Dodson Service

Fuel Choices for GT-Rs in NZ: 98 Octane vs E85 Conversions

When it comes to fuelling your Nissan GT-R in New Zealand, you’re faced with an important decision that can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, reliability, and running costs. The choice between running premium 98 octane petrol or converting to E85 ethanol fuel is one that many GT-R owners in Auckland and across New Zealand grapple …

GT-R Insurance & Maintenance Costs in New Zealand (What Owners Should Budget)

Owning a Nissan GT-R in New Zealand represents a significant financial commitment beyond the initial purchase price. Understanding the ongoing costs associated with insurance and maintenance helps prospective and current owners budget effectively for this high-performance vehicle. From comprehensive insurance premiums to specialised servicing requirements, GT-R ownership in New Zealand comes with unique financial considerations …

Big Turbo vs Stock Turbo Upgrades for NZ GT-Rs: Cost vs Reliability

When upgrading your Nissan GT-R in New Zealand, choosing between a big turbo conversion and upgrading your stock turbos represents one of the most significant decisions you’ll make for your vehicle’s performance. This article explores the key differences between these two popular modification paths, examining the costs involved, reliability considerations, and real-world performance gains you …

Stage 1, 2, 3: What GT-R Upgrades Deliver (Safe Power Gains Explained)

When it comes to unlocking the true potential of your Nissan GT-R, understanding the different upgrade stages and their corresponding power gains is crucial for making informed decisions about your performance modifications. Each stage represents a carefully planned progression that balances increased power output with maintaining reliability and drivability for your specific needs. Stage 1 …

5 Things That Will Kill Your Automatic Transmission Faster Than You Think

Your automatic transmission is one of the most complex and expensive components in your vehicle, yet many drivers unknowingly engage in habits that dramatically shorten its lifespan. Whether you’re driving a high-performance BMW M3 or a precision-engineered Porsche 911, understanding these transmission killers can save you from costly repairs and keep your vehicle performing at …

How to Properly Warm Up Your Transmission Before Spirited Driving

When you’re about to take your high-performance vehicle out for spirited driving, proper transmission warm-up is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring optimal performance. Whether you’re heading to a track day or planning an enthusiastic drive through Auckland’s scenic routes, taking the time to properly warm your transmission can mean the difference between years …

How Often Should You Service a Track-Driven Transmission vs Daily Driver?

Track driving puts immense strain on your transmission, requiring a fundamentally different service approach compared to daily driving. The extreme heat, rapid gear changes, and sustained high RPMs of track use accelerate fluid breakdown and component wear at a rate that would take years to achieve through normal street driving. Understanding these differences is crucial …

What Happens If You Overfill or Underfill Transmission Fluid?

Maintaining the correct transmission fluid level is crucial for the smooth operation and longevity of your vehicle’s transmission system. When fluid levels stray too far from the manufacturer’s specifications, either through overfilling or underfilling, serious mechanical problems can develop that may lead to costly repairs or complete transmission failure. Effects of Overfilling Transmission Fluid When …

Transmission Software Updates: Do They Really Improve Shifting and Longevity?

Modern performance cars rely heavily on sophisticated transmission software to deliver the driving experience enthusiasts expect. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a Lamborghini, Porsche, or Nissan GT-R, the question of transmission software updates and their real-world benefits has become increasingly relevant. This article explores whether these updates genuinely improve shifting performance and transmission longevity, …

What Is Clutch Adaptation in Dual-Clutch Transmissions – And Why Does It Matter?

Clutch adaptation in dual-clutch transmissions represents one of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of maintaining these sophisticated gearbox systems. For owners of high-performance European and exotic vehicles in Auckland, understanding this process can mean the difference between smooth, responsive gear changes and costly transmission repairs. This article explores the technical aspects of clutch …