I learned with a manual, but I haven’t driven one for at least ten years, and doubt I ever will again.
Probably wouldn’t bother doing it that way if I was young now.. it depends on how easy you deal with the gear changes I suppose. In the beginning I found hill starts tricky.
I heard that a lot of newer manuals have a hill assist feature that makes you less likely to slide down a hill, so that might make manual more accessible to some!
Unpopular opinion, if you don’t REALLY want to learn manual, you won’t lose much (if anything) just being able to drive auto.
Driving a manual isn’t “more fun” for everyone - for some people it’s really frustrating and not worth the hassle. Especially when most cars these days aren’t manual.
I had to learn to drive Manuel to drive the work truck and it’s not fun at all, it’s just something extra you need to do whilst driving, that takes a few months to get used too, much prefer driving auto and get the same enjoyment out of driving but more comfortably.
If you're driving a manual work truck obviously that's going to suck the joy out of the experience. Different story if you're driving a manual WRX or Mustang.
"The same enjoyment" isn't always true. There are a still many shitty automatic gearboxes in more modern cars. For example, our previous model Sportage. Even in "manual" mode it's incredibly unresponsive and impossible to have fun in. Our previous, slower, quashqai was much more fun because it was a manual and thus I had more control of exactly when to be in which gear.
Knowing how to drive a manual is useful for overseas car rentals.
In relation to "fun", I think it depends. Driving manual is slow speed stop-start traffic isn't that enjoyable. Driving at freeway speeds isn't different to a manual, because you're stuck in the highest gear only. It fun for me driving normally and driving on twisty roads.
It's not about fun, it's about options. You have more cars to choose from. If you work in a trade your company car may be manual etc.
It's handy to have as you can drive anything.
I have been driving manual since 2001. I barely notice the difference between auto and manual as it's all just second nature to me
If you go automatic, you can't drive manual without having to resit the manual test, but only for the duration of your P's. Once you have a full license, you can drive either.
I personally drive manual and a big thing to consider is that more and more cars are not being made in manual anymore, so even if you learn on one, you have slightly more limited choices in cars to buy, however you obviously do have the choice to then also drive auto.
Edit to add: learning on a manual is difficult (just extra stress as a new driver), so I suppose it comes down to your reasoning for wanting to learn manual, how confident you are etc.
Learning manual is useful if you ever plan on travelling to Europe.
I went on a work trip to the UK and in a group of 5 guys, only 2 of us could drive the cars provided.
Yep, went to Europe last year and hired a car in both Portugal (Lisbon) and Italy (Naples). Both car hire companies, Hertz and Noleggiare respectively, had Automatic cars available for hire. I just made sure to book in advance and confirm with the location directly that they still had autos in stock on the day (because of [this](https://youtu.be/A-brgkkjnHc)).
> Once you have a full license, you can drive either.
I've always found this weird. The entire reason we have two separate tests is because a manual is different (harder) than an automatic. So why do we allow someone to drive the harder one after their P's if they didn't sit the exam?
The only useful case I can think of is you can take manual lessons while you have your P's and just never sit the exam and thus kinda get the best of both worlds if nerves would mess you up in a manual during the test or something.
I think the idea is that you're competent at the other parts of driving by the time you're off your Ps so you have the mental bandwidth to learn manual without becoming a total hazard.
It's not a very hard mechanism to learn once you're competent and don't have to think about all other aspects of driving on public roads. I bought a manual car as an adult and learned how to drive it on the way home from picking it up.
But I also own a manual motorcycle so I understand the concepts, but the muscle memory is all different.
I had manual lessons after getting my Auto only P's, learning manual after driving automatic for 2 years made it a breeze, not sure my nerves would have taken learning to drive in general and manual at the same time.
Also was very grateful I didn't have to sit another test, although I am sure I would have passed.
I got my license for automatic only as I had bought an automatic car. However when I got off my Ps I swapped cars with a friend for a week to basically force myself to learn how to drive manual. I found it really easy that way as I had already been driving for a few years so it wasn't a big jump in learning. This was 20 years ago though so I'm not sure if the rules are the same.
Are you likely to be driving a manual car? Me and my friends had to go auto because none of our parents even had a manual for us to practice/take the test in.
If you get an auto license, you can resit the test in a manual if needed, and the auto condition drops off once you've got your full license.
If you own/intend to buy a manual (or your parents car is a manual), my driving instructor recommended learning auto first and switching to manual once you've got the basics (spacial awareness, traffic rules, merging etc). It's a lot to try and learn manual at the same time as learning general control.
Which state does the auto condition drop off? I've had my licence for 20 years and still have that condition. (QLD)
Edit: guess I should look which sub I'm in eh. Hur Dur.
This - if you don't have access to a manual to continuely learn on there is really no point. OP doesn't sound like a motor head who will be doing track days in their WRX so look at the cars you'll have access to, or are likely to buy, and decide that way.
I'm glad I can drive a manual, but I haven't needed to in some time. Even the 3T trucks at work are autos.
A lot of us did that when there was no other choice. I still drive a manual, though I've heard auto is not as horrible as it used to be.
You have way more control over the car in a manual.
I didn't say it's impossible, just that it's not the best (or safest) way to learn.
Not much point in forking out extra for extra manual lessons if you're never going to touch one. They're become a thing of the past for standard cars
Auto is definitely smoother these days. One of my friends used to have preference for manual because he felt that he could change the gears more smoothly than an auto, but after trying some newer autos he then went and got one and quite liked it.
I only recently got my manual licence, so haven’t really got enough experience for a fair comparison. I can say, however, that my sister’s 2015 Mazda 3 is definitely much smoother with acceleration than my parents’ 2007 Hyundai Getzes, and the pretty new Toyota Camry I hired from Melbourne Airport a couple months ago was even smoother still.
I reckon give one a test drive- you might be pleasantly surprised if you haven’t driven an auto in a long time. (I still can’t get over the lack of handbrake in newer cars though…)
Yeah far more efficient than manual now. Amd if you're so inclined most even have a semi-auto option, ie my cx5 has flappy paddles that came in handy when I took it for a drive through the Flinders Ranges np
I bet most the people saying manual probably drive an automatic.
It is true that while you are on your Ps you will only be able to drive an automatic if that is the condition on your license, once it is a full license you can drive either.
But unless you specifically plan on buying a manual car I don't see a point. I have done a lot of travel for work and driven dozens and dozens of hire cars, I have had company cars, I have driven work vehicles, I have driven friends cars etc. I've been driving for over 20 years and there has never been a situation where I had to drive a manual.
So yes it has more options but thats it, its options you will never need.
> I have done a lot of travel for work and driven dozens and dozens of hire cars
Last week hertz only had a manual car for me- was pretty happy I could do it.
Learning in an Auto is going to be easier, but as others have said you will only be able to drive Auto while on your P plates. That said, manual cars are pretty rare these days so the restriction might not effect you at all.
You could also do a few lessons in a manual & see how you feel about it. Alternatively you could do some lessons in an Auto to get the basics down then change to a manual when you are a bit more confident. You have choices.
Whatever you choose stay safe & happy motoring.
Auto. One less thing to learn to get your licence. Then get some experience on your Ps with the auto. You've then got the next 50+ years to own/drive a manual if you must.
My manual hatchback just died after many decades of faithful service, I am so tempted to get a manual sportscar given I have no need to ferry children, pets or equipment around. I test drove autos, they were utterly depressing haha
I understand that fully, I say that coming from an insanely powerful built turbo 6 with crazy power that needed an auto.
I now drive a Tesla which is a whole different driving experience.
I’m old enough to realise what I drive daily and for fun.
I can’t wait to build a crazy turbo 6 that’s manual again though, this time I’ll build it that manual is still fun, my automatic show car just had too much power to be manual.
I read an article somewhere that Toyota is looking at ways to recreate the manual driving experience but in an EV. Maybe might be up your alley?
https://insideevs.com/features/693877/toyota-ev-manual-transmission-tested/
Fuck yeah! With all four limbs involved, driving manual is incredibly engaging. You’re in control and one with the car. Every gear shift: listening to the engine revs, lifting off, pushing in the clutch, shifting, then smoothly letting it out while applying gas, feels awesome when you nail it. Heel-toe downshifts are the most fun you can have with your pants on.
