FabSwingers.com forum: Manual or Automatic

By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

I have been learning how to drive since last August ,two months taken out due to ill health. After a shaky start I thought I was progressing well in learning how to drive manual ,but my last few lessons have been terrible and I have a hate of right turns plus a few times I have selected the wrong gear . My instructor is great and everything else she has taught I have got . I have a full on breakdown when approaching a right turn plus my last lesson I burst into tears .

I need advice , do I stick with the lessons and overcome my fears or switch to automatic so things are more simple or just accept I wont ever drive ?

I have tried so hard and come so far , I really need to be able to drive as my mobility is limited now so walking is getting difficult .

Please no jokes about women drivers but I will appreciate any genuine advice . Sorry my post so long and please ignore any spelling mistakes

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Switch to automatic.

In ten years nearly all vehicles will be auto anyhow

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By *abioMan
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

do whatever you feel is in your best interest....

i started learning in a manual, but after about 5 lessons is became apparent that i was too "american" for all of this stick malarky.... so it was my instructors suggestion i switch to an automatic.... and i didn't look back...

i'd suggest having a talk with your instructor and seeing what they honestly think....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I've just switched to an auto after about 12 years in manual. The type of driving I do its far better. Must admit, I wish I'd done it ages ago

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Pass in an auto you can't drive manual....

Pass manual, you can drive both.

I cannot stand driving auto....so much less involved.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Automatic?....AUTOMATIC?

Wash your mouth out!!

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By *andy_tomMan
over a year ago

wolverhampton

First of all relax and chill , dont rush things take your time , forget the automatic and stick to the manual , if you pass your test in a automatic car you cant drive a manual gearbox car , .

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

taking this slightly wayward.. has anyone seen youtube clip of prank call to bmw about auto car. have you pissing yourselves

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By *reelove1969Couple
over a year ago

bristol

I think changing to automatic is a great idea ...a friend failed her test 24 times in manual ...changed to automatic and passed first time ...it will give you more time to focus and concentrate on other things ...good luck hope it works for you !

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By *londeCazWoman
over a year ago

Arse End of the Universe, Cumbria

Am I right in thinking if you pass your test in an auto, you have to do another for a manual? I went onto an auto for medical reasons last year after 30 years driving manual and I won't go back to manuals now...OP, sounds like you've developed a mild phobia to turning right - an auto may not resolve that

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Automatic?....AUTOMATIC?

Wash your mouth out!!

good man.

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By (user no longer on site)
Forum Mod
over a year ago

I've had both

Automatic is like driving a bumper car

I much prefer manual

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My x5 is auto and absolutly love it, never thought i would have a auto but wouldnt go back to a manual now , far too lazy to change gear

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By *andy_tomMan
over a year ago

wolverhampton

"Am I right in thinking if you pass your test in an auto, you have to do another for a manual? I went onto an auto for medical reasons last year after 30 years driving manual and I won't go back to manuals now...OP, sounds like you've developed a mild phobia to turning right - an auto may not resolve that"

yes if you pass your test in an automatic, you have to take your test again to drive a manual , but if you pass your test in a manual you can drive both .

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Manual. Nothing worse than not being in control. Plus uses less fuel if you dont drive like me

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I learnt in an automatic. Was so much easier and improved my confidence on the road whilst learning. I've no desire to re learn in a manual

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

I have thought about that but

Going in the wrong gear over rides my hate of right turns at times . I will see what I am like in a automatic and if I am the same then I will stop lessons . I am not going to get very far by taking only left turns

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By *oe bloggs69Man
over a year ago

fife

Too much traffic on roads now for manuals,constant brake,clutch accelerate would have me out car lamping someone

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I have been learning how to drive since last August ,two months taken out due to ill health. After a shaky start I thought I was progressing well in learning how to drive manual ,but my last few lessons have been terrible and I have a hate of right turns plus a few times I have selected the wrong gear . My instructor is great and everything else she has taught I have got . I have a full on breakdown when approaching a right turn plus my last lesson I burst into tears .

