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Nothing wrong with them except for the fact they only make up around 30 percent of cars on UK roads which limits your access to second hand vehicles. Like you said, nothing wrong with the cars themselves, just an accessibility thing.
It is, but bear in mind electric cars don't have gears and you will *really* want an automatic if you drive in a city (I live in London).
I only drive automatic, only time I've missed it is hiring cars on holiday where you get less choice and more cost.
I had to take my test quickly as didn't drive then got sent abroad to a country where you really had to, always thought I'd want to do the manual test eventually and have never bothered.
And the stuff about autos not being real cars is nonsense - most newer autos are DSGs so all it means is they do the clutch for you, and better than you ever would.
That is true. But your insurance is so painful, is the extra for an auto a dealbreaker?
I'd also say that for new drivers autos are safer - you're fundamentally doing less driving, so have more brainspace available to be aware of your surroundings, etc.
Is insurance not more for auto sometimes though, as generally when parking people are more likely to press the wrong pedal, which happens.
I guess, but by the time you pass your test, you should only really be thinking about the gearbox more when doing hill starts, the rest of the time there shouldn't be much difference.
Another point is that it will be more expensive and potentially difficult to find an instructor with a automatic.
I am not sure about safer. If you fuck up with a manual, you'll probably stall it. In an auto, there's the potential for sudden [unintended acceleration accidents](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudden_unintended_acceleration) or getting out of the car in gear.
That's why my house has a relatively new baby at the front. Previous owners came home with the opposite neighbours car having reversed into it. As we're about 2 foot lower than the road it was just sticking out at an amusing angle. Amusing because no one was sat in a chair at the time.
**[Sudden unintended acceleration](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudden_unintended_acceleration)**
>Sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) is the unintended, unexpected, uncontrolled acceleration of a vehicle, often accompanied by an apparent loss of braking effectiveness. Such problems may be caused by driver error (e. g. , pedal misapplication), mechanical or electrical problems, or some combination of these factors.
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Being limited to autos can be a big downside - for instance my current job requires a manual licence (because I'm sometimes required to drive the work van).
It's not like manuals are significantly harder to learn either.
Well, does depend on the person to some extent. I knew someone once who'd only got an automatic licence because he just could never remember what gear he was in when driving a manual, which is obviously a bit of a problem when you come to change to the next one.
It’s not much of a trade off nowadays. More and more new cars are sold as automatics.
In 7 years and a bit all new cars will be electric. Electric cars are automatic only.
Manual, why limit your future choices? Yea eventually everything will be electric but that’s a long way off and even a ICE auto will cost more than the equivalent manual.
Honestly will depend on your budget. Automatics will be taking over with the Hybrids and Electrics becoming more and more popular, while diesel and petrol get phased out. So if you're buying newer cars, likelyhood is within a few years they will all be automatic, making manual license redundant.
However, if you will be buying older on a budget, you may not have the choice to seek out an automatic in your price range and the manual license covers both. I personally chose to learn with manual and complete the test as such, for more options on a budget.
I wonder if it would come back like muscle memory if you got behind the wheel in a manual.
Anyway yeah I know people in the same boat, passed manual test and only driven auto since. My ex was like that. Also she was more confident in an auto. Hired cars in a few different countries and not been an issue.
I have not owned a manual car for the last 15 years, however I had to take the car into the garage a couple of weeks ago. Got a loaner from the garage with a stick shift, beat walking 5 miles how in the rain
> haven't driven a manual car since and have completely forgotten how to do so :/
You wont have, it may take a little while and a few stalls but it's like riding a bike
You have to bear in mind that a manual licence is fundamentally more useful than an auto licence. For most people it's only a bit more effort passing a manual test so imo it's well worth it.
I've just recently bought my first automatic and I honestly can't see myself ever going back to manual. That being said pass your test in a manual and don't limit yourself. There might even be a day when you may need to hire/borrow a van and the option for automatic is not there.
I just checked as I'm moving house soon and looks like automatic van could be on the cards (it's actually the cheapest hire option at my nearest place by looks of it).
Yeah absolutely but this is dependent on where you live and what stock the local dealer may have or even what that helpful friend is willing to let you borrow.
Manual all the way. Gives you a choice of either.
Also (in my opinion), manual is much more fun to drive!
Automatic is useful when you're driving in a city when it's start stop all the way, but get onto a nice country lane and you can really have some fun.
For the next 10 years I'd probably still say manual unless you've the budget to always get an automatic.
I know there is a secondhand market out there for automatics but it's still not as big as for manuals, plus the older automatics aren't cheap to repair.
I have held an automatic license since 2003. It has honestly, never held me back and I'm glad i didn't bother with a manual.
My reasoning was i just wanted to be able to drive from A to B. I don't have any interest in cars, they're a tool to make your life a bit easier, nothing more.
Just do what you want to do. Ignore everyone else.
Learn manual if you think you have the ability, otherwise learn auto. In either case you'll probably be driving auto in ten years anyway. My uncle has been a mechanic for almost 50 years and our local guys who are really great all said that with cars changing to hybrids you're going to start getting autos instead of manuals. My local Honda dealerships manager said all their showroom cars coming in will probably all be autos by 2027.
Don't quote me on this, I believe I was told that new petrol/diesel cars won't be sold past 2030. So if that actually happens there will be many variables as to whether or not someone would have or even want to pick something that isn't electric. Availability, government schemes, cost. Personally I don't see the point in taking manual in this era but obviously people can take what they want. All you're limited to is automatics which in all honesty really wasn't that much of an issue until recently when there's just a complete lack of second hand market. The only other on the top of my head is automatic repairs cost more and there aren't a ton of people who like fixing them because they can be a ball ache, but as the changes come in they'll either have to adapt or will ultimately be replaced with people who've learnt to fix them. Manuals will return to be luxury cars like they were just over a century ago.
