The lost art of driving a stick shift

Once upon a time, almost everyone knew how to drive a car with a manual transmission, also called a “stick shift.” Today, 98% cars are automatic, and fewer people learn this skill. But driving a manual is still awesome—and useful!

A manual transmission lets the driver control the gears. You use a clutch pedal and a gear stick to shift up or down, depending on how fast you’re going. It takes practice, but once you learn, it feels like you and the car are working as a team.

There are some cool advantages too:

• Fuel Economy: Manuals can get better gas mileage because you choose the most efficient gear.

• Power Control: You decide how much power goes to the wheels. That means better performance in snow, rain, or even on racetracks.

• Safety: you have control the power, rather than the transmission computer choosing.

• Coasting: With a manual, you can coast more easily, which helps save fuel.

• Reliability: Manual cars have fewer parts that break. No fancy computers or automatic systems to fail.

• Driving Precision: You feel more connected to the road and your car. It’s like having full control of a machine.

Learning to drive stick may be a lost art, but it’s one worth keeping alive. It’s fun, practical, and makes you a better driver. So if you get the chance—try it!