I need advice , do I stick with the lessons and overcome my fears or switch to automatic so things are more simple or just accept I wont ever drive ?

I have tried so hard and come so far , I really need to be able to drive as my mobility is limited now so walking is getting difficult .

Please no jokes about women drivers but I will appreciate any genuine advice . Sorry my post so long and please ignore any spelling mistakes "

I suppose it depends on how quickley you need to get on the road and also how much distress its causing you.

Id probably suggest switch to auto and get your license that way. When youve gotten plenty of road experience under your belt and the right turn thing fades away, you could then give the manual a try again when youll be far more comfortable. Remember, its not a race to get it done...take as long as u need

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By *reelove1969Couple
over a year ago

bristol

it does sound like you have a phobia of right turns but with your mind declogged of clutch and gear changes you may be able to focus on the job in hand and turn right easier without worrying about gears .its certainly worth a try and may well boost your confidence

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By *uicedusCouple
over a year ago

Middlesbrough

One thing to look at as well is if you pass in automatic there's is more expense it uses more fuel there's less choice of small cars. on most road tax is higher more expensive. if anything goes wrong mechanically my advise get confidence pass manual get automatic if you find car you want just as example I own 2006 kia sedona road tax is 280 a year an automatic same year same engine but auto is 500 a year

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By *ensualtouch15Man
over a year ago

ashby de la zouch

If you don't want to vastly limit the range of cars you can drive then stick with manual

Currently autos will be more to buy less when selling less fuel efficient and higher road tax

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By *icky999Man
over a year ago

warrington

See rifles. Autos for urban, manual for rural

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By *andy_tomMan
over a year ago

wolverhampton

Practice makes perfect ,

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Pass in an auto you can't drive manual....

Pass manual, you can drive both.

I cannot stand driving auto....so much less involved. "

Same, I don't like automatics at all

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By *ibanditMan
over a year ago

Liverpool

Do your test in a manual if you can. I much prefer driving automatic, but when I hire a car, it's usually cheaper to hire a manual.

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By *oxy_minxWoman
over a year ago

Scotland - Aberdeen

I feel your pain! I passed first time when I was 17 but didn't drive for years. I took some refresher lessons 2 years and basically I broke down in tears on my second one.

I've given up and decided driving just isn't for me.

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By *andy_tomMan
over a year ago

wolverhampton

"I feel your pain! I passed first time when I was 17 but didn't drive for years. I took some refresher lessons 2 years and basically I broke down in tears on my second one.

I've given up and decided driving just isn't for me.

driveing is for every one , dont give up .

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Taking my second test this week. Changed instructor and car a month ago.

I love it now.

Op.. Turning right is always going to be the same.. Down to second if its clear, down to first if you have to stop.

And you need to be in the right position. That's it..

You could try an assessment with an automatic driving school...

I'm sticking with manual.

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By *r and mrs sanddancerCouple
over a year ago

BOLDON COLLIERY

I need advice ,"

I had a relative who had the same problem as you, so i sympathise, the answer i found was to take her to an industrial site on a sunday afternoon and just got her to drive round slowly in second gear turning right all the time after an hour she was doing it great, we then started to do more gear changes, as she was concentrating on the gears she forgot to be worried about the right turns hope this helps

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By *riskygazMan
over a year ago

birmingham

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By *evaquitCouple
over a year ago

Catthorpe

"Automatic?....AUTOMATIC?

Wash your mouth out!!

good man. "

We have an 8 gear DSG which is a little in-between, great for speed but you still lose that awesome feeling of being in control that a manual shift gearbox gives you.

Him

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By *riskygazMan
over a year ago

birmingham

Auto is much easier to drive especially with how busy the roads are getting now, Auto cars are getting much more popular now, I have had a few over the years, only down side to it will be, when your looking to buy your first car you don't have so many cars to choose from.

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By *eovilcouple76Couple
over a year ago

yeovil

"...a friend failed her test 24 times in manual ...changed to automatic and passed first time "

Personally I think anyone who fails a test that many times just shouldn't be allowed behind the wheel of a car.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Will most of your driving be in heavy traffic? If yes buy an auto, if not buy a manual.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Manual all the way !

