2011 Ferrari FF

The 2011 Ferrari FF marked a departure for Ferrari, introducing a four-wheel-drive system and a shooting-brake design, which has gathered mixed reviews. This model year features a single engine option, a 6.3-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine producing 651 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque. The FF is appreciated for its powerful engine, unique styling, and all-weather capability, although some criticize its unconventional looks and high maintenance costs. It is only available with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Engine

6.3L V12

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent top-offs. This can manifest as low oil level warnings or the need to add oil between scheduled services.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels regularly and addressing any leaks or underlying engine issues. In severe cases, engine rebuild might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the cause and extent of damage. $500 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Catalytic converters may fail prematurely, leading to a check engine light and potentially affecting emissions performance. This can be caused by engine misfires or excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Dual-clutch transmissions can experience premature clutch wear, especially with aggressive driving. Symptoms include slipping, jerky shifts, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s shifting, can fail, leading to erratic shifting behavior, inability to shift, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The magnetic ride control system, which uses special dampers filled with magnetorheological fluid, can develop leaks or sensor failures. This can result in a degraded ride quality and warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty damper or sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, especially when the car is not driven frequently. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Investigating and addressing any parasitic drains, ensuring the battery is in good condition, and using a battery maintainer when the car is stored.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the car, such as those for the TPMS, ABS, and stability control systems, can fail, leading to warning lights and potentially affecting vehicle performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation can build up inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlights.
  • Solution: Replacing or resealing the headlight housings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticky Interior Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Some interior trim pieces, particularly those with a soft-touch coating, 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+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Ferrari FF presents a mix of performance and potential maintenance concerns. Issues such as excessive oil consumption, clutch wear, and electrical glitches can be costly to address. While the FF offers a unique driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in higher-than-average maintenance expenses when considering ownership. The severity of these issues varies, but addressing them promptly is crucial to preserving the FF’s performance and value.