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9 Manual Transmission Statistics in Canada: Updated in 2024
Ed Malaker
Last updated:
Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website.
Manual transmissions can give you more control over your vehicle and better gas mileage. However, the number of vehicles with a manual transmission on the road seems to be declining due to several factors. If you are considering purchasing a new car and want to know more about what kind you should get, keep reading as we list several facts and statistics about manual transmissions in Canada.
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Canadian Manual Transmission Statistics
1. New safety laws are causing a decline in manual transmissions.
(Automotive News Canada)
Studies show that shifting and working the clutch can distract the driver, and pushes to make shifting easier are causing certain manufacturers to produce fewer vehicles with a manual transmission as an option, especially since there is not much demand for them.
Image Credit: real-napster, Pixabay
2. Only about 5% of passenger cars in Canada have a manual transmission.
(Car Expert)
In the early 2000s, more than 25% of passenger cars sold had a manual transmission, and 10 years later, the number fell slightly to about 22.8%. However, after 2020, the number of cars with a manual transmission fell to just over 5%.
3. Sport utility vehicles have seen the biggest decline in manual transmissions.
(Car Expert)
In the early 2000s, more than 43% of SUVs sold had a manual transmission. However, today, only about 1% of the SUVs sold have a manual transmission, showing a steeper decline than passenger vehicles.
Image Credit: Globetrotter78, Pixabay
4. A manual transmission is cheaper and better on gas.
(MoneyUnder30)
While there are fewer vehicles with a manual transmission on the road today than just a few years ago, it still has a die-hard following of drivers who prefer its low cost, better fuel efficiency, and more responsive control.
Worldwide Manual Transmission Statistics
5. Fewer cars in the United States have a manual transmission.
(CNBC)
In 2011, 37% of American vehicles sold had a manual transmission, but in 2020, only 13%, or 41 out of 327 new car models, had one, which is a loss of more than 20%.
6. Replacement parts are a multi-billion-dollar industry.
(Statista)
Vehicle transmission and powertrain parts manufacturing reached $40 billion in the United States in 2017.
7. Some vehicle companies are dropping manual transmissions altogether.
(CNBC)
While most vehicle manufacturers will likely continue to make cars with manual transmissions, many are limiting the number of vehicles that they offer it on. For instance, Nissan will no longer offer it on its Frontier, and many other companies are following suit. Electric cars are also becoming more popular and don’t require a multi-gear transmission, which will reduce the number of operating manual transmissions even further.
Image Credit: Daniel Andraski, Pexels
8. The manual transmission is the least popular of more than 10 upgradable features
(Carmax)
The manual transmission is one of the least requested features on an automobile, with only 2.5% of shoppers inquiring about it. In contrast, 93.6% of shoppers look for Bluetooth technology, 82% are in the market for a rear-view camera, and 52% want heated front seats. Other popular features include a navigation system, all-wheel drive, a blind-spot monitor, a remote start, a tow hitch, a panoramic center, and a third-row seat.
9. Idaho is where you will find the most manual transmissions in the United States.
(Carmax)
In the United States, Idaho is where you’ll find the most manual transmissions, with 4.2% of drivers owning one, followed by Oregon and New Mexico, which have a little over 4% each. You are the least likely to find a manual transmission in Illinois because only 1.39% of the drivers have one. New Jersey, Wisconsin, Louisiana, Delaware, and Mississippi also have few cars with a manual transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manual Transmissions
What are normal driving conditions for a manual transmission?
The manual transmission is extremely durable and can handle most driving conditions. However, manufacturers state that vehicles driven for only short distances can add unusual wear and strain to the manual transmission because the engine does not have enough time to warm up to normal operating temperatures. Extreme hot and cold temperatures can also put undue strain on the manual transmission, causing it to wear out faster than usual.
Image Credit: EZ-Stock Studio, Shutterstock
How do I check the transmission fluid on a manual transmission?
Most older vehicles have a dipstick that you can use to check the transmission fluid. However, many modern cars have a sealed transmission, and the vehicle’s computer keeps an eye on the fluid level. Checking it requires a qualified technician.
How can I avoid costly transmission repairs?
Performing regular scheduled maintenance with fluid changes is essential to extending your transmission’s lifespan.
Never drive your vehicle when it’s low on transmission fluid
Always come to a complete stop before shifting gears in a manual transmission.
Don’t drive for a long time on donuts or spare tires.
Don’t spin the tires on cars with a manual transmission, especially those under computer control.
Never shift into reverse without coming to a complete stop.
Don’t drive the vehicle if you notice that it has transmission problems.
Racing while pulling heavy weight with your vehicle will put tremendous strain on the manual transmission. (Sergeant Clutch)
Conclusion
While many die-hard drivers still prefer a manual transmission for its improved gas mileage and responsive control, popularity has waned considerably around the world, including Canada, and only about 5% of the vehicles still have a manual transmission. Experts believe that the number will drop even more as electric cars become more popular, and more stringent safety requirements cause manufacturers to look for other options.
Ed Malaker is an experienced writer who has brought his knowledge to a wide range of blogs, including home improvement, guitars, computer programming, tools, fitness, and pets. If you don't catch him writing, you can usually find Ed working in the garden or taking on DIY projects around the house. Ed’s also a talented musician, spending time composing music for independent films or helping people fix their guitars.
Ed Malaker
