Ferrari's flagship hybrid hypercar, part of the "Holy Trinity" alongside the McLaren P1 and Porsche 918 Spyder. Only 499 coupes and 210 Apertas were built, making this an ultra-exclusive collector piece now valued at approximately 3-4 million euros. The F140 V12 is proven and reliable with timing chains (no belt). The critical concern is the HY-KERS hybrid battery pack - Ferrari quotes approximately 180,000 euros for replacement if cells fail, though specialist repair shops can fix individual cells for a fraction. Cars stored without regular use or proper trickle charging are at highest risk. The 7-speed DCT gearbox shares issues with other Ferrari models (sensor failures, seal leaks). Multiple recalls affect this model - brake fluid reservoir cap, airbag, headrest, and TPMS software. Verify all completed with VIN check.
Battery cells degrade from lack of use or improper storage · more· less
The HY-KERS battery pack contains approximately 120 cells and weighs 60 kg. Ferrari quotes approximately €180,000 (around $195,000) for complete replacement with no option for partial repair through official channels. One owner with just 1,440 km on the clock experienced battery failure - the cells had degraded from sitting unused. Cars that sit for extended periods without proper charging are at highest risk. Specialist repair shops like EV Clinic in Croatia have successfully repaired packs by replacing only failed cells, saving owners tens of thousands. The battery is linked to a technical service bulletin (SC451) for software updates. Cars regularly driven and kept on trickle chargers when stored are far less likely to experience this issue.
HY-KERS electric motor sensor failure€15,000 - €31,000
Internal sensor in PMSM motor stator fails, not separately replaceable · more· less
One LaFerrari with 155,000 km experienced its first serious breakdown when the PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) malfunctioned due to an internal sensor fault. The sensor is integrated directly into the stator, making standard replacement impossible. Ferrari's solution is complete motor replacement at approximately €31,000. Specialist shops have successfully repaired these motors by manually measuring the redundant sensor and reconstructing the faulty component. Interestingly, the motor in that particular car was a prototype developed before production - a reminder of how specialized these components are. This is an extremely rare failure, documented in only one high-mileage example.
DCT gearbox sensor/seal failure€6,000 - €30,000
Speed sensors fail without warning; oil seal leaks cause pressure loss · more· less
The LaFerrari uses the Getrag 7DCL750 DCT shared with the 458, F12, and 488. The speed sensor is a known failure point that cannot be inspected beforehand - it simply fails without warning. On early Ferrari DCT boxes (up to 2012/13), cable ties holding internal wiring become brittle from heat, causing wires to chafe and sensor errors. Oil seal leaks are common and not covered by Ferrari Power warranty. Sensor rebuild costs approximately €6,000-7,000 at specialists. Complete gearbox replacement was once quoted at €30,000, but Ferrari now has trained technicians to rebuild boxes for around €6,500. The transaxle is integral to the car's structure, so removal is extremely labor-intensive.
Magnetorheological damper leaks€7,000 - €14,000
MagneRide dampers leak oil, seals degrade, fluid loses magnetic properties · more· less
The LaFerrari uses MagneRide magnetorheological dampers (supplied by BWI) that adjust firmness electronically using magnetic fluid. These are known to develop oil leaks as seals age, and the magnetic fluid itself degrades over time. Based on Ferrari 599 GTB experience (same technology), replacement dampers cost approximately €1,800 each. Some specialists like Nagengast in Poland can recondition these dampers by replacing seals, reconditioning piston rods, and refilling with fresh magnetic fluid. Important: oil leaks are explicitly excluded from Ferrari Power warranty.
CCB discs eventually wear out; extremely expensive on hypercars · more· less
The LaFerrari comes standard with carbon ceramic brakes (BSCCB). While these discs last much longer than steel under normal use, they do eventually wear out. Individual OEM rotors can cost around €7,000-8,000 each. Discs are typically replaced after two pad replacements. Carbon ceramic pads alone cost approximately €1,500-2,000 per axle. Some owners have turned to third-party CCB suppliers for direct OEM replacements at lower cost. Services exist to refurbish worn carbon ceramic discs, potentially saving significant money. When purchasing, ask the dealer for current percentage usage values on the discs.
