2008 Maserati GranSport

The 2008 Maserati GranSport is a stylish and sporty coupe/convertible known for its Ferrari-derived engine and luxurious interior. It comes equipped with a 4.2-liter V8 engine producing around 400 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. It was only available with a 6-speed automated manual transmission. Owners typically praise the car’s distinctive exhaust note, engaging driving experience, and Italian design. Common complaints revolve around high maintenance costs, the reliability of certain components, and the sometimes-clunky nature of the automated manual transmission.

Engine

4.2L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often originating from valve cover gaskets and other seals. Visible oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil levels are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The variators, responsible for variable valve timing, can fail. Symptoms include a rattling noise on startup, rough idling, and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the variators and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioners and guides can wear, causing the chain to stretch or jump timing. Symptoms include a rattling noise, especially on startup, misfires, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4000 - $8000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automated Manual (Cambiocorsa)

• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The automated manual transmission’s clutch is prone to wear. Symptoms include slipping, difficulty engaging gears, jerky shifts, and a clutch wear warning light.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement. Proper calibration of the clutch after replacement is crucial.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hydraulic Actuator Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The hydraulic actuator that controls the shifting can fail, leading to shifting problems or the inability to shift at all. Error messages on the dashboard are common.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the hydraulic actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Skyhook Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Skyhook adaptive suspension system can experience issues with the shocks, sensors, and control modules. Symptoms include a harsh ride, uneven handling, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty shocks, sensors, or control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $4000+ per shock depending on whether aftermarket options are used.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint and Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear in suspension components.
  • Solution: Replacement of bushings and ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., ABS, TPMS, crankshaft position) can fail, leading to warning lights and performance issues.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor depending on location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ECU/TCU Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: ECU (Engine Control Unit) or TCU (Transmission Control Unit) malfunctions can cause a variety of drivability problems.
  • Solution: Diagnose and potentially replace or reprogram the ECU/TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Batteries often drain quickly.
  • Solution: Replace the battery and diagnose the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove and reseal the headlight housings or replace them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on repair vs. replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticky Buttons/Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Many Maserati models from this era are known for having interior trim pieces and buttons that become sticky and degrade over time.
  • Solution: Refinish or replace the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ depending on the extent and DIY vs. professional repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Audio System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the navigation system, radio, or other infotainment features.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Maserati GranSport is a rewarding car to own for its performance and styling, but potential owners should be aware of the common issues. Engine problems, particularly oil leaks, variator failure, and timing chain issues, can be expensive to repair. The Cambiocorsa transmission is another potential source of costly maintenance due to clutch wear and hydraulic actuator problems. Electrical issues and interior trim degradation are also common complaints. Overall, owning a GranSport requires a commitment to proactive maintenance and a budget for potential repairs. The severity of the issues range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs spanning from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.