2016 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

The 2016 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta is a grand tourer known for its breathtaking performance and stunning design. It boasts a naturally aspirated 6.3-liter V12 engine producing a remarkable 730 horsepower and 509 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. There were no other engine or transmission options offered for this model year. Owners love the F12’s intoxicating engine note, exhilarating acceleration, and relatively comfortable ride for a car of its performance caliber. Some common dislikes include its high running costs, limited practicality due to its low ground clearance and firm suspension, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

6.3L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the affected gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, the water pump, or radiator. Symptoms include a sweet smell, visible coolant puddles, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replace damaged hoses or the water pump/radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the catalytic converters. Symptoms include a check engine light, reduced performance, and a sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The dual-clutch transmission, while providing rapid shifts, is susceptible to clutch wear, especially with aggressive driving. Symptoms include slipping, jerky shifts, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Unit (TCU) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, or error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace or reprogram the TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper Failure (Magnetorheological Shocks)
  • Description/Symptoms: The F12 utilizes magnetorheological dampers, which can fail prematurely. Symptoms include a bouncy or unstable ride, uneven tire wear, and error messages related to the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the affected damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ per damper.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: 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: Investigate parasitic draws, replace the battery with a high-quality unit, and consider using a battery tender.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors can fail, leading to warning lights and performance issues. Common sensor failures include ABS sensors, TPMS sensors, and engine management sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housing, causing condensation.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sticky Interior Components
  • Description/Symptoms: The soft-touch coatings on some interior plastic parts can degrade and become sticky over time.
  • Solution: Refinish or replace the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the navigation system, screen freezing, or malfunctioning audio system.
  • Solution: Update software, replace the unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, while an exceptional performance machine, is prone to several issues that can result in significant repair costs. Engine and transmission problems, particularly related to oil leaks, clutch wear, and TCU failures, are common and expensive to address. Suspension issues and electrical glitches can also add to the ownership costs. While the vehicle is reliable given its high performance nature, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly.