If you learned how to drive with an automatic transmission, you've probably remained loyal to this type of vehicle operation. However, you might be ready to get behind the wheel of a new or pre-owned sports car that has a stick shift. First, you have to learn how to drive it. Luckily, with a bit of hands-on practice, the driving adjustment doesn't have to be intimidating or result in frequent trips to a manual transmission repair specialist. Here's what you need to know about learning to drive a stick shift. 

Do:

Check the clutch and gear settings.

Always hold down the clutch and ensure the vehicle is in neutral gear before starting the ignition. In most cars, the gear shifter is in the center when the gear is in neutral. The parking or emergency brake should also be in use until the engine starts. By following these initial steps, the system will be ready to accommodate gear shifting while driving. 

Give yourself enough time to get accustomed to using both feet.

Driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission will typically only require using your right foot to accelerate and brake. Learning to operate a stick shift depends on using both feet, so it's helpful to get plenty of practice in an open location, such as an empty parking lot, to become familiar with using your left foot to adjust the clutch. 

Be patient as you get accustomed to simultaneously using your left foot to shift gears while driving and the right foot for braking and acceleration. Before long, the movements will be effortless and seamless, helping you maximize the life span of the clutch and gearbox.

Don't:

Release the clutch too soon.

Doing so can make the vehicle suddenly jerk, which can put a heavy strain on the transmission and engine. Early releasing may also cause the clutch to overheat and become damaged through repeated usage in this manner, leading to premature manual transmission repair. 

Make a point to find the proper position and timing to let go of the clutch. While this will involve a bit of practice, it's important to avoid this practice to protect your vehicle's gear system. 

Allow your hand to rest on the gear stick.

This bad habit is one that even experienced stick-shift drivers engage in. Resting your hand on the gear stick can create excessive pressure on the selector fork and other internal components you can't see. 

With each gear change while driving, the selector fork, which is located in the gearbox, makes contact with other parts to accommodate shifting. Damage may lead to premature wear and grinding gears. After each change, take your hand off the stick and place it on the wheel.

Practice is the best way to learn to drive a stick shift. Friendly Transmission Service Inc. in High Point, NC, is your trusted expert for high-quality maintenance to keep your vehicle's manual transmission in top condition. Serving the area since 1986, the family-owned and -operated shop has extensive experience working on all types of cars, trucks, and SUVs. From honest communication and upfront pricing to superior customer care, you can count on the ASE®-certified center for all your manual transmission repair needs. Call (336) 882-1164 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website and YouTube channel for more information on their services.