Costly Mistakes Kenyans Make When Driving Manual Cars

A manual transmission vehicle provides a vastly different driving experience than an automatic transmission vehicle. 

Driving a manual may even be considered a test of a real driver by some because of the technicality that goes into it, despite the growing popularity of automatic transmission cars in recent years.

However, there are some harmful habits that drivers who use manual cars ought to avoid to ensure the longevity of their cars. 

From top left: A photo of the Nyayo Pioneer I, a 1990 BMW 5 car, a 1990 Mercedes Benz G Class and a 1990 Mitsubishi Pajero.

Carspecs

Using the clutch pedal to hold on an incline

Engaging the clutch pedal in hilly areas is a common practice among drivers. However, it is the quickest way of wearing out the clutch because of the friction caused.

When the car is on a slope, a driver may instinctively use the clutch pedal in order to hold it in place, but it is important to ensure that it is partially engaged.

There are much better ways of holding a car on an incline depending on the model, including using the handbrake because it usually holds the car for about 2 – 3 seconds after letting go of the brake pedal.

Leaving the car in gear at a traffic light

When driving in the city, traffic lights are frequently encountered and so holding down the clutch while waiting for the lights to change would result in significant wear over time.

Waiting at traffic lights or junctions with the clutch down, first gear engaged and foot on the brake can put unnecessary strain on the clutch.

Alternatively, one should put the car in neutral at a stop light when stopping frequently or use the handbrake when the car is stationary, to lessen the general wear on your clutch.

Using the gear shift as a handrest

There is a reason why driving instructors insist on driving with both hands on the steering wheel. 

The habit of resting one’s hand on the gear lever between gear shifts is not an uncommon practice. However, doing so can cause significant damage to the car. 

Resting a hand on the gear as a form of habit can speed up the process of wearing out a component of the gear known as the selector fork.

This is because the gear lever is directly connected to the selector fork, which, when pressure is on, can rub against the gears and synchronisers, which are very intricate and delicate pieces of technology.

Imported vehicles at the port of Mombasa.

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