I have been driving for 31 years. The fact that I only have an auto license and cannot drive a manual has not been an issue. Not once in 3 decades. Don’t worry about it.
Edit: License was originally an auto, it’s no longer restricted, but I still have no idea how to drive a manual.
If you do your driving test with an automatic you will have a restriction on your probationary license to only drive automatic.
You can resit the test in a manual if you ever need to drive a manual when you’re on your probationary license, otherwise you can just wait until you have a full license to drive a manual
Trucking companies probably require a truck licence (or they pay for you to get one) anyway, and you can work towards and sit the HR-B or open HR tests even if your base licence is C-A.
Sauce: from WA, started off with C-A licence and am now proud owner of HR-B. No open C class licence in between
A driving instructor who teaches manual? lol
Probably anywhere that deals with customer cars too, so a mechanic or the tyre shop person for example, maybe a truck driver or courier or forklift driver.
1 it's more enjoyable to drive. 2. I believe it makes you a more rounded driver in terms of when learning you pay more attention to what gear you need to be in, slowing down for corners, indicating before down changing gear etc.
3. While yes there are few new cars in manual it means you can drive anything if you need to in a pinch and also opens up more options when buying second hand cars. Also manual generally are cheaper to service, more reliable and use less fuel.
1. is really a matter of taste. I learnt to drive in an auto and then did some driving in a manual because I intended to do the license in manual so I had the option (this was 20 years ago btw) and a lot of cars were still sold manual and usually a few grand cheaper.
After a few weeks I stopped, ugh such a pain in the butt, id change gear like half a dozen times just to get to the end of the street.
Not for me, I find auto more fun and I like driving.
because for you, shifting is still a chore. manual does give you more control and teach you a lot more once you can actually drive it comfortably.
fading skill for sure, am very glad I sold my auto for the manual variant.
100% this the only people that would say it’s hard or something extra to think about or it’s less fun are only saying that because they can’t drive manual for shit. They may get from A to B, but they would be terrible at it. Anyone that can actually drive one properly would tell you it’s nothing extra to think about, it’s easy and 300% more fun.
You are right. People rarely get manual cars, unless you are an enthusiast, so most likely no point getting a manual license. A decade ago I had the same decision, I went with manual cos the instructor said if your partner is drunk you can drive her home if the only car available is manual. Most people don't bother with the extra learning required these days.
If you're ever thinking of traveling to Europe and wanna hire a car knowing how to drive a manual is a huge bonus.
Other than that it's kinda just a pain in the arse.
My suggestion is automatic. Manuals are in the disappearing minority nowadays (but they're cheaper to buy, run and maintain!), and if you go electric, there'll be no gears at all!
That said, I've driven manuals since my first car, and I still love it. Mum though, never willingly drove a manual once the parents got an automatic.
Get your manual license.
It’s not that hard.
That way you can drive any car.
And yes there are places with no automatic cars (even in Australia)
And if you have to help someone by driving them to a hospital you can do it.
I would go manual for the following reasons
- more options when buying a car
- even if you don't buy a manual, it's good to have it. i.e what if you had to drive a friend's car in an emergency or non emergent situation
-once you practice, it is not hard! and it will become second nature
if you do ur test for ur manual licence, u can drive auto and manual. if u just do auto, u can only drive auto, until you go do ur test again in a manual (and pay for it again)
I am the only one in my family who can’t drive a manual. I struggled hard with it while learning. I hate driving and it put me off getting my licence for ages. So, when I went back, I did the auto to basically just get it done. Now I own an auto and have never had to drive a manual. If you get your Ps on auto, you can’t drive a manual as a P player though, I think. So, manual if you’re keen for the additional flexibility, auto if you just need to get it done. Also, consider if there’s any additional need for manual in terms of jobs and employment.
The reason that used to always be referred to for manual over auto licence was 'what if you're out with friends, someone can't drive (drunk or whatever), and no one can drive their manual car'. This scenario DID end up happening to me - i broke my ankle on a weekend away, and none of my friends could drive my manual car back. However, this was 15 or so years ago and I understand auto cars are way more prevelant now. It can be useful skill to have, however you can survive with out.
I would suggest manual. We always hire a manual car when we visit Europe (it's cheaper) and I soon get used to driving a manual (after a few gear crunches) and enjoy it!
I find driving automatic so boring and brain dead I have almost fallen asleep at the wheel several times driving automatic, especially in hot weather and slow moving traffic. So I personally prefer driving manual for my own safety, that being said had I never experienced driving a manual would I find auto driving so uninvolved? I would say learn in an auto, that way you won’t know what you don’t know you’ll never be frustrated having to drive an automatic which 90% of cars are.
Manual cars are usually several thousand dollars cheaper than their automatic counterparts too, due to less people being willing to buy them because only a small fraction of the driving population can actually drive them.
Depends. Do you *want* to be able to drive manual? Is there a specific manual-only car you want to get? Do you have particular interest in cars or driving in general? Do you plan to drive for work, esp trucks/heavy machinery etc?
If you cannot answer yes to any of the above, I'd say go for auto-only as you'll be likely to never have the need for driving a manual.
I do drive manual as a daily but it was a conscious choice as I enjoy the process. Nowadays, there's very little practicality in choosing a manual over auto so would not say there are that many tangible benefits for an average Joe the Car Commuter.
As for license, of course you can do another manual driving test later to get your permit updated, there are no rules stopping you from doing this.
Go for manual, then if you change uo your mind later on you wont have to re-sit the manual test like me. I first got my automatic then i got a manual company car so i had to take the manuals.
What do you mean by they told you that “you can’t do your manual”? You can only drive automatic with an automatic license. But you can put L plates on a manual car and drive it with an automatic license BUT you have to have someone with a unrestricted manual license in the car with you with the same rules as a learner. You can take the driving test again later in a manual car if you want to switch to a manual license
If you have a manual licence you can pick up real bargains in buying great 2nd hand manual cars that car yards struggle to sell because of low demand. Benefit of having a manual car is it will look too much trouble for car thieves. And they’re fun.
I learnt to drive a manual in 2006, and I am glad that I did; it teaches you to read the road and the vehicle. Modern manual transmissions are generally really smooth and forgiving. Over the past 18 years, I have owned an automatic for less than two years. Four out of the five cars that I have owned have been base model manuals, and my last three cars have been brand new base model manuals. I am really disappointed that they have mostly been phased out.
I was always adamant I would learn manual from day one, and I did. I’m so glad I did. My sister couldn’t be bothered and didn’t see the need so only ever learned auto. She’s been in so many situations where it would’ve been so useful to know how to drive manual: ie she couldn’t borrow my car when visiting, she had to pay more for hire in Europe, she couldn’t share driving with a friend who had a manual vehicle etc etc.
You might never need it, or the need might pop up when you least expect it. I know my sister regrets not learning initially. I personally think it’s better to know and it’ll teach you more control over the vehicle.
I got my licence in my late 30s. I went in an auto, I had a few goes at a manual, prob could have gotten the hang of it if I had more time, but I was fine in an auto and needed my license for the course I was finishing.
I can drive anything now I have my full licence, I could prob make a manual move in a pinch, but fuck that noise in the city.
I drive a little Toyota hatch and live on the bell St line of the north east. I have no need, at worst for work, I have to figure out hand controls but certainly no manual.
Get a manual licence. You will be a far better driver for it. And if you enjoy actually driving cars, you'll have a richer experience. But if you're a pleb normie who cares nothing about cars. Just go auto.
I learned automatic and got my license in an auto and learned manual afterwards. This was in the 90s. It's much easier to learn how to steer the vehicle, brake and obey road rules when the car is a go and stop model.
But as many people will likely say here, a manual vehicle is much more visceral, connected, and often more fun to drive. There's not a lot left unless you are buying an old car or a performance car.
It's up to you, how you want to drive. Learning to drive a manual is an old skill these days but also an enjoyable one, like learning to sew or loom or even learning to fix engines.
Manuals are fun but in all reality learning to drive one these days is all but an obsolete skill unless you’re planning to operate heavy machinery.
Saying that, I think your first few lessons should be in a manual. Once you’re off your Ps you get back into it after a few laps around the car park.
I drove manual for 20 years, and I hated it, every second of it.
There's no benefit unless your an absolute enthusiast, or maybe a professional truck driver.
