To an automotive enthusiast, driving a manual is an intrinsic part of the driving enjoyment. Whether it’s executing the perfect launch or a beautiful heel-toe downshift, there’s nothing quite like changing your own gears.

Not all people are petrolheads, though. In fact, some might have a bit of an issue. Ford wants to makes sure its customers understand how to operate the stick, as an image posted by Jalopnik shows a Fiesta with an instruction tag on how to shift gears.

The instruction tag states the ‘Proper Shifting Operation’ and tips on how to avoid transmission damage. These include simple things like fully depressing the clutch pedal before changing gears, only shifting into reverse when the car is stationary, and only changing into reverse after waiting two seconds with the clutch depressed to allow the gears to stop spinning.

Yep. Trying to shift into reverse when moving will clearly not let you go further. OK, that’s probably the understatement of the year. Just follow the instructions.

PHOTO GALLERY