We’re in the midst of a stick-shift renaissance, and I couldn’t be happier. The number of brand-new three-pedal specials flying off dealership lots tripled in under two years. What’s more, the enthusiasm for used cog-swappers has hit an absolute crescendo. But before you set out to be an H-pattern hero, there are two things you should know about manual transmissions.

Manual transmissions require more maintenance

If you want bulletproof reliability, you can get that with an automatic transmission. Take, for example, the last couple of generations of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. These midsize sedans boast legendary reliability. In a large part because their five-speed and six-speed automatic transmissions will outlast the engines.

With many modern motors running to 200,000 miles before needing major maintenance, a stick shift transmission can actually drag the car’s reliability down. You’ll usually need to replace your clutch by 100,000. If you do any trailering, you may have one gear fail before the others and then you’ll need to rebuild your entire transmission. If you want the lowest dollar-per-mile possible, opt for the automatic.

Stick shift cars are slower

Don’t listen to Vin Diesel’s mumblings in the latest Fast and Furious movie: The latest generation of automatic transmissions can shift faster than any human alive. A factory Hellcat with an automatic transmission can run a quarter-mile drag race in about 11.2 seconds on street tires. But opt for a stick shift and that time bumps up to the 12-second range. The best the experts at Car and Driver could do with the cog-swapper was 12.4 seconds.

Off-road, automatics are also more effective. Today, most folks who build custom off-roaders–from desert dune runners to rock crawlers–opt for an automatic transmission. With a Hi-Lo range and multiple locking differentials to worry about, their hands are often too busy to swap gears. Plus, the automatic transmission does a better job.

There is one exception. If you plan on running autocross or amateur track days in an affordable, lightweight sports car, being able to choose your own gear can make all the difference. Something like a stick shift Miata or GR 86 is still an excellent choice for these hobbies–and a great daily driver.

Why bother with a manual transmission?

If a stick shift transmission is less reliable and slower, why in the world would I choose to row my own? I can’t speak for everyone, but I just prefer the driving experience. When I am choosing what gear to use, I find I’m more connected to the act of driving. It keeps me focused, it keeps me engaged, and I can tailor my driving experience.