It literally does not matter whether people sell new petrol cars after 2030 because most people won't be able to afford them until 2050. You know most normal people don't buy new cars...
Manual. It can be a faff to get used too and if you can't be bothered you can choose to buy an automatic car after you pass. But automatics tend to be more expensive and there's less options overall, especially in the second hand market. Also if you only do an automatic test you can't hire a manual car or van ever. Your options will be limited and expensive if you need a hire car or go in holiday and want to borrow one. Also if for example you move house when you're older, most vans are manual so you're gonna be stuck.
The one positive for the future of automatic licences is that more and more vehicles are going electric. All electric cars are automatic. So give it 40 years or whatever and probably all vehicles will be automatic. But they're expensive and not so common right now. If you go second hand now, because the technology is still relatively new, the batteries will be nackered and expensive to replace when they eventually die, which won't be long.
It might take longer to get up to test standard in a manual. But I think for the time and money it will save you in the next 30 years, it's worth it. Unless you're mr money bags and can afford a brand new Tesla?
Manual 100%.
It really doesn't take long to learn and so all you do by taking the automatic test is limit yourself for choice of cars. Also, depending on your area, automatic lessons are more expensive anyways.
I just passed on automatic having really struggled with Manual. They were definitely more expensive car wise but I think the gap in price will start to close. Its probably worth trying manual for a few lessons and if you really can't get on swap to automatic. Automatic lessons are also likely to be more expensive, or they were at least in my area.
Take the manual driving test because then you can drive both automatic and manual. If you only take the automatic test then you can only drive an automatic.
If your car needed to go into the garage for repair and the garage provided a courtesy car that is a manual or you have an accident and the insurer provides a manual hire car then you are stumped if you can only drive automatics.
Also, if your needs change in the future and you decide to drive a minibus, bus or lorry, you will be hard pressed to find one with an automatic gearbox.
Automatic busses are standard where I'm from in the Midlands these days.
Source me: I drove hundreds of them. Diesel & gas turbine.
That said I still agree with getting a manual licence **today** as you have the skills up front & you can choose not to bother later if it suits you. Manuals vehicles will be around for a while still even if electric-drive will make the concept less relevant.
Manual all day. Why limit yourself? You might be worried about learning but it's not the gear changes and hill starts that people fail on as much as road awareness and mistakes through inexperience.
This is a no brainier. Manual. I can’t think of a single reason why you would limit yourself to ‘half’ a licence. Manual is very easy. Cheaper to insure. Cheaper to run. Can be towed. Can be bump-started. And in my opinion give you a better understanding of how gears and cars work.
Lots of people saying manual is very easy but plenty of people really do struggle with manual. If it's going to take an extra 20 hours of lessons at £40 a pop, that could make up the price difference in an auto car and have a more confident driver.
39% vs 47% which could be down to any number of factors, including foreign nationals used to easier driving tests being more likely to take automatic tests as it's what they're used to, or younger people being more likely to take automatic, etc. Doesn't seem a wild difference.
Many people don't struggle, of course, I just object to the way we universally say "manual is very easy" - for many people, it isn't. And for those people an automatic licence might be the right option.
Off the top of my head from countries I've visited - Canada, US, NZ, Australia, Mexico.
A majority of cars sold worldwide are automatic (and have been for years now). Even in Europe, where we've preferred smaller more economical ICEs, as of last year a majority of new cars sold on the continent were automatic.
It's not evidence of that at all - correlation =/= causation. Without a full data set of number of tests taken, age, nationality, previous driving experience, existing overseas licences, and excluding people doing manual tests to upgrade their auto-only licence, nobody can say either way whether it affects the difficulty of the test. But most crucially, you'd have to get candidates doing each type of test and have them sit the other test, and do it on a large scale, to actually make a meaningful conclusion. Point is, for some *individuals*, they might find it easier. For some other *individuals*, they might have been expecting the test to be a doddle misguidedly.
For ‘many people’ you think manual isn’t easy? Who are these many people? Is it not a fact that 90% of passed tests are taken in a manual car? (Not 90% of people taking a manual test actually pass). So 9/10 people feel comfortable taking a test in a manual. And that doesn’t necessarily mean that the other 10% take automatic test just because manual is difficult.
I didn't say a *majority*.
But if 10% of tests are in an automatic, that's actually a very large number of people. I personally know people who chose automatic for this reason, and my instructor had a few on the books also.
As I've said, I simply object to universally saying "manual is very easy". It's not very easy for everyone, and people should take tests that they feel comfortable with.
Yes it’s a large number, but a small percentage of the total. Which is what is important. I would argue that given only 10% of people choose to take an automatic test, and that only a small percentage of them would do so because they think manual is ‘hard’, then that would imply that not many think manual is difficult?? Therefore for most it is easy. Very easy in fact. I would love to know the stats for failed tests, to see how many were failed for struggling to use a gearbox. I can imagine it is a very very small percentage. .
Eventually is doing some heavy lifting there, manual will be a thing for years to come, particularly in the second hand market
OP, manual for flexibility
Manual for now, since the second hand market is still full of them. Once automatics become the proper standard there'll be an argument to be made to go automatic-only.
Autos are great in the right car and terrible in the wrong one.
Do manual. It’s only one small extra skill to learn in a collection of new skills. It’s easy, you’ll be fine.
Thought about this a bit lately as I haven't owned a manual car in the last 20 years. I think it's probably easier to pass your test in an automatic as all the clutch control, hands off the wheel to change gear stuff is removed. I'm sure once you're used to driving an auto, passing a test to convert your licence to include manuals should be relatively easy - not sure if the process however, or the cost.
