2000 Ferrari 456 M

The 2000 Ferrari 456M is a grand tourer known for its elegant design, powerful V12 engine, and luxurious interior. It was offered exclusively with a 5.5-liter V12 engine, producing around 436 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission was available, as well as a four-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the 456M for its blend of performance and comfort, making it suitable for long-distance driving. Some criticisms include the high running costs associated with owning and maintaining a Ferrari, as well as the complexity of some of its systems.

Engine

5.5L F116 V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, timing chain covers, and the front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine, oil drips under the car, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. This may involve removing various engine components for access.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, water pump, and radiator. Symptoms include a loss of coolant, overheating, and visible coolant on the ground.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the component and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Vacuum Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking and deterioration of the many vacuum lines in the engine bay leading to a rough idle and poor running conditions.
  • Solution: Replacing the deteriorated vacuum lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on which vacuum lines need replacement and the mechanic labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature clutch wear is a common issue. Symptoms include clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, and a high engagement point.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ due to the complexity of the job and parts cost.
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears or failure to shift correctly.
  • Solution: Typically requires a rebuild or replacement of the automatic transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000-$7,000+ depending on repair shop and parts.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Self-Leveling Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The self-leveling rear suspension system, if equipped, can develop leaks in the hydraulic lines or issues with the accumulators. This leads to a saggy rear end or uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replacing leaking hydraulic lines, accumulators, or other components of the self-leveling system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ depending on the parts needed and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dashboard Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixelation or fading of the digital displays in the dashboard is a common issue. This can affect the visibility of important information.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected display unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the complexity of the repair and sourcing of parts.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ECU Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the ECU can lead to running issues, including stalling and no-starts.
  • Solution: Replacing or reprogramming the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on the source of the ECU and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: The wiring harnesses in the engine bay can degrade over time due to heat, causing brittle insulation and electrical shorts.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Alignment
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight alignment motors failing
  • Solution: Replacing the motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticky Interior Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic interior trim pieces, such as the center console and door handles, can develop a sticky or tacky texture. This is due to the degradation of the coating applied to the plastic.
  • Solution: Refinishing or replacing the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the problem and the method used to address it.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Ferrari 456M, while a beautiful and high-performing grand tourer, is prone to certain issues related to its age, complexity, and high-performance nature. Engine oil and coolant leaks, clutch wear, electrical gremlins, and interior trim issues are common concerns. Repairs can be costly due to the specialized parts and labor required. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in higher-than-average maintenance costs when considering purchasing a 456M. Severity of issues can range from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the problem.