Manual vs Auto (apprehension)

[Dcarp757]

I'm searching for a new car and it appears that manual cars are plentiful compared to autos. I don't want to pay 58k for a used car when I can get new for 60k. I've read about clutch slipping issues with the manual so I'm leaning toward the auto. I know that I would really enjoy the manual but I do NOT want to deal with a warranty claim with my local dealership (zero confidence in their ability. Tacoma is my daily). Is my apprehension warranted? Is the manual reliable? I don't plan on big power, just intake, downpipe and exhaust. I know that the ZF8 is bulletproof (previous N55 335i owner) and I won't have any issues. Any advice is appreciated! Perhaps a poll? manual owners only. Issues or No issues.

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[Turcktech]

Mt owners uninstall clutch delay valve and in where clutch slipping problem starts I believe. I could be wrong. I have 23 mt with aa catted dp, awe nonresonated cat back along with mst intake. I enjoy my mt everyday.

 

[SupraSmashedBro]

Availability heuristic. No one is talking about their positive experiences with M/T's, just the negative ones where they need help. Many of us have M/Ts that work flawlessly and we have been enjoying more than we would have an A/T variant, we just don't post about it.

Forgot M/T vs A/T when it comes to reliability, it is the same. If you want a M/T, get a M/T. If you want an A/T, get an A/T.

 

[Dcarp757]

Availability heuristic. No one is talking about their positive experiences with M/T's, just the negative ones where they need help.

Agreed. No reason to post "today my manual worked great!" Good point!

 

[66joeyn]

I agree with all of above. I have a mt and love it. You are not going to change an ignorant person’s perspective so don’t try. Buy what you want and enjoy the heck out of it. A person who can’t drive a manual will always say an automatic is better and faster. Buy, drive and enjoy

 

[lucky phil]

I'm searching for a new car and it appears that manual cars are plentiful compared to autos. I don't want to pay 58k for a used car when I can get new for 60k. I've read about clutch slipping issues with the manual so I'm leaning toward the auto. I know that I would really enjoy the manual but I do NOT want to deal with a warranty claim with my local dealership (zero confidence in their ability. Tacoma is my daily). Is my apprehension warranted? Is the manual reliable? I don't plan on big power, just intake, downpipe and exhaust. I know that the ZF8 is bulletproof (previous N55 335i owner) and I won't have any issues. Any advice is appreciated! Perhaps a poll? manual owners only. Issues or No issues.

No, stop listing to the echo chamber forums can sometimes generate. If you want a manual get one, it's fine. Forget the "sheeple" and the bandwagon riders. Some of the stuff here about manuals and the clutch for a std or near std output car is just plane disturbing.
Phil

 

[SupraSmashedBro]

I agree with all of above. I have a mt and love it. You are not going to change an ignorant person’s perspective so don’t try. Buy what you want and enjoy the heck out of it. A person who can’t drive a manual will always say an automatic is better and faster. Buy, drive and enjoy

To be fair, the Auto is faster lol

 

[lucky phil]

To be fair, the Auto is faster lol

True but it's for soccer mums and hairdressers. One of the automotive worlds great ironies, faster but way less cool
Phil

 

[GBirk]

I'm searching for a new car and it appears that manual cars are plentiful compared to autos. I don't want to pay 58k for a used car when I can get new for 60k. I've read about clutch slipping issues with the manual so I'm leaning toward the auto. I know that I would really enjoy the manual but I do NOT want to deal with a warranty claim with my local dealership (zero confidence in their ability. Tacoma is my daily). Is my apprehension warranted? Is the manual reliable? I don't plan on big power, just intake, downpipe and exhaust. I know that the ZF8 is bulletproof (previous N55 335i owner) and I won't have any issues. Any advice is appreciated! Perhaps a poll? manual owners only. Issues or No issues.

Manual owner here. I haven't had any issues or clutch slipping on mine. I ha e a bm3 tune, airbox, catless downpipe, and a few other tasteful mods for power and the only problem I have is traction with the oem tires. Amazing car for real!

 

[CaneJuice]

'23 MT Ownership for two years with no engine mods just a AWE exhaust. No issues. Love it.

 

[Bigboss]

Wow a manual vs auto thread been a good minute since anybody came up with an original idea. Be sure to start another thread on what oil you prefer on a manual car vs an automatic one when you decide what you want op…

 

[lucky phil]

Wow a manual vs auto thread been a good minute since anybody came up with an original idea. Be sure to start another thread on what oil you prefer on a manual car vs an automatic one when you decide what you want op…

Good idea, I've been considering 0W-16 for my manual. Less internal friction, bit more power.
Phil

 

[BMWAF]

23MT here. Running a JB+ and CDV delete. No issues other than the gearbox being less than stellar, in and of itself. I strongly suspect the vast majority of MT problems are in fact just a skill issue.

 

[iPan]

33k miles on my MT and it's had zero issues. Took it to several auto crosses and 4 track days within the past year and have worn through 4 sets of tires. You'll be fine as long as you know how to drive manual properly.

 

[mdpalmer]

I wouldn't buy an AT A90, ever. Personal preference. What's the fun in that? Sure, its quick but so is everyone else. If you're after pure speed and performance, AT is it. If you get satisfaction out of a manual box and three pedals, there is no substitute.

Although, first A90 I drove was an auto and I liked it so much I had to have a manual since it became available. My girlfriend has an AT as well so I'm familiar with the driving characteristics.

I'd rather have a used c8 vette for similar money if I had to have a "quick" auto, with the intent to keep it mostly stock drivetrain anyway. The others made good points, all the reported issues/problems get all the press.

That said I absolutely love the car, '23 MT, stock besides suspension/tire mods. I plan on keeping this one for a while ?

If you're worried about the stock clutch don't be, unless you are not a reasonably competent manual driver, plan on living at the track, or are going for big power. In that case the aftermarket has us covered.

Good luck with your decision they are fantastic cars with either transmission ?

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