Is an Automatic Transmission Easier to Test Than a Manual Transmission?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission's Subject 2 test is generally easier than that of manual transmission. Compared to manual transmission, the main difference is that automatic transmission does not require clutch control, making it simpler. Additionally, during hill starts, manual transmissions may experience stalling, timeouts, or rolling back, whereas automatic transmissions do not stall. The similarity is that both require the driver to assess the vehicle's driving conditions. Below are the differences between manual and automatic transmissions: 1. Different learning costs: Automatic transmission courses are generally more expensive than manual transmission courses. This is because the purchase cost, usage cost, and maintenance cost of automatic transmission vehicles are higher than those of manual transmission vehicles. 2. Different permitted vehicle types: A manual transmission (C1) license allows driving small and micro passenger cars, light and micro trucks, light and micro special-purpose vehicles, and all vehicle types permitted under the C-class license. An automatic transmission (C2) license only permits driving small and micro automatic transmission passenger cars and light and micro automatic transmission trucks. 3. Different test items: Starting from June 1, 2021, the Subject 2 test for small automatic transmission cars will eliminate the "hill start and stop" item, meaning that the Subject 2 test for automatic transmission cars will have fewer items than that for manual transmission cars.
Choosing an automatic transmission for the driver's license test is indeed easier. The first time I learned to drive was with an automatic transmission, which was much simpler—just stepping on the accelerator and brake without dealing with the clutch and gear shifting, reducing a lot of stress during the test. With a manual transmission, you need hand-foot coordination, and it's easy to stall due to nervousness during the test, making retakes quite troublesome. However, learning a manual transmission allows you to drive all types of cars, while an automatic license only permits driving automatic vehicles. I recommend beginners start with an automatic transmission—it's quicker to pick up and has a higher pass rate. Test items like reversing into a garage or starting on a slope are much easier with an automatic. It's also more convenient for city driving, especially in traffic jams, as it saves effort.
