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2001 Ferrari 456 M

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2001 Ferrari 456M, an evolution of the original 456, is a grand tourer known for its elegant Pininfarina design and powerful V12 engine. The 2001 model year benefits from several refinements, including improved interior ergonomics and enhanced performance. All 456M models are powered by a 5.5-liter V12 engine producing approximately 436 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It came with two transmission options, a 6-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praise the car’s blend of performance and usability, citing its comfortable ride and surprising practicality for a Ferrari. Criticisms often center around the high maintenance costs associated with owning and operating a V12 Ferrari, as well as the age-related issues that can plague these cars.

Engine

5.5L V12

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various engine seals and gaskets due to age and heat cycling. Common areas include valve cover gaskets, timing chain cover, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and potential oil pressure issues.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets and seals. Ensuring proper torque during reassembly is crucial.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and extent of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The cooling system can be prone to leaks and failures due to the age of the components. Radiator hoses, water pump, and thermostat housing are common failure points. Overheating is the primary symptom.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty components, including hoses, water pump, thermostat, and potentially the radiator. A coolant flush is recommended after repairs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Cracks
    • Description/Symptoms: The exhaust manifolds can crack, particularly near the welds, due to thermal stress. Symptoms include exhaust leaks, reduced performance, and a noticeable exhaust smell.
    • Solution: Welding the cracks if possible, or replacing the exhaust manifolds. Upgraded aftermarket manifolds are also available.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ depending on repair vs. replacement and aftermarket options.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch wear is a common issue, especially with enthusiastic driving. Symptoms include clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, and a high clutch pedal engagement point.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing. Flywheel resurfacing or replacement is also recommended.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Synchro Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Synchro wear, particularly in 2nd gear, can occur over time. Symptoms include difficulty shifting into gear, grinding noises during shifts, and a notchy feeling.
    • Solution: Rebuilding the transmission with new synchros.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

  • Slipping/Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission can exhibit slipping or harsh shifting, especially when warm. This can be caused by worn clutches, valve body issues, or low fluid level.
    • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change might temporarily alleviate the issue. However, a transmission rebuild or replacement is often necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Self-Leveling Rear Suspension Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The self-leveling rear suspension (if equipped) can develop leaks in the hydraulic lines or failures of the hydraulic pump. Symptoms include a sagging rear end, uneven ride height, and a warning light on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the leaking hydraulic lines, rebuilding or replacing the hydraulic pump, and/or replacing the rear shocks/struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ball Joint and Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Ball joints and suspension bushings wear out over time, leading to loose handling, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints and bushings. A full suspension refresh is recommended for older cars.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Dashboard Pixelation
    • Description/Symptoms: The LCD display in the instrument cluster can suffer from pixelation, where individual pixels fail, making it difficult to read the information displayed.
    • Solution: Replacing the LCD screen or the entire instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Electrical Gremlins
    • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues can arise due to the age of the wiring and connectors. These can manifest as intermittent failures of lights, sensors, or other electrical components.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the specific issue and repairing or replacing the faulty wiring or components. Cleaning and tightening ground connections is often helpful.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the issue; $200 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Adjustment Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The headlight adjustment mechanisms can fail, leading to headlights that are either too high or too low.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the headlight adjustment motors or mechanisms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+ per headlight.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sticky Interior Trim
    • Description/Symptoms: Some of the interior plastic trim pieces can develop a sticky residue over time, due to the breakdown of the original coating.
    • Solution: Removing the sticky coating using appropriate solvents and/or refinishing the trim pieces.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the extent of the problem and the chosen solution.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Ferrari 456M, while a stunning grand tourer, is prone to age-related issues common to high-performance vehicles. Engine oil leaks, cooling system problems, and clutch/transmission wear are significant concerns. Electrical gremlins and interior trim issues can also detract from the ownership experience. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect any 456M and budget for potential maintenance expenses.

Ferrari, 456 M
Ferrari 456 M 2001
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