2011 Ferrari 599 GTB
The 2011 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a grand tourer known for its powerful V12 engine, stunning design, and exhilarating performance. The standard engine offered was a 6.0-liter V12 engine which produced 612 horsepower and 448 lb-ft of torque. It delivered outstanding performance, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in around 3.7 seconds. All 2011 Ferrari 599 GTB models came with a 6-speed automated manual transmission. Owners often praise the 599 GTB for its breathtaking engine sound, sharp handling, and luxurious interior. Common complaints often revolve around high maintenance costs, limited practicality for everyday use, and some reliability concerns related to specific components.
Engine
6.0L V12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and timing chain cover. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is the typical solution. In some cases, resealing the entire engine may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Guides Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the valve guides can lead to oil consumption and reduced engine performance. Symptoms include excessive blue smoke from the exhaust, especially upon start-up, and a ticking noise from the valve train.
- Solution: Replacing the worn valve guides and potentially the valves themselves is required. This is a major engine repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $15,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automated Manual (F1)
- Clutch Wear
- Description/Symptoms: The automated manual transmission relies on a clutch for gear changes. Clutch wear is a common issue, particularly with aggressive driving. Symptoms include slipping, difficulty engaging gears, and a high-pitched squealing noise during gear changes.
- Solution: Replacing the clutch is the standard solution. The clutch wear can be greatly increased if the vehicle is frequently used in stop-and-go traffic.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+ (includes clutch, labor, and potentially other related components).
- Recalls: None Found
- Hydraulic Pump Failure (F1 System)
- Description/Symptoms: The F1 transmission system uses a hydraulic pump to operate the clutch and gear changes. Pump failure can lead to difficulty shifting gears, transmission warning lights, and ultimately, the inability to drive the car.
- Solution: Replacing the hydraulic pump and potentially related components like the accumulator is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Damper Issues (Magnetorheological Dampers)
- Description/Symptoms: The 599 GTB often features magnetorheological dampers. These dampers can leak fluid or fail, leading to a deterioration in ride quality and handling. Symptoms include a bouncy or harsh ride, uneven tire wear, and warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty dampers is the usual fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+ for a set of dampers, including labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the car can fail, leading to a range of issues. Common culprits include oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and ABS sensors. Symptoms include check engine lights, poor engine performance, and ABS/traction control issues.
- Solution: Diagnosing the faulty sensor and replacing it is the solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per sensor, depending on the location and type of sensor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: A common issue with many luxury vehicles is excessive battery drain. This can be caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly, an aging battery, or parasitic draw from aftermarket accessories.
- Solution: Diagnosing the source of the drain and replacing the battery or faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Condensation can build up inside the headlight housings, especially in humid climates. This can reduce headlight output and potentially damage the headlight assembly.
- Solution: Removing the headlight assembly, drying it out, and resealing it. In some cases, the entire headlight assembly may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the complexity of the repair and whether a new assembly is required.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sticky Interior Trim
- Description/Symptoms: Some interior trim pieces, particularly those coated with a soft-touch material, can become sticky and degrade over time, especially in hot climates.
- Solution: Refinishing or replacing the affected trim pieces.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the number of pieces and the chosen repair method.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2011 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, while a stunning and powerful vehicle, can present owners with several potential issues. Engine-related issues like oil leaks and valve guide wear can be costly to address. Transmission problems, particularly related to clutch wear and hydraulic pump failure in the F1 system, are also common and can be expensive. Electrical issues, suspension problems, and interior trim degradation can add to the ownership costs. Overall, the 599 GTB is a high-performance machine that requires diligent maintenance and can incur significant repair costs. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their ownership expectations. The severity of the issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.