General Discussion

PJMcK

(25,048 posts)

28. I had manual transmissions in several previous cars

Reply to PoindexterOglethorpe (Reply #7)

Wed Dec 26, 2018, 09:57 AM

Dec 2018

No more. Today's automobiles are controlled by computer chips that are programmed to control the car far better than my 60-year-old brain can. Sorry if it makes you crazy but when I use the "sport mode" for manual shifting, it's not as fuel efficient: I've tested it.

Additionally, I've never had a transmission problem with the automatics I've had. Manual transmissions need maintenance and replacement. My auto-mechanic friend told me he makes a good part of his business from repairing manual transmissions; automatics, not so much.

Enjoy yours, Poindexter.

One other point: we went to Ireland last summer and the rental cars are all diesel-powered with manual transmissions. Of course, they drive on the left side of the road. Want to try something fun? Try shifting with your left hand! It takes a bit of practice. At least the pedals are in the same configuration.

Edit history

Please sign in to view edit histories.

Recommendations

0 members have recommended this reply (displayed in chronological order):

43 replies

= new reply since forum marked as read

Highlight:

PSA: Check your car battery before it gets any colder. [View all] milestogo Dec 2018 OP

Well, there are a few things worse. But, I hear what you're saying. Good advice. WheelWalker Dec 2018 #1

I just step in on the clutch and pop start the car. NutmegYankee Dec 2018 #2

Most people can't drive a stick. rickford66 Dec 2018 #3

I only drive a stick. PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #4

I'm 72 and agree completely with you. rickford66 Dec 2018 #5

One of the things that makes me a bit crazy about people who drive automatics, PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #7

We had a couple cars plowing into buildings just as you described. rickford66 Dec 2018 #8

I think he thinks that engaging the clutch PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #11

By chance are you talking about the two vehicles mchill Dec 2018 #12

No. Two in the Binghamton NY area rickford66 Dec 2018 #26

I had manual transmissions in several previous cars PJMcK Dec 2018 #28

For what it's worth, I've never had transmission problems with any of PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #33

Same here, until I bought a hybrid. Bleacher Creature Dec 2018 #6

At least you're charging the batteries when you tap your brakes. rickford66 Dec 2018 #9

Some years back, about 15 or so years ago, PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #13

My neighbor lady, drives a 2008 honda civic manual transmission, yortsed snacilbuper Dec 2018 #16

You are a fabulous neighbor! PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #20

My late wife learned to drive at age 40 .... on our 83 Dodge Colt twin stick shift. rickford66 Dec 2018 #17

Interesting. PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #21

My truck has three sticks. My old one had four ProudLib72 Dec 2018 #22

It's great to have all those choices. rickford66 Dec 2018 #27

I converted my truck from automatic to manual ProudLib72 Dec 2018 #40

My wife came from New Zealand and had no need to drive. rickford66 Dec 2018 #25

Thank you for that additional information. PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #34

We bought our very first automatic a couple of years ago. A Honda Fit also. yonder Dec 2018 #19

Then You'll Like This Vignette ProfessorGAC Dec 2018 #32

I am not surprised. PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #35

Good Point ProfessorGAC Dec 2018 #36

Too late, been there done that. Stellar Dec 2018 #10

I like the one you plug into your cigarette lighter. rickford66 Dec 2018 #18

This is what I learned to drive in, that's the starter next to the gas pedal? yortsed snacilbuper Dec 2018 #14

Just did yesterday! Delarage Dec 2018 #15

It's a good idea to check the alternator, too ProudLib72 Dec 2018 #23

I dearly want a stick shift again democrank Dec 2018 #24

See if you can find a Honda Civic DX. PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #37

Waste of money... just buy a CTEK MUS 4.3 battery charger/reconditioner/tender... $50 on Amazon. InAbLuEsTaTe Dec 2018 #29

Been there; done that. mahatmakanejeeves Dec 2018 #30

When we bought our brand-new KIA Soul back in 2013, I checked MineralMan Dec 2018 #31

Kia doesn't put cruise control on its manual transmission Souls? PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #38

No, they don't. MineralMan Dec 2018 #39

I'm a bit gobsmacked. PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #41

The Soul will accelerate in 5th and 6th gear, but not MineralMan Dec 2018 #42

Ah, yes, that rear camera. I love it. PoindexterOglethorpe Dec 2018 #43