Learning to drive simulations

I failed my manual driving test 30 years ago.

I did a week intensive course and failed on my clutch and gear change control.

I just wasn’t smooth and competent with it.

I needed practice or I should have taken an automatic test.

In a few years i have plans to drive again.

I was wondering if anyone has learnt clutch control in a manual simulated xbox/ps5 driving simulator/game?

I am on the lookout for a cheap racing seat with wheel/pedals (incl clutch) and gear stick/shifter.

Do you think it would help at all or is it no where near a simulation to real life?

1 Like

I learned how to drive automatic from GTA.

Years of driving in-game gave me a good sense of control.

I’m serious.

1 Like

Sounds great!

Automatic is what i should have learned in the first place too.

I think you need to follow driving classes. It’s common for people who are older to need more classes to be able to pass the practical test.

2 Likes

Yes i need that also when it is time to.

I just wondered if this could build muscle memory changing gear on a simulator?.

1 Like

I basically grew up in a driving school business and it’s the first time that I hear that suggestion. I highly doubt it would help a lot, because driving is the integration of a lot of skills.

2 Likes

I think if it were possible, it would be big business. But it’s really not the done thing.

1 Like

This is what copilot says:

You

critiques of my plan to simualte driving by playing ps5/xbxox x games saying if it were posssible then it would be big business

Copilot

Using driving simulators on consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X is already a popular and growing trend! Games like Gran Turismo 7 and Forza Horizon 5 offer incredibly realistic driving experiences and are already a big part of the gaming industry. People are using these simulations not just for fun, but also for training and improving their driving skills.

That said, it’s important to remember that while these simulations can greatly improve your understanding of driving mechanics and help build muscle memory, they don’t fully replicate the experience of being on real roads, dealing with traffic, weather conditions, or the stress of actual driving.

The use of simulations is already significant in industries like aviation for pilot training, and there’s definitely potential for driving simulators to expand further. However, nothing completely replaces real-world experience

Also the reason why it is not done more regularly is because the price point for getting a simulator i.e. racing chair, wheel, pedals and shifter plus console comes to around £750-1000 new.

Second hannd it is much more reasonable at £200 for the console, and FB marketplace has one chair and gear for £200. @everhopeful

1 Like

Copilot says

The cost of driving lessons in the UK can vary depending on location and the instructor, but on average, a one-hour driving lesson costs between £25 and £3543dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054. Most people need around 45 hours of lessons to pass their test, which can add up to approximately £1,125 to £1,57543dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054.

Keep in mind that prices can be higher in some areas and for intensive courses. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different driving schools.

1 Like

Is it that cheap in the UK for driving lessons? My mom charges 82.5€ an hour.

1 Like

I don’t understand how it would work without proper force feedback. You need to feel the clutch engaging in combination with applying the accelerator to do it properly. In other words you need practice practice practice in the real world. Saying this as someone with a commercial license who can drive an 18 speed manual.

I have used a commercial flight simulator and apparently did so well that I could have passed for a real 737 pilot if they had not known in advance that I was a civvie. It obviously doesn’t compare to flying a real jet even with the wonderful motorized chair their simulator has.

1 Like

Yes, the Logitech G920 does provide force feedback to simulate gear changes1! When you shift gears using the shifter, you’ll feel a tactile response in the wheel, which enhances the realism of the driving experience. This feature is great for adding an extra layer of immersion to your simulation.

Are you excited to try out this feature in your favorite racing game?

1forum.giants-software.com

You

and for the pedal itself?

Copilot

While the Logitech G920’s force feedback primarily affects the steering wheel, the pedals themselves don’t have force feedback for simulating gear changes. However, the pedals are designed with realistic resistance, particularly the brake pedal, which can enhance the overall driving experience.

I tried something with feedback at a friend’s place who is a gamer. I was mostly into his flight sim setup but he also has a racing setup and they both use the same 80 inch LED TV. The feedback on the racing system felt more like a toy and not at all like real life. I don’t see how it is useful.

1 Like

If you have a budget of £400, then get 16 hours of driving instruction. That would be my opinion.

1 Like