12V battery drain€500 - €5,000
Battery drains within 1-2 weeks if not on trickle charger · more· less
Like most modern Ferraris, the LaFerrari has constant electrical draw from onboard electronics even when parked. The battery will go flat within 1-2 weeks without a trickle charger. The factory Ferrari battery charger was an optional accessory costing around €1,200 new (available on secondary market for €400-500). A quality battery tender like CTEK or Deltran is essential. The 12V lithium starter battery (Ferrari part number 283032/323568) itself costs approximately €4,500-5,000 - expensive for what is essentially a 12V battery. Always keep the car on a proper tender when stored.
Sticky interior buttons/trim€2,000 - €9,000
Rubberized soft-touch coating degrades from heat and UV exposure · more· less
This is an infamous Ferrari issue affecting many models from the 1990s through 2010s. The soft-touch rubberized coating on buttons, switches, and trim pieces degrades over time due to heat, UV exposure, and humidity, becoming sticky and eventually disintegrating. Ferrari dealership quotes for full interior refinishing can reach €9,000+. Specialist refinishing services (like StickyNoMore) offer alternatives for €2,000-5,000, stripping parts to bare material, repainting, laser-etching symbols, and reapplying soft-touch coating. Prevention: use sunshades, control cabin climate, and regularly clean interior surfaces.
Hypercar ownership requires hypercar budgets
The LaFerrari is mechanically sound for what it is - the F140 V12 is proven and reliable, and at least one example has reached 155,000 km before experiencing any major issue. However, the HY-KERS hybrid system introduces complexity and potentially enormous repair bills if the battery pack fails. Cars that have been driven regularly and properly maintained are far lower risk than garage queens that have sat unused. The key is finding independent specialists who can repair rather than replace failed components.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Complete Ferrari dealer service history This is non-negotiable for a car of this value. Verify all annual services completed at authorized Ferrari dealers.
Cold start test Start the car completely cold. Listen for any unusual sounds from engine or hybrid system. Watch dashboard for warning lights.
Test drive minimum 30 minutes Get all systems up to temperature. Include varied speeds and some spirited driving to exercise the hybrid system.
Body and paint inspection Check for accident damage, paint mismatch, or poorly executed repairs. Carbon monocoque replacement costs approximately €1 million.
Specific for this vehicle
Hybrid battery health check Request diagnostic scan showing HY-KERS battery state of health. Ask about storage history - has it been kept on trickle charger? Regularly driven or stored for extended periods?
Check for hybrid system warning lights During driving, monitor for any HY-KERS related warnings on the digital display. The system should function seamlessly.
Verify all recalls completed Contact Ferrari with VIN to confirm brake fluid reservoir cap, airbag, headrest, and TPMS software recalls are completed.
Inspect shock absorbers for oil leaks Check all four MagneRide dampers for any signs of oil misting or leaking. Not covered by warranty.
Test all interior buttons and switches Press every button - check for sticky coating degradation. Common Ferrari issue.
Check carbon ceramic brake wear Request dealer documentation showing current percentage wear on CCB discs. Replacement is extremely expensive.
DCT gearbox operation During extended drive, feel for smooth shifts in all modes. Any hesitation, clunking, or warning lights indicate potential issues.
Ask about LaFerrari Power warranty status Check if current owner has active LaFerrari Power coverage. This exclusive program covers HY-KERS and battery.
Contact a Ferrari dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The brake fluid reservoir cap recall is particularly important as it affects braking ability. The HY-KERS battery software TSBs should also be verified.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years unlimited mileage)Expired on all LaFerraris
7-Year Genuine Maintenance ProgramExpired on 2013-2017 models
LaFerrari Power extended warrantyAvailable (2-year renewable)
All LaFerraris are now outside their original factory warranty and 7-year maintenance program. Ferrari offers LaFerrari Power, an exclusive 2-year renewable program specifically for LaFerrari and LaFerrari Aperta. It extends coverage for the HY-KERS hybrid system and high-voltage battery, and includes annual scheduled maintenance checks by Maranello-trained technicians. This is the first time Ferrari has offered extended warranty for a limited-edition model. Pricing is not publicly disclosed - contact a Ferrari dealer. Important: oil leaks (including damper leaks) are not covered.
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.