The Alfa Romeo 147 Selespeed represents an interesting chapter in automated manual transmissions. While innovative for its time, the system has become notorious for its reliability issues and repair costs. This guide aims to help both current owners and potential buyers understand what to look for and what to expect from these often misunderstood vehicles. …
The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is a common failure point on the 147, typically requiring attention around the 68,000-mile mark. While some units last longer, it’s generally considered a maintenance item that will eventually need addressing. Regular monitoring of its performance can help catch issues before they develop into more serious problems. Common Symptoms …
If there’s one thing that keeps Alfa GTA owners awake at night, it’s the notorious oil cooler pipe problem. These seemingly innocent pipes, tucked away at the front of the engine, have a nasty habit of turning into a ticking time bomb as they age. The issue is deceptively simple – over time, these pipes …
The differential – that crucial bit that helps deliver power to your wheels – is one of the 147 GTA’s most notorious weak points. To say these units fail regularly would be putting it mildly. The basic issue is simple enough: the parts inside just aren’t strong enough to handle the car’s power, even when …
The bonnet catch mechanism on the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA represents one of the model’s most concerning safety issues. While seemingly minor, this component’s failure can lead to catastrophic consequences during driving. The problem stems from Alfa Romeo’s initial design decision to apply grease to the catch mechanism during production. Over time, this grease attracts …
In the fall of 1984, Nissan sought to enhance its performance lineup, with popular models like the 300ZX and Skyline already receiving significant attention from aftermarket tuners. To solidify its stake in the performance tuning scene, Nissan launched its own tuning division: Nismo. Fast forward to today, and Nismo has become synonymous with high-performance Nissan …
If you’re looking to overhaul your car with a replacement engine, JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) engines can be an appealing option. Known for their low mileage and often excellent condition, JDM engines are widely available for export, making them popular choices for mechanics and car enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’re restoring a project car …
When it comes to car culture, few debates are as heated as the one between fans of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars and American muscle cars. Both have their own unique appeal, offering distinct driving experiences, design philosophies, and cultures. However, when diving deeper into what makes each type of car special, many enthusiasts and …
Japan is famous for its thriving automobile industry, not just for making some of the world’s most reliable and innovative cars, but also for exporting a huge number of used vehicles. Garage Dreams is based in New Zealand, and our market is choc-full of ex-JDM vehicles that have been imported as used cars into New …
Over the past few years, the world of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) classic cars has experienced a meteoric rise in value, capturing the attention of enthusiasts, collectors, and investors alike. Iconic models like the Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R and the Toyota Supra MK4 have seen their prices skyrocket to levels that would have been unimaginable …