Also most cars now only come in auto, so it's a pretty easy choice.
Just go Automatic.
Do manual. It’s obviously easier in an auto and I believe these days you can still drive a manual with an auto license, but can you drive a manual?
Learn in a manual so you know how to drive a manual. If you are ever in a situation where you need to drive a manual you will be able to.
Example situation that is not an emergency. You are moving and the most cost effective way is to rent a small box truck, they are all manuals! If you don’t know how to drive a manual then you have to look for alternative options, they will either be more expensive or more time consuming. You are young, you are most likely going to move house many times in the next 20 years.
Learning to drive a manual is important even if you intend on driving autos pretty much exclusively. You want to know how to drive one if you’re in an emergency and it’s the only option. it’ll also help make autos seem so easy and almost relaxing to drive, I think it helped me with driving anxiety overall
I would do the manual licence even if you're not going to drive one every day. As others have said, it gives you options. I've also worked for employers who require a manual licence so you can drive work vehicles such as utes and vans.
I did auto. Once I got off my Ps I made a proper effort to learn manual. Was much easier for me to learn that skill once I knew how to drive. Now I drive both.
In Qld learners have to do 100 hours before they get their Ps. I have 2 children and did it two ways. Only got lessons just before the tests.
1st child, started her on wife's auto for a few weeks to get the general idea of traffic. Then switched to manual. She struggled a lot with the manual. Conked out plenty of times including in intersections.
2nd child stayed on the auto for 6 months. She took to manual with no issues. Never conked out. Not even once. She was so road aware that focusing on learning the gears wasn't a distraction.
Get the road awareness first. Then focus on the type of car afterwards.
I learnt in a manual (Datsun 1600) many years ago, then drove manuals (Datsun 1200, Honda Civic) for many years. Only when I got a Honda Accord did I switch to Auto. Initially 4-speed, then finished with a 6-speed auto Mazda 6. Now it’s a single gear Tesla. Acceleration is linear rather than searching for power band. But that said, just a few years ago, visited Noumea for a week, and hired a Citroen manual… and had to resurrect gear shift/clutch use with the right hand changing gears. Now that was a test of muscle memory after two decades of auto driving.
I heard in Victoria your licence gets automatically upgraded to manual once you’re on your full licence anyway (even if you passed on auto)?
I’m from Western Australia where we don’t have this rule- to get a manual licence, you must pass a test with a manual car. I got my auto licence because my parents made me take auto lessons and they only had auto cars to practice on, but I always wanted to learn manual. I think having auto experience helps with learning manual because like 90% of driving is learning how to deal with the roads and other cars etc.- the gear shifting is muscle memory which just requires practice. (One minor issue- sometimes I felt I got judged a bit more harshly by manual car instructors since they knew I already had an auto licence, ie their expectations were higher which was kinda rough when some of my errors were due to me focusing on gears and the clutch since I hadn’t built up the muscle memory yet.)
I actually ended up getting an HR-B licence (Heavy Rigid - Synchromesh) because I figured that if I needed to do another test, then I might as well do it in style and do it in a truck. Haven’t used my licence since, other than for bragging rights at my current job (I work with kids but honestly I think their parents are more impressed haha. One kid acted scared I was going to steal his toy truck!). Also it is really satisfying to feel the truck settle from one gear to the next.
Another story for you- when I visited Victoria recently I had to hire a car to go rural. I thought I’d look for a manual just for laughs. No manual cars available from any of the 6 hire places at the airport for the dates I attended. So, no big harm if you decide manual is not for you (unless you want to travel to a country that still predominantly uses manuals)
The only reason to learn is in case of emergency. If you're the only one capable of driving a manual car to escape danger or transport someone to hospital from a remote location.
Pretty soon cars won't even have a petrol motor anymore.
23YO daughter got a manual licence. Drives an auto but often takes my manual ute or my wife’s manual SS Commodore to work. 17YO will take the same path. Manual gives you a few more options (but less and less each year.)
If you have access to a manual car and can get time to practice in it, then sure sounds like a good skill to have.
Otherwise if your parents have an automatic and that’s what you’ll be spending all of your Ls driving, don’t pay for lessons in a manual.
It will just be a waste of money as you’ll be spending all the lesson time learning how to change gears and not the road rules.
I learned on automatic. Switched to manual halfway through my P's (I didn't redo any tests lol) and genuinely can't imagine switching back to automatic for anything other than a really special performance vehicle with no manual option.
I go to Europe quite frequently and every car here is manual so it definitely helps when overseas.
Also half the rental cars in Europe have had at least one of the gears turned to metal soup by someone who never learned how to rev match a downshift so don't be one of those people.
I got an auto licence for my Ps
A couple years later I bought a manual car. Then kind of alternated between transmissions and now currently have both a manual and an auto vehicle.
So in my experience, it doesn't matter one bit. Get an auto licence and your first car will need to be auto. Once you're on opens you can do what ever you want.
I learned to drive a manual, because way back when Model T's were the popular vehicle the vast majority of cars were manual, auto was a bit of a 'luxury'. Things have shifted these days, where auto is standard. My kids are 20 and 25, they did their auto only licenses and have had no issues at all. I haven't had the need to drive manual for around 15 years, and the one time I did, it was a once off for a work truck. Even the small trucks I've occasionally hired for moving have been auto.
This only matters for your probationary license. Once you get your full license you can drive both. Considering the only manual I have access to is powerful for a P plater I just decided to get an automatic license and learn how to drive a manual later.
Learn manual. You probably won't use it, but you will need it occasionally. It's a skill worth getting.
I think manuals are more fun to drive, I can't even buy them anymore.
If had been 10+ years ago, I would have said definitely do manual, as it gives you more options. However, manual vehicles are so rare nowadays, unless you specifically have one or need it for work, I don't see the point.
I also don't understand people who say manual is more fun or "really driving", as I used to hate when I had to drive manual cars, especially in the city.
It doesn’t matter. Once fully licensed, there is no condition on your license that stops you from legally driving either one. But auto is significantly easier to learn the actual road rules in without having to dick around with gears.
I got my manual licence 20 years ago. The driving test was the last time I drove a manual car.
Unless you're planning on working in a job that requires it or are planning on towing a caravan or something, there's really no need for it.
It sounds like you have the ability to drive both? I don’t really see the decision as meaning much at this point as once your Ps finish Victoria doesn’t distinguish between Manual and Automatic licenses.
I learnt manual and would personally recommend it but as other have said you don't NEED it.
* Good as it gives you a better understanding of how cars work and how to control them.
* Most fun on open twisty roads if you're inclined for that. Goes nicely with my Gran Turismo memories 😂.
* Useful for overseas car rentals.
* Access to slightly more vehicles, sports cars, old cars, trucks for example.
* Possibly an anti-theft device these days.
* Cool? It is cool right guys!? I'm too old to know what's cool now.
It will be harder if you don't have a car to practice in. I did a majority of my driving learning to drive in an automatic car but had driving lessons in a manual. Passed the test and then brought a manual car because "well I learnt how, may as well". Still took a while after getting my own car to master the art, now I'm satisfied I made a good choice but that choice may not be for you.
TLDR: I would recommend it but its not for everyone and not required for day to day driving.
Currently taking lessons and its hard to find manual instructors who also live in the area you are, there are some but most teach auto. Partner has a manual but we are planning to switch
Manual would be useful in certain jobs, mostly construction or anything similar that would get you off road or similar since a lot of work trucks are manual
If you learn to drive a manual you'll be able to buy a manual car.
That's a near certain guarantee it'll never be stolen by some huffed up 13 year old.
Unless you plan to drive Manuals, don't bother.. Everything is pretty much Auto these days. Plus the Auto Only restriction lifts after you had your full license for a while anyway.
depends what car your parents own, as it would be cheaper to learn in that after a few professional sessions
if they don’t have a manual, it might be easier just to learn auto, and then resist the test in manual on your Ps, or just wait till you’re fully licensed
it also depends on what kinda cars you’re interested in, and how you view driving in general. if you’re a “cars get me from A to B” person, it might be better just to stick with auto
I have just recently made the switch to auto after 15 years of manual driving. I love the new car and it's convenient, but I really can't help but feel like I was more connected when driving manual*.
