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Buying a car w/ a manual transmission

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dmw16

Diamond Member
Ok, so in compliments to my other post...I am going to be looking for a "new" car soon. My past 2 cars have been auto tranmissions (didnt have any say in the matter), but now it's time for a stick. I've driven a stick shift about 10 times and know how, but I am not very smooth about it. So would you feel like a retard driving off the lot for the first time after buying your first stick shift? I dont want to look like an ass, but it's time for a manual.
 
Originally posted by: dmw16
Ok, so in compliments to my other post...I am going to be looking for a "new" car soon. My past 2 cars have been auto tranmissions (didnt have any say in the matter), but now it's time for a stick. I've driven a stick shift about 10 times and know how, but I am not very smooth about it. So would you feel like a retard driving off the lot for the first time after buying your first stick shift? I dont want to look like an ass, but it's time for a manual.
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When I was in the market for a used car, I had less experience than you. I told the sellers up front I was a newb at shifting, and might stall it out a few times. I stalled at least once on every test drive. None of them had a problem with it.

If youre just trying to look cool and save face at a dealership, the only thing that will help you is practice.
 
Just be honest and upfront about it.

Don't be afraid to go slow(with your foot movements). It's only starts that you really have to worry about.
 
In my experience, most car salesmen won't give a fvck since stalling a couple times, grinding isn't going to kill the clutch, and them being nice might mean a sale. I mean, its not their car you're breaking, right?

A lot of em will probably even teach you.
 
Originally posted by: Kelvrick
In my experience, most car salesmen won't give a fvck since stalling a couple times, grinding isn't going to kill the clutch, and them being nice might mean a sale. I mean, its not their car you're breaking, right?

A lot of em will probably even teach you.
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True. After learning the mechanics its all about practice. So I'll practice on the red one, then decide I like the silver one better 🙂
 
Even if you have a lot of experience driving stick, each car/truck is different and most people will not be smooth starting out. They may even stall or screw up a shift a few times before they get the feel for it. The more experience you have the quicker you adjust and the less mistakes you will make. Just let them know upfront you are new to stick and take it slow. Should be no problem.
 
Its good to know that people will be cool w/ it. Even tho my shopping is about 6 months off I was getting anxious about it. ATOT saves the day again.
 
Originally posted by: dmw16
Its good to know that people will be cool w/ it. Even tho my shopping is about 6 months off I was getting anxious about it. ATOT saves the day again.
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If you've got that much time, maybe rent a cheap car and learn on it.
 
I had never driven stick...brought my dad along and he asked to take it with just me.

Stalled the thing damn near 30 times 🙂

Well worth the learning curve.

Just bring someone who knows the feel of manual cars to test as well.
 
i've taught a bunch of family and friends. Some people SHOULD NOT go w/o knowing how to drive. If you've driven manual before then i'd say go for it. If not, at least take a coupla tries on your friends car.
 
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