Over the summer, I embarked on an exciting adventure at the Ford “Save the Manuals” event held at CitiField, where I celebrated National Stick Shift Day. I had the opportunity to learn to drive a manual transmission vehicle from none other than Team Ford NASCAR driver Ryan Blaney, who guided me through the all-new 2024 Mustang Darkhorse and the 2022 Ford Bronco. National Stick Shift Day was coined by Car & Driver in 2018 to commemorate the declining art of driving a manual, with just 1.7% of U.S. drivers now operating stick shift vehicles. Shockingly, the number of manual models available from automakers has decreased from 69 in 2019 to a mere 43 today, as reported by J.D. Power. As someone who had never driven a manual before, I was both excited and nervous to embark on this journey.
My Manual Driving History
Unlike many, I didn’t experience the rite of passage of learning manual driving when I first obtained my driver’s license nearly nine years ago at the age of 30. I hesitated to venture into the world of manual transmissions due to my fear of mastering the clutch. The idea of stalling in traffic and the embarrassment that would follow was a nightmare I didn’t want to live. A few years back, my husband tried to teach me to drive his stick shift BMW, but I just couldn’t grasp it. However, the Ford “Save the Manuals” event provided the perfect opportunity to conquer my fears and learn from the best – a NASCAR driver and a Ford Performance Marketing Specialist.
Learning to Drive a Manual Transmission
The CitiField parking lot proved to be an ideal and controlled environment for me to learn. With its flat surface and open space, it offered the perfect setting for my manual transmission initiation. My first lesson was on the imposing 2022 Ford Bronco Sasquatch, guided by Autumn Schwalbe, a Ford Performance Marketing Specialist. Learning to drive such a large SUV with massive 35″ tires was initially intimidating, but Autumn’s patience and guidance quickly put me at ease.
Autumn emphasized the importance of adjusting the seat to ensure I could press the clutch all the way in comfortably. As a short lady at 5’2″, I had to practically touch the steering wheel to achieve this. She meticulously walked me through each pedal (clutch, brake, and gas) and explained when to use them. At first, it was a bit overwhelming, and I even joked about needing a cheat sheet taped to the windshield to remember everything.
After a few loops around the parking lot, shifting from 1st to 2nd gear, Autumn challenged me to reverse. To my surprise, I executed it smoothly, and even Autumn was impressed. The backup camera on the Ford Bronco certainly helped boost my confidence. Next, I transitioned to the Ford Mustang Dark Horse for my lesson with NASCAR driver Ryan Blaney. His effortless maneuvering through all six gears left me in awe. It was a stark contrast to my initial apprehension about learning to drive a manual.
My Perspective on Manual Driving Has Changed
If you had asked me a week ago about my thoughts on driving a manual, I would have cringed at the idea. However, after my lessons at the Ford “Save the Manuals” event, I am now open to the idea of driving a vehicle with a manual transmission. It took the patience and expertise of professionals like Ryan and Autumn to break down the barriers of fear and confusion.
Of course, I understand that I need more practice to become as skilled as Ryan and Autumn, but I am no longer counting myself out. I am eager to embrace the challenge and further refine my manual driving skills.
How You Know You’ve Mastered Driving a Manual Transmission
According to Autumn, you know you’ve mastered driving a vehicle with a manual transmission when it drives smoothly, akin to an automatic. You instinctively maneuver through the various steps: holding down the clutch and brake, releasing the brake, gently releasing the clutch, shifting from neutral to first gear, and gradually pressing the gas pedal. The vehicle should transition seamlessly without stalling. Achieving this level of proficiency is the ultimate goal for any manual transmission enthusiast.
Why You Should Choose a Manual Transmission Vehicle
Through my research and a newfound appreciation for manual driving, I’ve discovered several compelling reasons why one should consider choosing a manual transmission vehicle:
1. Fuel Economy: Manual transmissions often provide better fuel efficiency compared to automatic counterparts, which can result in long-term savings.
2. Better Acceleration: Manual transmissions offer greater control over acceleration, making for a more engaging driving experience, especially for those who enjoy a sportier feel.
3. Reduced Purchase Cost: Manual transmission vehicles tend to be more affordable upfront, offering a budget-friendly option for car buyers.
4. Control: For those who value precision and control over their vehicle, manual transmissions provide a hands-on driving experience that allows you to feel connected to the road.
5. Fun and Individualistic Driving Experience: Driving a manual transmission vehicle can be immensely enjoyable, offering a unique and personal connection with your car that can be missing in automatic vehicles.
My Journey to a Manual Future
My journey at the Ford “Save the Manuals” event was transformative. It shattered my fears and misconceptions about driving a manual transmission vehicle and opened my eyes to the joys of stick shift driving. With patience, guidance, and expert instruction, I gained the confidence to embrace this art form that is slowly becoming a rarity on the roads.
While I may not be a pro like Ryan Blaney just yet, I am excited to practice and refine my skills, joining the ranks of those who appreciate the thrill, control, and individuality that manual transmissions offer. National Stick Shift Day may be a day of celebration for dwindling art, but it’s also a day for new beginnings and rediscovering the joy of driving.
Kim is a Black millennial, working full-time in managed healthcare, all while juggling the roles of a wife and a hands-on mom to her two daughters, her rainbow babies. She is the proud owner of Beauty and the Bump NYC, a platform where she shares her perspective on all the things that bring joy to her life: family, travel, cars, food, and more.
Recognizing the need to create a dedicated space for her automotive content, Kim established WhatDrivesKim.com. Here, fellow millennial moms can find authentic and valuable insights into all things car-related. Kim’s goal is to provide the real deal on cars, helping moms make informed decisions about their vehicles.
As a contributor to A Girl’s Guide to Cars, Kim extends her passion for cars by offering helpful tips and car reviews from the unique perspective of a modern working mom. With Kim, you can trust that you’re getting practical and relatable advice about the world of automobiles.
