When it comes to taking driving lessons, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether you want to learn in a Manual or Automatic car. While it may seem like a minor point, choosing what transmission type you start your driving journey in will have a major impact on the way you drive.
The most important factor when deciding which car to learn in is your own personal preference and circumstances. If you live in an urban area where traffic can be hectic, an automatic car might be more suited to your needs as it takes the stress out of constantly stopping and starting. If you plan to commute long distances on rural roads, on the other hand, a manual car will provide a more engaging and satisfying driving experience.
Considering your anticipated future vehicle choices should also play a role in your decision-making. If you’re likely to be purchasing or renting cars that feature automatic transmissions, learning in this style of car might be more practical. Likewise, if you’re planning to drive older vehicles with manual gear systems, learning in a manual car might make more sense for your safety and comfort.
While it’s unlikely that you’ll ever get bored of driving Manual and automatic driving lessons, the reality is that many learners find automatic vehicles less engaging and stimulating overall than manual cars. Taking the time to test out both options before you choose which one to learn in will help you make a more informed decision.
Manual cars offer a deeper connection between you and the road, with the involvement required to smoothly execute gear shifts creating a more immersive learning experience. This can turn mundane drives into thrilling adventures and can be particularly beneficial for young people who are anxious or struggle with coordination.
On the other hand, learning to drive in an automatic car will require you to think less and be more observant. For example, if you’re learning in an automatic car and pull away from a stop, it’s easy to accidentally knock the brake pedal down, as opposed to pressing down on the clutch to engage the gears. Similarly, when it comes to accelerating and stopping on hills, you’re more likely to stall the car if you don’t use the right amount of pressure on the accelerator.
The good news is that if you do stall, it’s not usually a big deal as the car will take care of itself. This is because the vehicle has a built-in braking system that will apply the brakes automatically if necessary. Having said that, it’s worth remembering that your driving licence won’t cover you for driving manual vehicles once you pass your test.
While it’s possible to successfully learn in either an automatic or manual car, the vast majority of learners opt for manual lessons. PassMeFast’s course recommender can match you with instructors offering both types of lessons, so you can decide which is the best fit for you.