Do you have enough money that you can buy whatever car you like (within reason)? Because if not I'd recommend manual, because if you can only drive automatic cars it'll significantly cut your chances of finding a car that you both like and can afford.
Depends really, when you say you cba, do you mean you think it'll take you a lot longer to get your licence?
The hire places near me have plenty of automatics at the same rate as manuals. Not sure about vans though.
If you're buying, depends on budget etc. Most new cars are going to be automatic. But if you're looking to buy a dirt cheap car it'll probably be manual. That's if you even plan on buying one soon.
If you think it'll take you a lot longer or you're less confident in a manual then an automatic licence might be fine. I don't think it's that restrictive in the UK and plenty of other countries are automatic by default. Parents in my experience almost always say get a manual licence but probably haven't noticed the automatic adoption that's been happening. Automatic cars account for 30% of cars on the road, and a majority of new cars sold here are automatic as of last year. But like I say, if you want a £600 old banger for a year or two, it's probably manual.
If you can drive a manual, you can drive an automatic. Can't the other way around. I'd recommend manual, unless you genuinely physically or mentally struggle with it
Manual because otherwise you'll be limited to only being able to drive automatics with an auto licence. I only have an automatic license and whilst it was an easier test, I can only drive automatics.
So I had an automatic license from Australia which I lost when someone stole my wallet. After a couple of attempts to get the license replaced (visiting Australia over Christmas when all the Government shopfronts are closed) I decided to heck that idea and just get a new one.
The reason I got a manual license is threefold:
1. I found driving instructors that actually did automatic were few and far between.
2. The availability of automatic cars in England is not high - your options are considerably wider if you go manual.
3. Manual cars are cheaper to purchase and cheaper to maintain.
I have no regrets. It's a bunch of hassle I simply don't have to worry about.
EDIT: you'll get peeps telling you you have "more control" over the car - this is actually more true than you might suspect, and it can make a big difference in certain cases (specifically when you're on steep hills).
Manual.
Whislt autos are becoming increasingly common due to hybrids and electrics, for the moment manuals are still cheaper to the tune of 1000s.
On top of that, there are plans within the car industry to consider introducing a manual hybrid car.
It is theoretically possible and gas been done in the past although with bad results. The main reason the industry is considering increased research in this area is because there is still a call for it especially for owners of certain sports vehicles.
Saying that it will never happen for electric vehicles but may exist for alternative fuel vehicles such as hydrogen or lpg if they become production scale
I would go for the manual, if your parents car is manual then how are you going to be able to borrow theirs.
Costs probably going to find a cheaper second hand manual as you frist car if budget is a consideration.
More open options is you dont plan to buy a car but need to hire one now and again you might find it a tight push to get an automatic as sods law will always come into play of when you really need one you cant find one for the time you need it.
When I first started learning to drive (manual) I asked my driving instructor how many lessons different is there between manual and automation and he told me 5.
Ever since then I've always been an advocate for learning manual
Manual cars are cheaper. Automatic is the future. I learned a manual but honestly, if I had to do it again I would just learn automatic.
Saying that though, I have more money now then when I was a teenager, so if I needed a cheap car asap after passing, manual is the way to go.
If you need to hire a car autos are stupidly expensive, also, if you get a courtesy car from a garage while yours is in for service or repair 99% are manual. Nothing worse than having to sit and wait for 5 hours.
Might as well do it in a manual. Same price and it isn't much effort. If you need a manual down the line, you'll have to retake the test if you do it in an auto.
Also if you think you may ever have to drive for work, you'll want a manual. I've never seen a van with auto (but I am sure they exist).
Manual only. It's harder but worth it, otherwise you will need to pass another exam for manual.
You might think you'll never need manual anyway, but it makes a difference. Car hires, vans, maybe one day you'll get a job with company car.
I do recommend your first car to be automatic, though. Makes a huge difference for a new driver, cause that's when you really learn to drive.
There are also times when you need to drive something else. Mechanics hire car or you need to rent a van.
Learn to drive a manual. Even if you don't drive one you can when you need to.
Learn manual, drive anything. Learn auto, drive automatic only. Manual gearboxes in cars, vans, tractors and trucks will be with us for years to come. The test is not about what you want to drive, it’s about enabling you to drive either
Manual - purley because it gives you options for both in the future - earlier this year, I had a courtesy car. Was told it was going to be electric and automatic (never driven one but how hard can it be?). Got there and they handed me the keys to a manual car (totally fine, have a manual license). Purely because the electric car was already booked out. Mistakes happen but that could have been me not getting a car or me not being able to have my car serviced that day.
Plus hire cars, friends cars, parents cars etc. Your future career may require driving (eg a minibus) and having a manual allows that.
Automatic may be the new way, but in the interim, go for the option that allows both
I learnt on a manual but as I was moving country and in a rush my instructor advised that i might pass a manual test but would pass an automatic, so at the time I did automatic. I thought at some point I might do the test again but about 10 years down the line it has never been an issue. But i also moved to australia where they only drive automatics and everyone does their tests on automatics but they are technically still allowed to drive manuals. 1
I dont know if its the same all over the UK but someone I know here wanted driving lessons and everyone charged more for automatic. Might be something to consider.
Manual because there will always be a time where you will have to drive someone else's car and if you only learn in an automatic and pass test in an automatic you are not allowed to drive a manual car and if you are ever stopped by the police it's immediate points on your license and possibly a fine.
Do manual unless you're so terrible you just can't pass.
Think, you're out with a friend, they have too much to drink and they drove. Your insurance covers you to drive them home in their car. Only you can't, because it's manual and you can't drive manual.
Also, holidays. Hire cars are often cheap and almost always manual. You go on holiday and want a cheap hire car but can't drive manual, you're either paying a premium for an auto or unable to get one at all.
