Manual vs. automatic car transmissions
9 minute read Published on Jan 25, 2025 by BrokerLink Communications
When you're saving money for a car, one of the big choices you'll face once it's time to purchase one is what type of car transmission to go for. There are two main options: automatic or manual. With a manual transmission, you're in charge of shifting the gears yourself. On the other hand, an automatic transmission handles all the shifting for you. So, the real question is: do you want to shift or let the car do it for you?
Manual transmission
A manual car with a manual transmission or manual gearbox is often referred to as a "stick shift." With this type of vehicle, the driver uses a gear stick to manually shift gears as they speed up or slow down. The shift lever is usually located on the center console and is connected to the transmission through a linkage.
In addition to the stick shift, driving a manual requires using a clutch pedal, which you'll find to the left of the brake pedal. When you press the clutch pedal, it disengages the clutch mechanism, which sits between the engine and the transmission. This stops power from flowing from the engine to the transmission, allowing you to change gears.
To shift gears, you press down on the clutch pedal, move the shifter to the desired gear, and then release the clutch pedal to reconnect the engine’s power to the transmission. It takes a bit of practice to get the timing right—release the clutch too fast, and the engine can stall; too slow, and it can lead to extra wear on the clutch. In the following section, we will explore various types of manual transmissions:
Types of manual transmission
There are a few different types of manual gearboxes/transmissions, including:
- Unsynchronized manual transmission
- Synchronized manual transmission
- Preselector gearbox
Automatic transmission
In a manual transmission, the driver is actively involved in shifting gears, but with automatic transmissions, it’s much simpler. You just put the car in “D” for drive, and the vehicle handles the rest. It uses fluid pressure to shift gears automatically. The core component behind these smooth shifts is the planetary gear set, which creates the various gear ratios needed.
Automatic transmission fluid plays a crucial role, too. It provides the pressure to engage the bands and clutches that determine which gear the car should be in. Plus, transmission fluid helps cool, lubricate, and power the transmission.
In place of the clutch found in manual transmissions, automatics use a torque converter. This device, working with fluid, locks and unlocks the planetary gears to shift between gear ratios seamlessly without any input from the driver. In this section, we will explore the different types of automatic transmissions:
Types of automatic transmission
There are several types of automatic gearboxes/transmissions, including:
- Hydraulic automatic transmission (AT)
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Automated manual transmission (AMT)
- Dual-clutch transmission (DCT)
- Tiptronic Transmission
Pros of manual transmission
Let's compare the pros of manual transmission vehicles:
You have complete control over when to shift gears
Automatic transmissions are programmed to pick the best gear for any situation, but they often play it safe, shifting into higher gears and sometimes wasting engine power. Since automatics react to conditions as they happen, they don’t let drivers anticipate what’s coming or downshift for a little extra power when needed. With a manual transmission, you have much more control over how the car responds in these situations.
Manual transmission cars are usually cheaper
Manual transmissions are typically cheaper than automatics. In fact, the same car with an automatic transmission can cost around $1,000 more than its manual version. This is because automatic transmissions come with a lot of extra machinery, which can also make maintaining them pretty pricey over time.
Manual cars, on the other hand, often require less maintenance, and when repairs are needed, they tend to be a lot cheaper. However, one thing to watch out for with a manual is the clutch. If that goes out, it can be an expensive problem.
They're known for better fuel efficiency
Drivers with a manual transmission have more control over their car’s performance. With enough skill and practice, a stick-shift driver can actually improve fuel efficiency. Manuals usually get about four to six more kilometres per gallon compared to automatics.
They're less likely to be stolen
With more and more automatic cars on the road, there are whole generations that never learned how to drive a manual. So, if a car thief checks out your car and notices it has a stick shift, there’s a pretty good chance that alone might be enough to make them think twice about stealing it!
Cons of manual transmission
Now, let's explore some of the cons of a manual transmission vehicle:
They're harder to find
Manual transmissions are becoming less popular, meaning fewer manuals are being made. You'll mostly find them in smaller cars or sports cars these days.
There’s a steep learning curve
Manual transmissions can take weeks or even months to really get the hang of. Until then, you’ll probably stall a lot. To make things even trickier, not all manuals are the same. Some clutches engage at different points, and newer cars might hold the brakes for you on hills while you switch from the brake to the gas. Others don’t have this feature, and you’ll start rolling back the moment you lift your foot.
They require more focus
Driving a manual transmission requires more focus and attention. New drivers or those who struggle with multitasking often find stick shifts harder to manage. Some people may also have physical limitations that make using a clutch difficult, which could make driving a manual more challenging or even unsafe for them.
It can get tiring in stop-and-go traffic
If you're a frequent city driver, all that constant gear shifting can start to take its toll, especially if you're stuck in stop-and-go traffic like one would experience during rush hour.
