Do you think of yourself as a manual or automatic kind of person? In the world of cars, that distinction is pretty important. Manual transmissions are becoming a rarity these days, but some people will always choose them over automatics. There are pros and cons to each transmission type, but which one is right for you? 

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of manual and automatic transmissions by Eastern Shore Certified Cars to help you make your decision.

Automatic Transmission

Automatic transmissions use hydraulic pressure to automatically switch between different gears in which the car is being driven. The automatic transmission is a way of changing gears without using a clutch or stick shift. This allows for easier driving and less fatigue on the driver.

Pros:

1. The car is easier to drive.
2. The car has more potential for speed and power depending on how you drive it.
3. The car can be driven by someone who does not know how to drive a stick shift.

Cons:

1. A car with an automatic transmission is more susceptible to damage from different types of terrain.
2. Although there’s potential for speed and power, an automatic car still can’t go as fast as a car with manual transmission.
3. The fuel consumption of a car with an automatic transmission tends to be higher than a car with a manual transmission.

Manual Transmission

Cars with a manual transmission feature a clutch located on the left side of the driver’s seat. The clutch is what allows you to change gears when driving the car. The manual transmission gives greater control over how much power goes to each wheel, making navigating rugged or bumpy terrain easier.

Pros:

1. The car can accelerate quicker since it doesn’t have to wait on a computer to provide more power (which is the case in automatics).
2. The transmission provides better fuel economy since you have more efficient gears.
3. It also provides better control when driving in challenging terrain or adverse weather conditions.

Cons:

1. Requiring more skill from the driver would likely mean an expensive learning curve.
2. Manual transmissions can be more costly than automatic transmissions because they require additional maintenance and labor.
3. Constantly shifting gears can take a toll on the driver, especially in high traffic conditions.

Auto-Manual Transmission

This type of transmission can be shifted manually, but it also provides the functionality of a standard automatic transmission. Car manufacturers have been including this type of transmission in their vehicles in recent years. It it allows for greater control over performance and fuel efficiency while still providing some of the convenience of an automatic.

Pros:

1. Auto-manual transmissions can be shifted quickly and easily, allowing for quick maneuvers such as passing.
2. They provide better control over engine performance than an automatic transmission because the driver can shift gears as needed to maximize engine efficiency.

Cons:

1. Automobile manufacturers often charge extra for this option.
2. Many drivers don’t know how to operate an auto-manual transmission correctly or simply prefer the simplicity of an automatic, making this type of car transmission less popular.

The Gist 

It’s helpful to know which type of car transmission you have, especially if you’re the kind of driver who likes more control over your vehicle. We hope you enjoyed this post and found it helpful. At Eastern Shore Luxury Cars, serving Mobile, AL, we always want our customers to feel informed and in control when it comes to their vehicles. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Thanks for reading!