1998 Ferrari F355 GTS

Introduction to the 1998 Ferrari F355 GTS

The 1998 Ferrari F355 GTS was a high-performance sports car produced by Ferrari. It was powered by a 3.5-liter V8 engine that produced 380 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. The F355 GTS was available with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automated manual transmission called the F1 gearbox. It was praised for its exotic styling, thrilling driving experience, and impressive performance. However, like any vehicle, the F355 GTS had its share of issues.

Engine

3.5-liter V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include rough idling, loss of power, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Camshaft position sensor failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, engine misfires, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Exhaust manifold crack: Symptoms include a loud exhaust noise and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Transmission

6-speed Manual

• Gear synchronization issues: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, especially into second and third gear. Solution: Replace the gear synchronizers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

6-speed Automated Manual (F1)

• Hydraulic actuator failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, delayed shifts, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the hydraulic actuator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Solenoid failure: Symptoms include erratic shifting, difficulty shifting into certain gears, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Front suspension bushing wear: Symptoms include clunking noises from the front suspension, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the front suspension bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Rear suspension spring failure: Symptoms include a sagging rear end, poor handling, and a rough ride. Solution: Replace the rear suspension springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, flickering lights, and a dead battery. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Battery drain: Symptoms include a dead battery after the car has been sitting for a period of time. Solution: Identify and fix the source of the battery drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain

Exterior

• Headlight condensation: Symptoms include fogging or condensation inside the headlight assemblies. Solution: Replace the headlight assemblies or install moisture-resistant bulbs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per headlight assembly

Interior

• Air conditioning compressor failure: Symptoms include warm air blowing from the vents, lack of cooling, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the air conditioning compressor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Power window switch failure: Symptoms include inoperable power windows, intermittent operation, and a blown fuse. Solution: Replace the power window switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary

The 1998 Ferrari F355 GTS is a high-performance sports car that offers an exhilarating driving experience. However, it is important to be aware of the potential issues that can arise with this vehicle, including engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, and interior problems. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly to repair. Potential buyers should factor in the cost of potential repairs when considering the purchase of a used F355 GTS.