manual transmission cruise control

Do Manual Transmission Cars Have Cruise Control?

By: Author Zach Reed

Cruise control is an awesome feature for anyone hitting the highways .

Many people with manual transmission vehicles don’t know if their cars have this magnificent feature. 

If you drive on the highway a lot and are considering a manual vehicle, you definitely need to know whether manual transmission cars have cruise control or not.

Manual transmission vehicles often do come with cruise control, although it works a little different from the cruise control in automatic vehicles. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) comes standard on most new Manual vehicles and can safely be engaged so long as you plan on remaining in the same gear.

When safely engaged, cruise control is an excellent feature that can ease some of the strain of long car rides.

Knowing what cruise control is and how to engage it, especially in manual transmission vehicles, is crucial to safely operate your vehicle.

Continue reading for all you need to know about manual vehicles and cruise control.

What is Cruise Control In A Stick-Shift Car?

The cruise control is an electronic system that allows a driver to maintain the vehicle’s accelerator at a certain speed even when they take their foot off the gas pedal. 

It’s comparable to driving on autopilot. It works best on straight roads with less traffic.

Vehicles with manual transmission require the drive to manually depress the clutch pedal and shift into the gear they need. 

If the vehicle has cruise control, this will automatically cause the cruise control to disengage . 

Therefore, manual cars will benefit from cruise control on highway/motorway speeds where one gear is used the whole time . 

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) has slowly but surely started replacing the standard cruise control . This is because of the number of vehicles on the roads today.

It works in the same way as the normal cruise control but with smart speed management. It speeds up and slows down depending on the speed of the vehicle ahead. 

This helps prevent accidents even if the driver didn’t respond fast enough.

Almost all vehicles nowadays are manufactured with adaptive cruise control as a standard feature.

The feature maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and will slow down or stop if the other vehicle does the same.

It will also resume the previous speed if the car in front does the same.

Read on to understand the importance of cruise control especially in manual cars and how it affects your car’s engine.

Adaptive Cruise Control on Manual Cars

It’s important to know that the adaptive cruise control disengages every time you hit the clutch. 

Therefore, you will turn on cruise control after you have already shifted your gears.

This doesn’t affect you much anyway because it means you are either looking to slow down or speed up.

It also disengages when the RPM is either too high or too low.

If it detects slow traffic ahead of you, it will slow down as long as the speed difference doesn’t lower your RPM too much. 

If you need to downshift because your RPM dropped too low, the system will automatically turn off.

Manual cars have a problem with cruise control when going up steep terrains.

You will have to turn off cruise control in such a situation and only restart if after you have adjusted your gears.

Considerations for Using Cruise Control

• It comes in handy during long drives on highways and roads with little to no traffic. It can be helpful to a fatigued driver as well as safely allow the vehicle’s positioning changes.
• It’s useful for drivers who unknowingly increase speeds while driving. It helps them avoid violating speed limits by maintaining a steady speed.
• It’s fuel-efficient as it helps the vehicle maintain a steady speed.

Disadvantages

However, it’s not always going to work out while using cruise control with accidents as an extreme consequence. 

There are a number of cons that can occur when cruise control isn’t used correctly. They include:

• Cruise control doesn’t work properly during harsh weather conditions.
• There may be an acceleration round bends that require the vehicle to slow down.
• Rough terrain can mess with the cruise control controls.
• It makes drivers dependable on the feature thus paying less attention to the road when driving. This could lead to serious accidents.
• Inattentive drivers are at risk of Sudden Unintended Acceleration (SUA). This happens when a driver accidentally hits the accelerator when they meant to hit the brakes in an emergency, causing an accident.

Will Cruise Control Mess up Your Engine?

Cruise control won’t affect your engine negatively if your vehicle is automatic . When used correctly, it saves you money in the long run. 

Because of its smooth acceleration, your vehicle becomes more fuel-efficient.

In manual cars, however, there might be some lag when going up steep terrains. In the long run, it is possible to cause damage but, in most cases, it’s okay to use.

Cruise Control In Manuals

As discussed above, many car manufacturers are moving from normal cruise control to adaptive cruise control. 

Manual cars do have cruise control although it works a little different from the cruise control in automatic vehicles. 

Cruise control is useful for long drives and ends up saving you money on fuel and speeding tickets. 

Related Posts

• Is It Bad To Start A Car In 2nd Gear?

Hi, I'm the founder of VehicleAnswers.com! Having owned a wide variety of vehicles in my life, I was astounded at how hard it can be to find answers to common automotive questions. Rather than sit idly, I decided to create this website to help others!

• Hybrids & EVs
• Motorsports
• Tips, Tricks & Trends

Does Adaptive Cruise Control Work With a Manual Transmission?

Adaptive cruise control has been around for quite a while now and it is even a standard feature in some of the most affordable cars on the market. Adaptive cruise control adds a bit of extra safety and convenience to your day, especially if your car is equipped with an automatic transmission. But what you might not know is that it’s also available on cars with a manual transmission as well. But how does it work?

Adaptive cruise control is not like regular cruise control

At first, it might seem like a manual transmission and adaptive cruise control wouldn’t work well together. We say this because, unlike regular cruise control, adaptive cruise control regulates the car’s speed. And when the car slows down, the RPMs will drop, which would cause a manual transmission car to either bog or stall. But in a car with an automatic transmission, the car will easily slow down and even come to a complete stop with the adaptive cruise control engaged.

So how does it work with a manual transmission ? According to Autotrader, adaptive cruise control in a car with a manual transmission works half as good as one with an automatic because the system will regulate the car’s speed when cruising, but when it’s time to slow the car down or stop, the system will disengage.

“Low-speed follow” is not allowed

Another advantage of having an adaptive cruise control system on a car with an automatic transmission is that the car will actually take care of itself in stop-and-go traffic. When traffic slows down, the system will detect the car in front of you and adjust to its speed, effectively doing the “traffic dance” for you. However, for cars with a manual transmission, this feature is not included since you would have to depress the clutch and shift gears manually in order to keep the car going.

It’s still an effective safety feature to have

You might be wondering why any automaker would include adaptive cruise control on a car with a manual transmission if you’re only able to use half of what the feature has to offer. Considering adaptive cruise control is a safety feature it’s still great to have on any car as it will make the car hit the brakes and slow down if a car were to suddenly cut in front of you or slow down abruptly on the freeway.

Sure, you might not be able to take the stress out of sitting in rush-hour traffic on a Friday, or any day for that matter, but you can at least still set it and forget under normal driving conditions.

However, we must warn you that if you do ever use the adaptive cruise control feature on a car with a manual transmission, remember to stay extra alert when it slows the car down or accelerates it while on the freeway, you might just forget to shift gears. Otherwise, we highly recommend using this feature as it’s extremely useful in almost any driving situation and there’s an added bit of safety as well.

How to Avoid Hitting a Deer With Your Car This Fall

When to Use Recirculation in Your Car

Drinking Alcohol While Flying Increases Alarming Health Risks: Study

5 Common and Irritating Driving Mistakes You May be Guilty Of Committing

Joe Santos has been an automotive journalist since 2013 and joined MotorBiscuit in 2020. He writes strongly on consumer advice and new cars, and we consider him an asset to readers looking for guidance in buying and selling autos.

Joe earned a Bachelor’s in Journalism from California State University, Fullerton, and spent years as a Road Test Editor at Kelley Blue Book, after which he served in various automotive-related roles, including an autonomous vehicle trainer for GM, a vehicle sales manager, and an Audi brand specialist.

Joe’s prized possession is a 2008 Honda S2000 in Laguna Blue Pearl, with which he attends local car meets. Joe is also a content creator for LTD Global, a B2B support firm.

Do Manual Transmission Cars Have Cruise Control?

Manual transmissions, often referred to as stick shifts, offer a sense of connection between the driver and the vehicle. However, as technology has advanced, many modern amenities, such as cruise control, have become standard in automatic vehicles, leading to questions about their compatibility with manuals.

Yes, manual transmission cars can have cruise control. Modern systems are designed to maintain a set speed, even in manuals. The driver sets the desired speed, and the system adjusts the throttle to maintain it. If needed, pressing the clutch or brake will disengage the system.

Today’s guide will get into the mechanics of cruise control in manual transmissions, its advantages, challenges, and how to use it effectively.

Mechanics of Cruise Control in Manual Transmission

Cruise control, a feature once reserved for top-tier automatic cars, has found its way into manual transmissions . But how does it function in a stick shift?

How Cruise Control Systems Detect Speed

At the heart of any cruise control is a speed sensor. This device measures the car’s speed and sends this data to the control module. In manual cars, this sensor often takes readings from the gearbox or the wheels.

Adjusting Throttle in Manual Cars

To maintain a consistent speed, cruise control adjusts the throttle. In manual vehicles, instead of shifting gears like in automatics , the system manages the engine’s fuel supply. By controlling fuel flow, it keeps the car cruising at the set speed.

The Role of Clutch in Cruise Control Systems

Engaging the clutch while cruise control is active will interrupt the system. Modern designs detect when the clutch is pressed, disengaging the cruise control. This feature prevents engine strain and promotes smooth driving.

Advantages of Cruise Control in Manual Transmission

Once a luxury feature, cruise control has become increasingly popular among manual transmission car owners. But what benefits does this advanced system bring to stick shifts?

1. Fuel Efficiency Improvements

When a driver manually operates a vehicle, speed fluctuations are natural, even when trying to maintain a constant pace. These fluctuations can consume more fuel. Cruise control, by managing speed consistently, reduces these variations, leading to better fuel consumption rates. Over long drives, this can translate to noticeable fuel savings.

2. Enhanced Driving Comfort on Long Journeys

Long drives can be tiring, especially when consistently managing speed on highways. With cruise control, the need to constantly modulate the throttle is reduced. Set the desired speed, activate cruise control, and the system takes over, allowing for a more relaxed driving experience. This is especially handy in areas with minimal traffic and long stretches of road.

