2004 Maserati Quattroporte

The 2004 Maserati Quattroporte marked the return of the legendary nameplate and brought Italian luxury and performance to the sedan market. The engine option available for this model year was a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine that produced 394 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a DuoSelect automated manual transmission. Owners often praise the Quattroporte for its stunning design, luxurious interior, and distinctive Ferrari-derived engine sound. However, common complaints include high maintenance costs, electronic gremlins, and the unrefined nature of the DuoSelect transmission.

Engine

4.2L V8

• Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise coming from the engine, particularly on startup or idle. Can eventually lead to engine damage if the timing chain breaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and timing cover.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location of the leak
• Variator Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle on startup, rough idle, and decreased performance. These variators are sensitive to oil quality and changes
  • Solution: Variator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Transmission

DuoSelect Automated Manual Transmission

• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, jerking motions during gear changes. This is a common issue due to the single-clutch design of the DuoSelect transmission.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement and potentially associated components like the throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission warning lights, inability to shift gears, complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
• Selector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow or jerky shifts, inability to shift into gear, gear indicator lights flashing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission selector unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Skyhook Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, knocking noises from the suspension, poor handling, suspension warning lights. The Skyhook system utilizes electronically adjustable dampers that can fail.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected dampers or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per corner (depending on the affected component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Imprecise handling, vibration at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per control arm

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity. Caused by parasitic draws from various electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (ABS, TPMS, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard, malfunctioning systems (ABS, TPMS, etc.).
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
• ECU Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Multiple warning lights, performance issues, inability to start the car.
  • Solution: ECU repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+

Exterior

• Self Dimming Mirror Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The self dimming rearview mirror leaks a dark fluid which causes it to not function properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the self dimming rearview mirror.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight and sealing the unit, or replacement of the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+

Interior

• Sticky Interior Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Some interior plastic and rubber trim pieces develop a sticky, tacky texture. This is a common issue with Italian cars of this era.
  • Solution: Removal and refinishing of the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the extent of the issue)
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Non-functional navigation screen, system freezes or crashes.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Summary

The 2004 Maserati Quattroporte is a beautiful and engaging car, but prospective buyers should be aware of its potential issues. The most significant problems revolve around the engine, transmission, and electrical systems, which can lead to costly repairs. The DuoSelect transmission, in particular, is a known weak point. While the suspension and interior issues are less severe, they can still contribute to the overall cost of ownership. Due to the age of the car and the complexity of its systems, maintenance is critical. Budgeting for potential repairs is essential for anyone considering purchasing a 2004 Maserati Quattroporte. The costs can be substantial.