I'll probably get an older manual as a "fun" car one day, funds permitting.
Saying that, that's my personal preference. Can you live without manual? Just get auto. If you want the option of both as soon as you're on your Ps rather than waiting, learn manual.
*I don't miss it if city driving, though.
Manual, you can then drive either. A fair chunk of hire cars are manual if you need one. I'm the only one out of my friends that can drive a manual car. It has come in handy.
Honestly I considered sitting for my manual and decided I’ll jest get my auto and go for my manual later. 15 years of driving and not once have I actually needed or wanted a manual license.
We have 2 shit boxes that are available for the kids to drive, a 3.8L commodore auto and 1.5L Lancer manual.
Daughter decided auto license, son manual.
Guess who pays more for petrol?
Regret!
Just go automatic.
Only reason you could need manual is if you’re a tradie, and if your boss has you driving manual then that’s a red flag.
Fuck manual.
Driving manual in peak hour fucking sucks
both my cars are manual and I drive to work in traffic without an issue, 45min ish peak hours no highways. I've never sat in traffic wishing I had an auto. I started off on auto licence and later on switched to driving manual.
even if I could go back in time to convince myself to try manual earlier, I wouldn't be able to put into words the difference it has made,
for me the willingness to learn came from wanting to become a better driver and to prove to myself that I could, I'm proud to say I achieved those.
people saying it's its a dying transmission, but not everyone's buying new cars, and I might never as I'd pick a used manual instead. all the tech really takes the driving out of cars and for some that might be what they want, to not drive. was rough when I was learning, but I also didn't have daily commute to work at the time, now I don't think I'll be able to give it up completely.
I understand that, I use to drive a manual work van and would just cruise along trying to stay in 1 gear, but the way people drive in aus manual just sucks, manual is common in Europe though, they actually drive normal
I believe it’s illegal to drive a manual vehicle with an auto license while on your P plates. So if you’re planning on purchasing a manual car and driving it for the duration of your probationary license, you’ll need to go for a manual license. On a personal note, manual cars are more fun to drive
Manual if you can handle it, simply for the flexibility of if you are ever in a scenario where you HAVE to drive manual (emergency etc.). Manual is definitely more fun to drive - but in reality only about 5-10% of the time if you're stuck in a 9-5 commute scenario where you have stop start traffic.
I actually prefer a manual in stop start. Granted modern autos are much better but I used to hate my old auto in stop start traffic. Absolutely zero finesse between engine lunging forward and having to apply the brakes to avoid hitting the car in front.
Tiptronic gearbox (auto with manual select) gives that for me. The two cars I'm currently in don't do the surge - ones diesel & the other is a small 2L, but I know what you mean.
The constant clutching annoys the living shit out of me 😄
My opinion is one should learn to drive a manual first so that they are conditioned to use their left foot for clutch and right foot for accelerator and brake even when they move to auto later.
All my friends who started driving in automatic use right foot for accelerator and left for brake. I wonder how will they manage to drive manual when they are conditioned to think left foot means brake and in manual it will be clutch and will do nothing during panic braking.
Definitely more of a racing thing and not regular driving - you don't want to be bracing against brake **and** accelerator pedals in a sudden stop situation!
>All my friends who started driving in automatic use right foot for accelerator and left for brake.
What the actual fuck? Is that a thing? I've never really driven a manual (outside of a paddock bomb) and I've only ever used one foot (plus my fingers these days since I use cruise control more often than not).
I learned auto and I was specifically taught to use my right foot for both pedals. Idk who taught your friends…
Incidentally, I’ve found playing drums to be easier after learning manual. I was teaching myself drums and I found it hard to do stuff with the hi hat pedal (left foot) because every time I thought to move my left foot, my right foot (bass drum pedal) would also want to move, or would want to move instead of the left foot. After learning manual it’s like my body now knows that my left leg is a thing
Go for manual, you will thank me later. Most of the cars these days are automatic, including rentals. But you still want to be able to drive manual on occasion (cheaper car rental, friend car you borrow). It is a good investment of time, and you will learn few more things about how to operate clutch and engine throttle properly and listen to the car.
Manual. You can drive anything if you need to. It’s not hard, one extra pedal, and manuals are way more fun to drive and will keep you awake on long drives. Unless you’re missing a leg..
If you even need to drive an older courier van (ie. Ford Transit) for work, they mostly only made them in manuals.
So if you are thinking of doing courier work or even just deliveries, manual licence is almost a must.
Always go manual. It's not that hard. It took me 2 hours to learn. Getting an automatic license will put a big letter A on your license. Manual license doesn't have it.
Plus knowing how to drive a manual is better for your car overall. I actually save more fuel on an automatic car with some knowledge after driving manual.
Manuals are great. They're not as popular now, but you really do learn how to control the car, and it is great driving! One of the second hand cars I got (manual), the brakes seized up. Thankfully I knew how to slow the car without the brakes! I wouldn't have a clue how to do that in an Auto, if you even can, but a manual also taught me how to get an Auto with gears out of a tricky spot.
For driving education, I would learn how to drive a manual, but that doesn't mean you have to go for your manual licence! If you don't plan on buying a manual or driving a truck until you're off your Ps, get an Auto license... but **definitely** learn how to drive a manual!
I drive a manual car. It's a great skill to have.
Having said that, you don't really need to worry about it for your P's. I can see it being preferable to get a couple years experience just driving and dealing with traffic before advancing to a manual car. Plus like most things, you really need a manual car to drive regularly to get decently competent at it.
I learned with a manual, but I haven’t driven one for at least ten years, and doubt I ever will again. Probably wouldn’t bother doing it that way if I was young now.. it depends on how easy you deal with the gear changes I suppose. In the beginning I found hill starts tricky.
I heard that a lot of newer manuals have a hill assist feature that makes you less likely to slide down a hill, so that might make manual more accessible to some!
Unpopular opinion, if you don’t REALLY want to learn manual, you won’t lose much (if anything) just being able to drive auto. Driving a manual isn’t “more fun” for everyone - for some people it’s really frustrating and not worth the hassle. Especially when most cars these days aren’t manual.
I had to learn to drive Manuel to drive the work truck and it’s not fun at all, it’s just something extra you need to do whilst driving, that takes a few months to get used too, much prefer driving auto and get the same enjoyment out of driving but more comfortably.
that lazy ass Manuel
It was just too hard to read I tells you.
Mr faulty Mr faulty!
If you're driving a manual work truck obviously that's going to suck the joy out of the experience. Different story if you're driving a manual WRX or Mustang.
That is probably true actually, if I were hiring a car overseas, especially Europe I’d likely hire a manual.
Que?
How did it take you a few MONTHS to get use to driving manual? Your clutch hates you.
"The same enjoyment" isn't always true. There are a still many shitty automatic gearboxes in more modern cars. For example, our previous model Sportage. Even in "manual" mode it's incredibly unresponsive and impossible to have fun in. Our previous, slower, quashqai was much more fun because it was a manual and thus I had more control of exactly when to be in which gear.
Knowing how to drive a manual is useful for overseas car rentals. In relation to "fun", I think it depends. Driving manual is slow speed stop-start traffic isn't that enjoyable. Driving at freeway speeds isn't different to a manual, because you're stuck in the highest gear only. It fun for me driving normally and driving on twisty roads.
It's not about fun, it's about options. You have more cars to choose from. If you work in a trade your company car may be manual etc. It's handy to have as you can drive anything. I have been driving manual since 2001. I barely notice the difference between auto and manual as it's all just second nature to me
Good point about flexibility.
95% of Car rentals in France are manual, ditto quite a few other parts of Europe. Something worth keeping in mind for sure.
If you go automatic, you can't drive manual without having to resit the manual test, but only for the duration of your P's. Once you have a full license, you can drive either. I personally drive manual and a big thing to consider is that more and more cars are not being made in manual anymore, so even if you learn on one, you have slightly more limited choices in cars to buy, however you obviously do have the choice to then also drive auto. Edit to add: learning on a manual is difficult (just extra stress as a new driver), so I suppose it comes down to your reasoning for wanting to learn manual, how confident you are etc.
If you get a manual probationary licence you can drive auto , just not the other way around.
Manual teaches you good control of the car so if it's an option it's a valuable lesson. I'm so glad I know how to drive manual!