3. Safety Boost from Consistent Speeds

Rapid acceleration or deceleration can be risky, especially on highways with dense traffic. Cruise control maintains a steady pace, reducing the chances of sudden speed changes that can be hazardous. Additionally, it allows drivers to keep both hands on the wheel, promoting better control.

Potential Challenges and Limitations

While cruise control in manual transmissions offers numerous advantages, there are some challenges and limitations that come with this feature.

1. Complex Situations

On flat terrains, this isn’t an issue. However, when driving on hilly roads, encountering sharp bends, or sitting still in traffic , maintaining a constant speed might not always be ideal. Ascending a steep hill may strain the engine, while descending can lead to speeds higher than desired.

2. Safety Concerns and Manual Overrides

There are moments when manual intervention becomes necessary, even with cruise control active. In heavy traffic, sudden obstructions, or unpredictable road conditions, relying solely on cruise control might not be safe. In such situations, drivers should be prepared to take immediate control by pressing the brake or clutch to disengage the system.

Steps to Use Cruise Control in a Manual Car

For those who are new to this technology or need a refresher on how to use it effectively in a stick shift, this section provides a step-by-step guide. Please be aware that cruise control systems may vary between cars, so check the paperwork for more details.

Activating Cruise Control

Before you start, make sure the road conditions are suitable. It’s best to use cruise control on open highways or roads with minimal traffic interruptions.

• Drive your car manually to the desired speed.
• Locate the cruise control buttons, usually found on the steering wheel or a nearby stalk.
• Press the “Set” or “On” button, depending on your car’s design. Your vehicle should now maintain the current speed without you pressing the accelerator.

Setting and Adjusting Speed

Once cruise control is active, you have the flexibility to adjust your speed:

• Increasing Speed : Use the “Resume” or “+” button to boost your speed. Some systems might increase the speed incrementally with each press, while others could allow you to hold the button for a continuous increase.
• Decreasing Speed : The “-” button will typically reduce the cruising speed. Like with acceleration, the speed can either drop in small increments or steadily if the button is held.
• Manual Override : If you wish to override the set speed temporarily, press the accelerator. Once you release it, the car will return to the previously set cruising speed.

Disengaging and Manual Overrides

There are a few methods to disengage the cruise control:

• Braking : Applying the brake will instantly turn off cruise control. This is the most common method, especially when needing to reduce speed quickly.
• Pressing the Clutch : In many manual cars, pressing the clutch pedal will also disengage the system, making it useful for gear changes or when anticipating a need for speed reduction.
• Using the Off Button : Most systems will have an “Off” or “Cancel” button. Pressing this will turn off cruise control, allowing you to manage speed manually.
• Shutting Off the Engine : Turning off your car’s engine will also deactivate the cruise control. However, this method is generally not recommended unless in an emergency.

Safety Tips and Best Practices

• Stay Alert : Even with cruise control active, stay attentive. Be ready to take control when the situation demands, such as in heavy traffic or unpredictable road conditions.
• Avoid Wet or Slippery Roads : On wet, icy, or slippery surfaces, it’s best to avoid cruise control. Maintaining a consistent speed in such conditions can increase the risk of skidding.
• Keep Hands on the Wheel : Always keep your hands on the steering wheel. Cruise control manages speed, not steering.
• Regular Maintenance : To ensure your cruise control works flawlessly, make it a part of your regular car maintenance checks. Inspecting the system’s components, such as the speed sensor , can help identify potential issues before they become problematic.

Differences Between Cruise Control in Manual vs. Automatic Transmissions

Related articles.

Can You Use Cruise Control With Manual Transmission?

Cruise control, even though it has been around for a while, has been one of the best features of a car especially if you are looking at the safety of the vehicle. But while cruise control tends to be a standard feature in cars with automatic transmission, you might wonder if manual cars have it. So, can you cruise control with a manual transmission?

You can cruise control with a manual transmission. It doesn’t work half as well as it does with automatic transmissions as it still regulates the car’s speed when you are cruising. But the system tends to disengage the moment you slow down or when you press the clutch.

In that regard, while cruise control does indeed work with cars with manual transmissions, you shouldn’t expect it to work perfectly at all or even close to how it works on cars with automatic transmissions. Still, having cruise control on a manual car can still be something to be happy about especially when it comes to your overall safety.

Is cruise control available on cars with manual transmissions?

When you look at how cruise control works and how manual transmission cars are basically a thing of the past, you would probably think that they are not compatible with one another. And there is a good reason for that especially when you consider that cruise control works really great on cars with automatic transmissions and how it seemingly should only work on them.

However, what you need to know is that cruise control is indeed available on cars with manual transmissions. Yes, you read that right. Even though it might seem like cruise control and manual transmission don’t seem to go well together, this is still a feature that is very much present in cars with manual transmissions.

The reason why cruise control is still available on manual transmission cars is, of course, for safety and for convenience. You can never really deny the fact that cruise control is very useful when it comes to cruising on an open road especially during long drives as it basically allows you to fix your speed at certain levels. And when applied on a manual transmission car, it becomes quite useful as well especially when you consider how it can be exhausting to keep your car on a steady speed level when you are driving a stick shift car.

Of course, because modern cars now come with electronic speed signals and electronic accelerator signals, it really isn’t difficult to integrate cruise control into cars that come with manual transmissions. Even modern motorbikes also have cruise control nowadays given how useful the feature is for any kind of vehicle.

How does adaptive cruise control work with a manual transmission?

While cruise control may be available on cars with manual transmissions, don’t expect it to work as well as it does on a car with an automatic transmission. In some cases, you would even say that cruise control works only half as well as it does on stick shift cars than it does with an automatic car.

For starters, when you engage the cruise control function on a car with a manual transmission, it will work in a similar manner as it does on a car with an automatic transmission. However, the moment you step on the clutch or when you slow down or come to a full stop, the system will automatically disengage unlike how it stays turned on in a car that runs on an automatic transmission system.

As such, when you have to switch gears, you need to re-engage the cruise control function again. However, this doesn’t seem to be much of a big deal for manual transmission drivers because of how switching gears means you are actually slowing down or speeding up. That naturally means that you actually don’t have to use cruise control.

Meanwhile, when the RPM gets to levels that are too low or too high, the cruise control function automatically disengages as well. However, it won’t disengage if it detects traffic that is slower than you as long as the difference in speeds isn’t that too big. But when the speed difference is so big that you need to downshift, the system will automatically disengage.

Is low-speed follow available on a manual transmission?

No, low-speed follow is not a feature that is available on cars with manual transmission. Low-speed follow may be great for cars running on automatic transmissions but it is close to impossible to integrate it with stick shift cars because of how it will require you to shift your gears a lot when you are driving a car with a manual transmission.

Can you put cruise control in a car that doesn’t have it?

Even if you have an older car that doesn’t have cruise control, you shouldn’t worry because you can still have it added to your car. Yes, that is right. You can have an aftermarket cruise control added to your car regardless of whether it may be manual or automatic if it originally didn’t come with cruise control. And there are plenty of reasons why you should have cruise control in your car.

Long rides will end up becoming more comfortable if you have cruise control. Of course, because of the consistent speeds your car will be running on, it will end up having better mileage. And when you are in the middle of long drives, you will less likely end up getting fatigued when you have cruise control engaged. 

Cruise control kit for manual transmission

In case you want cruise control to be added to your car, you can simply buy a cruise control kit and have it installed in your car. This cruise control kit from Rostra is a good choice because of how comparatively affordable it is and how it can be installed in manual transmission cars. However, you would need to buy a separate clutch switch for it to be installed in a car with a manual transmission.

https://www.motorbiscuit.com/does-adaptive-cruise-control-work-with-a-manual-transmission/

https://www.hallmazdamilwaukee.com/blog/do-manual-vehicles-have-adaptive-cruise-control/

YourMotorFixResearcher

Owner of YourMotorFix.com

Learn More...

Should All Your Car Tires Have The Same Pressure?

The tire pressure for cars varies depending on the size and weight of the vehicle, the size of the wheels fitted to the vehicle, and in some instances, the type of tire fitted on the rim. While all...

What To Consider Before Taking New Car On A Road Trip

You just bought a brand-new car and you are excited to take it on a spin. Naturally, you would want to drive it on the road to test out how well it holds up to your standards. But how far should you...

Do Manual Transmission Cars Have Cruise Control? (The Ultimate Guide)

Do Manual Transmission Cars Have Cruise Control?

Cruise control is a popular feature on many cars, but it’s not always available on manual transmission models. So, if you’re thinking about buying a manual transmission car, you may be wondering if it’s possible to get cruise control.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at cruise control and whether or not it’s available on manual transmission cars. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of having cruise control on a manual transmission car.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of cruise control and whether or not it’s a feature that you want on your next car.

What is cruise control?

Cruise control is a feature on some cars that allows the driver to maintain a constant speed without having to keep their foot on the accelerator. It is a great way to relieve driver fatigue on long road trips, and it can also help to improve fuel economy.

Cruise control works by using a sensor to measure the vehicle’s speed. The sensor sends this information to the cruise control computer, which then adjusts the throttle to maintain the desired speed. The driver can set the cruise control speed by using a button on the steering wheel.

Cruise control is not available on all cars. It is most commonly found on cars with automatic transmissions, but it can also be found on some cars with manual transmissions.

How does cruise control work?

The cruise control computer uses a variety of sensors to maintain the desired speed. These sensors include:

• A speed sensor, which measures the vehicle’s speed
• A throttle position sensor, which measures the position of the throttle
• A brake pedal switch, which tells the cruise control computer when the brakes are applied
• A steering wheel angle sensor, which tells the cruise control computer when the driver turns the steering wheel

The cruise control computer uses this information to adjust the throttle to maintain the desired speed. If the vehicle slows down, the cruise control computer will increase the throttle to bring the vehicle back up to speed. If the vehicle speeds up, the cruise control computer will decrease the throttle to slow the vehicle down.

