Manual cars are sometimes cheaper to insure, but the difference is usually small. Insurance companies look at a lot more than just the transmission type. Things like the car’s value, repair cost, age, safety rating, location, and how you drive matter more. Still, if all other things are equal, a manual car may cost a bit less to insure than an automatic.
In this guide, we will explain:
- How car insurance companies determine premiums
- Why manual cars can sometimes be cheaper
- When a manual transmission might actually cost more
- Cost comparisons between manual and automatic cars
- Ways to save money on car insurance
- Common questions people ask about manual car insurance
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a Manual Car?
A manual car, also known as a stick shift, uses a gear shift and clutch pedal that the driver controls to change gears. This is different from automatic cars, which shift gears on their own.
Manual cars used to be the standard in the United States, but today only a small percentage of new vehicles are manual. They are still popular with car enthusiasts and in budget-friendly models.
Do Manual Cars Really Cost Less to Insure?
Sometimes, but not always. A manual version of the same car model might cost slightly less to insure because:
- Manual cars are usually cheaper to buy
- They often have fewer features or electronics
- Fewer people drive them, which may lower risk
However, insurers mostly focus on risk when setting rates. Whether your car is manual or automatic is just a small part of that risk.
What Factors Affect Car Insurance Rates?
Here are the biggest things insurance companies consider when calculating your premium:
Your Driving Record
Accidents, tickets, and other violations raise your rates.
Vehicle Make and Model
Luxury cars, sports cars, and larger vehicles usually cost more to insure.
Age and Gender
Young drivers and males under 25 often pay more due to higher accident risk.
Where You Live
City drivers usually pay more due to higher theft and accident rates.
How You Use the Car
More miles usually means more risk and higher premiums.
Coverage Level
Full coverage costs more than basic liability.
Credit Score
In most states, insurers use credit to predict how risky a customer is.
Manual or Automatic
This matters, but it is not the most important factor.
Manual versus Automatic: Side by Side Insurance Cost
Let’s look at a few sample cars that come in both manual and automatic versions.
| Car Model | Transmission | Monthly Premium Estimate |
| Honda Civic LX | Manual | 145 dollars |
| Honda Civic LX | Automatic | 150 dollars |
| Ford Mustang | Manual | 210 dollars |
| Ford Mustang | Automatic | 225 dollars |
| Subaru Impreza | Manual | 160 dollars |
| Subaru Impreza | Automatic | 165 dollars |
These are sample numbers for a 25 year old driver with a clean record. Actual rates may vary based on state and provider.
As you can see, manual cars often cost 5 to 15 dollars less per month to insure. That is about 60 to 180 dollars per year in savings. Not huge, but still worth noting.
Why Manual Cars Might Be Cheaper to Insure
Here’s why a manual car may come with slightly lower insurance premiums:
Lower Purchase Price
Manual cars usually cost less than their automatic versions, and car value is a key factor in setting rates.
Fewer Drivers Use Them
Since fewer people drive manual cars, the number of claims may be lower.
More Control on the Road
Some believe manual cars give better control, which might reduce accident risk in the hands of an experienced driver.
When Manual Cars Might Be More Expensive to Insure
Yes, there are times when manual cars can cost more to insure:
Driver Inexperience
If the driver is not skilled with manual transmission, they may be more prone to accidents.
Performance Cars
Some high performance manual cars are seen as riskier and get higher rates.
Harder to Replace
Some manual models have rare parts or are less common, which might raise repair costs.
State or Insurer Rules
Some companies may not factor transmission into rates at all.
Does Insurance Ask If the Car Is Manual?
Most quote forms do not ask whether the car is manual or automatic. Instead, they look up your car’s identification number, which includes transmission data. Some insurers may never directly factor in transmission type unless it is linked to a different trim level.
So, you may not even see a manual versus automatic option when getting quotes, but it is still part of the data they review.
Can a Manual Car Get Discounts?
Yes. You can still get these common car insurance discounts whether you drive a manual or automatic:
- Safe driver discount
- Low mileage discount
- Bundling with home or renters insurance
- Multi car discount
- Student discount
Safe driving app discount
Tips to Save on Car Insurance with a Manual Car
Even if savings are small, here’s how to lower your costs:
Drive Safely
Avoid speeding tickets, accidents, and distracted driving.
Raise Your Deductible
A higher deductible means lower monthly payments.
Take a Defensive Driving Course
In some states, this can earn you a 5 to 15 percent discount.
Use a Safe Car
Manual cars with good safety ratings and low theft risk will cost less to insure.
Compare Quotes
Get quotes from multiple insurers. A car that’s cheaper with one provider may be more expensive with another.
Best Manual Cars for Low Insurance Rates
If you are shopping for a stick shift and want to keep insurance costs down, here are some good picks:
- Honda Civic
- Toyota Corolla
- Hyundai Elantra
- Mazda 3
- Subaru Impreza
These are compact, reliable, and score well on safety tests.
People Also Ask
Yes, sometimes. But the difference is usually small, between 5 and 15 dollars per month.
In older models, yes. But many newer automatic cars now match or beat them in efficiency.
Yes. On average, manual versions cost about 1,000 to 1,500 dollars less than automatics.
It is a small factor. Car make, model, age, and driver history matter more.
Only if they know how to drive it safely. Poor control or stalling could raise the chance of accidents and increase insurance costs.
Final Thoughts
So, are manual cars cheaper to insure? Sometimes, but not by a lot. If you are choosing between a manual and automatic version of the same car, the manual might save you a small amount on both the car price and the insurance.
Still, what really matters to insurers is your driving record, the type of car you drive, and the level of coverage you choose. The best way to save money is to compare quotes, pick a safe and affordable vehicle, and drive responsibly.
Looking for better car insurance options? Alias Insurance helps drivers in the United States compare free quotes from top providers in just a few minutes. Whether your car has a clutch or not, we are here to help you save.
