To learn to drive automatic?

[ScarlettSunshine]

Failed my driving test three times. I'm a good driver but just fall apart in my tests. I desperately need to pass by the end of September for various reasons.

Some people have told me to do some automatic lessons, and take an automatic test. I don't specifically struggle with changing gears and things, but I guess it's one less thing to think about? Other people have said this is a terrible idea, and will confuse me more. I've been having lessons on and off for 7 years, but haven't had a lesson since my last failed test about a year ago.

What's everyone's thoughts? Do I stand a better chance in an automatic? I'm really not fussed about being limited to an automatic forever, or if manuals are funner to drive. It's just imperative that I pass in the next couple of months.

The driving test pass rates are HERE.

OP I suggest you book your next test in Golspie Scotland which had a pass rate of over 83% between April to September 2016.

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My husband failed and gave up. Our compromise was for him to learn in an automatic. He passed first time and our family car is an auto. No big deal really. He can't drive anyone else manual car but wouldn't need to anyway. If we drive abroad we pay for an auto or I drive. It was definitely the deciding factor which made him feel more relaxed and able to pass in the end.

I wouldn't. I passed my manual test nearly two years ago and have driven an automatic ever since. Three times the car has been into a garage for repairs (despite being a new car and normally reliable but one fault took many sets of eyes before a solution was found) and each time the only courtesy car available has been manual. If I hadn't have passed my manual test then I would have been without a car for up to four days at a time. I love driving an automatic but I'm glad I have a fail safe.

Auto's are a pain in the fucking arse if you are used to a manual. I've driven them a few times and can't maneuver the fucker to save my life. Stop start traffic is also a nightmare for me and anything else that would usually involve driving on the bite. They feel completely different to drive and I just don't feel in control at all.

Probably biased but I think it's a terrible idea if you aren't specifically struggling with the gears or clutch. All you will do is take away something that you are used to thinking about and replace it with something that you're not. If it is test nerves then you will have the problem whether you do the test in a manual, auto or on a push bike.

I think you would have better luck addressing the root cause and treating your test anxiety. What are you actually failing ON? Lots of minors or a serious/dangerous fault?

YES YES YES!!!!
Everyone told me not to after failing 3 manual tests. Failed my first auto test with no minors just one serious (I was cut up!) a week later I PASSED! I don't care if auto isn't proper driving I would still be on the buses. My kids and I have loved the last few months having a car. It's made life a million times easier. Just do it! You might be able to find my old thread about it. Good luck!

Also the 'one less thing to worry about' is EXACTLY why I tried auto and it worked beautifully!

Ì can only drive auto. I do not regret it for a minute. Never had a problem with hire cars etc. I didn't even try to learn manual because I just wanted to pass as quickly as possible.

www.mumsnet.com/Talk/am_i_being_unreasonable/2870337-To-give-up-on-driving-if-I-fail-this-time