PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
How do I know if a car is a manual or automatic?
I know absolutely nothing about cars, but I'm in the market for one. How can I tell if it's an automatic or stick?
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Good question! To tell if a car is a manual or automatic, you have two options:
- Look at the stick in the center of the car. If it has markings such as P, D, or N and moves only forward and backward it’s automatic. If it’s a stick, you should see numbers and the stick should move in a zigzag type pattern.
- Look for a clutch pedal. If you see a pedal to the left of the brake pedal, that’s the clutch, and it’s a manual shift.
Deciding whether to buy a car or get a
car loan
for either a manual or automatic is entirely a matter of preference. Although manual-shift cars are still popular in Europe and other parts of the world, Americans love the ease of automatic transmission. In 2020, less than 2% of new cars sold in the U.S. were manuals, or stick shifts compared to just over 80% in Europe.While automatics are easier and more convenient to drive, manuals provide more fun behind the wheel, as well as a free anti-theft system.
Regardless of which one you choose, you’ll still need car insurance to keep you legal on the road. If you want to get the best deal on the coverage you need, check out the
Jerry
app. We’ll get you personalized rates from over 50 insurers, and we’ll help you find the best coverage for your new or used car.Hope this helps!
View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies