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AIBU?

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AIBU to go automatic only for daughter's driving lessons?

203 replies

flawless234 · 30/06/2025 13:27

My daughter's only just started her driving lessons, and we've opted for automatic exclusively. Why, you ask? Well, it just seems obvious to me.
A few of her friends are learning manual too, and they're clearly in the majority, which my daughter feels. But, logically speaking, and I'd be interested to know what you all think, I'm thinking that we're seeing more automatic cars on the roads these days. Plus, with the rise of electric cars, they're automatic anyway. I, for one, haven't driven a manual since 2016 since I switched to an automatic then and honestly, I'm never going back.
I've found that getting an automatic instructor is a bit of a challenge, simply because there are fewer of them. So, I'm just wondering, what's the logic behind the newer generation, or kids now, starting to learn manual? Does it really make much of a difference? I don't think it will.
In my opinion, learning manual seems like more of a hassle. You're trying to master driving and controlling the car, and then on top of that, you're learning all about road safety and everything else. It just seems like too much fuss, if you ask me.
AIBU to think that learning automatic is the more sensible option these days?

OP posts:
Createausername1970 · 30/06/2025 13:32

How much do they have to spend on buying a car? Cheaper, and usually older cars tend to be manual. Nothing wrong with having an automatic-only licence, it just decreases options.

whirlyhead · 30/06/2025 13:31

I’ve driven an automatic for years, but then moved to mallorca where automatic cars cost a lot more than manual, including to hire. So I now drive a manual and am very thankful I learnt in a manual. I do think it’s more useful to learn in a manual as you can then drive a variety of vehicles. Just learning in an automatic is still a bit limiting.

LuckysDadsHat · 30/06/2025 13:30

In years to come and your daughter wants an old classic car but she cant drive it, she may be cursing you! Or for hire cars in some countries. I just wouldn't want to limit the choices that we give to our children.

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