Cruise control can be a great way to relieve driver fatigue on long road trips. It can also help to improve fuel economy. However, it is important to use cruise control responsibly. Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and be prepared to take over control of the vehicle if necessary.

Can manual transmission cars have cruise control?

Yes, manual transmission cars can have cruise control. Cruise control is a feature that allows the driver to set a constant speed for the car, without having to keep their foot on the accelerator. This can be a helpful feature on long road trips or in traffic, as it can help to reduce driver fatigue.

Cruise control is typically controlled by a stalk or switch on the steering wheel. The driver can set the desired speed by pressing the stalk or switch up or down. The cruise control will then maintain that speed until the driver cancels it by pressing the stalk or switch again.

Cruise control is not available on all manual transmission cars. However, it is becoming more common, as more and more manufacturers are adding this feature to their vehicles.

If you are considering buying a manual transmission car, it is worth checking to see if it has cruise control. This feature can be a great convenience, and it can help to make your driving experience more enjoyable.

Pros and cons of cruise control on manual transmission cars

There are both pros and cons to having cruise control on a manual transmission car. Some of the benefits of cruise control include:

• Reduced driver fatigue: Cruise control can help to reduce driver fatigue, as it allows the driver to take their foot off the accelerator and relax. This can be especially helpful on long road trips or in traffic.
• Improved fuel economy: Cruise control can help to improve fuel economy, as it can help the driver to maintain a steady speed. This is because the engine does not have to work as hard to maintain a constant speed.
• Increased safety: Cruise control can help to increase safety, as it can help the driver to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. This can be especially helpful in traffic or in other situations where it is important to be alert.

Some of the drawbacks of cruise control on a manual transmission car include:

• Increased wear and tear on the transmission: Cruise control can put extra wear and tear on the transmission, as it is constantly shifting gears to maintain a constant speed. This can shorten the lifespan of the transmission.
• Reduced control: Cruise control can reduce the driver’s control of the car, as it takes over the acceleration and braking. This can be a problem in situations where quick acceleration or braking is needed.
• Increased cost: Cruise control is an additional feature, so it will increase the cost of the car.

Ultimately, whether or not cruise control is a good idea for a manual transmission car depends on the individual driver’s needs and preferences. If the driver is looking for a feature that can help to reduce driver fatigue, improve fuel economy, and increase safety, then cruise control may be a good option. However, if the driver is concerned about the increased wear and tear on the transmission or the reduced control, then cruise control may not be the best choice.

Cruise control is a feature that can be both beneficial and detrimental to a manual transmission car. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get cruise control is a personal one. Drivers should weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.

Do manual transmission cars have cruise control?

Yes, manual transmission cars can have cruise control. However, not all manual transmission cars come with cruise control as a standard feature. If you are interested in a manual transmission car with cruise control, be sure to check the vehicle’s specifications before purchasing.

How does cruise control work on a manual transmission car?

Cruise control on a manual transmission car works by using the car’s throttle to maintain a constant speed. When you engage cruise control, the throttle is set to a specific position, and the car will automatically accelerate or decelerate to maintain that speed.

What are the benefits of having cruise control on a manual transmission car?

There are several benefits to having cruise control on a manual transmission car, including:

• Increased comfort: Cruise control can help to reduce driver fatigue by taking the stress out of maintaining a constant speed. This is especially helpful on long road trips or in stop-and-go traffic.
• Improved fuel economy: Cruise control can help to improve fuel economy by keeping the car at a constant speed. This is because the car’s engine does not have to work as hard to maintain a constant speed.
• Increased safety: Cruise control can help to improve safety by reducing driver distraction. This is because the driver can focus on the road ahead rather than having to constantly adjust the accelerator pedal.

What are the drawbacks of having cruise control on a manual transmission car?

There are a few drawbacks to having cruise control on a manual transmission car, including:

• Increased wear and tear: Cruise control can put additional wear and tear on the car’s engine and transmission. This is because the car’s engine and transmission have to work harder to maintain a constant speed.
• Increased fuel consumption: Cruise control can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. This is because the car’s engine has to work harder to maintain a constant speed.
• Reduced control: Cruise control can reduce the driver’s control over the car. This is because the car’s speed is automatically controlled by the cruise control system.

Is it worth getting cruise control on a manual transmission car?

Whether or not it is worth getting cruise control on a manual transmission car depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you frequently drive long distances or in stop-and-go traffic, cruise control can be a great way to improve comfort, fuel economy, and safety. However, if you do not drive long distances or in stop-and-go traffic, cruise control may not be worth the added expense.

manual transmission cars can have cruise control, but it is not a standard feature. There are a few different ways to add cruise control to a manual transmission car, but the most common is to install an aftermarket cruise control kit. These kits typically include a control unit that is installed in the car’s cabin, a sensor that is mounted on the transmission, and a servo motor that is connected to the throttle linkage. Aftermarket cruise control kits can be relatively easy to install, but they can also be expensive.

If you are considering adding cruise control to your manual transmission car, it is important to do your research and make sure that you choose a kit that is compatible with your car. You should also make sure that you understand how to install the kit before you begin.

With a little bit of effort, you can add cruise control to your manual transmission car and enjoy the benefits of this convenient feature.

Author Profile

Latest entries

• January 19, 2024 Hiking How to Lace Hiking Boots for a Perfect Fit
• January 19, 2024 Camping How to Dispose of Camping Propane Tanks the Right Way
• January 19, 2024 Traveling Information Is Buffalo Still Under Travel Ban? (Updated for 2023)
• January 19, 2024 Cruise/Cruising Which Carnival Cruise Is Best for Families?

Can You Use Cruise Control In A Manual Transmission Car?

• May 23, 2023

If you’re a fan of manual transmission cars, the question of whether or not you can use cruise control may have crossed your mind. The good news is that it is possible to use cruise control in a manual transmission car. Cruise control is a handy feature that has been around for decades and was invented to make long drives more comfortable for drivers. It allows drivers to maintain a constant speed without having to keep their foot on the gas pedal all the time. In this blog, we will discuss how cruise control works in manual cars, the different types of cruise control, and how to use it with your manual car. So, buckle up, and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

What Is Cruise Control? And When Was Cruise Control Invented?

Cruise control is a car feature that maintains a constant speed without using the accelerator pedal. Although patented in 1948, it was not widely available until the 1980s. Inventor Ralph Teetor, who was blind, created it to prevent motion sickness. Almost all cars have cruise control now, with newer models featuring adaptive systems.

How Does Cruise Control Work In Manual Cars?

Cruise control in manual cars operates similarly to automatic cars, allowing the driver to set and maintain a desired speed. However, the system may require manual adjustments when driving on hills or declines. When the car slows down, it will automatically downshift to maintain speed.

Types Of Cruise Control

1. adaptive cruise control.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is one of the most advanced forms of cruise control that is available in modern cars. The system uses sensors to detect the speed and distance of other vehicles on the road. This ensures that you maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid collisions. ACC adjusts the car’s speed and braking automatically, so you don’t need to worry about constantly adjusting your throttle or brake pedal. It provides smooth acceleration and deceleration, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone in the car. ACC is typically found in newer cars but can also be retrofitted into older cars as an aftermarket upgrade. It is a standard feature in many SUVs and luxury cars from brands such as Ford and Chrysler.

How does adaptive cruise control work with a manual transmission?

Adaptive cruise control relies on radar or camera sensors to detect the distance between your car and the one in front, automatically adjusting your speed. However, if you have a manual transmission car, you’ll need to disengage the clutch and shift gears yourself. This requires extra attention, so exercise caution when using it and only in ideal conditions.

2. Semi-autonomous Cruise Control

Semi-Autonomous Cruise Control is an electronic system that utilizes sensors to detect both the speed and distance of other vehicles around you. By monitoring these factors, it offers drivers an effortless way to maintain a safe following distance while cruising at a constant speed. This feature can be found as standard on many modern-day suvs like Ford and Chrysler or as an optional add-on for regular cruise control systems. The adaptive cruise control feature is available on some manual transmissions, but it may require additional sensors or technology in older cars. As with any driving aid, always check your car’s manual or consult with professionals before attempting to use it under traffic conditions.

3. A Speed Limiter

A speed limiter is an electronic system that comes in quite handy when you want to keep your vehicle from exceeding the pre-set limit of its cruising speed. This feature is particularly useful if you want to avoid speeding tickets or maintain a constant speed on long drives. A speed limiter is a type of cruise control system that allows you to set a maximum speed for your manual transmission vehicle without having to worry about accidentally going over the desired limit. It should be noted that while using this feature, it’s important to stay alert and follow safe driving practices such as keeping a safe distance from other vehicles on the road and adjusting your throttle, accelerator, and clutch pedals correctly. A Speed Limiter is not just available in modern cars but also in older ones like Ford or Chrysler suvs and manuals as well.

How To Use Cruise Control With A Manual Car

It’s important to note that while most newer cars have standard cruise control, some models come with more advanced features like adaptive cruise control systems that allow you to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles even in heavy traffic conditions. So whether you’re driving an automatic or manual transmission car, make sure you know how your car’s cruise control works before hitting the freeway for those long drives.

Locate The Cruise Control Button

When locating the cruise control button in a manual transmission car, identifying it is crucial. This small yet handy feature is usually found on the steering wheel or dashboard and resembles a speedometer with an arrow pointing towards it. To activate cruise control after locating this button, press it once. Following this step, you can increase your car’s speed through smooth acceleration with aid from the accelerator pedal and set your desired cruising speed by releasing it. The electronic system of your vehicle takes over and maintains this constant speed until you turn off the cruise control or apply brakes.

