Should I Learn Manual or Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
It varies from person to person. Manual transmission cars are much more complex than automatic ones, and due to the higher difficulty in learning manual transmission, the pass rate for driver's license tests is also lower. Below are the differences between manual and automatic transmission: 1. Learning period: Manual transmission cars are more complex than automatic ones, so the learning period differs. Typically, learning manual transmission takes at least one month longer than automatic, and due to the greater difficulty, the pass rate for driver's license tests is also lower. 2. Driver's license: A manual transmission license is classified as C1, while an automatic transmission license is C2. Holders of an automatic transmission license cannot drive manual transmission cars, but holders of a manual transmission license can drive automatic transmission cars. 3. Cost: Because manual transmission is more difficult to learn and has a lower pass rate, its fees are generally cheaper than automatic transmission. Usually, learning automatic transmission is more expensive.
As someone who has driven manual transmissions for a while, I deeply understand your confusion. Learning manual is quite challenging at the beginning, especially during stops and starts—a slight lapse in attention leads to stalling, which can be quite embarrassing. However, in city traffic jams, automatics are a lifesaver. You don’t need to constantly press the clutch with your left foot, saving energy and allowing you to focus on the road. Automatics are more adaptable and easier for beginners, while manuals suit those who enjoy the driving experience, like tackling winding rural roads with greater control. In the long run, most new cars now lean toward automatics, and electric vehicles even more so. Learning automatic aligns better with modern life rhythms and reduces mistakes. For daily commuting, choosing an automatic is definitely the right call—effortless and efficient.