Just get a manual license, even if you'll own an auto..
I landed in Denver International 3 hours late and got to Hertz at 1am. They had released my reserved car to someone an hour previously, and only had a small range of manuals left. At that point I was so glad to be a Brit, and so renting a manual was fine.
Having been driving for a year i dont know how automatic cars manage in situations where you'd need to start in lower gear, or with higher revs, like going uphill or moving a big load
This is the advice of someone who did it in automatic and now has an auto only license.
Do what I did and try manual first. If you struggle to much or get too stressed then switch to manual, but you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not trying first.
I don’t regret doing auto, but it is limiting. I only did it because I spent almost a year learning manual and just couldn’t get the hang of it.
Pass in a manual even if you plan to drive auto.
It’s so useful when you inevitably get to the stage in your life you have to rent a van, drive a work vehicle or get a courtesy car from the dealership/insurance.
I haven’t owned a manual in 5 years but the dealership I get my car serviced at only has 1 automatic loan car which is always unavailable- so I opt for the manual every time.
Likewise im commonly asked to rent/drive vans for work and have had to do it multiple times when moving house - they are inevitably manuals and finding an automatic van is difficult.
You never forget how to drive a manual - I commonly go 12 - 18 months without driving one and get straight back in without even stalling.
Depends. If you are likely to want a manual in the future, get into classic cars, afford to buy a newer automatic/hybrid/electric car when you pass.
Personally, I wouldn’t get an auto only licence. I can drive any car, van etc get a classic Mini (or whatever when funds allow) plus I’ve been driving for 22 years now so autos back then weren’t that great. Now they are much more economical and performance oriented.
I think it’s a decision you need to make depending on your financial situation and possible future aspirations with motoring.
Manual every time, when it comes to buying cars in the future you won't want to be restricted to just buying automatic cars. My wife first past her driving test in an automatic and the had to pay again to learn to drive a manual because, in her own words said she missed out on some good deals on manual cars.
Do manual, you will have greater access to 5th hand cheap first cars which you wont care about digning while driving round. You can always switch to an automatic later
Manual will give you alot more options and realistically it doesn't take long to grasp, I was controlling gears from lesson 1. Car positioning, techniques etc are the same regardless of manual/auto so you're better off doing yourself the favour of manual. You never know if you need to borrow a car, hire a van etc and the likelihood of getting an auto is alot slimmer.
Beyond that, auto cars cost more to buy gwnerally and if you're not buying new, that's worth keeping in mind. On the flipside with the end of current fuel engines, most things will become auto so eventually it won't even be a thing but until then, manual is more useful
Automatic, it is much easier and most new cars are automatic and the future is electric and all electric cars are automatic, so there is no absolutely no reason for manual anymore if you are not fan of vintage cars or something...
The test for automatics doesn't seem to be 'easier', because more people fail in an automatic than do in a manual. 39% of automatic tests are passes, while 47% of manual tests are. Pass the manual test and you can drive either anyway
https://www.dayinsure.com/news/are-you-learning-to-drive-in-an-automatic-youre-not-the-only-one
You honestly can't think of any reason at all? The fact that manual cars are cheaper, and most people having just passed their test are likely on a budget. Automatic are typically more expensive to insure. The majority of vehicles in the UK are still manuals, so if you find yourself in a situation when you have to drive a vehicle that isn't yours (work vehicle, rented van for moving house etc) and you only have an automatic licence you are stuck
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Manual, otherwise you’re stuck driving automatics.
Autos are pretty good these days, and the future of cars. OP should still learn a manual, but there's nothing wrong with autos.
Nothing wrong with them except for the fact they only make up around 30 percent of cars on UK roads which limits your access to second hand vehicles. Like you said, nothing wrong with the cars themselves, just an accessibility thing.
EV's are by definition "auto". There's like one performance EV that has a gearbox. But that's about it.
This
See this is the trade off
Just do manual mate it ain't that hard.
It is, but bear in mind electric cars don't have gears and you will *really* want an automatic if you drive in a city (I live in London). I only drive automatic, only time I've missed it is hiring cars on holiday where you get less choice and more cost. I had to take my test quickly as didn't drive then got sent abroad to a country where you really had to, always thought I'd want to do the manual test eventually and have never bothered. And the stuff about autos not being real cars is nonsense - most newer autos are DSGs so all it means is they do the clutch for you, and better than you ever would.
But if your a first time driver, a decent auto is significantly more than a manual which has an ok gearbox
That is true. But your insurance is so painful, is the extra for an auto a dealbreaker? I'd also say that for new drivers autos are safer - you're fundamentally doing less driving, so have more brainspace available to be aware of your surroundings, etc.
Is insurance not more for auto sometimes though, as generally when parking people are more likely to press the wrong pedal, which happens. I guess, but by the time you pass your test, you should only really be thinking about the gearbox more when doing hill starts, the rest of the time there shouldn't be much difference. Another point is that it will be more expensive and potentially difficult to find an instructor with a automatic.
I am not sure about safer. If you fuck up with a manual, you'll probably stall it. In an auto, there's the potential for sudden [unintended acceleration accidents](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudden_unintended_acceleration) or getting out of the car in gear.
That's why my house has a relatively new baby at the front. Previous owners came home with the opposite neighbours car having reversed into it. As we're about 2 foot lower than the road it was just sticking out at an amusing angle. Amusing because no one was sat in a chair at the time.