Last car I drove with auto was a Porsche 911 which despite being in auto was great fun

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By *onConformistLikeUMan
over a year ago

Chorley

I don't like automatics but even if you intend to drive one it's worth sticking it out to get a manual licence, as someone has already said you can't drive a manual on an automatic licence but you can drive an automatic on a manual licence. It's worth it if your future job might involve driving as most commercial vehicles and fleet vehicles tend to be manual.

If you don't have to consider driving professionally you still have to consider that autos tend to be a bit more expensive to repair when something goes wrong with the transmission - and there are more things to go wrong.

On the other hand people get by just fine driving autos and if you can afford to get the car you want rather than have to choose from then you'll never have to worry about it. Give in 10 years and you'll just have to know what postcode you're heading for and how to say 'go' - if you can afford it.

There's 3 routes to consider.

1) Automatic...I don't really care about 0-60, I'd rather just have stop and go and let the car decide which gear to use. In the long term the potential for more expense doesn't concern me.

2) Manual... I want a car that does what I tell it to and gives me a choice about which gear I use, I want to be able to drive as wide a range of vehicles as possible.

3) Neither... I'm so rich that when I shop for a car I am more concerned with the legroom in the back, I can afford to pay a man called Jim to let me call him Geeves while he shuttles me to and from my many important appointments.

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By *ig1gaz1Man
over a year ago

bradford

has your instructor taken through the gears and how low you can go with them

1st gear 1-10

2nd gear can go low 5-25

3rd gear 15-30

4th gear 25-40+

knowing this info can aid you in changing gears and putting into practice will aid you with your gears

after that concentrate on your right turns what are you doing wrong with them ?

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By *ee VianteWoman
over a year ago

Somewhere in North Norfolk

Personally I wouldn't want to be limited to only automatic cars, (particularly since I don't like driving them!)

Give yourself a break, OP. Even people who have been driving for years make mistakes sometimes. I changed my car 8 months ago and I still stall the new one occasionally.

Stay calm and take things slowly. Don't rush. If people have to wait a little longer for you to make manoeuvres, then they have to wait. We all had to start somewhere.

The idea of going out to practice at a quiet time on an industrial estate is a good one, if you have anyone that will take you out.

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By *uke olovingmanMan
over a year ago

Gravesend

I suggest manual.. you can't bump start an automatic if you need to.. persevere and practice.. and try to give yourself as much time as you can when you change gears

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Pass in a manual, then you can drive everything. The way things are going, most new cars will be manual in 5-10 years if not sooner.

I love to drive and always advocate for a manual but TBH if you're driving to get from A to B and will be hitting a lot of traffic an auto is the way to go. I've driven a lot in America this year and the more I do it the more I enjoy an auto.

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By *innamon!Woman
over a year ago

no matter

I have driven manual for 50 years just gone across to my first auto. love it.. Yes move over to auto my son had prolems with co ordination in London learning to drive . swapped to auto and had no problems at all.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Pass in an auto you can't drive manual....

Pass manual, you can drive both.

I cannot stand driving auto....so much less involved. "

my thoughts exactly

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By *bony in IvoryCouple
over a year ago

Black&White Utopia

Driven so many cars over the years ( manual) Nowadays I like n drive Automatic... So easy in traffic..

Stay with it OP ... Best life skill ya can have is driving.... Independance! Wayheeeee! Lol

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By *homasP80Man
over a year ago

Linwood

"Switch to automatic.

In ten years nearly all vehicles will be auto anyhow"

Don't know about that.

Most of the cars in the UK I see for sale are nearly always manual. Yes, there are auto's around if you want.

USA seems to be mainly auto

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By *appyguy17Man
over a year ago

walthamstow

Hi,

I drive both everyday...

And if manual is a problem for you...switch to Automatic......

It's so much easier,,and once you've driven an automatic,you will never go back to manual.

