Manual Versus Automatic Transmissions

By Mister Transmission

Is driving a car with a manual transmission more economical than one with an automatic transmission? The answer lies in being able to distinguish myth from fact

In the automotive world, it’s an enduring argument that may only reach a conclusion should auto manufacturers completely shift away from offering standard vehicles in North America: the manual versus automatic transmission divide.

Year-over-year, there are fewer cars and trucks sold with manual transmissions. Even high-end sports cars more commonly have automatic transmissions than in years past. Though stick shift adherents will insist there are considerable financial benefits to owning a car with a manual transmission, many of their arguments don’t hold up anymore.

Stick Shift Myths
Drivers who drive vehicles with manual transmissions are passionate about being stick shifters, and for good reason. If you know how to operate a manual transmission, it adds to the enjoyment of cruising the tar plains.

However, when it comes to defending the benefits or differences between automatic or manual transmissions, there are more myths than facts fans of standard transmissions tend to cling to, including:

  • You have better control of your car especially in the wintertime
  • Vehicles with manual transmissions cost less to purchase and maintain
  • Cars with manual transmissions are more fuel efficient
  • They deter thieves from attempting to steal your car
  • They’re ideal for sports cars or vehicles hauling heavy loads
  • Slowing your car by downshifting instead of braking preserves the brake pads
  • You pay more attention to driving because both of your hands are required to drive

These pro-manual arguments have been in vogue for decades, and at one time, there was some validity to them. But the advancements in automotive technology and automatic transmissions is such that these viewpoints have little or no basis in fact or any scientific evidence to support them.

For instance, fuel mileage has dramatically improved in modern automatic transmissions, and it’s significantly cheaper to replace brake pads than a manual transmission. The cost of transmission repairs in either manual or automatic transmissions is, for the most part, comparable. Arguments to the contrary are beginning to slip like a worn-out gearbox.

Of all the pro-manual arguments above, there is one possible exception that may be true: In our mobile device-obsessed world, you’d need to be an expert juggler to drive a standard vehicle and play with a mobile phone at the same time. Texting and driving are illegal. Chalk one up for stick enthusiasts for promoting safe driving.

Automatic Transmissions Are the New “Standard”
Though it is fun to drive a car with a manual transmission, that may be the only legitimate argument stick enthusiasts can make. That’s because the technology in today’s cars is at exceptional levels of intricacy. As a result, it could be argued that today’s automatic transmissions are the “standard” in almost all vehicles.

Have questions about automatic or manual transmissions? Bring your car to Mister Transmission and talk to one of our experts to get the answers you need. Find a location nearest you.

Want to know more?
Visit one of our locations

image-reviews image-reviews
Customer Reviews
Highly recommend Mister Transmission! From...
Raven Nicolay
Highly recommend Mister Transmission! From my first phone call, Dawn was incredibly knowledgeable—she was nearly able to diagnose the issue just over the phone. To confirm, they scheduled me in the same day for a test drive and diagnostic. Chris promptly provided clear options and pricing estimates, ensuring I knew what to expect. Before I left, he confirmed parts availability and even offered a helpful recommendation for a rental car while mine was being serviced.I was relieved to receive good news and that the more affordable repair option was the solution. While it can be a little difficult to get through to them due to how busy they are, they genuinely do their best to respond promptly. When a minor issue came up shortly after, they got me back in right away and resolved it quickly.Thanks again to the whole team for the excellent service!
Date: May 2, 2025
Website: Google
Wes solved the engine problem...
Trevor Fairweather
Wes solved the engine problem in 1 day, and he actually troubleshot the problem. This was after three competing garages did not solve the problem.Thank you Wes
Date: May 1, 2025
Website: Google
Thank you so much for...
Daryle Clements
Thank you so much for your professional excellent service today very nice people to deal with, I wouldn't take my tranny troubles anywhere else other than you guys
Date: May 1, 2025
Website: Google
Very good service
Fidel De
Very good service
Date: May 1, 2025
Website: Google
Employees were very helpful,Very fast...
Richard Williamson
Employees were very helpful,Very fast and efficient service
Date: May 1, 2025
Website: Google
The front person and mechanic...
Cynthia Saunders
The front person and mechanic were awesome. Checked oil level, added and identified the problem quickly. Was very impressed with the service received. Do recommend checking them out if having issues with your transmission
Date: April 30, 2025
Website: Google
Nice people to deal with....
Laura Tory
Nice people to deal with. Good service.
Date: April 30, 2025
Website: Google
I went in for a...
Toby Collins
I went in for a tire changeover, and they always look over my car making sure it’s in tip top shape. I needed a few other things this time, as they were definitely due. Very pleased how they take care of me and my car. Highly recommend! I’ve been going here for years.
Date: April 30, 2025
Website: Google
I am fearful of transmission...
Paul Legeny
I am fearful of transmission problems as they are usually very costly. I took my Jeep Cherokee to Luke's shop on Kennedy Road South. He took it for a test drive, ran diagnostics and checked the transmission fluid. He agreed that there was a hesitation when shifting out of first and second gears but noted that it gets better when it warms up. Diagnostics revealed an error code which was out of his scope as it was not a transmission issue. The fluid was good and he suggested that I take it to another shop to address the error code and bring the car back and he will have another look at it. When I asked how much for his services, no cost at all to me. Thank you Luke...I really appreciate your honesty and you truly are an ambassador for Mr. Transmission!
Date: April 30, 2025
Website: Google
Ken 非常专业,推荐!
David Shih
Ken 非常专业,推荐!
Date: April 30, 2025
Website: Google
Featured Services
Transmission Repair

The evolution of transmissions has made these machines and systems increasingly complex. When transmission repairs are required, determining the cause and cure for what ails can be tricky.

Read More
Transmission Technology

At Mister Transmission we have access to leading-edge diagnostic equipment, enabling us to offer you the fastest and most accurate findings about what’s going on inside your vehicle’s transmission.

Read More
Transmission Maintenance & Service

Just as you have other parts of your car serviced, your transmission needs maintenance to ensure a long life and avoid transmission problems.

Read More
Mister Transmission Blogs
Recent Blogs
Preventative Transmission Maintenance: 5...
A vehicle's transmission is one of its most critical components, responsible for
Read More
April 30, 2025
Transmission Rebuild Vs. Replacement: Wh...
When a vehicle's transmission begins to fail, owners often face a crucial decision:
Read More
April 23, 2025
Transmission Overheating Causes: How To ...
Transmission overheating occurs when the system becomes too hot to function properly.
Read More
April 16, 2025
Signs Of A Failing Transmission Filter A...
The transmission filter plays a crucial role in keeping the transmission system clean
Read More
April 7, 2025
Manual Vs. Automatic Transmission Mainte...
Your vehicle’s transmission plays a crucial role in keeping your car running
Read More
March 31, 2025
Honda Transmission Replacement Price: Wh...
The cost of replacing a Honda transmission varies depending on the model, year, and
Read More
March 28, 2025
How Much Does A New Transmission Cost? A...
A vehicle’s transmission is one of its most crucial components, responsible for
Read More
March 24, 2025
Cheap Transmission Repair Services: Wher...
Transmission repair costs can be high due to the complexity of the system. Unlike
Read More
March 7, 2025
How To Find The Best Transmission Repair...
A vehicle's transmission is one of its most crucial components, ensuring smooth gear
Read More
February 28, 2025
Automatic Transmission Slipping Issues: ...
Automatic transmissions are crucial components of modern vehicles, allowing smooth
Read More
February 21, 2025