2009 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2009 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, formatted for your website.
The 2009 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is a grand tourer powered by a 5.7-liter V12 engine producing 532 horsepower and 434 lb-ft of torque. It was offered with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed F1A automated manual transmission. Owners often praise the car’s comfortable ride, elegant styling, and powerful engine. Criticisms commonly focus on running costs, the sometimes-clunky F1A transmission, and the complexity of maintaining a high-performance Italian vehicle.
Engine
5.7L V12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points in the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and around the timing chain cover. Symptoms include oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Properly torquing bolts during reassembly is critical.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or the tensioners can fail, leading to timing issues. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, particularly on startup, and potentially a check engine light. If left unaddressed, it can lead to significant engine damage.
- Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Cracks
- Description/Symptoms: The exhaust manifolds can crack, leading to exhaust leaks. Symptoms include a ticking or hissing noise, especially on cold starts, and a potential decrease in performance.
- Solution: Replacing the exhaust manifolds.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed F1A Automated Manual
- Clutch Wear/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The F1A transmission uses an automated clutch, which is prone to wear, especially with aggressive driving. Symptoms include slipping, difficulty engaging gears, and jerky shifts.
- Solution: Replacing the clutch assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Hydraulic Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The F1A system relies on a hydraulic pump to actuate the gear changes. This pump can fail over time. Symptoms include slow or failed gear changes, warning lights, and eventually, complete transmission failure.
- Solution: Replacing the hydraulic pump and potentially other related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors monitor the transmission’s operation. Failure of these sensors can lead to erratic shifting, warning lights, and poor performance.
- Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty sensor(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the specific sensor.
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Manual
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The shocks can leak or lose their damping ability, resulting in a bouncy or unstable ride.
- Solution: Replacing the affected shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on whether it is just the shocks or the complete strut assembly.
- Recalls: None Found
- Ball Joint Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints can cause clunking noises, especially when going over bumps, and can affect the car’s handling.
- Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per axle.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The car can suffer from excessive battery drain, especially when left unused for extended periods. This can lead to a dead battery and difficulty starting.
- Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the drain (often aftermarket accessories or a faulty module). Using a battery tender when the car is not in use.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the car can fail, leading to warning lights and potentially affecting performance. Common culprits include oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and ABS sensors.
- Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per sensor.
- Recalls: None Found
- ECU Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Though less common, the ECU can sometimes fail, leading to a variety of problems, including starting issues, poor performance, and warning lights.
- Solution: Replacing or repairing the ECU.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Condensation can build up inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility.
- Solution: Removing and resealing the headlight housings, or replacing the housings entirely.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The power windows can fail due to a faulty regulator.
- Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per window.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sticky Interior Components
- Description/Symptoms: Some interior plastic components, especially those coated with a soft-touch finish, can become sticky and degrade over time, particularly in hot climates.
- Solution: Refinishing or replacing the affected components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the issue and the specific components affected.
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The outdated navigation system can experience software glitches, screen failures, or difficulty acquiring a GPS signal.
- Solution: Attempting to update the software (if possible), repairing the screen, or replacing the entire unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard Shrinkage
- Description/Symptoms: In very rare cases, some owners have reported the leather dashboard shrinking over time. This can cause the leather to pull away from the underlying material.
- Solution: Replacing the entire dashboard.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2009 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is a desirable grand tourer, but potential buyers should be aware of potential maintenance costs. Engine issues like oil leaks and timing chain problems can be expensive to fix. The F1A transmission, while offering a unique driving experience, is prone to clutch wear and hydraulic issues. Electrical gremlins and sticky interior components can also add to the ownership experience. Overall, owning a 612 requires a commitment to regular maintenance and the willingness to address potential problems as they arise. While some issues are relatively minor, others can result in significant repair bills. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to assess the car’s condition and identify potential problems before buying.