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By *lik and PaulCouple
over a year ago

Flagrante

If you need to drive and are struggling with manual then switch. Autos are usually more expensive to buy but both Flik and I prefer autos.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Switch to automatic.

In ten years nearly all vehicles will be auto anyhow

Don't know about that.

Most of the cars in the UK I see for sale are nearly always manual. Yes, there are auto's around if you want.

USA seems to be mainly auto"

I'm a Top Gear mag subscriber and that's their viewpoint so who am I to argue?

A lot of prestige manufacturers are starting to supply cars with no manual options at all. With the drive for efficiency, you can get better mileage out of an engine where the car decides to change gear for you than you doing it yourself (especially with the modern technology) and cars like BMWs now with engines that have so much torque, an automatic is actually the suggested choice.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Personally I wouldn't want to be limited to only automatic cars, (particularly since I don't like driving them!)

Give yourself a break, OP. Even people who have been driving for years make mistakes sometimes. I changed my car 8 months ago and I still stall the new one occasionally.

Stay calm and take things slowly. Don't rush. If people have to wait a little longer for you to make manoeuvres, then they have to wait. We all had to start somewhere.

The idea of going out to practice at a quiet time on an industrial estate is a good one, if you have anyone that will take you out."

Unfortunately I don't have anybody to take me to any quiet places like a industrial estate . People have offered but then back out . I have started to take kalms so I am all relaxed on my lessons but if I grip the gear stick any tighter I am frightened it will break . My instructor is lovely and so understanding I feel bad for wanting to switch to automatic but I am not enjoying my lessons anymore plus I need to get over this silly fear of right turns , because realistically nothing will happen to me when I turn right .

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

I need advice , do I stick with the lessons and overcome my fears or switch to automatic so things are more simple or just accept I wont ever drive ?

I have tried so hard and come so far , I really need to be able to drive as my mobility is limited now so walking is getting difficult .

Please no jokes about women drivers but I will appreciate any genuine advice . Sorry my post so long and please ignore any spelling mistakes

I suppose it depends on how quickley you need to get on the road and also how much distress its causing you.

I need to pass as soon as possible so hopefully changing to automatic will help me achieve this . I was swayed into going manual when i first started my lessons but I should of gone with automatic in the first place like I wanted too

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I learnt in and passed in an auto. I drive an automatic. I've just gone from a corsa 05 plate to an Astra 12 plate. My first auto was a 206 51 plate.

There are plenty of small first time autos if you look hard enough. Corsa/206/Cleo ect... The cheapest on road tax was the 206

I have trouble with my knees locking and popping out of the joints so went auto eventually as driving a gear shift and constantly using the clutch would leave me in agony. Tried for many years. But eventually switched to automatic and passed within 5 months first time.

No stalling fear with an auto. I do have nerves when it comes to right turns and when it comes to roundabouts. If I can't find the right gap to move and I'm holding people up behind me I start to panic and I past in 2012.

Have a couple of lessons in an auto and see how you feel. If it's really important to get on the road and have your independence, give it a go. Without worrying about gear changes and stalling at junctions ect... It give you more confidence to concentrate on what's going on around you.

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By *heOwlMan
over a year ago

Altrincham

I need advice , do I stick with the lessons and overcome my fears or switch to automatic so things are more simple or just accept I wont ever drive ?

I have tried so hard and come so far , I really need to be able to drive as my mobility is limited now so walking is getting difficult .

Please no jokes about women drivers but I will appreciate any genuine advice . Sorry my post so long and please ignore any spelling mistakes "

In the past I would have said that you need to consider whether you want the flexibility of being able to drive eitehr manual or auto once you pass your test, as if you pass the test in an auto you are restricted to auto unless you retake the test in a manual later. However, that is not as much of an issue these days as there are a lot more cars available with auto boxes. There are also the little oddballs like my wee car which has a manual box but no clutch, as the car carries out the chages itself when you tell it to (it even has a wee button that allows what I think of as relaxed motorway mode - i.e. it switches to computer controlled automatic changes).

