Is An Automatic Motorhome Better than a Manual?

Having grown up and learned to drive with manual vehicles, British drivers can often look at automatic models with an unfounded fear. Yet, across the pond in the USA, automatic cars are the norm, and with the rise of electric vehicles and their relative ease to drive in comparison to manual, they are becoming steadily more popular across Europe, too. The rise of the automatic motorhome in the UK was, therefore, inevitable.

Catering to all kinds of customers, we’ve made sure to keep up with industry standards by providing a wide variety of automatic motorhomes for sale, from large five-berth options from British leisure vehicle brand Swift to compact motorhomes from Bailey of Bristol. No matter what kind of motorhome you’re looking to purchase, you’ll be sure to find the vehicle for you at Spinney.

But we don’t restrict ourselves to motorhomes. Our range also features exemplary cutting-edge caravans for sale, as well as brand-new campervans, including the automatic V-Line Sport Campervans from Auto-Trail. To help you start enjoying your vehicle as quickly as possible, we also offer finance options where you can spread the payment of a vehicle over the course of 10 years with an interest of just 5.9% APR.

Anyway, let’s get back to the manual vs automatic motorhome debate.

What is the difference between an automatic and a manual motorhome?

The essential difference between automatic and manual vehicles from the very best motorhome brands is in how the transmission operates. When driving a manual car, you have to physically shift gears yourself using your clutch and gear stick, while an automatic transmission will perform this process without needing any input from the driver. This seamless form of driving is favoured by many people who look for ease and simplicity over any other features.

In fact, to streamline your driving experience even further, since an automatic vehicle takes care of everything to do with the transmission, it also does away with the clutch pedal – you only need to worry about braking and accelerating. Since you no longer have to change gears and can keep both hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road ahead, this results in a smoother driving experience.  

The most common issues of an automatic motorhome

Yet, just because an automatic motorhome might be easier to drive doesn’t mean that they don’t come with their own range of issues. Some of the most common issues with automatic motorhomes include:

• Leaking transmission fluid: Transmission fluid keeps a vehicle’s gears lubricated and in good working order. It is more of a concern for automatic vehicles thanks to the heat generated from their operation. Damaged seals and clogged transmission cooler lines can lead to the leaking of transmission fluid, creating such potential problems as gear slipping, overheating and major internal damage.
• Torque Converter Issues: British drivers may have never heard of a torque converter since it does the job of a clutch in manual transmission. Using hydraulic fluid to transfer power from the engine to the transmission, issues with this element of the vehicle can lead to gear slips, shuddering or a general failure of performance.
• Problems with the Solenoid: Like a torque converter, manual drivers have likely also never heard of a Solenoid. If you’re wondering how Solenoids work, these electro-hydraulic valves control the flow of fluid throughout the transmission of an automatic vehicle. Over time, or with the use of excessive force or irregular temperatures, a Solenoid may fail, causing gear sticking, engine stalling and fluid leaks, among other issues.

The cost of an automatic motorhome vs a manual

The higher initial cost of automatic motorhomes, thanks to the technical complexity of their gearboxes, has meant that manual options are still favoured by consumers. Subsequently, this means that it often costs more to repair automatic vehicles, with expert professionals and specialist parts needed to carry out the job. But, as automatic vehicles become more commonplace, this gap is closing.

On top of the cheaper upfront cost, manual models are also relatively straightforward to repair since there are fewer moving parts. With this being said, new models of automatic motorhomes will save you money on the road, being more fuel-efficient than manual versions. Using less fuel, automatic motorhomes are also more technologically advanced, optimising speed and power thanks to the efficient torque converter.

Want to save money on the purchase? Why not consider our quality used motorhomes and discover exactly how much a motorhome costs to run in our blog? 

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The benefits of an automatic motorhome over a manual model

The benefits of an automatic motorhome over a manual model

Built to streamline the driving process and make things as simple as possible for the operator, automatic motorhomes are favoured by owners for the following benefits:

1. Ease and simplicity

Perhaps the single greatest benefit of automatic motorhomes is just how simple they are to operate, making them perfect for beginner drivers and seasoned pros alike. Removing the need for manual gear changes along with the entire clutch pedal, automatic motorhomes are a tempting proposition, particularly for anyone already intimidated by driving large leisure vehicles.

Indeed, the learning curve for automatic motorhomes is far less complex, allowing you to focus on staying safe on the road rather than the operation of the vehicle itself. If you’re looking to truly relax on your motorhome adventures, you may want to consider purchasing an automatic vehicle that requires as little effort as possible.

Wondering how to choose a motorhome for the very first time? Our range of automatic options could be just the ticket.

2. Advanced safety features

Since automatic motorhome drivers no longer need to consider switching gears or practising clutch control, they can stay safer on the road, but this isn’t the only way that automatic vehicles enhance your welfare. Some new automatic motorhomes come with adaptive cruise control and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), like Bailey’s new Alora range, making your driving experience both easier and safer.

