2021 Ferrari F8 Spider
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2021 Ferrari F8 Spider, categorized by component.
The 2021 Ferrari F8 Spider is a mid-engine sports car known for its stunning performance and striking design. It comes exclusively with a 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners generally praise the F8 Spider for its exhilarating acceleration, precise handling, and the visceral experience of open-top driving. Some criticisms include a relatively firm ride (common for performance cars), limited storage space, and a high price point. Potential buyers should be aware of the issues reported below.
Engine
3.9L Twin-Turbo V8
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, reduced power, check engine light illumination. Can be caused by oil starvation or bearing failure within the turbocharger.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected turbocharger. Thorough inspection of the oil supply lines to the turbochargers to ensure adequate lubrication.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $15,000+ (dependent on labor costs and whether one or both turbos need replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level warning. Leaks can occur from various seals and gaskets, including valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets and seals. Proper torque application during reassembly is crucial.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the location and complexity of the leak repair)
- Recalls: None Found
- High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Long cranks, difficult starts, stalling, check engine light. The HPFP may fail to deliver adequate fuel pressure, causing these symptoms.
- Solution: Replacement of the HPFP.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
- Clutch Wear Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Jerky shifting, slipping during acceleration, transmission fault warnings. The dual-clutch system can experience premature wear, especially with aggressive driving or frequent track use.
- Solution: Clutch replacement, potentially including associated components like the flywheel. Software updates can sometimes improve clutch engagement smoothness.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Unit Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, inability to shift gears, transmission fault messages on the display. The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s hydraulic functions, can sometimes malfunction.
- Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit, potentially requiring transmission removal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $10,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Adaptive Damper Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride quality, suspension fault warnings, clunking noises from the suspension. The adaptive dampers (MagneRide) can fail, affecting the car’s handling and ride comfort.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s). Calibration of the suspension system after replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ per damper (including labor and calibration)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights on the dashboard, including ABS, traction control, and engine management lights. Specific sensors, such as wheel speed sensors or oxygen sensors, can fail, triggering these warnings.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor, followed by replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (depending on the sensor and labor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Infotainment System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, connectivity issues (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay), screen flickering. The infotainment system can sometimes experience software-related glitches.
- Solution: Software updates (if available). In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if a software update resolves the issue) to $3,000+ (for unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, difficulty starting the car. This can be caused by parasitic drain from various electrical components.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the parasitic drain. Replacement of the faulty component or repair of wiring issues. Ensuring the battery is properly maintained (using a trickle charger when the car is stored) can help prevent this.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Retractable Hard Top Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the roof, unusual noises during operation, leaks around the roof seals. The complex mechanism of the retractable hard top can sometimes experience malfunctions.
- Solution: Inspection and lubrication of the mechanism. Replacement of worn or damaged components, such as hydraulic cylinders or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- No Issues Found
Summary
The 2021 Ferrari F8 Spider, while an exceptional performance car, can be prone to some significant and expensive issues. Engine issues like turbocharger failure and oil leaks can be costly. The transmission’s dual-clutch system and mechatronic unit are also potential areas of concern. Suspension problems, electrical glitches, and retractable hard top malfunctions can add to the ownership costs. While not all cars will experience these problems, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility and factor it into their budget. The severity of issues ranges from minor electrical glitches to major component failures requiring significant repairs. The cost to fix these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to upwards of $15,000 depending on the part and service provider.