So I would say do what you feel is best. may not be a bad idea is to swap to an auto for a while, until you feel more confident with the general control of the car. Then once your confidence has recovered from the slight blip you are encountering, you could then go back to a manual.

(By the way, though most people manage to make driving look easy, there is a lot to do / manage, so it isn't as easy as it often looks. It takes time before it all falls into place, but it will happen just keep persavering and oe day you will find that you are no longer having to remember to do some of the things that you find difficult at t first.)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I ( D) started to learn in manual but switched to auto and passed, i feel much more confident driving auto. I learnt in a Corsa and bought a Polo

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By *rsIdiotWoman
over a year ago

Bedworth

My sister started learning in a manual and discovered that the weakness she has in her left leg made driving very difficult. She quit after just four lessons.

Fast forward 15 years and she has recently passed her test in an auto after just 18 lessons.

When it comes to cars, there are plenty of small, cheap, used autos out there. Sister bought a 52 place 1.4 a class Mercedes for only 600 quud

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

I think after reading everybody's advice I am most definitely going to enquire about automatic lessons and stop my manual . I have a progressive weakness in my left side anyway so its been a struggle with getting a firm grip changing gears and sometimes I uses too much pressure and other times not enough . I have issues with my left ankle and its starting to hurt when I use the clutch so it makes sense really to swop .Thankyou everyone and hopefully in a few months I will have passed

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By *onyneMan
over a year ago

Newcastle

The problem with your grip and ankle suggest that maybe auto is best for you...so have a few lessons that way to see how you get on

And I have always found women to be as good at driving as men...often better

Good luck. Beep Beep!

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By *rsIdiotWoman
over a year ago

Bedworth

"I think after reading everybody's advice I am most definitely going to enquire about automatic lessons and stop my manual . I have a progressive weakness in my left side anyway so its been a struggle with getting a firm grip changing gears and sometimes I uses too much pressure and other times not enough . I have issues with my left ankle and its starting to hurt when I use the clutch so it makes sense really to swop .Thankyou everyone and hopefully in a few months I will have passed

Good luck!

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By *umpkinMan
over a year ago

near the sounds of the wimborne quarter jack!

"Automatic?....AUTOMATIC?

Wash your mouth out!!

After driving a tractor that`s a mix of auto and manual and being on my second automatic Land Rover Discovery, I`d say auto, BUT, if you think you might ever need to be employed as a driver or may be in the situation where you might need to hire vehicles then manual is a must.

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By *jandjbCouple
over a year ago

Nr Manchester

Good luck!"

I have driven automatics for the past 20 years. I have problems with my back and knees so this was the main reason. I have recently needed toe surgery on my left foot so driving an automatic has been invaluable.

I passed in a manual but much prefer driving an automatic. People talk about having more control in a manual but I feel I have more control in an automatic.

Besides, I have a Tiptronic gearbox so I can use gears but without a clutch. Perfect.

Good luck. Just drive. Give yourself the freedom. X

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By *ee VianteWoman
over a year ago

Somewhere in North Norfolk

It's so much easier,,and once you've driven an automatic,you will never go back to manual."

That is definitely not necessarily true. I don't like driving automatics and will avoid doing so whenever possible. Manual gearboxes all the way for me.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Stick at the manual and do test in it as then you can drive both but do test in auto your stuck to auto

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By *B9 QueenWoman
over a year ago

Over the rainbow, under the bridge

Passing the manual test gives you the option of driving both as others have said. But if that is what is stopping you passing it makes sense to switch to automatic.

I passed manual and feel it gives you more control. But due to arthritis I my knees I now drive automatic as using a clutch every day is too painful. If you have mobility issues automatic would probably be better.

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By *U1966Man
over a year ago

Devon

Manual can't stand automatics once you pass you have the choice of both

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Good luck! Ask your instructor about the industrial estate idea. I'd suggest a large supermarket carpark on a Sunday evening when it's totally empty. Just drive all over right/ left/ right till you feel more confident.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I used to drive an automatic when I lived in the US. Everytime I came home and drove my manual I'd stall at lights or put the windscreen wipers on to try and put it into neutral!

