Would you buy an f430 if?

Headers (exhaust manifold) are a problem on 2005, 2006, and 2007. They are less likely to crack on the '08's and newer F430's because the newer MK2 headers are better than the old MK1 headers.

Have Capristo exhaust brackets ($600) and/or Capristo headers installed to remove tension from headers or install Fabspeed headers ($3,000).
Headers are supposed to be covered for 8 yrs under the national emissions warranty.

 

I bought an '07 with MK1 a while back. Were replaced with MK2 last fall. Covered under 8 year emission warranty. Figure you will need to replace them. 8 year emission warranty no longer available unless car has a late '07 date.

 

It is my understanding that both the brackets and manifolds were updated and that updated brackets did not preclude needing the manifolds updated (men had updated brackets). If it were me, I would assume I needed to purchase new manifolds and factor that into price.

No thoughts on the recall. Do not understand the legal requirements for a recall.

 

I purchased an 05 Spider with low mileage (about 4,000 miles over 9 years). Except for the silencer (Tubi silencer and exhaust pipes), everything was stock including the manifolds (Mk1) and brackets. I changed over to Capristo headers and Twin sound exhaust with their brackets. Upon removal and inspection of the OEM manifolds, they were still in good condition with no signs of leakage or cracking.

When I purchased the car from the Ferrari dealer, I asked whether they would consider changing the manifolds to Mk2 as part of the deal. They declined and told me that the 8 year warranty had expired and that it only applied if the manifold was showing signs of wear. Obviously there are/ were issues with the manifolds, which could lead to more serious problems if the OEM manifolds cracked but they also told me that much of this issue depended on how hard the car was driven since they rarely encountered the cracking issues on "daily drivers".... Obviously, some of this is accurate but I also understand that the dealer was playing down a contentious issue....

In reality, I don't believe that a decision to purchase any luxury item or exotic car should be solely based on fears about potential issues. Pick the make and model of car that you desire and do your due diligence. Any car you buy can and will have some issues, just be prepared to accept and make the necessary changes. Buy the car that you really want (without stretching your finances unreasonably) as settling for less will always cost you more in the long term....

Cheers
FN

 

My 2007 had the mk2 installed prior to my purchase. I still went ahead and upgraded to a Fabspeed set up.

 

The headers all crack, including the latest. Just takes them longer.

Art

 

It depends on the price. If you are getting a good deal on the car then don't worry about it.

 

I would keep an eye on them but not replace until they show signs of issues - you could change brackets to the Capristo brackets to relief stress. Keep in mind that it wasn't a recall, but a warranty coverage. That means they have to fail to be replaced under the 8 year emission warranty. If "yours" haven't failed they wouldn't be replaced (even if the car was still under emission warranty). Put money aside for it, but if they are fine I wouldn't expect seller to replace or discount full amount to replace.

 

I wouldn't let an 430 with the original MK1 manifolds scare you away. They will go eventually. Just keep an eye on them and when they do replace with Fabspeed or Capristo. I doubt a seller will give you a discount on a car with these headers in them if they are still good. Technically there is nothing wrong with them or the car.