have a better sense of the car's power band.
Why do I need to learn to drive? ›
The main reason why most people learn to drive is that it offers mobility. After a long day at work, instead of waiting for public transport in the cold and rain, you can simply hop into your car and be on the way home.
What are the benefits of a stick shift car? ›
Manual car pros
- The vehicle is more engaging for the driver.
- The driver has full control over gears and when to shift.
- It's usually less expensive than an automatic-equipped vehicle.
- The transmission often costs less to repair.
- Resale value on sportier models is typically better.
A good driver training program can provide defensive driving instruction and discussions of accident types and can reduce the likelihood of an accident occurring. Additionally, having knowledge of road safety can prevent many of the dangers of the road and make the roads safer for everyone.
What is the hardest part about driving stick? ›
Get the car moving from a stop
This is often the trickiest part to get the hang of when learning how to drive a manual car. Push the clutch in and hold it while shifting the car into first gear. Press lightly on the gas and let the clutch out smoothly and gradually.
Why do people choose to drive manual? ›
One of the biggest benefits of driving a manual car is more engagement with the driving experience. When you drive a manual transmission vehicle, you need to make more decisions about driving based on road conditions, speed, road incline, and more.
Why is driving manual so fun? ›
It's Way More Fun
With a manual transmission, you're the one shifting into a higher gear—exactly when you want to—instead of relying on your car to do it for you. “It unlocks an entirely new world of driving,” says Fix, who likens the releasing of the clutch and the pushing of the gas pedal to a dance.
Why manual drivers are better? ›
With a manual transmission, when you want to accelerate, you choose to downshift if you feel it's needed and there's a direct correlation between engine rpm and tire speed. Shifting your own gears gives such a more powerful, visceral, personal connection to your vehicle compared to an automatic.
Is it worth it to learn to drive? ›
You'll never have to worry about not being able to drive – it's a skill that you can always fall back on. The ability to drive is also a boost to your confidence. Being behind the wheel of a car can make you feel empowered and in control. And as your skills improve, you'll only feel more confident behind the wheel.
When drivers learn to drive safely, they make the road safer for themselves and others. They are less prone to accidents, traffic violations, and driving under the influence. Driver education also teaches students about the dangers of drunk driving, distracted driving, and speeding.
Why should you be able to drive? ›
Independence: Being able to drive can give you a sense of independence and autonomy, allowing you to take control of your own transportation needs. Flexibility: Having a driver's licence gives you the flexibility to change your plans or alter your schedule at a moment's notice.
Is it worth learning stick shift? ›
This is especially advantageous for teens, who are often distracted by their phones. Some of the biggest benefits of having a manual transmission are mechanical. Cars with a stick shift tend to get better gas mileage and are much less costly to repair. Manual cars have better gas mileage due to them weighing less.
Why should you learn to drive manually? ›
You'll Have Better Control Over Your Vehicle
When you drive a manual, you have control over exactly how much power is going from the engine to the wheels. This will come in especially handy during bad weather, or when ice and snow cover the roadway. It's also great to have manual control when you're off-roading.
What are the benefits of manual? ›
Simplicity: Manual processes are often simpler than automated systems, requiring less training and technical expertise. Dependence on Human Judgment: Manual processes rely on human judgment, which can be beneficial for tasks that require subjective decision-making, such as quality control or inspection.
Is it worth learning how do you drive manual? ›
Here's why.
- It's Way More Fun. With a manual transmission, you're the one shifting into a higher gear—exactly when you want to—instead of relying on your car to do it for you. ...
- It's Handy In A Pinch. ...
- You Could Save Money. ...
- You May Get Better Gas Mileage. ...
- You're Less Likely To Be Distracted. ...
- The Skills Are Transferable.
Only around 18% of American drivers can handle a manual transmission, according to U.S. News and World Report. You know: the clutch pedal and the stick shift—three on the tree, four on the floor or, I don't know, five to drive maybe. Different gears, manually engaged.