(Go manual all the way!)

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

[Removed by poster at 21/04/15 08:26:33]

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By *ophieslutTV/TS
over a year ago

Central

One of my old school teachers failed her test, so I helped teach her driving an automatic and she passed. She found it easier and less nerve racking for some of the ops stated reasons.

If you're likely to want to drive manual and auto, pass your test in auto, get lots of real world experience and redo it in a manual, when you'll likely be more relaxed and confident.

My teacher friend never did and has been happy owning and only driving auto, which completely suits her. I've got a preference for manual in my cars, as I like the form factor of driving this way. I'm not a driving instructor touting for business, just someone who helped a teacher who had the patience of a saint with me, whilst I was growing up and is a lifelong friend now.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"...a friend failed her test 24 times in manual ...changed to automatic and passed first time

Personally I think anyone who fails a test that many times just shouldn't be allowed behind the wheel of a car. "

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By *anky_PankyWoman
over a year ago

Filthy Fuckeryville

I drive a manual and wouldn't change that, but I do have access to an auto which I drive semi-regularly and its the easiest thing

Go for it and don't look back and GOOD LUCK!x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

i do like the easy life to drive,so for me it has to be an auto,well,i have a mmt gearbox,which means i can use fully auto or use the stick to change gear,much easier than driving a crash gearbox,oops,sorry,i doubt if you know about those....lol......but good luck and wish you well..

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

Well first automatic lesson is booked for Friday evening . Hopefully it will be a breeze.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Now that I have an Auto (and have had for the last 12 years) I will never buy another Manual again, but I would suggest you stick with learning Manual as it gives you a bigger choice when it comes to buying a car. Passing your test in a manual means you can drive both, but if you pass in an auto you would have to take your test again in a manual if you want to drive a manual in the future. Particularly useful if you ever need to hire a car or van for any reason

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By *ogistical NightmaresCouple
over a year ago

Manchester Area

"OP, sounds like you've developed a mild phobia to turning right - an auto may not resolve that"

I knew a lady who had a phobia of turning right, she had a list of every journey she wanted to make by just turning left. Made for a long distance for a short journey, but she did it.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

Well I did my first lesson in a automatic car . I am blown away by how easy it is .At long last I don't have to worry about gears . Not done anymore right turns yet but I have told the instructor of my worries so hopefully will overcome this phobia .

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I am an advocate of manual cars, for the simple reason I like to control the vehicle I am in. I hate all these auto switch off fuel efficiency features and keyless ignition systems. I am the driver and I control the car, I don't like computers taking decisions away from me. Every time I stop at traffic lights the car turned the engine off. That pissed me off. I'll decide when I'm ready to switch the engine off.

, thank you.

However if you have mobility problems and struggle with clutch coordination. Then an automatic car is the answer, some cars can be modified to bring the brake and accelerator to hand level.

All I will say if you pass your test in an automatic you'll only ever drive an automatic. Manual driver can drive Either car, but I choose not to touch automatic cars as I kept hitting the brake pedal thinking it is the clutch and coming to a skid stop.

I call driving in an automatic 'lazy driving ', but for those who have genuine reasons to drive an automatic I.e. Mobility problems. I'm prepared to change my opinion to 'simplistic driving'

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I am an advocate of manual cars, for the simple reason I like to control the vehicle I am in. I hate all these auto switch off fuel efficiency features and keyless ignition systems. I am the driver and I control the car, I don't like computers taking decisions away from me. Every time I stop at traffic lights the car turned the engine off. That pissed me off. I'll decide when I'm ready to switch the engine off.

, thank you.

However if you have mobility problems and struggle with clutch coordination. Then an automatic car is the answer, some cars can be modified to bring the brake and accelerator to hand level.

I call driving in an automatic 'lazy driving ', but for those who have genuine reasons to drive an automatic I.e. Mobility problems. I'm prepared to change my opinion to 'simplistic driving'"

I would of loved to pass in a manual car but physically I could not of seen this happening as my mobility grows steadily worse plus my coordination .I need to pass in the next two months so I can regain my independence. I tried my hardest in a manual but it wasn't to be .