Reach Desired Highway Speed

To use cruise control in a manual vehicle, it’s important to reach your desired highway speed first. Begin by engaging the cruise control feature either through a button or lever located on your steering wheel. With that done, release your foot from the accelerator pedal and allow your car to maintain a constant speed with the assistance of sensors and other electronic systems. If you need to slow down or stop abruptly due to traffic conditions, simply disengage the standard feature by pressing either the brake or clutch pedal. By utilizing this handy feature on long drives, you can save fuel while cruising at a smooth acceleration and safe distance from other cars on the freeway.

Turn On Cruise Control

When turning on the cruise control feature in a manual transmission vehicle, ensure that your car is traveling at a steady pace and is in the right gear. After reaching the desired speed, activate this handy feature by pressing the “set” button located on the steering wheel. To adjust your cruising speed, use either the “+” or “-” buttons conveniently placed within reach. It’s worth noting that while this feature works smoothly in modern cars, it might not be suitable for certain traffic conditions or older models of vehicles. By incorporating secondary keyterms like ‘accelerator,’ ‘cruise control works,’ ‘throttle,’ and more, one can get a smooth acceleration and maintain a constant speed without having to worry about constantly shifting gears or using the clutch pedal.

Avoid Unnecessary Braking And Shifting

Maintaining a constant speed while using the cruise control feature in a manual car is crucial to ensure maximum efficiency. When engaging this handy feature in a manual transmission vehicle, always make sure to reach your desired speed and set it by pressing the designated button on your steering wheel’s cruise control system. Whenever necessary, remember that downshifting or disengaging the feature is an option if the car begins to slow down abruptly due to traffic conditions or changes in elevation. In addition, cruising at smooth acceleration levels can significantly reduce driver fatigue during extended trips. Lastly, it’s worth keeping in mind that choosing an appropriate gear for your current speed before initiating the regular or adaptive cruise control system can significantly enhance your driving experience.

Watch the road and steer

While using the cruise control feature in a manual car, it is essential to remain alert and attentive towards the road. It would be best if you familiarized yourself with your car’s specific controls and settings before engaging the cruise control system. Always keep both hands on the steering wheel for proper maneuvering of the vehicle, be cautious, and ready to disengage the system when needed. Keep in mind that using cruise control does not replace your driving skills or instincts as a driver. Therefore, always be vigilant while making use of this handy feature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cruise control available to manual transmission.

While some manual transmission cars have cruise control, not all do. Those that do work similarly to automatic cars but require additional clutch and gear adjustments. To know if your manual car has this feature, check the manual or ask a mechanic.

Is cruise control only on automatic cars?

Although not all manual transmission cars have cruise control, some models do offer it along with a speed limiter feature that helps maintain a specific speed. It’s important to refer to the car’s owner’s manual to confirm availability. If unavailable, maintaining a constant speed manually or using the speed limiter can be an alternative.

Is cruise control bad for your transmission?

Cruise control is safe for your transmission when used responsibly. It won’t cause damage, but using it on hilly or rough terrain may put additional strain on your transmission. If you have a manual car, you’ll need to shift gears manually while using cruise control.

In conclusion, using cruise control in a manual car is possible, but it requires some additional effort from the driver. It is essential to know the different types of cruise control systems available and how they work to make an informed decision. With the right technique, you can use cruise control on long drives and reduce fatigue. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that cruise control doesn’t replace attentive driving and steering. Use it responsibly and always keep an eye on the road ahead. Now that you know how to use cruise control in your manual car, hit the road without any worries!

Trending now

Do Manual Cars Have Cruise Control? [Full Guide!]

Cruise control is a great feature available on most cars. It is perfect for long distances and stretches of road that are reasonably empty and don’t have a lot of twists and turns. But, today, I will explain if manual cars have cruise control.

Generally speaking, most modern manual cars come with cruise control. However, this feature functions slightly differently on a manual car than on an automatic car. Cruise control on an automatic car will change gears, whereas you need to change gears on a manual car when in cruise control.

Cruise control is reasonably straightforward to use. However, there are a few key things to know about how it works. This article will be a complete guide on everything there is to know about cruise control on manual cars.

How Cruise Control Works on Manual Cars

Many people never use cruise control on their cars even though many vehicles have advanced cruise control features. It’s necessary to change gears often on a manual car, which makes understanding how cruise control works on manual cars. So, here’s a summary and detailed explanation of how cruise control works on manual cars.

Overall, you set the cruise control speed and enable and disable it using the controls on the steering wheel or a lever attached to the steering wheel. It will automatically keep your car at the speed you set. But, you need to manually change gears to stop the engine from stalling. 

There are many different versions of cruise control, and they differ based on the make, model, and year of the car. Some will:

• Slow down your car automatically when it senses a vehicle in front of you
• Turn off the cruise control when you press on the brakes
• Turn off the cruise control when your speed drops below a certain speed – usually around 20 to 30 mph (32 to 48 km/h)
• Disable the cruise control when you press the clutch in

A manual car with cruise control that can be enabled at any speed is often called ‘all-range.’ It can be set at any speed and won’t be disabled if your speed drops too low. This is ideally suited to stop-and-go-type situations, such as when you are in heavy traffic. This feature is more common on newer cars – made in 2017 or later.

On older manual cars with cruise control, the cruise control is disabled when you press the clutch. Whereas, on newer car models, you can change gears any time you want. However, some limit how long you can press the clutch in. For example, it will disable the cruise control if you press the clutch for more than 2 seconds.

Modern cars from about 2017, often have an inbuilt feature that will disable the cruise control if the engine gets close to stalling. And many car models will notify you to change gears when it detects the revs are too low for the speed and gear. 

What happens if a car in front of you is going slow

Setting the cruise control to just under the speed limit is common. However, cars in front of you can often slow down to take an exit or drive slower than expected. 

Many modern manual cars with cruise control have sensors that detect when there is a car in front of you and will automatically slow down. Such as Toyota cars, which have what they call ‘ Dynamic Radar Cruise Control .’ This feature is now standard on most new car makes and models.

However, if a manual car doesn’t have this feature, you need to press on the brakes to slow down. Here’s what happens if you brake when cruise control is on.

Can You Brake on Cruise Control?

Cruise control is designed to keep your car at a constant speed, but all too often, something will happen that will require you to brake, such as a sharp turn or a car pulling out in front of you. So, this is what happens if you brake while the cruise control is on, and if it’s possible.

You can brake on cruise control. Once you have finished braking, the cruise control will accelerate, returning to the set cruise control speed. However, if it’s a manual car and you decelerate, you typically need to shift down a gear or two to stop the engine from stalling.

A car can struggle to accelerate and stall if you decelerate too much. For example, if you are in 5th gear and brake all the way down to 10 mph (16 km/h), the car won’t be able to accelerate in 5th gear at this slower speed. 

Therefore, you will need to change down to 2nd or 3rd first, and then change up gears as the cruise control accelerates for you manually.

But, in general, it’s easiest to take it out of cruise control when you need to brake a lot. Then, once you’re in a place where you don’t need to brake as often, you can put it back into cruise control.

Does Cruise Control Change Gears

While cruise control is active, the acceleration and deceleration are controlled by an onboard computer. However, on manual transmission cars, there is no way for the car to change gears itself. So, here’s whether cruise control can change gears on manual and automatic cars.

Typically, cruise control does not change gears on a manual transmission vehicle. Thus, if you need to brake or you enter a very steep hill, you will need to change down gears on a manual transmission. However, the cruise control feature on most automatic vehicles is designed to change gears too.

When you are on a steep hill in the wrong gear, the car can stall, and you will need to brake immediately. Therefore, you should change down gears when your car is struggling to go up a hill.

By comparison, you don’t need to change gears when in cruise control on an automatic car. The one exception is on very steep hills where the onboard computer can’t detect that it’s a very steep hill. In that case, you may need to put it into manual 1st or 2nd to have enough acceleration to make it up a hill.

Similar Posts

Car Won’t Accelerate Past 40? Here’s Why And What to Do!

Modern cars are packed full of safety features. These features reach much further than traction control,…

How Much Does a Car AC Leak Repair Cost? [Full Guide!]

Car AC systems have become increasingly important in this ever-warming world, shielding drivers from ambient heat….

Car AC Cold Only When Driving? [Here’s Why And How to Fix!]

If you live in a hotter environment, your car air conditioning system is a lifesaver. Unfortunately,…

Why Do Cars Need Gas? [A Complete Guide!]

A car’s engine is mostly hidden, so without taking it apart, you can’t see what it…

Why Are Cars Called Whips? [Here’s the Truth!]

A “whip” is a strange word to use for a car. However, it’s common to hear…

8 Reasons Why Battery Is Fully Charged But Car Won’t Start!

Your car’s battery is a vital component for the proper operation of your vehicle. Typically, when…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

17,000 Dodges, Rams recalled in Canada over stability control

11 of the best canadian road trips to take this summer, lorraine explains: no 2-day cooling off period for ontario car buyers, motor mouth: more and more canadians on drugs are crashing cars, spied 2025 ford maverick caught on camera without camo, what is cruise control a comprehensive guide.

When the system is set, cruise control will maintain a steady speed for your vehicle

You can save this article by registering for free here . Or sign-in if you have an account.

Article content

Your vehicle’s cruise control system unlocks numerous benefits at the touch of a button — but according to web search data, drivers still have plenty of questions about what it is, what it does, and how it works.

What is Cruise Control? A Comprehensive Guide Back to video

Below, we’ll answer some of the most popular Internet search questions about cruise control, so you can make the best use of this important system.

What is Cruise Control?

With cruise control, your vehicle will maintain a steady speed when the system is set.

What is adaptive cruise control?

With adaptive cruise control, the vehicle will also automatically slow down and speed up to maintain a safe position in traffic.

How does cruise control work?

Cruise control work with a manual transmission just the same way it does with an automatic.  Drivers set their cruising speed with a button press, and the system works the throttle automatically to maintain the desired cruising speed as evenly as possible. In some vehicles with a manual transmission, pressing the clutch pedal to shift gears turns the cruise control off, requiring an additional button press to reengage it after a gear change.

