How to drive a manual car – Bonus Tips

Congratulations on choosing to learn how to drive a manual car! Manual driving may seem daunting at first, but with practice and the right guidance, you’ll be cruising down the open road in no time. This article will provide you with a basic overview of the steps involved in driving a manual car, along with some helpful resources to make your learning journey smoother.

Before You Start

• Familiarize yourself with the car’s interior: Locate the clutch pedal (far left), brake pedal (center), and accelerator pedal (far right). Find the gear shift lever and familiarize yourself with the gear pattern (usually displayed on the gear shift knob or nearby).
• Adjust the seat and mirrors: Ensure you have a comfortable driving position with a clear view of the road and mirrors.

Getting Started

1. Engage the parking brake: This prevents the car from rolling.
2. Put the car in neutral: This is usually the middle gear position.
3. Press down the clutch pedal fully with your left foot.
4. Start the engine: Keep the clutch pedal pressed down while turning the key in the ignition.
5. Find first gear: This is usually the gear to the bottom left of the gear pattern.

Moving Off

1. Gently apply a little pressure to the accelerator pedal with your right foot. This will raise the engine RPMs (revolutions per minute).
2. Slowly and smoothly release the clutch pedal until you feel the car start to engage (bite point). Don’t let go of the clutch too quickly, or the car will stall.
3. Once you feel the bite point, release the parking brake and continue to slowly release the clutch pedal while giving the engine a little more gas. The car should start to move forward.

Gear Shifting

1. As the engine RPMs increase, press down the clutch pedal fully again.
2. Move the gear shift lever to the next higher gear (usually second).
3. Slowly release the clutch pedal while giving the engine a little more gas to match the RPMs.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 for higher gears.

Stopping

1. Press down the clutch pedal fully.
2. Apply the brake pedal gradually to slow down.
3. Come to a complete stop and engage the parking brake.
4. Put the car in neutral.

Helpful Resources

• Driving schools: Enrolling in a driving school is the best way to learn how to drive a manual car safely and under professional guidance.

• Websites:
  • The RAC’s guide to driving a manual car: https://cstwo.host/how-to-drive-a-manual-car-smoothly-pdf
  • The AA’s guide to learning to drive a manual car: https://www.theaa.com/driving-school/lessons/login

• Apps:
  • Manual Gearbox Simulator: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jurfixgame.mkpp&hl=en&gl=US
  • Hill Climb Car: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fingersoft.hillclimb&hl=en&gl=US

Bonus Tips

• Find a quiet, open area to practice your driving skills before venturing onto busy roads.
• Ask an experienced driver to ride with you and provide guidance.
• Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other drivers.
• Take your time and don’t rush the process. Learning to drive a manual car takes time and effort, but it’s a rewarding experience.

We hope this article has been helpful!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional driving instruction. Always follow the rules of the road and drive safely.