Manuals vs automatics

For many of us, it’s a decision we need to make before we even turn a key in an ignition for the first time; should we drive a manual car, or an automatic? There are pros and cons to both transmission types, so whether you get to grips with a gear stick or not is a choice you’ll need to bear in mind throughout your life as a motorist. 

Let’s talk manuals 

What is a manual car? 

A manual car has a gear system that you move through, yes, manually! This is operated via a gear stick and a clutch pedal, and you adjust it depending on the speed at which you’re travelling. It’s a very common driving style in the UK, with Americans affectionately referring to it as stick shift! 

Should I buy a manual? 

A manual allows you more control over the performance of your car, which is particularly helpful in wintery conditions, and when it comes to accelerating and slowing down - it takes the strain from your brakes. For long journeys, cruising in a manual is a dream, but if you’re regularly commuting in traffic, you may want to step off the clutch and choose an automatic.  

Let’s talk automatics

What is an automatic car?

Automatic gearboxes are fairly self-explanatory, with the gear changes happening automatically as you hit certain speeds. Automatic cars don’t have a manual gear stick or a clutch pedal, and instead can be levered into Drive to go forwards’, Reverse to go backwards, and Park to leave the car stationary. 

Can I learn to drive in an automatic car? 

It’s tempting to want to learn in an automatic first, as there’s no stalling or tricky clutch control, making it an easier and potentially less stressful, process. You can learn in an automatic, but it does mean that you’d need to learn again manually (and take another test) if you wanted to take on a car with manual transmission. This differs from learning in a manual, as you can drive both transmission types if you passed your test in a manual car.

Should I buy an automatic car? 

Automatic cars make traffic much easier - simply use the accelerator and brake when you need to! Automatics can, however, make you feel a little less in control, for example, when you want to overtake, as the car needs to catch up with your acceleration, so really consider what your driving style is like when you’re choosing a transmission type.   

No matter your transmission, we’re here to look after your car at Warranty First. Our plans are designed to support your motoring beyond the manufacturer's warranty - find out more on our website.