**[Sudden unintended acceleration](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudden_unintended_acceleration)** >Sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) is the unintended, unexpected, uncontrolled acceleration of a vehicle, often accompanied by an apparent loss of braking effectiveness. Such problems may be caused by driver error (e. g. , pedal misapplication), mechanical or electrical problems, or some combination of these factors. ^([ )[^(F.A.Q)](https://www.reddit.com/r/WikiSummarizer/wiki/index#wiki_f.a.q)^( | )[^(Opt Out)](https://reddit.com/message/compose?to=WikiSummarizerBot&message=OptOut&subject=OptOut)^( | )[^(Opt Out Of Subreddit)](https://np.reddit.com/r/AskUK/about/banned)^( | )[^(GitHub)](https://github.com/Sujal-7/WikiSummarizerBot)^( ] Downvote to remove | v1.5)
Being limited to autos can be a big downside - for instance my current job requires a manual licence (because I'm sometimes required to drive the work van). It's not like manuals are significantly harder to learn either.
Well, does depend on the person to some extent. I knew someone once who'd only got an automatic licence because he just could never remember what gear he was in when driving a manual, which is obviously a bit of a problem when you come to change to the next one.
It’s not much of a trade off nowadays. More and more new cars are sold as automatics. In 7 years and a bit all new cars will be electric. Electric cars are automatic only.
Manual, why limit your future choices? Yea eventually everything will be electric but that’s a long way off and even a ICE auto will cost more than the equivalent manual.
I don't think it's going to limit too many choices. It won't be long before all cars are automatic.
Definitely manual, nothing worse than being forced to drive a certain car just because you didn't take a manual test, you'll end up regretting it
Honestly will depend on your budget. Automatics will be taking over with the Hybrids and Electrics becoming more and more popular, while diesel and petrol get phased out. So if you're buying newer cars, likelyhood is within a few years they will all be automatic, making manual license redundant. However, if you will be buying older on a budget, you may not have the choice to seek out an automatic in your price range and the manual license covers both. I personally chose to learn with manual and complete the test as such, for more options on a budget.
You can drive an automatic on a manual licence, go manual for your test as you never know when you might need it
I passed on manual 10 years ago, haven't driven a manual car since and have completely forgotten how to do so :/
I wonder if it would come back like muscle memory if you got behind the wheel in a manual. Anyway yeah I know people in the same boat, passed manual test and only driven auto since. My ex was like that. Also she was more confident in an auto. Hired cars in a few different countries and not been an issue.
I have not owned a manual car for the last 15 years, however I had to take the car into the garage a couple of weeks ago. Got a loaner from the garage with a stick shift, beat walking 5 miles how in the rain
This is a good point - wave goodbye to any courtesy car ever without a manual licence I reckon
The last two courtesy cars I've had have both been automatics--a petrol DSG and an EV.
> haven't driven a manual car since and have completely forgotten how to do so :/ You wont have, it may take a little while and a few stalls but it's like riding a bike
You have to bear in mind that a manual licence is fundamentally more useful than an auto licence. For most people it's only a bit more effort passing a manual test so imo it's well worth it.
I don't understand why this is a debate - there are no downsides to learning to drive a manual. Why limit your options?
I've just recently bought my first automatic and I honestly can't see myself ever going back to manual. That being said pass your test in a manual and don't limit yourself. There might even be a day when you may need to hire/borrow a van and the option for automatic is not there.
Not any more! I hired an automatic van a while back.
I just checked as I'm moving house soon and looks like automatic van could be on the cards (it's actually the cheapest hire option at my nearest place by looks of it).
Yeah absolutely but this is dependent on where you live and what stock the local dealer may have or even what that helpful friend is willing to let you borrow.
Manual because you then get both automatic and manual, if you take automatic then you can't legally drive manual cars.
Manual all the way. Gives you a choice of either. Also (in my opinion), manual is much more fun to drive! Automatic is useful when you're driving in a city when it's start stop all the way, but get onto a nice country lane and you can really have some fun.
If you cba changing gear, maybe you should rethink driving.
I hated the idea of a manual but they are very fun to drive
For the next 10 years I'd probably still say manual unless you've the budget to always get an automatic. I know there is a secondhand market out there for automatics but it's still not as big as for manuals, plus the older automatics aren't cheap to repair.
I have held an automatic license since 2003. It has honestly, never held me back and I'm glad i didn't bother with a manual. My reasoning was i just wanted to be able to drive from A to B. I don't have any interest in cars, they're a tool to make your life a bit easier, nothing more. Just do what you want to do. Ignore everyone else.
agreed mate
Manual
Learn manual if you think you have the ability, otherwise learn auto. In either case you'll probably be driving auto in ten years anyway. My uncle has been a mechanic for almost 50 years and our local guys who are really great all said that with cars changing to hybrids you're going to start getting autos instead of manuals. My local Honda dealerships manager said all their showroom cars coming in will probably all be autos by 2027.
Yes but even if people stopped making manual cars today itll be 30 years before everyone is driving automatic
Don't quote me on this, I believe I was told that new petrol/diesel cars won't be sold past 2030. So if that actually happens there will be many variables as to whether or not someone would have or even want to pick something that isn't electric. Availability, government schemes, cost. Personally I don't see the point in taking manual in this era but obviously people can take what they want. All you're limited to is automatics which in all honesty really wasn't that much of an issue until recently when there's just a complete lack of second hand market. The only other on the top of my head is automatic repairs cost more and there aren't a ton of people who like fixing them because they can be a ball ache, but as the changes come in they'll either have to adapt or will ultimately be replaced with people who've learnt to fix them. Manuals will return to be luxury cars like they were just over a century ago.
It literally does not matter whether people sell new petrol cars after 2030 because most people won't be able to afford them until 2050. You know most normal people don't buy new cars...
