2021 Maserati Ghibli

The 2021 Maserati Ghibli is a luxury sports sedan that aims to blend Italian style with performance. Engine options include a 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6, producing 345 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque in the base model and 424 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque in the Modena and GranSport trims, and a 3.8L Twin-Turbo V8 producing 580 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque in the Trofeo trim. An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard across the range. Owners often praise the Ghibli for its striking design, engaging driving experience, and distinctive exhaust note. Criticisms commonly include reliability concerns, high maintenance costs, and an infotainment system that lags behind competitors.

Engine

3.0L Twin-Turbo V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may appear from various engine seals and gaskets, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage. Common symptoms include visible oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil pressure warning light.
  • Solution: Replace leaking seals and gaskets. Thoroughly clean the engine to remove any residual oil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature turbocharger failure. Symptoms include reduced engine power, unusual noises from the turbocharger (whining, screeching), and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Increased oil consumption requiring more frequent top-offs between service intervals.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of oil consumption, which may involve inspecting valve stem seals, piston rings, or the turbocharger. Repair or replace affected components as necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the cause and extent of repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP50/75)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, particularly during low-speed acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (software update) - $5,000+ (transmission rebuild).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay between shifting into drive or reverse and the transmission engaging.
  • Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Flush and replace the fluid if necessary. Investigate the transmission valve body for possible issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with the optional air suspension, issues can arise with the air struts, compressor, or air lines. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, and a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air strut, compressor, or air lines. Diagnose and repair any leaks in the air suspension system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per strut or compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Restarting the system, updating the software, or replacing the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (restart) - $2,000+ (replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with various sensors, such as the parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring system, or tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). These malfunctions can trigger warning lights and affect the functionality of the associated systems.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific sensor that is malfunctioning and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped, the automatic door handles may fail to extend or retract properly, or become stuck in either position.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, fail to open or close smoothly, or leak.
  • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks and mechanisms. Repair or replace the sunroof motor or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may give incorrect directions, lose GPS signal, or display outdated maps.
  • Solution: Update the navigation system software and maps. Check the GPS antenna for damage or obstructions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Maserati Ghibli, while offering a stylish and engaging driving experience, does have some common issues reported by owners. Engine and transmission problems, particularly oil leaks and rough shifting, can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins and infotainment issues also appear. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially major repairs, with costs varying significantly depending on the specific problem. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their ownership considerations, including budgeting for regular maintenance and potential repairs.