Manual Transmission Thwarts Car Theft
Introduction
Car theft is a serious problem in the United States. In 2020, over 773,000 vehicles were stolen, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). That’s an average of one car stolen every 43 seconds.
While there are a number of ways to protect your car from theft, one of the most effective is to drive a car with a manual transmission.
Why Manual Transmissions Are Less Likely to Be Stolen
There are a few reasons why manual transmissions are less likely to be stolen than automatic transmissions.
- They are more difficult to drive. Manual transmissions require the driver to shift gears manually, which can be a challenge for inexperienced drivers. This makes them less appealing to thieves who are looking for a quick and easy getaway.
- They are less common. Manual transmissions are becoming increasingly rare in the United States. This makes them more difficult for thieves to find and sell.
- They are less valuable. Manual transmissions are generally less valuable than automatic transmissions. This makes them less attractive to thieves who are looking to make a profit.
Statistics on Car Theft and Manual Transmissions
There is a growing body of evidence to support the claim that manual transmissions are less likely to be stolen. A study by the NHTSA found that cars with manual transmissions were 40% less likely to be stolen than cars with automatic transmissions.
Another study by the University of North Carolina found that cars with manual transmissions were 25% less likely to be stolen than cars with automatic transmissions.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a way to protect your car from theft, driving a car with a manual transmission is a good option. Manual transmissions are more difficult to drive, less common, less valuable, and less likely to be stolen than automatic transmissions.
Of course, no car is completely theft-proof. However, driving a car with a manual transmission can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of car theft.