2003 Ferrari 456 M GT

The 2003 Ferrari 456 M GT is a grand tourer known for its elegant Pininfarina design, comfortable interior, and powerful V12 engine. It came exclusively with a 5.5-liter V12 engine producing around 436 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 4-speed automatic being optional. Owners generally praise the 456 M GT for its smooth power delivery, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride, making it a capable long-distance cruiser. Common dislikes often revolve around the high maintenance costs associated with owning a Ferrari, particularly regarding the complex mechanical and electrical systems, as well as the engine’s propensity to burn oil.

Engine

5.5L V12

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Higher than expected oil consumption, sometimes with blue smoke from the exhaust, especially after deceleration or at high RPMs.
  • Solution: The cause is often worn valve guides or piston rings. Repair typically involves an engine rebuild or replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $20,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt needs very frequent service replacement, or else risk catastrophic engine failure.
  • Solution: Very frequent timing belt replacement every 3 - 5 years or 30,000 miles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature clutch wear, especially with aggressive driving, resulting in slipping or difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement. It’s often recommended to replace the throw-out bearing and pilot bearing at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body, which controls the hydraulic pressure that operates the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Self-Leveling Rear Suspension
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the rear self-leveling suspension resulting in sagging or uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replacing the hydraulic actuators, accumulators, and/or pump. Some owners opt to convert to a standard coilover suspension for improved reliability and lower maintenance costs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+ for repairs, $2,000 - $5,000+ for coilover conversion
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dashboard Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels fading or disappearing from the dashboard display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacing the entire dashboard display or having it repaired by a specialist.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ECU Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Electronic Control Unit failures can cause a variety of issues including random misfires or issues with idling.
  • Solution: ECU Repair or Replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hood Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Hood struts failing, causing the hood to not stay open.
  • Solution: Replacing the hood struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticky Interior Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Some plastic interior components (e.g., window switches, center console) develop a sticky or tacky surface over time due to the deterioration of the coating.
  • Solution: Professional cleaning and re-coating of the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Ferrari 456 M GT, while a beautiful and capable grand tourer, is prone to certain common issues. Engine oil consumption and timing belt services are major concerns. Sticky interior components and electrical issues with the dashboard display are also frequent complaints. Suspension issues with the self leveling system can be expensive to repair as well. The severity of these issues ranges from annoying (sticky interior) to potentially catastrophic (timing belt failure). The cost of repairs can be significant, making thorough inspection and careful maintenance crucial for ownership.