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Unlike drivers in other countries, US drivers prefer to drive automatic transmission cars. Less than 3% of the cars sold in the US have manual transmissions, and that’s despite the fact that automatics have a slightly larger sticker price and cost more to insure. But you don’t have to settle for a higher premium, regardless of your transmission type.
Automatic cars are slightly pricier to insure due to the higher price and repair costs for an automatic transmission. But for most drivers, the price of convenience is worth it to drive an automatic car.
Your state’s insurance requirements may vary, but these are the standard coverage types you might consider for a manual or automatic vehicle:
No. Manuals and automatics are both insured the same way and can get coverage from any insurer. Both transmission types are available for almost every vehicle style and category.
The only difference could be if your stick shift car is an import, which might need a specialty policy or insurer.
While your premium on an automatic might be a small percentage higher than on a manual, there are ways to balance that out:
Despite the fact that automatics cost a few thousand more at the dealer and may cost a few dollars more each month to insure, drivers in the US probably won’t be going back to manual transmissions any time soon. So if you’re trying to make a choice between the two, you may consider the resale value in the current market and take time to shop around for car insurance to get a better deal.
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