Many types of automatic motorhomes are also fitted with transmission technology that adapts to changing road conditions, improving performance and fuel efficiency based on the terrain. In addition, removing the need for clutch control also makes hill starts far easier, with some models even having a hill start assist feature which prevents your vehicle from rolling back. As well as on-road features, it’s also imperative to stay in the know about off-road motorhome tips that will keep your vehicle safe from theft and damage.

3. Comfort

You may have been able to gather by now that automatic vehicles are considerably more comfortable to drive than manual motorhomes, considering their simplicity and ease. Particularly during inner-city driving, where you’re constantly stopping and starting, automatic motorhomes come into their own, making constant gear shifting a thing of the past.

Once you’re out of the city, you will find motorway driving considerably more comfortable, too, since you don’t have to worry about any gear changes. All you need is the brake pedal and the accelerator. Now all you have to do is sit back in comfort in the knowledge that your driving experience is far easier than the manual alternative.

The downsides of an automatic motorhome over a manual model

Although, not everything about automatic motorhomes is totally rosy. While they have plenty of advantages, these vehicles also come with a fair few drawbacks, too.

2. More expensive

Unlike manual motorhomes, which are easier to come by and cheaper to produce, automatic vehicles have complex technology and gearboxes, which means they’re more expensive to make and purchase. If you’re looking for a more cost-effective investment, you may find that a used manual vehicle will be cheaper in the long run, just remember the five essential things to look out for before buying a used motorhome.

It’s not just the upfront cost that will set you back either, thanks to how complex the parts for an automatic motorhome are, when it comes to your vehicle needing a repair, you may find it costing far more than a manual counterpart. Needing specialist parts and trained technicians, you may find you have to wait longer for a repair and pay a little more, too.

2. Complex vehicles

Automatic motorhomes are complex vehicles that operate with several moving parts and electronic controls. Not only can this transmission complexity lead to potentially more issues for your vehicle, but it also means that when things go wrong, you’ll have less of an idea of what’s going on and if you may be able to repair it. Decades of experience with manual transmissions mean many people can perform their own basic repairs, but customers can find this not to be the case with automatic.

Automatic motorhomes are also dependent on electronic sensors, systems and controls. If you prefer the simple mechanics of a manual vehicle, consider sticking to what you know, leaving automatic motorhomes to those who prioritise simplicity.

3. Unique handling

Some drivers will not experience the unique handling of automatic vehicles as being a downside, however, others may feel the exact opposite. Being a heavier weight than manual alternatives, automatic motorhomes will handle a little differently, with some drivers even reporting a slight delay in acceleration that impacts the driving experience.

Many drivers simply prefer manual vehicles for the experience that it provides for them. Changing gears gives you a tactile connection to the vehicle, engaging you with the experience rather than making you a passive controller, as some may feel behind the wheel of an automatic motorhome. If the experience of driving is what gets you out onto the road, you may prefer a trusted manual motorhome.

Key purchasing decisions between automatic and manual motorhomes

Now we’ve broken down the differences between manual and automatic motorhomes, describing their key benefits and pitfalls, let’s summarise the decision into three key areas.

• Cost: Automatic vehicles are more expensive to buy upfront and repair further down the line,  but money can be saved depending on when you buy your motorhome. Manual motorhomes tend to be far cheaper in both respects, with parts being more readily available.
• Simplicity: Automatic motorhomes are usually far easier and more comfortable to drive, removing the need for gear changes and clutch use. This is particularly true when you opt for a quality small motorhome, perfect for city driving. Yet, this comes at a cost, making it more difficult for amateur engineers who enjoy the process of repairing their vehicles.
• Overall experience: Some drivers may find the overall experience of driving an automatic motorhome to be a little dull, with the comfort of not having to change gear being both a positive and a negative. Some drivers familiar with manual driving may miss the tactility that such vehicles can provide.

Want to try an automatic motorhome before you buy?

There’s no knowing how much you’ll enjoy the look and feel of a motorhome until it’s right there in front of you. So, why not visit Spinney, where you can use our useful try before you buy motorhome service and compare and contrast automatic and manual vehicles? Try out different transmissions, models and sizes through our partner rental company to give you the best idea of how your new purchase might feel on the open road.

From automatic vehicles to manual transmission motorhomes, at Spinney, we have a little something for everyone. Stocking only the very best models, including exemplary motorhomes from Adria and cutting-edge motorhome models from Roller Team. But this merely skims the top of our collection, also selling Auto-Trail vehicles, Coachman motorhomes, modern Elddis options and even the very best motorhomes from market leaders Swift.

If you’re not sure where to begin your search, contact us, and we’d be happy to guide you on your purchasing journey. Or, if you want face-to-face advice, visit any of our Cheshire, Northamptonshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire or North Wales branches for tailored advice. No matter what kind of leisure vehicle you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find the one for you at Spinney.