In other cars with a manual transmission, pressing the clutch pedal simply pauses the cruise control system a moment, allowing drivers to complete their gearshift. When they’ve released the clutch, the cruise control picks up where it left off — no additional button press required.

Is cruise control more fuel efficient?

Yes.  Increasing your vehicle’s speed uses fuel. While cruising, even a highly competent driver who isn’t using cruise control will tend to slow down and speed up in a repeated cycle, possibly several times per minute. Though fluctuations in speed may be slight, they do cause your engine to use more fuel than required. Point is, the more time you spend at a steady speed, the less fuel your engine needs.

For most drivers, using cruise control on the highway at 80 km/h can reduce fuel consumption by about 20 per cent. For drivers who find difficulty in maintaining a steady speed and frequently experience big fluctuations, using cruise control can cut fuel use by over 40 per cent.

Depending on what you drive and how fast you drive it, using cruise control could save you between $4 and $20 per hour — based on information from Natural Resources Canada that shows most drivers who don’t use cruise control on the highway will tend to experience a 10 km/h speed fluctuation about three times per minute.

Drivers who have the most difficulty managing their cruising speed could be using 60 per cent more fuel than they need to.

Is cruise control bad for your transmission?

No.  Your vehicle’s engine, transmission and other components are designed to work hand-in-hand with its cruise control system and are extensively tested and integrated with one another for trouble-free performance.

Using cruise control also reduces wear and tear on both your engine and transmission by running things more smoothly and steadily, and reducing workload on both components.

Can you add cruise control to a car?

Yes.  Depending on the year, make and model, cruise control may be available for add-on or retrofit. Professional installation is recommended, and you’ll want to talk to a professional about the specific availability of parts and integration for your vehicle.

In many cases with modern cars, it’s generally easier and more cost effective to just opt for a unit equipped with cruise control from the factory. Cruise control is widely available as standard equipment on most modern vehicles.

Can cruise control get stuck?

Yes , but it’s extremely rare. Older cable-based cruise control systems seem more prone to this rare problem, in which the cable can slip or bind, making the throttle stick into position. More modern vehicles with electronic throttle and monitoring systems make this problem even less likely.

If the cruise control on your car fails to disengage when you want to slow down, slip the vehicle into neutral to disconnect drive power from the wheels, pull over, and address the situation.

However, chances are, you’ll never experience this problem.

When should cruise control be used?

Any time you’re trying to drive at a constant speed.  Whether around town at 60 km/h, in a residential area at 40 km/h, or out on the highway at 105 km/h, switching the cruise control on makes for a smoother and more fuel efficient drive that’s easier on your engine and transmission. it can also help you do your part to maintain the steady and efficient flow of traffic.

Most cruise control systems can be engaged at speeds above 30 km/h.

When should cruise control not be used?

Any time you can’t safely drive at a steady speed.  If the road surface is snowy, icy, slushy or very wet, you’ll want to think twice about switching your cruise control on.

In older cars, having your cruise control engaged on a wet or icy road could allow the vehicle to accelerate or experience wheelspin when driven wheels encounter a low-traction surface. Here, the cruise control system maintains throttle pressure, even in situations where it should be released instead. This could lead to a loss of control.

In more modern vehicles, electronic monitoring is used to automatically disengage cruise control when one of the following happens:

• one or more wheels slip
• one or more wheels leave the surface of the road after a major bump or dip
• the wipers are set to the maximum speed setting in heavy rain

Use your judgement. Safely navigating certain slippery or dangerous driving conditions requires careful manual control of your vehicle’s throttle, and in these situations, you’re best to leave the cruise control off.

What causes cruise control to kick off?

If the cruise control in your vehicle suddenly kicks off, a few things may be to blame.

Sometimes, cruise control disengages automatically when the vehicle’s automatic wipers detect heavy rainfall, or when a wheel spins or (briefly) leaves the surface of the road after a big bump or dip. In other situations, there may be a problem with one or more sensors or switches, including the brake pedal switch, throttle position sensor, or one or more wheel speed sensors.

Your modern cruise control system relies on various sensors and switches to do its job properly. As a failsafe, any problem with these sensors can cause the cruise control system to go offline. If you notice this happening regularly, have your vehicle diagnosed by a professional.

Will the cruise control work with an ABS light on?

Probably not.  Your car’s Antilock Braking System works hand-in-hand with your cruise control system, and any fault with the ABS system will typically take your cruise control offline until it’s fixed.

An ABS warning light in your instrument cluster can indicate one of several major problems or malfunctions, so be sure to have a professional investigate as quickly as possible.

Will cruise control apply the brakes?

No, but adaptive cruise control will.  Standard cruise control (simply called cruise control) holds your vehicle’s speed as constant as possible once set. More advanced adaptive cruise control systems use camera or radar-based sensing to determine the traffic situation in front of your vehicle, and can automatically apply the brakes to maintain a pre-set following distance.

With cruise control, drivers need to brake to slow down as they close in on a slower vehicle in traffic. With adaptive cruise control, the system makes these braking inputs automatically, and the vehicle speeds back up to its pre-set cruising speed once traffic clears.

Before you buy, be sure to determine which type of cruise control system is fitted to the car you’re considering.

What is Super Cruise?

Super Cruise is a next-level driver assistance feature available on certain GM vehicles.

With Super Cruise, the vehicle uses special GPS hardware and sensors to accurately compare its position to a 3D map of pre-qualified highways .

On these pre-qualified highways, Super Cruise allows drivers to go hands-free for extended periods as the vehicle automatically maintains its cruising speed, adjusts that speed for changing traffic conditions, and even precisely follows the curves in the road. It can even make hands-free lane changes.

Super Cruise is not an autonomous system, and in order for it to work, drivers need to keep their eyes on the road — there’s even a camera that monitors the position of the driver’s eyes to make sure they’re focused on the road ahead.

Sign up for our newsletter Blind-Spot Monitor and follow our social channels on Instagram , Facebook and X to stay up to date on the latest automotive news, reviews, car culture, and vehicle shopping advice.

• Commercial trucks are going electric, but it's going to be a long road
• Evolutionary: The Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen has never strayed far from its roots
• How to jump-start a car—a step-by-step guide
• Testing Mitsubishi’s AWD systems and Snow mode on ice
• 12 things to know about the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger REx

Justin Pritchard

Justin Pritchard is an experienced motoring expert whose work is read and watched by Canadians across the country on a weekly basis. Starting his career at Auto123.com back in 2005 (while finishing his final year of studies at Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario), Justin quickly applied his passion for writing, presenting, and photography, working under some of the most recognized editors in the Canadian motoring scene.

Justin has written one of the largest collections of used car buyer guides on the internet, and his TV program, AutoPilot, has aired over 600 episodes across 16 seasons. Presently, AutoPilot is the only English-language motoring program on Canadian cable TV, though he's lent his informative style and easy-to-identify voice to video features for Youtube, Driving.ca, Autotrader.ca, Motoring TV, and elsewhere. With 4 years as co-chair of the Canadian Car of the Year Awards (CCOTY) program, a passion for vehicle testing shines though in all of his work.

A passion for photography from a young age makes Justin as comfortable behind the camera as in front of it, and capturing motoring memories from the scenery of beautiful Northern Ontario is a priority in much of his work. The particularly harsh winter climate in this part of Canada makes Justin a particular expert on winter driving, winter tires, and extreme-weather safety.

Major awards won by the author

Contact info.

Youtube: @JustinPritchard

Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion. Please keep comments relevant and respectful. Comments may take up to an hour to appear on the site. You will receive an email if there is a reply to your comment, an update to a thread you follow or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information.

Tesla, Toyota lead 2024 Vincentric Best Value in Canada awards

Affordable EVs

Small trucks

Popular Crossover SUVs

Practical 3-row SUVs

Minivans for the whole family

Compact Cars

Luxury SUVs

Affordable AWD SUVs

All things automotive: breaking news, reviews and more. Wednesdays and Saturdays.

• There was an error, please provide a valid email address.

A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.

The next issue of Driving.ca's Blind-Spot Monitor will soon be in your inbox.

We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again

Best Camping Gear for Summer 2024

Equipment for those of us hitting the great outdoors this summer

7 Essential, 6 non-essential accessories every mom wants in her car

You don't need a holiday to do something nice for mom; stock up her car with these essential car accessories

Best Car Organizers To Declutter The Cabin

Discover some of the top-rated car organizers that will help declutter the car and arrange belongings for a hassle free drive

Best Tools For DIY Tire Swaps

Changing tires twice a year, it won’t take many seasonal swaps to pay for your investment

Everything you need to know about bike racks for your vehicle

There are tonnes of bicycle-carrying options for Canadians who love two wheels as much as four

This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here . By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .

Edit your picks to remove vehicles if you want to add different ones.

You can only add up to 5 vehicles to your picks.

Looks like you've reached your saved article limit!

You can manage your saved articles in your account and clicking the X located at the bottom right of the article.

Do Manual Cars Have Cruise Control? (An Accurate Answer)

If you need to drive on the highways regularly, then cruise control can be a very fruitful feature for you. All of the automated transmitted cars have this feature, but for manually transmitted cars, the scenario is different.

Many manual transmission car owners aren’t aware of whether their cars can use this great feature on their cars or not. Do manual cars have cruise control ?

Well, nowadays 90% of new manual cars come with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) facility. It acts differently, but you can avail of this feature as long as you don’t change the gear. 

Do manual cars have cruise control?

If you buy a new car that comes with a manual transmission, then there is a high chance of getting the cruise control feature. But you need to confirm it from the company. The Cruise control feature operates differently than that of the automatic cars. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is present in most new manual cars.

You can use it very safe as long as you don’t need to change the gear. For driving on the highways, this feature is very useful. It helps the car to run in a less stressful way.

To use Cruise control while driving, you need to have perfect knowledge about what type of Cruise control is present in your car and how to use it. You need to learn everything related to this mechanism.