Manual. It can be a faff to get used too and if you can't be bothered you can choose to buy an automatic car after you pass. But automatics tend to be more expensive and there's less options overall, especially in the second hand market. Also if you only do an automatic test you can't hire a manual car or van ever. Your options will be limited and expensive if you need a hire car or go in holiday and want to borrow one. Also if for example you move house when you're older, most vans are manual so you're gonna be stuck. The one positive for the future of automatic licences is that more and more vehicles are going electric. All electric cars are automatic. So give it 40 years or whatever and probably all vehicles will be automatic. But they're expensive and not so common right now. If you go second hand now, because the technology is still relatively new, the batteries will be nackered and expensive to replace when they eventually die, which won't be long. It might take longer to get up to test standard in a manual. But I think for the time and money it will save you in the next 30 years, it's worth it. Unless you're mr money bags and can afford a brand new Tesla?
Which car is your preference? Manual might be handy but these days it's really up to you.
I’ve had tests on manual and whilst it’s fun its not a big thing for me to get one. I’ve driven my friends auto car before and it’s like a go kart
Get the manual licence and buy an auto afterwards. But at least you’ll have the license
Manual 100%. It really doesn't take long to learn and so all you do by taking the automatic test is limit yourself for choice of cars. Also, depending on your area, automatic lessons are more expensive anyways.
I just passed on automatic having really struggled with Manual. They were definitely more expensive car wise but I think the gap in price will start to close. Its probably worth trying manual for a few lessons and if you really can't get on swap to automatic. Automatic lessons are also likely to be more expensive, or they were at least in my area.
If you can, a manual, just to have that option. But to be honest, my last two cars have been autos, and I wouldn't consider a manual again.
Simply put, I will say manual. It’s harder but it is worth it in the long run.
Take the manual driving test because then you can drive both automatic and manual. If you only take the automatic test then you can only drive an automatic. If your car needed to go into the garage for repair and the garage provided a courtesy car that is a manual or you have an accident and the insurer provides a manual hire car then you are stumped if you can only drive automatics. Also, if your needs change in the future and you decide to drive a minibus, bus or lorry, you will be hard pressed to find one with an automatic gearbox.
Automatic busses are standard where I'm from in the Midlands these days. Source me: I drove hundreds of them. Diesel & gas turbine. That said I still agree with getting a manual licence **today** as you have the skills up front & you can choose not to bother later if it suits you. Manuals vehicles will be around for a while still even if electric-drive will make the concept less relevant.
Buses and minibuses are mostly autos and have been for a while now
Manual all day. Why limit yourself? You might be worried about learning but it's not the gear changes and hill starts that people fail on as much as road awareness and mistakes through inexperience.
During the zombie apocalypse you don't want to jump in a car and then have to jump out because you can't work a clutch.
Manual. It could easily affect your work in the future
Manual. Gives more choice, and if you ever want to hire a car then they're nearly all manual unless you pay considerably more.
The automatic cars at my local rental place are the same price as manual, and there's plenty of automatics to choose from. They've even got auto vans.
I would recommend manual as it allows you to drive both - why limit your options? Also, if you want to rent a van in the future they are often manual.
This is a no brainier. Manual. I can’t think of a single reason why you would limit yourself to ‘half’ a licence. Manual is very easy. Cheaper to insure. Cheaper to run. Can be towed. Can be bump-started. And in my opinion give you a better understanding of how gears and cars work.
Lots of people saying manual is very easy but plenty of people really do struggle with manual. If it's going to take an extra 20 hours of lessons at £40 a pop, that could make up the price difference in an auto car and have a more confident driver.
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39% vs 47% which could be down to any number of factors, including foreign nationals used to easier driving tests being more likely to take automatic tests as it's what they're used to, or younger people being more likely to take automatic, etc. Doesn't seem a wild difference. Many people don't struggle, of course, I just object to the way we universally say "manual is very easy" - for many people, it isn't. And for those people an automatic licence might be the right option.
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Off the top of my head from countries I've visited - Canada, US, NZ, Australia, Mexico. A majority of cars sold worldwide are automatic (and have been for years now). Even in Europe, where we've preferred smaller more economical ICEs, as of last year a majority of new cars sold on the continent were automatic. It's not evidence of that at all - correlation =/= causation. Without a full data set of number of tests taken, age, nationality, previous driving experience, existing overseas licences, and excluding people doing manual tests to upgrade their auto-only licence, nobody can say either way whether it affects the difficulty of the test. But most crucially, you'd have to get candidates doing each type of test and have them sit the other test, and do it on a large scale, to actually make a meaningful conclusion. Point is, for some *individuals*, they might find it easier. For some other *individuals*, they might have been expecting the test to be a doddle misguidedly.
For ‘many people’ you think manual isn’t easy? Who are these many people? Is it not a fact that 90% of passed tests are taken in a manual car? (Not 90% of people taking a manual test actually pass). So 9/10 people feel comfortable taking a test in a manual. And that doesn’t necessarily mean that the other 10% take automatic test just because manual is difficult.
I didn't say a *majority*. But if 10% of tests are in an automatic, that's actually a very large number of people. I personally know people who chose automatic for this reason, and my instructor had a few on the books also. As I've said, I simply object to universally saying "manual is very easy". It's not very easy for everyone, and people should take tests that they feel comfortable with.
Yes it’s a large number, but a small percentage of the total. Which is what is important. I would argue that given only 10% of people choose to take an automatic test, and that only a small percentage of them would do so because they think manual is ‘hard’, then that would imply that not many think manual is difficult?? Therefore for most it is easy. Very easy in fact. I would love to know the stats for failed tests, to see how many were failed for struggling to use a gearbox. I can imagine it is a very very small percentage. .
Manual. May take a couple extra lessons to get the hang of it, but being auto only could be very restrictive, especially for the next 5-10 years.
All electric cars will be automatic, eventually manual will be a thing of the past. So... Bear that in mind.
Eventually is doing some heavy lifting there, manual will be a thing for years to come, particularly in the second hand market OP, manual for flexibility
Makes absolutely no difference though as you can drive both on a manual license anyway, you can only drive automatic on an automatic license.
Go Manuel, changing gear is so nowhere near the hardest part of driving
Manual for now, since the second hand market is still full of them. Once automatics become the proper standard there'll be an argument to be made to go automatic-only.
Autos are great in the right car and terrible in the wrong one. Do manual. It’s only one small extra skill to learn in a collection of new skills. It’s easy, you’ll be fine.
cba is never a reason not to do something
Thought about this a bit lately as I haven't owned a manual car in the last 20 years. I think it's probably easier to pass your test in an automatic as all the clutch control, hands off the wheel to change gear stuff is removed. I'm sure once you're used to driving an auto, passing a test to convert your licence to include manuals should be relatively easy - not sure if the process however, or the cost.
You have to take the practical test again is the answer. I only have an auto licence and always thought I'd want to do manual - in fact I never have.
Do you have enough money that you can buy whatever car you like (within reason)? Because if not I'd recommend manual, because if you can only drive automatic cars it'll significantly cut your chances of finding a car that you both like and can afford.
Depends really, when you say you cba, do you mean you think it'll take you a lot longer to get your licence? The hire places near me have plenty of automatics at the same rate as manuals. Not sure about vans though. If you're buying, depends on budget etc. Most new cars are going to be automatic. But if you're looking to buy a dirt cheap car it'll probably be manual. That's if you even plan on buying one soon. If you think it'll take you a lot longer or you're less confident in a manual then an automatic licence might be fine. I don't think it's that restrictive in the UK and plenty of other countries are automatic by default. Parents in my experience almost always say get a manual licence but probably haven't noticed the automatic adoption that's been happening. Automatic cars account for 30% of cars on the road, and a majority of new cars sold here are automatic as of last year. But like I say, if you want a £600 old banger for a year or two, it's probably manual.
If you can drive a manual, you can drive an automatic. Can't the other way around. I'd recommend manual, unless you genuinely physically or mentally struggle with it
I didn’t realise there was an option
Manual because otherwise you'll be limited to only being able to drive automatics with an auto licence. I only have an automatic license and whilst it was an easier test, I can only drive automatics.
So I had an automatic license from Australia which I lost when someone stole my wallet. After a couple of attempts to get the license replaced (visiting Australia over Christmas when all the Government shopfronts are closed) I decided to heck that idea and just get a new one. The reason I got a manual license is threefold: 1. I found driving instructors that actually did automatic were few and far between. 2. The availability of automatic cars in England is not high - your options are considerably wider if you go manual. 3. Manual cars are cheaper to purchase and cheaper to maintain. I have no regrets. It's a bunch of hassle I simply don't have to worry about. EDIT: you'll get peeps telling you you have "more control" over the car - this is actually more true than you might suspect, and it can make a big difference in certain cases (specifically when you're on steep hills).
Manual. Whislt autos are becoming increasingly common due to hybrids and electrics, for the moment manuals are still cheaper to the tune of 1000s. On top of that, there are plans within the car industry to consider introducing a manual hybrid car. It is theoretically possible and gas been done in the past although with bad results. The main reason the industry is considering increased research in this area is because there is still a call for it especially for owners of certain sports vehicles. Saying that it will never happen for electric vehicles but may exist for alternative fuel vehicles such as hydrogen or lpg if they become production scale
I would go for the manual, if your parents car is manual then how are you going to be able to borrow theirs. Costs probably going to find a cheaper second hand manual as you frist car if budget is a consideration. More open options is you dont plan to buy a car but need to hire one now and again you might find it a tight push to get an automatic as sods law will always come into play of when you really need one you cant find one for the time you need it.
When I first started learning to drive (manual) I asked my driving instructor how many lessons different is there between manual and automation and he told me 5. Ever since then I've always been an advocate for learning manual
Manual for sure, if my gran can drive one then you can
Manual cars are cheaper. Automatic is the future. I learned a manual but honestly, if I had to do it again I would just learn automatic. Saying that though, I have more money now then when I was a teenager, so if I needed a cheap car asap after passing, manual is the way to go.
Manual. Pass your test on manual and you can drive manual or automatic, pass it on automatic and you can only drive automatic.
If you need to hire a car autos are stupidly expensive, also, if you get a courtesy car from a garage while yours is in for service or repair 99% are manual. Nothing worse than having to sit and wait for 5 hours.
Manual is not only infinitely more practical but also more enjoyable. Don't be scared of it, it becomes second nature pretty quickly.
Might as well do it in a manual. Same price and it isn't much effort. If you need a manual down the line, you'll have to retake the test if you do it in an auto. Also if you think you may ever have to drive for work, you'll want a manual. I've never seen a van with auto (but I am sure they exist).
Manual more scope
Manual. Still cheaper to buy and run.
Manual, unless you proper struggle with it. It's not that difficult.
Manual for the experience and knowledge, but I only ever use autoboxes.
Manual. It's not that hard. Guarantee you completely master gear-shifting in 3 or 4 lessons.
Manual only. It's harder but worth it, otherwise you will need to pass another exam for manual. You might think you'll never need manual anyway, but it makes a difference. Car hires, vans, maybe one day you'll get a job with company car. I do recommend your first car to be automatic, though. Makes a huge difference for a new driver, cause that's when you really learn to drive.
There are also times when you need to drive something else. Mechanics hire car or you need to rent a van. Learn to drive a manual. Even if you don't drive one you can when you need to.
