2018 Maserati Levante

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2018 Maserati Levante, categorized and formatted as requested.

The 2018 Maserati Levante is a luxury SUV known for its distinctive Italian styling and performance. Engine options include a 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 producing 345 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque in the base model and 424 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque in the S model, as well as a 3.8L Twin-Turbo V8 producing 590 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque in the Trofeo model. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Levante’s sporty handling, luxurious interior, and unique exhaust note. However, common criticisms include reliability concerns, high maintenance costs, and a dated infotainment system.

Engine

3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 (Base & S Models)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are reported, often originating from the valve cover gaskets or oil cooler lines. Symptoms include visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or lines. Thoroughly clean the engine bay after repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported turbocharger failures, leading to reduced engine power, unusual noises (whining or screeching), and potentially check engine lights.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the exact cause of the turbocharger issue. Replacement of the faulty turbocharger is often required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L Twin-Turbo V8 (Trofeo Model)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption is reported, requiring frequent oil top-offs. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, smoky exhaust, and potentially engine knocking.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause of oil consumption, which may involve piston rings, valve seals, or turbocharger issues. Repair or replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $8,000+ (depending on the cause and extent of repairs)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (All Models)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience rough or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed maneuvers or between certain gears.
  • Solution: Software update to transmission control module (TCM), valve body inspection, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $6,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse. This can be accompanied by a noticeable clunk.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and fill, valve body inspection, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $6,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Levante features an air suspension system that allows for adjustable ride height. Failures can include complete loss of suspension, uneven ride height, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty component (air struts, compressor, sensors, or air lines). Replacement of the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can exhibit glitches, including freezing, slow response times, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $2,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., parking sensors, tire pressure monitoring system) can malfunction, leading to false warnings or failure to operate correctly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor. Replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, particularly when the vehicle is not driven for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify parasitic draws. Repair or replacement of the affected components. Battery replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can experience malfunctions, including failure to open or close, leaks, and unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause of the issue (e.g., motor, tracks, seals). Repair or replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may fail to operate correctly, exhibiting slow movement, failure to open or close completely, or unusual noises.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause of the issue (e.g., motor, regulator, switch). Repair or replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Maserati Levante can be an enjoyable vehicle to own because of its Italian styling, and sporty handling. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as oil leaks, turbocharger issues, air suspension failures, and electrical glitches. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. Due to the nature of these repairs, owners may have to take their vehicles to Maserati-certified service centers which can increase maintenance costs. Pre-purchase inspections by qualified mechanics are highly recommended to assess the vehicle’s condition and potential repair needs.