Only then can you apply Cruise control smoothly while driving on the highways.

What is cruise control in a manual car?

Cruise control is an advanced electrical feature that is present in most recently launched cars. This feature helps the accelerator to offer the best possible speed to the car, even if your foot is not on the accelerator.

In manual cars, you need to press the clutch and shift gears according to the need. But if you use cruise control, especially when you are on the highways, then you only need to use a single gear for the entire period. 

In recent times, Adaptive cruise control (ACC) has occupied the entire market of standard cruise control. ACC is nothing but an advanced version of the SCC. Having advanced mechanisms, ACC can offer better smart speed management. 

One thing that is good to remember is that whenever you hit the clutch, the ACC gets turned off. On the same gear, you can’t turn on the cruise control again; you need to change the gear first. ACC also stops when the car’s RPM is too low or it is too high. Cruise control doesn’t work properly in the up-hills. 

How safe is cruise control?

On long drives, cruise control helps a lot. But, before applying it, you need to learn how to use it properly. As long as you use cruise control properly, this is 100% safe.

You need to avoid it when there is snow, sleet or if it is raining . And you need to pay special attention to the road. So, you need to properly learn the applying method and the condition when you have to apply it.

Does cruise control save gas?

There is a lot of uncertainty about whether cruise control saves gas or not. A Canadian study found that cruise control decreases the fuel efficiency of a car by 20% if its speed gets changed every 18 seconds, and the speed varies between 46 and 56 miles.

But in some conditions, cruise control is better and more fuel-efficient than others. 

How do you know if your car has cruise control?

The easiest way to know whether your car has cruise control or not is to look for the cruise control panel.

In most cases, this control panel is placed on the indicator stalk of the vehicle or near its steering.

To turn on cruise control, you just need to press the specific switch on which the mark of cruise control is made.

The mark of cruise control looks like a speedometer with an arrow. If you found this button, then the cruise control feature is attached to your vehicle. 

What is the difference between cruise control and adaptive cruise control?

Although the main task of cruise control and adaptive cruise control is the same, there are some differences between them. Below, we are mentioning some of them.

In cruise control, you are not able to calculate the distance and speed of the other cars. So the car can’t automatically increase or reduce its speed. But, in ACC, you can easily calculate the distance and speed of the other cars. And it can help itself to reduce the speed, depending upon needs and other circumstances.

In cruise control, the speed of the car is set by the driver, and he is soulfully responsible for running the vehicle automatically. On the other hand, in ACC, you have to set a constant speed depending on the other car’s speed. Sensors are used in cruise control to calculate the throttle’s position. Radars are used in ACC.

Cruise control is the older version, and it is found in most of the oldest cars. ACC is the updated version, and it is used in modern new models. For high-speed driving, cruise control is a better option. For slow-moving traffic, adaptive cruise control is preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do manual cars have adaptive cruise control.

Yes, most of the manual cars of this time have adaptive cruise control. The mechanism and the application process of it are completely different. You need to learn it properly before using it on the highways. 

How much does it cost to add Adaptive Cruise Control?

ACC is the advanced version of the standard cruise control mechanism. ACC uses advanced and high-tech configurations, which makes it expensive. On average, to install ACC in your car, you need to spend somewhere between $2000 to $2500. From model to model the car, this pricing varies.

Does cruise control work in manual cars?

The cruise control facility is available for manually transmitted cars. But it doesn’t perform as smoothly as an automatic transmission. The performance ratio of cruise control for manual cars and automatic cars is 1:2.

Is speed control the same as cruise control?

Apparently, not. These two are completely different. A speed controller prevents a car from reaching a certain speed. But in cruise control, the driver needs to set the speed at which the vehicle has to run.

In cruise control, the control is in the driver’s hand; but a speed controller is completely a mechanical mark. If you have installed it in your car, then the car’s engine will prevent the car from reaching that speed.

Cruise Control is a very useful feature. It makes driving easier, especially while you are driving at a high, constant speed. When driving a car on a highway, you can feel how fruitful this feature is. The manually transmitted cars also have this feature, but in automatic cars, it works more smoothly.

About The Author

David Miller

Related posts.

How to Fix Car Speakers Crackling In 10 Easy Ways

How Many Miles Can a BMW Last? (My Best Guess)

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

We're sorry for any inconvenience, but the site is currently unavailable.

• Forum Listing
• Marketplace
• Advanced Search
• Model Specific Jeep Discussions
• Wrangler JK (Model years 2007–2018)
• JK Technical Discussion

cruise control on manual transmission

• Add to quote

So what happens if you are in cruise control with a manual transmission and the vehicle can no longer maintain the desired speed in the current gear (like going up a steep hill)? Does cruise control shut off? I am just trying to figure out why my cruise control cut off today. I was driving on the highway in cruise control, and all of a sudden I started slowing down. The "Cruise" light was still lit, but it was no longer trying to maintain speed. My guess was that a gust of wind caused the vehicle to no longer be able to maintain its speed and so it shut off cruise control.  

I have noticed that before. If your engine cannot downshift (manual tranny) I believe it just drops out the cruise. Your cruise does stay on, but you have to reset the speed.  

There's a rev range that will act the same as hitting "cancel" if you drop below or exceed the limit  

Anyone know what that point is? On my '07, sometimes my wife forgets about monitoring her speed and will still be in 6th going 55 lugging it up a hill when the cruise was set for ~70 sr so. I don't think I have ever seen it kick out of its own(not incl clutch, brake, cancel etc).  

It sometimes does the same thing if you hit a really big bump. Mine cuts out when I go over the expansion joints where the highway meets the bridge if it's too big of a jump.  

Ok that might have been the reason. I did hit a bump, but I didn't think that was the issue at first because I drive on this road all of the time. Either way, I was just making sure that it was functioning properly, which it seems to be.  

Answered my own question here: http://www.wranglerforum.com/f274/do-all-jeeps-do-this-cruise-control-question-151363-3.html  

• ?            
• 472.4K members

Top Contributors this Month

• Forum Listing
• Marketplace
• Advanced Search
• GENERATION 3 (2020 and on) Soul Related
• How To / DIY (Gen 3)

LX with Manual Transmission Cruise Control Addon

• Add to quote

Attachments

• HowTO.pdf 11 MB Views: 490

Good write up ray! Also been covered in another thread for reference. Adding Keyless Entry & Cruise Control on LX Manual  

Hokey smokes Bullwinkle. Sounds like a lot of work. Hope it's worth it. Let us know please.  

It was not that hard at all. Even with taking pictures it took me 1.5 hours and I spent 45 of those mins waiting. The only non straight forward part was getting the horn/airbag assembly to release. I would rate the difficulty at the level of changing brake pads, or changing your cabin filter except your hands stay a lot cleaner!  

MonsterSoul said: Something that sounds complicated but is actually easy? That is completely the opposite of my usual experience. Click to expand...

RP99 said: Following the posts and some YouTube videos, I added a Cruise Control switch assembly to my 2020 KIA Soul LX base with 6 spd. manual transmission. As advised on this forum, I used KIA P/N: 96720 K0110. I ordered the part from Hyman Bros of VA for $108.94 including shipping. No additional wiring harness required and it works beautifully! Note that Gen3 airbag/horn removal is different that previous models and requires turning wheel each direction to expose slots (from back side of steering wheel) to install pick or small screwdriver and using a mirror tool helps you find it. Take your time and all should go smoothly. I ended up removing the steering wheel a second time to realign it perfectly straight. I obtained an aftermarket keyless remote entry from AutoSound with several locations in MA and they did a clean and professional installation and provided two remote fobs for $249 installed with lifetime warranty for original purchaser. Now have the options I want with manual shift. View attachment 134457 View attachment 134458 Click to expand...

Thank you GeoSoul and to everyone who posted and contributed content on this and related topics. I wouldn't have known this was possible and fairly straight forward without the posts and having confirmation on correct part number(s) was great. This is an awesome forum!  

I am thankful you got it done and found the forum useful! Now go enjoy all that “hard” work!  

Ray, I appreciate your detailed writeup; worked well on my 2021 LX Manual. Happy camper! Bill  

• Step 3: Wait 15 min (Prepare your lunch)
• Step 5: Wait 30 min (Eat your lunch)

I believe he added those steps as a precaution and to be certain the Air bag system was not energized. You can also get very hungry while working on your car, so a nice nutritious meal break can help you keep focus as you add cruise control to your car. 🥩🥔🥗  

Could you let me know how many wires provided on the white connector for OEM switch? Mine (2022 Soul LX Auto) has only 5 wires and OEM switch doesn’t set the speed.  

Did they delete cruise on the 2022 lx’s with automatic transmissions? I don’t recall the number of wires going to the switch. Maybe one of the pictures in the pdf captured what you are looking for. I did not need to change any harnesses to make the new kia switch work.  

When pressing the button, CRUISE sign is displayed but grayed out with “- - - km/h”. No speed set is allowed. The function seems protected by software.  

A+ writeup, just did this on my GF 2021 Soul LX. Thank you for taking the time to create it. I'm wondering if @Ilsjch problem is infract due to software locking out this upgrade. If so we might experience the same lock out once the dealers update the car's to deter the kia boys.  

[QUOTE="kms_alex, post: 1354972, member: 157658” I'm wondering if @Ilsjch problem is infract due to software locking out this upgrade. If so we might experience the same lock out once the dealers update the car's to deter the kia boys. [/QUOTE] For at least the 2020’s it did not.  