Pros of automatic transmission
Now, let's talk about the pros of automatic transmissions:
They're much easier to handle
Shifting gears and working a clutch isn’t all that hard, but it does take some practice before you feel confident using all your limbs independently to drive a manual. In contrast, automatic transmissions are much easier to pick up and take far less time for most people to learn.
They're better in stop-and-go traffic
With a manual transmission, there's definitely more effort involved when starting, accelerating, slowing down, and stopping. In regular driving, it’s not a big deal, but if you're a frequent driver during rush hour traffic, all that constant shifting can feel like a real hassle. With an automatic transmission, however, you can cruise through traffic with just the push of one pedal, making it much easier to manage stop-and-go situations.
They're way less likely to stall
Few things are more awkward than stalling your manual car just as the light turns green. Luckily, if you're driving an automatic, stalling isn’t something you have to worry about—unless there's a mechanical issue with the vehicle.
They're much more common
Fewer modern cars are being made with manual transmission options, meaning you're significantly more likely to find the newer vehicle you want with an automatic transmission than a manual one.
Some models offer manual control
If you come across terms like "manual mode," "manumatic," or "shift-it-yourself," it’s likely referring to an automatic transmission that allows you to pick specific gears when you want. Manual mode gives you even more control than traditional shiftable automatics, as it lets you stick with one gear if you choose. When it comes to driving, the more control you have, the better, giving you the best of both worlds.
Cons of automatic transmission
Now, let's explore some of the cons of automatic transmissions:
They’re often more expensive than manual cars
Automatic cars are usually more expensive than manuals because they come with more advanced transmission systems and parts. Because they have more moving parts, they often come with both higher purchase and repair costs.
They're not always as fuel-efficient
Manual transmissions are typically the go-to for better fuel economy. However, with advancements in technology, some modern automatics may offer better gas mileage than manuals.
Some people may find automatics less fun to drive
Basic automatic transmissions have come a long way, now delivering crisp, manual-like shifts. Some manufacturers even say they can shift faster than a person could with a manual. Still, for many car enthusiasts, driving a traditional automatic just doesn’t give the same feeling.
How does car insurance differ for manual vs. automatic transmission vehicles?
When it comes to car insurance, both manual and automatic transmission vehicles require the same types of coverage in Canada. They need at least the minimum in liability car insurance, which includes third-party liability and accident benefits coverage. Then, depending on which province you live in, you may also be required to have uninsured automobile and/or direct compensation-property damage coverage.
However, when it comes to your insurance premiums, this is where you'll start to notice differences. Car insurance costs are based on several key factors, including engine size, model, trim, year, location, and the market value of the vehicle.
If the only difference between the two cars is the type of transmission, automatics usually cost more to insure, meaning manual cars are generally cheaper to insure. This is because repairing or replacing an automatic gearbox is more expensive than a manual one. That said, the difference in insurance premiums between the two is generally small.
Factors affecting car insurance premiums
As mentioned earlier, car insurance premiums are influenced by several key factors, along with a few others. Here are the main factors that impact the cost of car insurance:
- The vehicle's trim, make, and model
- Your driving record
- Your driving experience
- Your age
- Your location
- Your coverage options
- Your deductible amount
- Your claims history
How to save money on car insurance premiums
Auto insurance can be pricey, but it’s essential to protect yourself from paying out of pocket for property damage and other costs. What many drivers don’t realize is that insurance companies often offer discounts for a variety of reasons. So, let’s talk about how you can save on car insurance today:
Bundle your policies
If you own other types of insurance, like home insurance or multiple car insurance policies, ask your insurance broker or insurance company about bundling your policies together for a discount. You could qualify for a home and auto insurance discount or a multi-vehicle discount.
Pay annually instead of monthly
Did you know that paying your insurance premium once a year can save you money? While most drivers prefer the convenience of monthly payments, paying monthly actually costs more. That’s because insurance companies add administrative fees to your rates, which can add up over time.
Increase your deductible
Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket when you file an insurance claim before your provider covers the rest. If you ask your insurance company to increase your deductible, your car insurance rates will likely go down. This is because the more you pay, the less they have to. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to pay more upfront if you’re ever in an accident.
Keep a good driving record
Insurance companies offer lower rates to drivers who are considered low-risk, meaning they make fewer claims and avoid traffic tickets. Since insurance is a financial safety net, providers take on risk by insuring you. That’s why staying safe on the road matters. If you keep a clean driving record for at least six years, many insurers will reward you with things like a safe driver discount for lower rates.
So, which transmission type is right for you?
Choosing the right transmission for your next vehicle really comes down to personal preference. If you do a lot of city driving, an automatic might be easier for handling stop-and-go traffic. But if you’re after a more engaging driving experience, a manual could be the way to go. Also, think about whether others will be driving the car—if they’re not comfortable with a stick shift or don't know how to drive one, an automatic might be the better option.
Call BrokerLink today
Explore the benefits of manual versus automatic car transmissions and discover how BrokerLink can provide the right auto insurance coverage for your needs. Contact us today to learn more and find the best policy for your vehicle!