Ferrari's last naturally aspirated front-engine V12 grand tourer before the 12Cilindri successor. The 789 hp F140 GA engine revs to 8,900 rpm and remains one of the most celebrated powertrains in modern automotive history. Production ran from 2017 to 2024, with the GTS convertible and limited-run Competizione joining the range later. The 812 occupies a unique position as a daily-usable supercar with genuine long-distance ability and a 210-litre boot.· more· less
Speed sensors fail and pump spindle seals allow hydraulic fluid and oil to mix · more· less
The 7-speed Getrag DCT shares its architecture with the 458's gearbox and inherits similar weak points. The speed sensor is the most common failure, causing loss of either even or odd gears and transmission warning messages. Ferrari now offers sensor replacement kits and dealers can rebuild the gearbox rather than requiring a full swap, bringing repair costs down to around €5,000-6,000. The pump spindle seal is another known failure point, allowing hydraulic fluid to contaminate the transmission oil. A main shaft seal leak (visible as a weep-hole drip when the engine is running) is also reported. Full gearbox rebuilds at Ferrari dealers run €8,000-12,000. These issues typically emerge after 40,000-60,000 km or 5-6 years.
MagneRide damper oil leak
€4,000 - 8,0002 of 8
Magnetorheological dampers develop oil seepage, typically after 40,000-60,000 km · more· less
The 812 uses Ferrari's SCM-E (Suspension Control Module-E) magnetorheological damping system. As with the 458 and F12, these dampers develop oil leaks over time. OEM replacements run approximately €1,800-2,000 per damper. Specialist reconditioning (seal replacement, piston rod refurbishment, and MR fluid refill) is available at lower cost from companies like Nagengast in Poland or similar European specialists. Ferrari's New Power extended warranty explicitly excludes oil leaks, meaning damper failures are not covered even under extended coverage. Budget for at least one pair of dampers over a 10-year ownership period.
12V battery drain and electrical cascading faults
€500 - 2,5003 of 8
Battery positioned above exhaust manifold degrades from heat; low voltage triggers cascading warning lights · more· less
The 12V battery sits above the exhaust manifold, exposing it to significant heat cycling. This accelerates cell degradation and shortens battery life considerably compared to most road cars. When voltage drops even slightly, the instrument cluster can illuminate dozens of warning lights simultaneously. Owners report the car's electronics are extremely sensitive to voltage fluctuations, triggering false warnings for E-diff, suspension, and powertrain systems. A quality trickle charger (CTEK MXS 5.0 or similar) is essential for any 812 that sits for more than a few days. Battery replacement itself costs €300-500, but diagnosing and clearing cascading faults can add significant dealer labour at €200-300 per hour. Some owners report that gold-plated connector kits (Scuderia Rampante Innovations) reduce transient voltage issues caused by corroded contacts.
Sticky interior buttons and trim coating
€2,000 - 6,0004 of 8
Rubberised soft-touch coating degrades into tacky film, primarily on 2017-2019 cars · more· less
The 812 Superfast continues Ferrari's use of rubberised soft-touch coatings on interior buttons, switches, and trim pieces. Moisture, UV exposure, skin oils, and heat gradually break down the chemical bonds in the coating, turning it sticky and unpleasant. Early production cars (2017-2019) are most affected. Ferrari dealer quotes for full interior refinishing can exceed €6,000. Specialist refinishing services (Sticky RX, Sticky No More, and similar) offer treatment for €2,000-4,000. This is primarily a cosmetic issue but affects nearly all Ferraris of this era to some degree after 5-7 years.
Rear-wheel steering (Virtual Short Wheelbase) sensor fault
€3,000 - 6,0005 of 8
Electronic rear-wheel steering system triggers warning lights from sensor glitches or actuator faults · more· less
The 812's Virtual Short Wheelbase 2.0 rear-axle steering system, derived from the F12 TdF, uses electric actuators to steer the rear wheels. Sensor glitches and actuator faults can trigger warning lights and disable the system, defaulting to straight rear-wheel tracking. Some owners report needing multiple dealer visits to resolve intermittent faults. The actuators and sensors are expensive to replace due to their integration with the rear suspension assembly. Low battery voltage can also trigger false rear-steering warnings as part of the cascading electrical fault pattern.
Engine oil leak from solenoid valve cover
€1,500 - 3,5006 of 8
Warped solenoid valve holder cover allows oil to pool on top of the engine, mainly pre-2020 cars · more· less
Pre-2020 812 Superfasts can develop oil pooling in the centre of the engine bay due to a warped solenoid valve holder cover. The cover plate and gasket can be replaced, though early replacement plates were sometimes equally prone to warping. Some cases have been traced to porous intake manifold castings rather than the solenoid cover. The repair involves removing the engine covers and replacing the affected gasket or cover plate. Note: the F140 GA V12 also has inherently high oil consumption (up to 2-3 litres per 1,000 km during spirited driving), which Ferrari considers normal for a high-revving naturally aspirated engine.