RaymanSean said: Images and instructions attached as PDF: Text from PDF follows : Tools Needed: #2 Phillips Screw Driver 10mm Socket with driver (open or end wrench will work too) 21mm Socket with electric impact gun (could use breaker bar) 2qnty Dental Picks (thin common screw driver will work) Parts Needed: Gen 3 Kia Soul LX with Manual Transmission (2020 Model Year was used as the patient) Kia Part 96720-K0110 (I tried TASCA 2x –first time I ordered the wrong part, second time they shipped the wrong part, ended up using kiapartsnow) NOTES: DO NOT INSERT YOUR KEYS INTO THE IGNITION FROM THE TIME YOU REMOVE THE AIRBAG UNTIL YOU HAVE RECONNECTED THE AIRBAG AND THE BATTERY. Avoid the extra expense of having to get the dealer to turn off warning lights/ replace airbag and you potentially taking a trip to the doctor. All but one of the Philips screws thread into plastic with very coarse self-taping threads. Be sure to properly start the screws by turning them counter clockwise until you feel it drop into the first thread, before turning them clockwise to screw them back in. Just like you would with bolts or nuts! Also I am not a professional mechanic, so you are taking advice of a common Joe. Procceed at your own risk. Step 1: Park Car Step 2: (You could do this with the engine off, but the power steering made things easier) With engine running turn the steering wheel so that the top is at the 0300 (90 dgrs) location. Insert pick (or screw driver) into the hole in the steering wheel just above the steering column and press down to disengage one side of the horn/ airbag assembly. Remove pick, rotate wheel counter clockwise to 0900 (-90 dgrs), insert pick, press down and disengage the airbag form the wheel. Turn wheel back to 1200. See Step 14 below for the location of two rectangular holes that you need to use. Turn car off. Pop the hood. Step 3: Wait 15 min (Prepare your lunch) Step 4: Open hood and use the 10mm socket to loosen the negative battery terminal connector. You may have to use your fingers to get the lead wedge to disengage. Remove negative battery cable from the terminal. Step 5: Wait 30 min (Eat your lunch) Step 6: Gently pull the airbag/ horn assembly from the steering wheel. Step 7: Dislodge wire harness from behind the blue clip Step 8: Lift up on the orange tabs (one on each side) on the yellow with pink or yellow with purple connectors and disconnect both connectors one at a time. I used the picks to lift up the orange tabs. My fingers were too fat use them. Now that you have disconnected the firing signals for the air bag, relax. Step 9: Disconnect the white connector for the horn. You have to push down on the locking feature as you pull the connector out. Step 10: Place the horn/ airbag assembly somewhere out of the way with the Kia logo facing the sky. (Feel free to search for videos on what happens if the airbag goes off with the logo facing something hard like the ground.) Step 11: Using the 21mm socket with impact wrench remove the steering wheel bolt. There is thread locker on the threads. Now that you have got the bolt removed, put it screw it in a few turns. (You are going to use it as a stop to keep the steering wheel from flying off in the next step) Step 12: Grip the steering wheel at 0300 and 0900 and give it a good tug, the bolt will stop it from coming off fully, and destroying your clock spring. Now is a good time to remove the white connector at the top of the steering wheel. Step 13: Remove the steering wheel bolt and then carefully remove the steering wheel, being sure to help ease the airbag wiring harness through. The steering wheel and column already have indexing marks, also both splines are indexed. Thus no need for making your own indexing marks. Step 14: Remove the 6 Philllips screws from the back of the steering wheel. There are at ~ 1215, 0130, 0300, 0900, 1030, and 1145. Also you can now see those two rectangular holes that you had to use to separate the airbag/horn assembly from the steering wheel. Step 15: turn the steering wheel and remove the three Philips screws at the top of the steering wheel. Note: The one attaching the wire with a ring terminal to the steering wheel frame is fine thread. Step 16: Flip the wheel over again gently separate the plastic cover from the frame. You will also need to disconnect the white connector for the (soon to be) cruise switch and the black connector from the phone/ radio switch. Both have similar locking features like the horn wires. You may have to flip the wheel again to help free the ring terminal from the steering wheel frame. A dental pick may be useful. Step 17: Flip the wheel back over and remove the front cover with the switches. It is secured by three detents in the wheel one at each spoke. Be gentle. Step 18: Remove the two Philllips screws from the front cover on either side of the (soon to be cruise control) switch with the white connector. Remove the switch. There is a detent that holds the switch in place. I had to rotate the switch out from the center of the steering wheel to the edge. (Sorry for the lack of images for the screws) Step 19: Now that you got the old switch out, replace it with the new switch. Go ahead a screw it in. Make sure not to cross/ re-thread the plastic, see my NOTE at the top. Step 20: assembly is reverse of removal… REASSEMBLY NOTES: The fine threaded Phillips screw goes to the wire from the back cover with the ring terminal. All other Phillips screws are coarse threads. The connectors in the clock spring should be at 1200. The grey guide pins on the clock springs engage the steering wheel at 0300 and 0600 make sure to get them in the right place as you slide the wheel back onto the spline. Make sure you thread the airbag harness through the right hole as you slide the steering wheel into place. Make sure to plug the steering wheel harness into the clock spring. Torque the steering wheel bolt down before reconnecting the horn/airbag assembly. The airbag connectors are color coded, make sure you mate pink with pink and purple with purple, you should hear an audible click when they are properly seated. Also the orange tabs should be fully down. Don’t forget the horn connector. Make sure to thread the airbag and horn harnesses behind the blue clip. The Kia logo should be read from lef to right when you re-install it on the steering wheel. You will have to push firmly and listen for the spring loaded pins to click into place. Don’t forget to reconnect the negative battery cable last…. Start the car and enjoy your ~$120 factory cruise control. View attachment 133695 Click to expand...

• ?            
• 425.6K posts
• 51.1K members

Top Contributors this Month

• Forum Listing
• Marketplace
• Advanced Search
• 2023+ Toyota GR Corolla Forum
• 2023+ Toyota GR Corolla General Discussion Forum

Do we know how the adaptive cruise will work with the manual transmission?

• Add to quote

Are there any other manual Toyotas with this system? I'm just wanting to know if pushing the clutch in and downshifting is going to cancel my cruise setting, and if the cruise will have a minimum speed.  

Actually with the ACC Mr. Toyoda himself will fly in and shift it for you, so your tootsies don't have to touch anything!  

Wow, what a bargain for a standard feature!  

My ‘21 Corolla Hatchback has it. It pretty much works how it should—by maintaining the programmed speed. If you need to accelerate after a slowdown, you have to downshift yourself for it to accelerate in the optimal powerband. I mean that’s pretty much how a manual transmission operates…lol. Best combo is ACC and iMT in traffic. It did pretty well. I’ve never checked if the car goes up to redline or what happens if you don’t shift lol.  

Veloist said: My ‘21 Corolla Hatchback has it. It pretty much works how it should—by maintaining the programmed speed. If you need to accelerate after a slowdown, you have to downshift yourself for it to accelerate in the optimal powerband. I mean that’s pretty much how a manual transmission operates…lol. Best combo is ACC and iMT in traffic. It did pretty well. I’ve never checked if the car goes up to redline or what happens if you don’t shift lol. Click to expand...

I got to imagine clutching in will cancel the cruise - it does on every car I have ever driven. I drove a RAV4 and it will stop, and resume. I drove a Tacoma (4cyl auto) and it had a minimum speed - 25 mph, like most conventional cruise controls. I can’t imagine the car will stop in gear with cruise, so I would guess it will get the 25 lower limit.  

Alright so I drove with ACC in city and highway. - Minimum speed is 19mph for it to activate but shows 20 mph on system and can be manually increased by 1 mph increments. - When you shift, obviously throttle stops and rpm‘s drop. Once you complete the gear change there is a fraction of second delay before it starts to self-apply throttle and self-accelerate again to the programmed speed. This happens both when upshifting and down shifting. - ACC cancels after you keep the clutch in for 4-5 seconds. - You can still press gas if needed during shifting whether you are downshifting or upshifting. I’d say it’s pretty thought out as far as a manual transmission adaptive cruise control goes.  

Thats nice! I guess with drive by wire and eletronic controls, they can do this with ease now. Im used to old school cruise disengaging as soon as you touched clutch and have to press resume to get going again.  

Nice. Thanks for the real world info.  

Tacoma’s have had this since 2018. Took my buddies for a drive and the cruise worked awesome. You can shift all you want and the ecu knows what to do.  

Will we be able to fully deactivate the adaptive part of the cruise control system? I really do not enjoy using it. Also is there a max speed allowed for engaging the cruise control?  

On my mom's RAV-4 you can disable the adaptive part of the cruise control. Not sure on the max engagement speed. The max I've had it set in that car is 90mph.  

Who needs one? I don't, for a car like this, enjoy the full control. Well this is just me.  

It's going to be my daily. There are several stretches of road on my drive to work where being able to set ACC and forget about it would be fantastic.  

On the tacoma's you can do a little dance to disable the adaptive cruise control. Personally, I love it... with all the crazy people on the 401....  

The more citified my city becomes, the more I want ACC. I got to drive a Mustang with it once, and it was super nice to have. Excited to see it in a manual transmission. Yeah, I wanna rip the car around plenty, but sometimes I just want to get home with as little effort as possible.  

My '18 Mazda 3 hatch had a 6MT and ACC. You could shift freely while cruise was active and it would not cancel your speed setting. There was also a recommended gear indicator inside the tach which would tell you when to downshift, etc. I'm not sure if it would just stall out or cancel cruise if you slowed too much since I never tried to do that. You could swap between ACC and regular fixed-speed cruise through holding the CC button on the steering wheel. I would bet $50 the Toyota system on the GRC will work the exact same way. My '18 JL Wrangler cancels cruise when I clutch in, but it doesn't have any of the advanced driving/safety features like my Mazda3 did. It's just a 4-door Sport S with the only option being a hard top so it's a pretty basic Wrangler vs. the $50k+ ones you usually see driving around.  

Good info! Thanks! Yeah, my Focus ST is the same as your Wrangler. Clutch in cancels CC until I manually re-enable it.  

