CrimsonGhost,

You must get seen by a good spine specialist. There are some good chiropractors but you need to be very careful. There are also some Physical Therapists that are good with spine issues. Don't just take their word for it, question them, if they sound over confident, find another.
You also my get help from a Physiatrist, These are Doctors who specialize in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Some times they say Spine Rehabilitation.

You want to stress "whiplash" as the most likely problem. Or whiplash with concussion.

The whipping action can dislodge your cervical vertebra. It can pinch the nerves or cause inflammation that strangles the nerves. I have a problem like this. I bet your problem from years ago was never properly diagnosed nor healed.

This is a tough area to get good help. Doctors pass you off because they do not have a way to help you. Rather than saying they can not help you, they just say nothing is wrong. Even neurologist are not good at this.

BTW, A good way to teach your girlfriend a stick shift is from outside the car. First, have her stand outside and with the drivers door open, have her watch your feet as you use the clutch and gas pedal. Then you can have her try and you watch her feet. It is amazing how much better women do when they can get a good view of what your feet are doing. I taught two daughters to drive sticks this way. I also only do this in a large empty parking lot so they are not confused by other traffic.