Infotainment system freeze and software glitches
€500 - 2,0007 of 8
Touchscreen freezes, reversing camera fails to activate, USB ports stop working · more· less
The infotainment system in 2017-2018 cars is the most affected, with owners reporting frozen screens, non-functional reversing cameras, failed USB ports, and audio volume controls that stop responding. A 15-minute BUS reset can resolve some issues. Ferrari has released software updates that address many of these problems on later production cars. Fuel gauge over-reading (leading to fuel starvation despite indicated reserves) has also been reported, requiring a new sender unit. The central air vent can produce a buzzing sound at certain engine RPMs. Most software issues are resolved under warranty or the 7-year maintenance programme.
Active rear diffuser misalignment
€500 - 1,5008 of 8
Active aero diffuser sits low on one side, mainly pre-spring 2019 production · more· less
Some early 812 Superfasts (pre-spring 2019) have an active rear diffuser element that sits visibly lower on the driver's side. Some owners were told this was within factory tolerance; others had it shimmed to correct the alignment. Cars with carbon diffuser options and GTS models with the redesigned diffuser are not affected. The DRS (Drag Reduction System) position, which activates at approximately 100 km/h, has occasionally been reported as non-functional, requiring dealer diagnosis.
Robust V12 powertrain, but complex electronics demand attention
The F140 GA V12 engine is the strongest part of the 812's reliability picture. No widespread catastrophic engine failures have been reported, and examples exceeding 100,000 km exist. The main ownership concerns are electronic and ancillary: the battery's unfortunate placement above the exhaust manifold creates a cascade of electrical quirks when voltage drops, the DCT gearbox has known sensor and seal weak points inherited from the 458's architecture, and the MagneRide dampers will eventually need attention. The 7-year free maintenance programme significantly reduces fixed costs for the first owner, but second or third buyers should budget for annual servicing at €1,800-3,000 once that expires.
Full Ferrari service history
Verify complete records at Ferrari dealers or authorised specialists. The 7-year maintenance programme is linked to the chassis, so confirm whether it has been transferred.
Cold start test
Start the engine completely cold. Listen for any unusual sounds from the V12 and check that no warning lights remain illuminated after the initial self-test cycle.
Extended test drive (minimum 30 minutes)
Drive at varied speeds including motorway to bring all systems to operating temperature. Many gearbox and suspension faults only appear when hot.
Tyre condition and age
Check tread depth and date codes on all four tyres. Rear tyres wear faster on a 789 hp rear-drive car. Verify size is 275/35 R20 front, 315/35 R20 rear.
Specific for this vehicle
Check battery voltage and charger use
Ask if the car has been stored on a trickle charger. Check for any residual warning lights. Low battery voltage causes cascading electronic faults.
Inspect dampers for oil misting or leaks
Look at each MagneRide damper body for oil residue. Not covered by Ferrari's extended warranty. Budget €1,800-2,000 per damper if replacement is needed.
Test all interior buttons and switches
Press every button and check for sticky soft-touch coating. Run fingers across trim pieces. Early 2017-2019 cars are most susceptible.
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Check for engine oil pooling in centre of engine bay
Remove engine cover if possible. Look for oil pooling around the solenoid valve cover area. Pre-2020 cars are most affected by warped covers.
Drive for 20+ minutes, monitor for gearbox warnings
DCT faults often only appear at operating temperature. Check for gear selection hesitation, warning messages, or loss of even/odd gears.
Verify rear-wheel steering operation
At low speed, check for any steering warning lights. The Virtual Short Wheelbase system should provide a noticeably tighter turning circle at parking speeds.
Check rear diffuser alignment
View the car from behind and check that the active diffuser element sits level. Pre-spring 2019 cars sometimes have uneven gap on one side.
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Check touchscreen responsiveness, reversing camera activation, USB ports, and fuel gauge accuracy. Early 2017-2018 cars had the most software issues.
Verify all recalls completed
Check rear window bonding recall (2018-2020), brake fluid reservoir cap recall (2018-2021), emissions/start-stop recall (2017-2021), and Takata airbag recall (2017-2018).
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Rear window bonding defect (2018-2020 production) - window could detach at speedCritical - verify completed
Brake fluid reservoir cap venting issue (2018-2021) - could cause partial or total brake lossCritical - verify completed
Stop/Start system emissions fault, Campaign 76 (2017-2021 production)Verify completed
Contact Ferrari with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The rear window bonding and brake fluid reservoir cap recalls are safety-critical and must be confirmed before purchase.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / unlimited km)Expired on most used 812s (earliest cars from 2017)
7-year free maintenance programmeCovers scheduled servicing, parts, oil, brake fluid. Transfers with the car.
New Power extended warrantyAvailable up to 12th year. Engine, gearbox, some electrical. Approx. €6,000-9,000/year.
Most 2017-2020 812 Superfasts are outside their 3-year factory warranty. The 7-year maintenance programme may still apply to 2019+ cars and significantly reduces scheduled servicing costs. New Power extended warranty is available through Ferrari dealers but excludes oil leaks, meaning MagneRide damper failures are not covered.
Sources: Research draws on model-specific owner forums and owner communities, recall information from official authorities, German automotive press, and multiple workshop cost references cross-checked against each other.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.
