I'm in Toronto and I'd like to learn to drive a manual transmission. I don't want to ask anyone to lend me their manual-tranmission car because of the wear and tear I might inflict on it, and you can't rent stick-shift cars (as far as I know) for exactly that reason. So I'm considering paying for lessons. My question: does it make sense to spend more money for lessons from a dedicated learn-to-drive-manual outfit like Shifters, or should I inquire with a regular driving school like CSS about individual lessons? Or, alternatively, do you have any other suggestions?
posted by Dasein on Sep 8, 2009 - 13 answers

What's the shift pattern on a 1980 Toyota pickup? The 4-speed shifter, not the 4WD.
posted by attercoppe on Aug 4, 2009 - 13 answers

How do I teach my wife to operate a manual transmission? [more inside]
posted by rush on Sep 17, 2007 - 24 answers

I'm driving an automatic car for the first time. How should I safely move off when stationary in heavy traffic pointing up a steep hill? [more inside]
posted by thparkth on Jun 10, 2007 - 18 answers

Manual or automatic transmission? [more inside]
posted by itheearl on Jun 9, 2007 - 68 answers

Driving a Stick: Help settle the debate before I shove the gearshift up my boyfriend's wazoo... [more inside]
posted by romakimmy on Apr 21, 2006 - 48 answers

How quickly should I be able to learn to drive a manual transmission vehicle well enough to manage some tricky conditions (large van, driving from Berlin to Brussels)? What are some tips and tricks? How often (and in what conditions) should I be practicing before I get there? Tips specific to German driving are welcome too. [more inside]
posted by xo on Feb 25, 2005 - 23 answers

I'm interested in buying a car with a manual transmission. Unfortunately, while I've driven with a manual a couple of times in the past, I'm still very inexperienced. What's the best way to practice prior to getting the new car or without ruining the gears on my new car (or causing traffic problems)? And is it even worthwhile to get a manual these days if I don't already know how to drive one? Keep in mind this car would be used for daily commutes through moderate to heavy traffic. [more inside]
posted by EatenByAGrue on Feb 2, 2005 - 52 answers

I was stop and go driving for about an hour today (hanging flyers for my job; the car's a manual transmission '95 Saturn) and after I finished I was heading back to the store when I hear a pop and my stick shift is just wobbling around. I still have to hold the clutch to start the car but it is stuck in second gear so I can get it going but only drive 10-15mph. What in the hell just happened?
posted by untuckedshirts on Jul 9, 2004 - 11 answers