Is it Better to Learn in a Manual or Automatic?

Learning to drive? Being able to drive is a handy life skill to have that can provide a great amount of freedom and independence. When people first get started with driving, they may be tempted to learn in an automatic as this can be easier than learning a manual. While it might be easier to drive an automatic than a manual, you will find that generally it is best to go with manual transmission. Keep reading to find out more.

Automatic is Limiting

One of the main reasons to learn in a manual is that you will only ever be licensed to drive an automatic car if this is what you pass your test in. This can be limiting down the line, especially when you consider that most cars have manual transmission. In the UK, drivers between 16 and 19 usually learn in a manual car as it provides more options moving forward.

Manual Pass Rates Are Higher

Interestingly, it seems that those that learn in a manual are also more likely to pass their test. In 2018, the manual pass rate stood at 47.1% while automatic pass rates were much lower at 38.9%. If you learn in a manual, you might develop more confidence behind the wheel and have a better understanding of how cars work and this can make a big difference to your driving ability.

Automatic Lessons Often More Expensive

You may also find that it costs more money to learn in an automatic car. Learning to drive is already expensive enough, so you do not want the added cost of learning in an automatic car particularly when this could hold you back in the future and limit what vehicles you are able to drive. If you learn in an automatic that is not your own, you will also need to practice in an automatic that could be hard to find. Whichever transmission you choose, always make sure that you have learner driver insurance in place so that you are protected.

Automatic Cars Are More Expensive

Following on from this, you will also find that automatic cars are often more expensive to buy than manual transmission as well (and harder to find). This is particularly worth considering for young motorists that are purchasing their own car as this can be a huge amount to spend in addition to insurance, road tax, fuel and maintenance costs.

As you can see, it makes a lot more sense to learn to drive in a manual transmission car. Although it can take a while to get your head around, it is not much harder than an automatic and will give you greater flexibility once you pass your test as well as help to save you money now and in the future.

Learn how to drive in a manual or automatic. Manual transmissions are often more efficient and cheaper to maintain. Automatic transmissions are easier to drive but tend to be less efficient. Talk to your partner about which type of transmission is best for your needs.

CarExpert provides good reviews of vehicles that might help you as you decide which car is best for you.