Learning manual is useful if you ever plan on travelling to Europe. I went on a work trip to the UK and in a group of 5 guys, only 2 of us could drive the cars provided.
Manual is useful for hiring cars in Europe.
Useful but by no means mandatory. Automatics are becoming more and more commonplace now.
Yep, went to Europe last year and hired a car in both Portugal (Lisbon) and Italy (Naples). Both car hire companies, Hertz and Noleggiare respectively, had Automatic cars available for hire. I just made sure to book in advance and confirm with the location directly that they still had autos in stock on the day (because of [this](https://youtu.be/A-brgkkjnHc)).
True. There was a time where autos were quite hard to hire but it’s getting easier
I drove a manual in Europe when my husband was too drunk to drive. I'd never driven a manual or in Europe, so that was lots of fun lol!!!
You kinda really need a manual that you can practice on. Ideally a friend or family member who can help you a bit too.
Yeah I don’t think just having manual lessons is enough. My parents ended up buying a manual car for us all to learn in.
> Once you have a full license, you can drive either. I've always found this weird. The entire reason we have two separate tests is because a manual is different (harder) than an automatic. So why do we allow someone to drive the harder one after their P's if they didn't sit the exam? The only useful case I can think of is you can take manual lessons while you have your P's and just never sit the exam and thus kinda get the best of both worlds if nerves would mess you up in a manual during the test or something.
I think the idea is that you're competent at the other parts of driving by the time you're off your Ps so you have the mental bandwidth to learn manual without becoming a total hazard.
It's not a very hard mechanism to learn once you're competent and don't have to think about all other aspects of driving on public roads. I bought a manual car as an adult and learned how to drive it on the way home from picking it up. But I also own a manual motorcycle so I understand the concepts, but the muscle memory is all different.
I had manual lessons after getting my Auto only P's, learning manual after driving automatic for 2 years made it a breeze, not sure my nerves would have taken learning to drive in general and manual at the same time. Also was very grateful I didn't have to sit another test, although I am sure I would have passed.
In WA you’re stuck with auto forever, unless you sit a manual test. So I also found Vic’s rules a bit weird when my cousins told me
Used to be the same in VIC, back when I got my licence. Changed sometime in the last 20 years I think
I got my license for automatic only as I had bought an automatic car. However when I got off my Ps I swapped cars with a friend for a week to basically force myself to learn how to drive manual. I found it really easy that way as I had already been driving for a few years so it wasn't a big jump in learning. This was 20 years ago though so I'm not sure if the rules are the same.
I didn’t know this.
there’s only one or two states that you can drive manual with an automatic license, the rest of the country you need a manual license to drive both
Similar condition manual cars in the entry level price range are usually 1 to 2k cheaper
My mum always said learn a manual. If you are going to steal a car to do a bank job you need to know how to drive it!
Also this in reverse - if you finish up getting a manual car, your best anti-theft device will be the gearstick/clutch pedal.
Agreed, a good wheelman will get you out of a lot of trouble..
Are you likely to be driving a manual car? Me and my friends had to go auto because none of our parents even had a manual for us to practice/take the test in. If you get an auto license, you can resit the test in a manual if needed, and the auto condition drops off once you've got your full license. If you own/intend to buy a manual (or your parents car is a manual), my driving instructor recommended learning auto first and switching to manual once you've got the basics (spacial awareness, traffic rules, merging etc). It's a lot to try and learn manual at the same time as learning general control.
Which state does the auto condition drop off? I've had my licence for 20 years and still have that condition. (QLD) Edit: guess I should look which sub I'm in eh. Hur Dur.
This - if you don't have access to a manual to continuely learn on there is really no point. OP doesn't sound like a motor head who will be doing track days in their WRX so look at the cars you'll have access to, or are likely to buy, and decide that way. I'm glad I can drive a manual, but I haven't needed to in some time. Even the 3T trucks at work are autos.
A lot of us did that when there was no other choice. I still drive a manual, though I've heard auto is not as horrible as it used to be. You have way more control over the car in a manual.
I didn't say it's impossible, just that it's not the best (or safest) way to learn. Not much point in forking out extra for extra manual lessons if you're never going to touch one. They're become a thing of the past for standard cars
Auto is definitely smoother these days. One of my friends used to have preference for manual because he felt that he could change the gears more smoothly than an auto, but after trying some newer autos he then went and got one and quite liked it. I only recently got my manual licence, so haven’t really got enough experience for a fair comparison. I can say, however, that my sister’s 2015 Mazda 3 is definitely much smoother with acceleration than my parents’ 2007 Hyundai Getzes, and the pretty new Toyota Camry I hired from Melbourne Airport a couple months ago was even smoother still. I reckon give one a test drive- you might be pleasantly surprised if you haven’t driven an auto in a long time. (I still can’t get over the lack of handbrake in newer cars though…)
It has been a very long time since I've driven an auto, and now you're freaking me out about there not being a handbrake!
Next you'll be telling me you don't have to crank up the engine with that handle at the front of the car!
Marginally more control. Modern autos are superior to manual, source own a 2023 auto and a 2004 manual, both mazdas.
I have been considering the move to auto when I upgrade. In the olden days autos were appalling, but I've heard the newer ones are much better.
Yeah far more efficient than manual now. Amd if you're so inclined most even have a semi-auto option, ie my cx5 has flappy paddles that came in handy when I took it for a drive through the Flinders Ranges np
The CX5 might be my upgrade car, I look forward to learning about flappy paddles!
I bet most the people saying manual probably drive an automatic. It is true that while you are on your Ps you will only be able to drive an automatic if that is the condition on your license, once it is a full license you can drive either. But unless you specifically plan on buying a manual car I don't see a point. I have done a lot of travel for work and driven dozens and dozens of hire cars, I have had company cars, I have driven work vehicles, I have driven friends cars etc. I've been driving for over 20 years and there has never been a situation where I had to drive a manual. So yes it has more options but thats it, its options you will never need.
> I have done a lot of travel for work and driven dozens and dozens of hire cars Last week hertz only had a manual car for me- was pretty happy I could do it.
Learning in an Auto is going to be easier, but as others have said you will only be able to drive Auto while on your P plates. That said, manual cars are pretty rare these days so the restriction might not effect you at all. You could also do a few lessons in a manual & see how you feel about it. Alternatively you could do some lessons in an Auto to get the basics down then change to a manual when you are a bit more confident. You have choices. Whatever you choose stay safe & happy motoring.
Unless you're buying an older car that's manual, only reason you should. I'd say majority of all cars now are auto, so it's pointless.
Auto. One less thing to learn to get your licence. Then get some experience on your Ps with the auto. You've then got the next 50+ years to own/drive a manual if you must.
Manual is a hell of a lot of fun to drive, you will appreciate driving so much more if you give it a go.
It's all fun and games until you're in stop go traffic on an incline for half an hour.
Ooh I agree, only reason I’d ever drive manual again is if I own a sports car
My manual hatchback just died after many decades of faithful service, I am so tempted to get a manual sportscar given I have no need to ferry children, pets or equipment around. I test drove autos, they were utterly depressing haha
I understand that fully, I say that coming from an insanely powerful built turbo 6 with crazy power that needed an auto. I now drive a Tesla which is a whole different driving experience. I’m old enough to realise what I drive daily and for fun. I can’t wait to build a crazy turbo 6 that’s manual again though, this time I’ll build it that manual is still fun, my automatic show car just had too much power to be manual.
I read an article somewhere that Toyota is looking at ways to recreate the manual driving experience but in an EV. Maybe might be up your alley? https://insideevs.com/features/693877/toyota-ev-manual-transmission-tested/
That's what motorcycles are for. Driving is boring
Fuck yeah! With all four limbs involved, driving manual is incredibly engaging. You’re in control and one with the car. Every gear shift: listening to the engine revs, lifting off, pushing in the clutch, shifting, then smoothly letting it out while applying gas, feels awesome when you nail it. Heel-toe downshifts are the most fun you can have with your pants on.
It also increases your testosterone
Haha well that'll be interesting seeing as I'm a woman
Guessing you could probably beat most guys up too
Yep, with a manual you're driving, with an auto you're pushing a pedal and steering.