To be honest I picked it up with in ten minutes and had no problem resting my left leg and making my right foot do all the work .I am glad things have now been made simple .

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

You've had lots of good advice. May I just add that if most of your driving is in a city then an auto will be the thing for you. These days there are cars with different automatic boxes and the are much more reliable than they were many moons ago. The really important thing is to be relaxed whatever vehicle you drive!

I passed my test 55 years ago and have driven all sorts of vehicles from minis to HGVs and buses and tractors.

Another tip - don't look where you are going - look where you are going to go!!

Passing your test is one thing but then you should go on and learn to drive! The highway code is very useful and there used to be a booklet called The Police Driving Manual, a very useful read!

Good luck and stick with it, forget the Kalms, count up to 10, take a deep breath and away you go. Let us know how you get on!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Well I did my first lesson in a automatic car . I am blown away by how easy it is .At long last I don't have to worry about gears . Not done anymore right turns yet but I have told the instructor of my worries so hopefully will overcome this phobia .

That's great news!! Thank you for the update and good luck.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"You've had lots of good advice. May I just add that if most of your driving is in a city then an auto will be the thing for you. These days there are cars with different automatic boxes and the are much more reliable than they were many moons ago. The really important thing is to be relaxed whatever vehicle you drive!

I passed my test 55 years ago and have driven all sorts of vehicles from minis to HGVs and buses and tractors.

Another tip - don't look where you are going - look where you are going to go!!

Passing your test is one thing but then you should go on and learn to drive! The highway code is very useful and there used to be a booklet called The Police Driving Manual, a very useful read!

Good luck and stick with it, forget the Kalms, count up to 10, take a deep breath and away you go. Let us know how you get on!"

I am grateful to everyone who has advised me because I was going to give up completely learning how to drive .

I will read the police driving manual and I have already stopped the kalms .I can actually visualize myself driving around now in a couple of months time . Automatic isn't very everybody but it certainly is for me .

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By *opsy RogersWoman
over a year ago

London

I doubt it will make much difference to the panic you feel turning right, I suggest you sort that out first.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I doubt it will make much difference to the panic you feel turning right, I suggest you sort that out first."

I intend to hopefully this week in the ten hours I just booked .My concern was turning right at traffic lights so until I beat this I wont progress . Nice photos by the way

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By *at69driveMan
over a year ago

Hertford

I need advice , do I stick with the lessons and overcome my fears or switch to automatic so things are more simple or just accept I wont ever drive ?

I have tried so hard and come so far , I really need to be able to drive as my mobility is limited now so walking is getting difficult .

Please no jokes about women drivers but I will appreciate any genuine advice . Sorry my post so long and please ignore any spelling mistakes "
. I would not worry about selecting the wrong gear on a few occasions . Everyone makes mistakes and even experienced drivers make mistakes on occasions ..What exactly causes you to panic when turning right ?. A good instructor should be able to resolve this issue for you . Don't give up and you will pass your test eventually . Good luck.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Automatic?....AUTOMATIC?

Wash your mouth out!!

good man. "

I concure....

but OP, I think it sounds like you would be better suited to a erm, aut...aut..

a non manual car!

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

My phobia of right turns has now gone and I am loving my lessons in a automatic car. Instructor is lovely as well which is a bonus ,I can not get over how relaxed I now am

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By *atietvsheffTV/TS
over a year ago

Sheffield

I switched to auto about 10 years ago, I got a manual again after my first auto and regretted it for 3 years until I changed to auto again, so much nicer to drive plus if you do want to at with gears most have a "tiptronic" function on the selector so you can play up and down the box in manual if you wish, all this machismo about having a manual gearbox for "purist driving" , load of bollox as most of the time people only average 23mph around towns and around town it's all clutch work and never getting out of 3rd or 4th and unless I'm wrong the OP doesn't sound like the next Top Gear presenter so go for auto and enjoy driving with 2 hands on the wheel which is much safer anyway

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