Do any rental car companies rent manual transmissions?
The short answer is yes, there are still some rental car companies that offer manual transmission vehicles. However, they are becoming increasingly rare due to the decline in demand for manual cars in the United States.
One of the main reasons why manual transmissions are less popular in rental cars is that many people in the US do not know how to drive stick shift. As a result, rental car companies have primarily focused on offering automatic transmission vehicles to cater to the majority of customers.
However, if you are someone who enjoys driving a manual transmission car or simply prefers it over automatic, there are still options available to you. Some smaller, independent rental car companies may have manual transmission vehicles in their fleet, as well as specialty rental companies that cater to enthusiasts and collectors.
It’s important to note that availability may vary depending on the location, so it’s best to inquire directly with the rental car company before booking.
Here are some frequently asked questions related to renting manual transmission cars:
1. Can I rent a manual transmission car at the airport?
While it may be more challenging to find a manual transmission car at airport rental locations, it is not impossible. You may have better luck finding manual cars at off-airport rental locations or smaller rental companies.
2. Are manual transmission cars cheaper to rent than automatic cars?
Manual transmission cars are typically less expensive to rent than automatic cars due to lower demand. However, pricing may vary depending on the rental car company and location.
3. Do luxury rental car companies offer manual transmission vehicles?
Luxury rental car companies are more likely to have manual transmission vehicles in their fleets, especially for high-performance or sports cars. These vehicles are often sought after by enthusiasts who prefer driving stick shift.
4. Can I rent a manual transmission car for a long-term rental?
Long-term rentals of manual transmission cars may be available through some rental companies, especially those that specialize in unique or specialty vehicles. Be sure to inquire about availability and pricing for extended rentals.
5. Are manual transmission cars more difficult to rent for international travelers?
International travelers may have limited options when it comes to renting manual transmission cars in the US. It’s essential to check with rental car companies in advance to ensure availability for your preferred transmission type.
6. Can I request a manual transmission car online when booking a rental?
While most rental car booking websites primarily list automatic transmission vehicles, some companies may allow you to request a manual transmission car through special instructions or by contacting customer service directly.
7. Do rental car companies offer tutorials on driving manual transmission cars?
Some rental car companies may offer tutorials or guidance on how to drive a manual transmission car for customers who are unfamiliar with stick shift. It’s advisable to inquire about this service when renting a manual car.
8. Can I upgrade to a manual transmission car at the rental counter?
Depending on availability, some rental car companies may allow customers to upgrade to a manual transmission car at the rental counter for an additional fee. However, it’s not guaranteed, so it’s best to inquire in advance.
9. Are manual transmission cars more fuel-efficient than automatic cars?
Manual transmission cars are generally more fuel-efficient than automatic cars, as they allow drivers to have more control over gear selection. This can result in improved gas mileage, making them a popular choice for some renters.
10. Do rental car companies charge extra for renting manual transmission cars?
While pricing may vary, manual transmission cars are often priced similarly to automatic cars or may be slightly cheaper due to lower demand. Some companies may offer discounts for manual cars to attract customers.
11. Can I rent a manual transmission car for a one-way trip?
Most rental car companies offer one-way rentals for manual transmission cars, similar to automatic cars. Be sure to inquire about any additional fees or restrictions that may apply when booking a one-way trip.
12. Are manual transmission cars more popular in certain regions of the US?
Manual transmission cars are more commonly found in regions with a higher concentration of driving enthusiasts, such as rural areas or areas known for scenic driving routes. Availability may vary depending on the location and rental company.