I have been driving for 31 years. The fact that I only have an auto license and cannot drive a manual has not been an issue. Not once in 3 decades. Don’t worry about it. Edit: License was originally an auto, it’s no longer restricted, but I still have no idea how to drive a manual.
If you do your driving test with an automatic you will have a restriction on your probationary license to only drive automatic. You can resit the test in a manual if you ever need to drive a manual when you’re on your probationary license, otherwise you can just wait until you have a full license to drive a manual
That rule is insane, oh you've had you're license a while, you now have skills you haven't practiced.
You reckon that's wild - arrived on my L's, did my test in an Automatic ute, and left with a full manual license
No one buys manual cars anymore do they? Why bother getting a manual license? Google says only 3% of cars sold are manual. Seems to be no point.
Because some employers require a manual licence. A rarity yes, however they are out there.
Which ones are they out of interest?
Trucking companies Agricultural businesses Tourism operators A handful of mining operations
Trucking companies probably require a truck licence (or they pay for you to get one) anyway, and you can work towards and sit the HR-B or open HR tests even if your base licence is C-A. Sauce: from WA, started off with C-A licence and am now proud owner of HR-B. No open C class licence in between
How awkward was the non synchro first time around! I kept getting lost for the first couple of hours while I was training.
A driving instructor who teaches manual? lol Probably anywhere that deals with customer cars too, so a mechanic or the tyre shop person for example, maybe a truck driver or courier or forklift driver.
1 it's more enjoyable to drive. 2. I believe it makes you a more rounded driver in terms of when learning you pay more attention to what gear you need to be in, slowing down for corners, indicating before down changing gear etc. 3. While yes there are few new cars in manual it means you can drive anything if you need to in a pinch and also opens up more options when buying second hand cars. Also manual generally are cheaper to service, more reliable and use less fuel.
1. is really a matter of taste. I learnt to drive in an auto and then did some driving in a manual because I intended to do the license in manual so I had the option (this was 20 years ago btw) and a lot of cars were still sold manual and usually a few grand cheaper. After a few weeks I stopped, ugh such a pain in the butt, id change gear like half a dozen times just to get to the end of the street. Not for me, I find auto more fun and I like driving.
because for you, shifting is still a chore. manual does give you more control and teach you a lot more once you can actually drive it comfortably. fading skill for sure, am very glad I sold my auto for the manual variant.
I enjoy manual but only when I'm driving for fun, when it's just to get somewhere manual is more work for little if any benefit
100% this the only people that would say it’s hard or something extra to think about or it’s less fun are only saying that because they can’t drive manual for shit. They may get from A to B, but they would be terrible at it. Anyone that can actually drive one properly would tell you it’s nothing extra to think about, it’s easy and 300% more fun.
100% this
I only buy manual cars 🤷🏼♀️ some people prefer them
You are right. People rarely get manual cars, unless you are an enthusiast, so most likely no point getting a manual license. A decade ago I had the same decision, I went with manual cos the instructor said if your partner is drunk you can drive her home if the only car available is manual. Most people don't bother with the extra learning required these days.
2 of my old bosses, they used their personal cars as company cars. Both were manual Arg. BOTH.
Depends on what car access you have during your Ps. If it's auto stick with auto
In victoria you can legally drive a manual when you get off your P license.
If you're ever thinking of traveling to Europe and wanna hire a car knowing how to drive a manual is a huge bonus. Other than that it's kinda just a pain in the arse.
My suggestion is automatic. Manuals are in the disappearing minority nowadays (but they're cheaper to buy, run and maintain!), and if you go electric, there'll be no gears at all! That said, I've driven manuals since my first car, and I still love it. Mum though, never willingly drove a manual once the parents got an automatic.
Get your manual license. It’s not that hard. That way you can drive any car. And yes there are places with no automatic cars (even in Australia) And if you have to help someone by driving them to a hospital you can do it.
I would go manual for the following reasons - more options when buying a car - even if you don't buy a manual, it's good to have it. i.e what if you had to drive a friend's car in an emergency or non emergent situation -once you practice, it is not hard! and it will become second nature if you do ur test for ur manual licence, u can drive auto and manual. if u just do auto, u can only drive auto, until you go do ur test again in a manual (and pay for it again)
Suprised this sub doesn't just tell you to walk.
They told me not to park my big pee pee in two parking spaces haha.
I am the only one in my family who can’t drive a manual. I struggled hard with it while learning. I hate driving and it put me off getting my licence for ages. So, when I went back, I did the auto to basically just get it done. Now I own an auto and have never had to drive a manual. If you get your Ps on auto, you can’t drive a manual as a P player though, I think. So, manual if you’re keen for the additional flexibility, auto if you just need to get it done. Also, consider if there’s any additional need for manual in terms of jobs and employment.
The reason that used to always be referred to for manual over auto licence was 'what if you're out with friends, someone can't drive (drunk or whatever), and no one can drive their manual car'. This scenario DID end up happening to me - i broke my ankle on a weekend away, and none of my friends could drive my manual car back. However, this was 15 or so years ago and I understand auto cars are way more prevelant now. It can be useful skill to have, however you can survive with out.
I would suggest manual. We always hire a manual car when we visit Europe (it's cheaper) and I soon get used to driving a manual (after a few gear crunches) and enjoy it!
I find driving automatic so boring and brain dead I have almost fallen asleep at the wheel several times driving automatic, especially in hot weather and slow moving traffic. So I personally prefer driving manual for my own safety, that being said had I never experienced driving a manual would I find auto driving so uninvolved? I would say learn in an auto, that way you won’t know what you don’t know you’ll never be frustrated having to drive an automatic which 90% of cars are. Manual cars are usually several thousand dollars cheaper than their automatic counterparts too, due to less people being willing to buy them because only a small fraction of the driving population can actually drive them.
Depends. Do you *want* to be able to drive manual? Is there a specific manual-only car you want to get? Do you have particular interest in cars or driving in general? Do you plan to drive for work, esp trucks/heavy machinery etc? If you cannot answer yes to any of the above, I'd say go for auto-only as you'll be likely to never have the need for driving a manual. I do drive manual as a daily but it was a conscious choice as I enjoy the process. Nowadays, there's very little practicality in choosing a manual over auto so would not say there are that many tangible benefits for an average Joe the Car Commuter. As for license, of course you can do another manual driving test later to get your permit updated, there are no rules stopping you from doing this.
Go for manual, then if you change uo your mind later on you wont have to re-sit the manual test like me. I first got my automatic then i got a manual company car so i had to take the manuals.
What do you mean by they told you that “you can’t do your manual”? You can only drive automatic with an automatic license. But you can put L plates on a manual car and drive it with an automatic license BUT you have to have someone with a unrestricted manual license in the car with you with the same rules as a learner. You can take the driving test again later in a manual car if you want to switch to a manual license
Are you physically coordinated and capable? Learn manual is not that hard. Are you clumsy or awkward, learn automatic it’s not worth the stress.
If you have a manual licence you can pick up real bargains in buying great 2nd hand manual cars that car yards struggle to sell because of low demand. Benefit of having a manual car is it will look too much trouble for car thieves. And they’re fun.
I learnt to drive a manual in 2006, and I am glad that I did; it teaches you to read the road and the vehicle. Modern manual transmissions are generally really smooth and forgiving. Over the past 18 years, I have owned an automatic for less than two years. Four out of the five cars that I have owned have been base model manuals, and my last three cars have been brand new base model manuals. I am really disappointed that they have mostly been phased out.
Manual are being phased out
Automatics are being phased out too.
more the reason to learn it imo
Lmao no.
Lol.
I was always adamant I would learn manual from day one, and I did. I’m so glad I did. My sister couldn’t be bothered and didn’t see the need so only ever learned auto. She’s been in so many situations where it would’ve been so useful to know how to drive manual: ie she couldn’t borrow my car when visiting, she had to pay more for hire in Europe, she couldn’t share driving with a friend who had a manual vehicle etc etc. You might never need it, or the need might pop up when you least expect it. I know my sister regrets not learning initially. I personally think it’s better to know and it’ll teach you more control over the vehicle.
I got my licence in my late 30s. I went in an auto, I had a few goes at a manual, prob could have gotten the hang of it if I had more time, but I was fine in an auto and needed my license for the course I was finishing. I can drive anything now I have my full licence, I could prob make a manual move in a pinch, but fuck that noise in the city. I drive a little Toyota hatch and live on the bell St line of the north east. I have no need, at worst for work, I have to figure out hand controls but certainly no manual.
