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1996 Ferrari F355 GTS

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By Research the Car 3 min read

Introduction:

The 1996 Ferrari F355 GTS is an Italian mid-engined sports car produced from 1994 to 1999. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V8 engine and comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. The F355 GTS has a top speed of 183 mph and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. It is known for its handling, performance, and iconic design. However, some owners have reported issues with the F355 GTS, which are detailed below.

Engine

  • 3.5L V8
    • Valve Guide Wear: Over time, the valve guides can wear out, causing excessive oil consumption and reduced engine power. Replacing the valve guides and seals is the solution, with an estimated cost of $2,500 - $3,500+.
  • Intake Manifold Cracks: The intake manifold can develop cracks, leading to vacuum leaks and reduced engine performance. Replacing the cracked intake manifold is the solution, with an estimated cost of $1,000 - $2,000+.
  • Engine Mounts Failure: The engine mounts can fail, causing excessive engine vibration. Replacing the failed engine mounts is the solution, with an estimated cost of $500 - $1,000+.

Transmission

  • 6-Speed Manual
    • Clutch Slippage: The clutch can slip, causing loss of power and difficulty shifting gears. Replacing the worn clutch and pressure plate is the solution, with an estimated cost of $1,500 - $2,000+.
    • Synchro Failure: The synchronizers in the transmission can fail, making it difficult or impossible to shift gears. Replacing the failed synchronizers is the solution, with an estimated cost of $1,000 - $2,500+.

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushings Wear: The front control arm bushings can wear out, leading to excessive play and reduced handling. Replacing the worn bushings is the solution, with an estimated cost of $300 - $500+.
  • Rear Shock Absorbers Failure: The rear shock absorbers can fail, causing reduced ride quality and handling. Replacing the failed shock absorbers is the solution, with an estimated cost of $500 - $1,000+.

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, leaving the battery without a charge. Replacing the failed alternator is the solution, with an estimated cost of $500 - $1,000+.
  • Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely due to a faulty electrical component or parasitic drain. Identifying and replacing the faulty component or fixing the parasitic drain is the solution, with an estimated cost of $200 - $1,000+.
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM): The ECM can malfunction, affecting engine performance and drivability. Replacing the ECM is the solution, with an estimated cost of $1,500 - $2,000+.

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Clock Failure: The dashboard clock can fail, rendering it useless. Replacing the failed clock is the solution, with an estimated cost of $200 - $400+.
  • Power Window Failure: The power window motors or switches can fail, causing windows to become inoperable. Replacing the failed components is the solution, with an estimated cost of $500 - $1,000+ per window.

Summary:

The 1996 Ferrari F355 GTS is a high-performance sports car with a great deal of appeal. However, it is not without its issues. Some of the more common problems include valve guide wear, intake manifold cracks, suspension component wear, and electrical problems. While some of these issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a F355 GTS.

Ferrari, F355 GTS
Ferrari F355 GTS 1996
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