I have a frequent destination spot about 4 hours away from my house, and driving a work vehicle with ACC (usually our 2020 Outback XT) is so nice on that drive, but the one downside is that it seems a bit "trigger" happy on the adaptive part, i.e. if I'm cruising in the right lane and there's a slower car coming up, it wants to brake the second before I'm ready to change lanes to go around them, and it brakes rather aggressively IMO. I probably drive more aggressively than some though. I'm looking forward to the ACC in the GRC.  

Wait, we have to deal with this pre-collision BS? Ugh. Hopefully both the ACC and auto braking can be canceled out via some ECU flashing? (to not be on by default every time car starts).  

You can turn it off in the information display in the gage cluster on all the other toyotas I have driven. The settings for those items (blind spot, lane keep assist, etc) typically don't need to be set every time you drive. It keeps the settings.  

• ?            
• 111.8K posts
• 6.1K members

Top Contributors this Month

• Hot Threads
• Spare Parts
• Buy Accessories
• Classifieds

Auto Overload

20 Reasons To Drive A Manual Over An Automatic

Posted: June 11, 2024 | Last updated: June 11, 2024

The choice between manual and automatic transmissions has long been a subject of debate among drivers. While automatic transmissions offer convenience and ease of use, manual transmissions provide greater control and a more engaging driving experience. In this discussion, we explore the reasons why some drivers prefer manual transmissions over automatics.

Better Control

Manual transmissions offer drivers better control over their vehicles, allowing for more precise handling and acceleration. With the ability to choose gears, drivers can tailor their driving experience to suit different road conditions and driving styles. This control can lead to a more engaging and enjoyable driving experience overall.

Fuel Efficiency

Manual transmissions often provide better fuel efficiency compared to automatic transmissions due to their simpler design and direct mechanical connection between the engine and wheels. Without the energy losses associated with torque converters, manual transmissions can deliver more power to the wheels, resulting in improved fuel economy. This makes them a popular choice for drivers looking to save money on fuel costs over the long term.

Cheaper Maintenance

Manual transmissions generally have fewer components and are less complex than automatic transmissions, leading to potentially lower maintenance costs over the vehicle’s lifetime. With fewer parts to maintain or repair, owners of manual transmission vehicles may spend less on routine maintenance and repairs. Additionally, manual transmissions can be easier and cheaper to repair when issues do arise, further contributing to their lower maintenance costs.

Increased Driving Skill

Learning to drive a manual transmission can improve a driver’s overall driving skills, including coordination, situational awareness, and understanding of vehicle mechanics. Operating a manual transmission requires more active engagement from the driver, which can lead to a deeper understanding of how a vehicle functions. This increased skill level can make drivers more confident and capable behind the wheel, even when driving automatic transmission vehicles.

Engaging Driving Experience

Many enthusiasts find driving a manual transmission more engaging and enjoyable compared to automatic transmissions. The process of shifting gears and actively controlling the vehicle’s acceleration adds a level of excitement to the driving experience. This engagement can lead to a deeper connection between the driver and the vehicle, making each drive more memorable and satisfying.

More Responsive

Manual transmissions typically provide a more direct connection between the engine and wheels, resulting in a more responsive driving experience. Drivers can quickly adjust gears to match their desired speed or driving conditions, allowing for smoother acceleration and deceleration. This responsiveness can make driving more intuitive and enjoyable, especially for those who appreciate a dynamic driving experience.

Better Towing Capability

Manual transmissions are often preferred for towing applications due to their ability to handle higher towing capacities compared to automatic transmissions. With manual control over gear selection, drivers can better manage the additional weight and strain placed on the vehicle while towing. This makes manual transmission vehicles a popular choice for towing trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.

Less Likely to Overheat

Manual transmissions are less prone to overheating compared to automatic transmissions, especially in high-stress driving conditions. The absence of a torque converter in manual transmissions reduces the risk of overheating, even during activities like towing or driving in hilly terrain. This can result in a more reliable and durable transmission, with less risk of damage or performance issues due to overheating.

Easier to Jump Start

In the event of a dead battery, manual transmission vehicles can be easily jump-started by rolling the vehicle and engaging a gear. This allows the engine to turn over and start without relying on electrical power from the battery. The simplicity of this process makes manual transmission vehicles more convenient to jump-start compared to their automatic transmission counterparts.

Cost Savings

Manual transmission vehicles are often cheaper to purchase than their automatic transmission counterparts, making them a more economical option for some buyers. Additionally, manual transmissions typically have lower maintenance costs over the vehicle’s lifetime due to their simpler design and fewer components. These cost savings can make manual transmission vehicles an attractive choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Enhanced Performance

Manual transmissions allow for quicker gear changes and more precise control over gear selection, resulting in enhanced vehicle performance. Drivers can optimize gear shifts for specific driving conditions, such as accelerating quickly or maintaining speed on a steep incline. This improved performance can make driving more enjoyable and may even result in better overall vehicle handling and responsiveness.

Less Likely to be Stolen

Manual transmission vehicles are less attractive to car thieves compared to automatic transmission vehicles. Many thieves may not know how to drive a manual transmission proficiently, making them less likely to target these vehicles for theft. This can provide added peace of mind for owners of manual transmission vehicles, knowing that their cars are less vulnerable to theft.

Smoother Downhill Control

Manual transmissions allow for engine braking, which can provide smoother control when descending steep hills or mountainous terrain. By downshifting to a lower gear, drivers can use the engine’s compression to slow the vehicle down without relying solely on the brakes. This can reduce wear and tear on the brakes and improve overall vehicle stability and control when driving downhill.

Less Distracted Driving

With a manual transmission, drivers are more engaged in the driving process, which can help reduce distractions and promote safer driving habits. The need to shift gears and actively control the vehicle’s speed requires focused attention from the driver, reducing the likelihood of becoming distracted by external factors. This can lead to a safer and more attentive driving experience overall.

Better Performance in Snow

Some drivers prefer manual transmissions in snowy conditions due to their ability to better control the vehicle’s power delivery. By selecting appropriate gears and modulating throttle inputs, drivers can minimize wheel spin and maintain traction on slippery surfaces. This can make manual transmission vehicles a preferred choice for drivers who frequently encounter snow or ice during their daily commutes.

Personal Preference

For some drivers, the feeling of shifting gears and being directly connected to the vehicle’s powertrain is simply more enjoyable than the smooth but less involving experience of an automatic transmission. Manual transmission enthusiasts appreciate the sense of control and engagement that comes with operating a manual gearbox, making it their preferred choice for daily driving. This personal preference often stems from a love of driving and a desire for a more hands-on driving experience.

Emergency Situations

In emergency situations where quick acceleration or deceleration is necessary, some drivers feel more confident with a manual transmission, as they have direct control over gear selection. Whether it’s accelerating to avoid a collision or slowing down to navigate a sharp turn, manual transmission drivers can react more quickly and decisively in emergency scenarios. This sense of control can be reassuring for drivers who want to feel prepared for any unexpected situation on the road.

Manual transmissions are often considered more durable and robust than automatic transmissions, particularly in demanding driving conditions or heavy-duty applications. The simpler design of manual transmissions means there are fewer components that can wear out or fail over time. This can result in a longer lifespan for manual transmission vehicles and reduced maintenance requirements, making them a popular choice for drivers seeking long-term reliability.

Easier to Push Start

If your vehicle’s battery is completely dead, you can easily push-start a manual transmission vehicle by engaging a gear and releasing the clutch. This allows the vehicle’s momentum to turn over the engine and start it without relying on electrical power. The simplicity of this process makes manual transmission vehicles more convenient to start in emergency situations compared to automatic transmission vehicles.

Driving Engagement

For enthusiasts, driving a manual transmission is not just about getting from point A to point B but about enjoying the entire experience of driving. From the satisfying click of the gear shifter to the rumble of the engine, every aspect of driving a manual transmission vehicle is more engaging and immersive. This connection between driver and machine can make even routine drives more enjoyable and fulfilling, making manual transmissions the preferred choice for those who truly love to drive.

In conclusion, the decision between manual and automatic transmissions ultimately boils down to personal preference and driving needs. While manual transmissions offer benefits such as better control, increased driving skill, and a more engaging driving experience, automatic transmissions provide convenience and ease of use, particularly in heavy traffic or urban environments. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of shifting gears or the simplicity of automatic shifting, both transmission types have their own merits. Ultimately, choosing the right transmission depends on factors such as driving style, terrain, and individual preferences.

For the Latest Automotive News, Headlines & Videos, head to Auto Overload

More for You

Lauren Boebert Suffers Legal Loss

19 People Who Definitely Listened To The Devil On Their Shoulder

House GOP's razor-thin majority gets a little wider with Ohio special election victory

‘You’ll end up with $1.5 million in the bank’: Kevin O’Leary says you should do this 1 thing with your 401(k) in order to 'succeed into retirement’

If You Only Do 5 Exercises, a Physical Therapist Says These Are the Most Effective for Keeping You Pain-Free

New ‘Protected Intersection’ Design Looks Awful, But Actually Makes Sense

Non Sequitur by Wiley Miller

Popular Automotive Trends That Were Banned By The Authorities

National Eucharistic Pilgrimage passes through Washington, draws fervent Catholics

Living in the Azores: the perfect getaway in the middle of the Atlantic

You could get in big trouble for throwing these items in trash

‘As a 64-Year-Old-Trainer, These Are the 4 Things I Would Never Do at the Gym Anymore’

Thousands of Americans to Get $500 Monthly Payments Under New Plan

The Only Major Actors Still Alive From The Carol Burnett Show

2,000-Year-Old Bones Undermine Myth About Columbus And Syphilis

Huge Pike Caught in Boundary Waters Would Have Broken Minnesota’s State Record, Except for One Technicality

Frustrated transit expert highlights major issues with popular truck design: 'There's no good reason for these to be legal'

Forget 10,000 Steps — Scientists Discovered the Minimum Steps Needed to Improve Your Health

Forget situps — build a stronger core in 10 minutes with these 6 exercises

Population Map Shows Oldest, Youngest US States