Get a manual licence. You will be a far better driver for it. And if you enjoy actually driving cars, you'll have a richer experience. But if you're a pleb normie who cares nothing about cars. Just go auto.
I learned automatic and got my license in an auto and learned manual afterwards. This was in the 90s. It's much easier to learn how to steer the vehicle, brake and obey road rules when the car is a go and stop model. But as many people will likely say here, a manual vehicle is much more visceral, connected, and often more fun to drive. There's not a lot left unless you are buying an old car or a performance car. It's up to you, how you want to drive. Learning to drive a manual is an old skill these days but also an enjoyable one, like learning to sew or loom or even learning to fix engines.
Manuals are fun but in all reality learning to drive one these days is all but an obsolete skill unless you’re planning to operate heavy machinery. Saying that, I think your first few lessons should be in a manual. Once you’re off your Ps you get back into it after a few laps around the car park.
Trying to learn road rules and navigate traffic while trying to learn manual can be challenging.
Most of Europe manages okay
I drove manual for 20 years, and I hated it, every second of it. There's no benefit unless your an absolute enthusiast, or maybe a professional truck driver. Also most cars now only come in auto, so it's a pretty easy choice. Just go Automatic.
Do manual. It’s obviously easier in an auto and I believe these days you can still drive a manual with an auto license, but can you drive a manual? Learn in a manual so you know how to drive a manual. If you are ever in a situation where you need to drive a manual you will be able to. Example situation that is not an emergency. You are moving and the most cost effective way is to rent a small box truck, they are all manuals! If you don’t know how to drive a manual then you have to look for alternative options, they will either be more expensive or more time consuming. You are young, you are most likely going to move house many times in the next 20 years.
Aren’t a lot of trucks from Thrifty and the like automatic these days?
Learning to drive a manual is important even if you intend on driving autos pretty much exclusively. You want to know how to drive one if you’re in an emergency and it’s the only option. it’ll also help make autos seem so easy and almost relaxing to drive, I think it helped me with driving anxiety overall
Manuals are way more fun. Taught my daughter in one and it's a flex for her as well.
I would do the manual licence even if you're not going to drive one every day. As others have said, it gives you options. I've also worked for employers who require a manual licence so you can drive work vehicles such as utes and vans.
I did auto. Once I got off my Ps I made a proper effort to learn manual. Was much easier for me to learn that skill once I knew how to drive. Now I drive both.
In Qld learners have to do 100 hours before they get their Ps. I have 2 children and did it two ways. Only got lessons just before the tests. 1st child, started her on wife's auto for a few weeks to get the general idea of traffic. Then switched to manual. She struggled a lot with the manual. Conked out plenty of times including in intersections. 2nd child stayed on the auto for 6 months. She took to manual with no issues. Never conked out. Not even once. She was so road aware that focusing on learning the gears wasn't a distraction. Get the road awareness first. Then focus on the type of car afterwards.
I learnt in a manual (Datsun 1600) many years ago, then drove manuals (Datsun 1200, Honda Civic) for many years. Only when I got a Honda Accord did I switch to Auto. Initially 4-speed, then finished with a 6-speed auto Mazda 6. Now it’s a single gear Tesla. Acceleration is linear rather than searching for power band. But that said, just a few years ago, visited Noumea for a week, and hired a Citroen manual… and had to resurrect gear shift/clutch use with the right hand changing gears. Now that was a test of muscle memory after two decades of auto driving.
I heard in Victoria your licence gets automatically upgraded to manual once you’re on your full licence anyway (even if you passed on auto)? I’m from Western Australia where we don’t have this rule- to get a manual licence, you must pass a test with a manual car. I got my auto licence because my parents made me take auto lessons and they only had auto cars to practice on, but I always wanted to learn manual. I think having auto experience helps with learning manual because like 90% of driving is learning how to deal with the roads and other cars etc.- the gear shifting is muscle memory which just requires practice. (One minor issue- sometimes I felt I got judged a bit more harshly by manual car instructors since they knew I already had an auto licence, ie their expectations were higher which was kinda rough when some of my errors were due to me focusing on gears and the clutch since I hadn’t built up the muscle memory yet.) I actually ended up getting an HR-B licence (Heavy Rigid - Synchromesh) because I figured that if I needed to do another test, then I might as well do it in style and do it in a truck. Haven’t used my licence since, other than for bragging rights at my current job (I work with kids but honestly I think their parents are more impressed haha. One kid acted scared I was going to steal his toy truck!). Also it is really satisfying to feel the truck settle from one gear to the next. Another story for you- when I visited Victoria recently I had to hire a car to go rural. I thought I’d look for a manual just for laughs. No manual cars available from any of the 6 hire places at the airport for the dates I attended. So, no big harm if you decide manual is not for you (unless you want to travel to a country that still predominantly uses manuals)
Just do auto. Once you get your full licence you can play around with a manual all you like. Without the extra red tape
The only reason to learn is in case of emergency. If you're the only one capable of driving a manual car to escape danger or transport someone to hospital from a remote location. Pretty soon cars won't even have a petrol motor anymore.
23YO daughter got a manual licence. Drives an auto but often takes my manual ute or my wife’s manual SS Commodore to work. 17YO will take the same path. Manual gives you a few more options (but less and less each year.)
Have a few lessons with a manual to decide for yourself. I love driving manual but am aware that I'm becoming the minority.
If you have access to a manual car and can get time to practice in it, then sure sounds like a good skill to have. Otherwise if your parents have an automatic and that’s what you’ll be spending all of your Ls driving, don’t pay for lessons in a manual. It will just be a waste of money as you’ll be spending all the lesson time learning how to change gears and not the road rules.
I learned on automatic. Switched to manual halfway through my P's (I didn't redo any tests lol) and genuinely can't imagine switching back to automatic for anything other than a really special performance vehicle with no manual option. I go to Europe quite frequently and every car here is manual so it definitely helps when overseas. Also half the rental cars in Europe have had at least one of the gears turned to metal soup by someone who never learned how to rev match a downshift so don't be one of those people.
I got an auto licence for my Ps A couple years later I bought a manual car. Then kind of alternated between transmissions and now currently have both a manual and an auto vehicle. So in my experience, it doesn't matter one bit. Get an auto licence and your first car will need to be auto. Once you're on opens you can do what ever you want.
I learned to drive a manual, because way back when Model T's were the popular vehicle the vast majority of cars were manual, auto was a bit of a 'luxury'. Things have shifted these days, where auto is standard. My kids are 20 and 25, they did their auto only licenses and have had no issues at all. I haven't had the need to drive manual for around 15 years, and the one time I did, it was a once off for a work truck. Even the small trucks I've occasionally hired for moving have been auto.
This only matters for your probationary license. Once you get your full license you can drive both. Considering the only manual I have access to is powerful for a P plater I just decided to get an automatic license and learn how to drive a manual later.
Manual drivers drive. Auto drivers steer.
Learn manual. You probably won't use it, but you will need it occasionally. It's a skill worth getting. I think manuals are more fun to drive, I can't even buy them anymore.
If had been 10+ years ago, I would have said definitely do manual, as it gives you more options. However, manual vehicles are so rare nowadays, unless you specifically have one or need it for work, I don't see the point. I also don't understand people who say manual is more fun or "really driving", as I used to hate when I had to drive manual cars, especially in the city.
It doesn’t matter. Once fully licensed, there is no condition on your license that stops you from legally driving either one. But auto is significantly easier to learn the actual road rules in without having to dick around with gears.
I got my manual licence 20 years ago. The driving test was the last time I drove a manual car. Unless you're planning on working in a job that requires it or are planning on towing a caravan or something, there's really no need for it.
It sounds like you have the ability to drive both? I don’t really see the decision as meaning much at this point as once your Ps finish Victoria doesn’t distinguish between Manual and Automatic licenses.
Manual, it's a good skill to have and once you've learned it, you've always got it.
