Alfa Romeo Repair: Gearbox Alfa 147, alfa 147, gear lever

Question
Whilst driving I found I could not access my gears and in neutral my gear lever would not return to its original position. This comes and goes but when it happens I have to work very hard to force it into a gear to gain control of the car. This is very dangerous. Is it the linkage? Is it easy to fix? Any advice welcome.

Answer
I am not familiar with the 147 and you did not state whether automatic or manual transmission. But, when this happens in either case, it is usually attaching bolts that have come loose. In the case of a manual transmission you may have to pull the cover to find the problem. But, follow the linkage from the lever and it should become obvious what the problem is.