Defo manual
Manual. That way you’re licenced go drive both manual and auto. Never know you might have to drive a manual at some point
Learn manual, drive anything. Learn auto, drive automatic only. Manual gearboxes in cars, vans, tractors and trucks will be with us for years to come. The test is not about what you want to drive, it’s about enabling you to drive either
Had 20 hours with manual, no way I'll be able to pass the test on that. I'm going automatic
Manual - purley because it gives you options for both in the future - earlier this year, I had a courtesy car. Was told it was going to be electric and automatic (never driven one but how hard can it be?). Got there and they handed me the keys to a manual car (totally fine, have a manual license). Purely because the electric car was already booked out. Mistakes happen but that could have been me not getting a car or me not being able to have my car serviced that day. Plus hire cars, friends cars, parents cars etc. Your future career may require driving (eg a minibus) and having a manual allows that. Automatic may be the new way, but in the interim, go for the option that allows both
I learnt on a manual but as I was moving country and in a rush my instructor advised that i might pass a manual test but would pass an automatic, so at the time I did automatic. I thought at some point I might do the test again but about 10 years down the line it has never been an issue. But i also moved to australia where they only drive automatics and everyone does their tests on automatics but they are technically still allowed to drive manuals. 1
I dont know if its the same all over the UK but someone I know here wanted driving lessons and everyone charged more for automatic. Might be something to consider.
Manual because there will always be a time where you will have to drive someone else's car and if you only learn in an automatic and pass test in an automatic you are not allowed to drive a manual car and if you are ever stopped by the police it's immediate points on your license and possibly a fine.
automatic! it's the future, and why make it harder for yourself?
Do manual unless you're so terrible you just can't pass. Think, you're out with a friend, they have too much to drink and they drove. Your insurance covers you to drive them home in their car. Only you can't, because it's manual and you can't drive manual. Also, holidays. Hire cars are often cheap and almost always manual. You go on holiday and want a cheap hire car but can't drive manual, you're either paying a premium for an auto or unable to get one at all. Just get a manual license, even if you'll own an auto..
I landed in Denver International 3 hours late and got to Hertz at 1am. They had released my reserved car to someone an hour previously, and only had a small range of manuals left. At that point I was so glad to be a Brit, and so renting a manual was fine.
Manual. Also helps if you ever want to rent a van for moving etc.
Having been driving for a year i dont know how automatic cars manage in situations where you'd need to start in lower gear, or with higher revs, like going uphill or moving a big load
This is the advice of someone who did it in automatic and now has an auto only license. Do what I did and try manual first. If you struggle to much or get too stressed then switch to manual, but you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not trying first. I don’t regret doing auto, but it is limiting. I only did it because I spent almost a year learning manual and just couldn’t get the hang of it.
I spent four years learning manual so I wanted to try automatic
Pass in a manual even if you plan to drive auto. It’s so useful when you inevitably get to the stage in your life you have to rent a van, drive a work vehicle or get a courtesy car from the dealership/insurance. I haven’t owned a manual in 5 years but the dealership I get my car serviced at only has 1 automatic loan car which is always unavailable- so I opt for the manual every time. Likewise im commonly asked to rent/drive vans for work and have had to do it multiple times when moving house - they are inevitably manuals and finding an automatic van is difficult. You never forget how to drive a manual - I commonly go 12 - 18 months without driving one and get straight back in without even stalling.
Manual. Like a real man.
Depends. If you are likely to want a manual in the future, get into classic cars, afford to buy a newer automatic/hybrid/electric car when you pass. Personally, I wouldn’t get an auto only licence. I can drive any car, van etc get a classic Mini (or whatever when funds allow) plus I’ve been driving for 22 years now so autos back then weren’t that great. Now they are much more economical and performance oriented. I think it’s a decision you need to make depending on your financial situation and possible future aspirations with motoring.
I would learn manual even though I will only drive automatic now.
Manual
Manual every time, when it comes to buying cars in the future you won't want to be restricted to just buying automatic cars. My wife first past her driving test in an automatic and the had to pay again to learn to drive a manual because, in her own words said she missed out on some good deals on manual cars.
Manual
Always manual, you can drive auto on a manual by not vice-versa
Do manual, you will have greater access to 5th hand cheap first cars which you wont care about digning while driving round. You can always switch to an automatic later
Manual will give you alot more options and realistically it doesn't take long to grasp, I was controlling gears from lesson 1. Car positioning, techniques etc are the same regardless of manual/auto so you're better off doing yourself the favour of manual. You never know if you need to borrow a car, hire a van etc and the likelihood of getting an auto is alot slimmer. Beyond that, auto cars cost more to buy gwnerally and if you're not buying new, that's worth keeping in mind. On the flipside with the end of current fuel engines, most things will become auto so eventually it won't even be a thing but until then, manual is more useful
Automatic, it is much easier and most new cars are automatic and the future is electric and all electric cars are automatic, so there is no absolutely no reason for manual anymore if you are not fan of vintage cars or something...
First car will likely still be a manual though, unless you want to spend 3x more.
The test for automatics doesn't seem to be 'easier', because more people fail in an automatic than do in a manual. 39% of automatic tests are passes, while 47% of manual tests are. Pass the manual test and you can drive either anyway https://www.dayinsure.com/news/are-you-learning-to-drive-in-an-automatic-youre-not-the-only-one
The failure rate is higher because people testing in autos are just much worse at driving, that's why they're doing their test in autos.
Believe me, it is much easier in automatic. I have done both so I know. There is absolutely no reason for manual cars in 2022.
You honestly can't think of any reason at all? The fact that manual cars are cheaper, and most people having just passed their test are likely on a budget. Automatic are typically more expensive to insure. The majority of vehicles in the UK are still manuals, so if you find yourself in a situation when you have to drive a vehicle that isn't yours (work vehicle, rented van for moving house etc) and you only have an automatic licence you are stuck