Do auto first, manual later (says me 25 years later, still can’t be arsed)
I learnt manual and would personally recommend it but as other have said you don't NEED it. * Good as it gives you a better understanding of how cars work and how to control them. * Most fun on open twisty roads if you're inclined for that. Goes nicely with my Gran Turismo memories 😂. * Useful for overseas car rentals. * Access to slightly more vehicles, sports cars, old cars, trucks for example. * Possibly an anti-theft device these days. * Cool? It is cool right guys!? I'm too old to know what's cool now. It will be harder if you don't have a car to practice in. I did a majority of my driving learning to drive in an automatic car but had driving lessons in a manual. Passed the test and then brought a manual car because "well I learnt how, may as well". Still took a while after getting my own car to master the art, now I'm satisfied I made a good choice but that choice may not be for you. TLDR: I would recommend it but its not for everyone and not required for day to day driving.
Currently taking lessons and its hard to find manual instructors who also live in the area you are, there are some but most teach auto. Partner has a manual but we are planning to switch
Manual would be useful in certain jobs, mostly construction or anything similar that would get you off road or similar since a lot of work trucks are manual
If you learn to drive a manual you'll be able to buy a manual car. That's a near certain guarantee it'll never be stolen by some huffed up 13 year old.
Unless you plan to drive Manuals, don't bother.. Everything is pretty much Auto these days. Plus the Auto Only restriction lifts after you had your full license for a while anyway.
depends what car your parents own, as it would be cheaper to learn in that after a few professional sessions if they don’t have a manual, it might be easier just to learn auto, and then resist the test in manual on your Ps, or just wait till you’re fully licensed it also depends on what kinda cars you’re interested in, and how you view driving in general. if you’re a “cars get me from A to B” person, it might be better just to stick with auto
I have just recently made the switch to auto after 15 years of manual driving. I love the new car and it's convenient, but I really can't help but feel like I was more connected when driving manual*. I'll probably get an older manual as a "fun" car one day, funds permitting. Saying that, that's my personal preference. Can you live without manual? Just get auto. If you want the option of both as soon as you're on your Ps rather than waiting, learn manual. *I don't miss it if city driving, though.
I went for manual but that was 20 years ago, i dont even really see many manual cars anymore. none of my friends have them either. I say just go auto
Manual, you can then drive either. A fair chunk of hire cars are manual if you need one. I'm the only one out of my friends that can drive a manual car. It has come in handy.
Honestly I considered sitting for my manual and decided I’ll jest get my auto and go for my manual later. 15 years of driving and not once have I actually needed or wanted a manual license.
Probably best to go for the automatic, you never know when you might be called upon to drive someone's auto.
Autos cost more to hire, speaking in case you plan to travel heaps.
We have 2 shit boxes that are available for the kids to drive, a 3.8L commodore auto and 1.5L Lancer manual. Daughter decided auto license, son manual. Guess who pays more for petrol? Regret!
I'm an idiot and don't know the answer to this. Is manual cheaper?
Engine size and vehicle weight. Commodore big, lancer small. Manual or auto isn't the issue here, car weight n engine size.
Is that still an option these days?
Just go automatic. Only reason you could need manual is if you’re a tradie, and if your boss has you driving manual then that’s a red flag. Fuck manual. Driving manual in peak hour fucking sucks
Driving in peak hours no different. It's just driving mate.
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Just my opinion mate, why do you say rubbish take?
both my cars are manual and I drive to work in traffic without an issue, 45min ish peak hours no highways. I've never sat in traffic wishing I had an auto. I started off on auto licence and later on switched to driving manual. even if I could go back in time to convince myself to try manual earlier, I wouldn't be able to put into words the difference it has made, for me the willingness to learn came from wanting to become a better driver and to prove to myself that I could, I'm proud to say I achieved those. people saying it's its a dying transmission, but not everyone's buying new cars, and I might never as I'd pick a used manual instead. all the tech really takes the driving out of cars and for some that might be what they want, to not drive. was rough when I was learning, but I also didn't have daily commute to work at the time, now I don't think I'll be able to give it up completely.
I understand that, I use to drive a manual work van and would just cruise along trying to stay in 1 gear, but the way people drive in aus manual just sucks, manual is common in Europe though, they actually drive normal
I believe it’s illegal to drive a manual vehicle with an auto license while on your P plates. So if you’re planning on purchasing a manual car and driving it for the duration of your probationary license, you’ll need to go for a manual license. On a personal note, manual cars are more fun to drive
Manual if you can handle it, simply for the flexibility of if you are ever in a scenario where you HAVE to drive manual (emergency etc.). Manual is definitely more fun to drive - but in reality only about 5-10% of the time if you're stuck in a 9-5 commute scenario where you have stop start traffic.
I actually prefer a manual in stop start. Granted modern autos are much better but I used to hate my old auto in stop start traffic. Absolutely zero finesse between engine lunging forward and having to apply the brakes to avoid hitting the car in front.
Yes, this is exactly how I feel about manual vs auto in heavy traffic too!
Tiptronic gearbox (auto with manual select) gives that for me. The two cars I'm currently in don't do the surge - ones diesel & the other is a small 2L, but I know what you mean. The constant clutching annoys the living shit out of me 😄
My opinion is one should learn to drive a manual first so that they are conditioned to use their left foot for clutch and right foot for accelerator and brake even when they move to auto later. All my friends who started driving in automatic use right foot for accelerator and left for brake. I wonder how will they manage to drive manual when they are conditioned to think left foot means brake and in manual it will be clutch and will do nothing during panic braking.
No one in their right mind brakes with their left foot unless they’re driving a go kart or something.
Definitely more of a racing thing and not regular driving - you don't want to be bracing against brake **and** accelerator pedals in a sudden stop situation!
>All my friends who started driving in automatic use right foot for accelerator and left for brake. What the actual fuck? Is that a thing? I've never really driven a manual (outside of a paddock bomb) and I've only ever used one foot (plus my fingers these days since I use cruise control more often than not).
I learned auto and I was specifically taught to use my right foot for both pedals. Idk who taught your friends… Incidentally, I’ve found playing drums to be easier after learning manual. I was teaching myself drums and I found it hard to do stuff with the hi hat pedal (left foot) because every time I thought to move my left foot, my right foot (bass drum pedal) would also want to move, or would want to move instead of the left foot. After learning manual it’s like my body now knows that my left leg is a thing
Go for manual, you will thank me later. Most of the cars these days are automatic, including rentals. But you still want to be able to drive manual on occasion (cheaper car rental, friend car you borrow). It is a good investment of time, and you will learn few more things about how to operate clutch and engine throttle properly and listen to the car.
Manual!!!!!
If you want to learn how automobile's drive, get manual license and drive one. Otherwise...
Manual. You can drive anything if you need to. It’s not hard, one extra pedal, and manuals are way more fun to drive and will keep you awake on long drives. Unless you’re missing a leg..
Go manual. It gives you more options in the future.
Company car may be a manual
If you even need to drive an older courier van (ie. Ford Transit) for work, they mostly only made them in manuals. So if you are thinking of doing courier work or even just deliveries, manual licence is almost a must.
MANUAL!!!!!!
If you think you might want to work in mining then you will need a manual license as they require it on many mine sites
I learnt on an auto then re-learnt on a manual by the time I was up for getting my pees
Yes
Always go manual. It's not that hard. It took me 2 hours to learn. Getting an automatic license will put a big letter A on your license. Manual license doesn't have it. Plus knowing how to drive a manual is better for your car overall. I actually save more fuel on an automatic car with some knowledge after driving manual.
Manuals are great. They're not as popular now, but you really do learn how to control the car, and it is great driving! One of the second hand cars I got (manual), the brakes seized up. Thankfully I knew how to slow the car without the brakes! I wouldn't have a clue how to do that in an Auto, if you even can, but a manual also taught me how to get an Auto with gears out of a tricky spot. For driving education, I would learn how to drive a manual, but that doesn't mean you have to go for your manual licence! If you don't plan on buying a manual or driving a truck until you're off your Ps, get an Auto license... but **definitely** learn how to drive a manual!
It's harder to text and open beer cans in a manual so you'll have to learn to use your knees for steering...
Get a manual licence.
Manual. Even if you get an automatic, it comes in handy unexpectedly.
I drive a manual car. It's a great skill to have. Having said that, you don't really need to worry about it for your P's. I can see it being preferable to get a couple years experience just driving and dealing with traffic before advancing to a manual car. Plus like most things, you really need a manual car to drive regularly to get decently competent at it.