You may not think much about it when you get behind the wheel of your car, but your automatic transmission vehicle is much more common in the United States than a manual style. There are several reasons why Americans generally prefer to go the automatic route, even when the possibility of a transmission rebuild or drivetrain repair exists. In fact, some 96% of drivers in the country depend on this style over manual, which accounts for a very small percentage of annual sales. Here’s why it’s the more common vehicle.

Why Americans Prefer Automatic Transmissions

1. Ability

The sheer inability to drive a manual transmission is a key factor. Since driving a stick is not the common cultural norm, new drivers will likely learn how to operate an automatic transmission vehicle without even considering the alternative. Since it’s not an everyday skill that many in the country possess, it’s not something that’s routinely sought after.

2. Fuel

The cost of fuel is always a concern for drivers. In the earliest days of the automatic transmission, those who built vehicles with manual transmissions boasted of their own models’ fuel efficiency. The automatic transmission was simply too heavy, and increased payload drove up the cost of gasoline. There was also the concern of eventual transmission rebuilds and the costs associated with repairs. But modern advancements have made the two nearly comparable in terms of fuel economy, making this a less significant factor for drivers.

3. Convenience

The modern world revolves largely around convenience. Cars with manual transmissions require a certain finesse and concentration to operate, and both of those are time-consuming demands that could cut into what would otherwise be a quick and efficient drive to the office. The automatic transmission is a more convenient choice for the driver who wants to zip from one location to another.

4. Repairs

In general, transmission maintenance applies less to manual models than automatics. You may need to deal with a transmission rebuild at some point in the life of your automatic vehicle. However, a stick shift will eventually require a costly clutch repair—something that a driver of an automatic won’t have to consider at any point.

Drivers throughout Cincinnati and Sharonville, OH, trust in the qualified transmission rebuild team at Mr. Transmission. Whether you’re dealing with a simple transmission maintenance issue or are concerned about the check engine light that suddenly came on, you can count on them to assist. The company has been in business for 50 years, and they’re proud to provide you with a level of reliable expertise no matter what the concern. Visit them online to learn more about their transmission services or call them at (513) 769-3111.