MY 355

there was an issue with the 95-96 models. I believe there was a recall. Unfortunately I don't know what it was for. Unless someone else on the board knows, I would check with FNA

 

Do a quick search - you will find no less than 30 topics (in very great detail) on this subject. Lots of good information out there...

In general - if your car has had the 30K full engine out service (due to time - 3 - 5 years and not necessarily actual miles). You should have most issues of the early 355's taken care of. Make sure you get a good PPI done and have the records - and have fun!

 

I remember this from not too long ago. See if the manifolds have been done. They should be covered if they haven't been.

http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23608&highlight=foo

Remember, not all dealers will treat you like this, so don't be scared off!

 

I'm not sure what the warranty you mention covers, but as the post above suggests, have a good pre-purchase inspection (PPI) performed by someone who knows 355s well. For about $400 you get some insurance that the 30K service was done properly with new valve guides and that you won't have immediate problems that can come up on the 95's, including:

* Cracked exhaust manifold (especially likely on the right side)
* faulty valve guides (this was one of the known issues - recalled)
* leaky seals (rear cam seals, etc.)
* faulty seat potentiometers (seat position issues)
* burned out catalytic converters (rattle, smell, and won't pass smog test)
* rattling exhaust bypass valve
* leaky rear shock absorbers
* improper/erratic function of convertible top

The above are some of those that can be hidden, but also look for the obvious stuff that is common:
* dry dash leather pulling away from vents and windshield area, shrunken dash leather around the passenger airbag area.
* Bubbling, sticky cover plates around center console controls
* leather wear on seat bolsters

My advice: PPI, PPI, PPI, PPI, PPI, PPI, PPI. The cost is worth it...

Remember that the cost of a cracked manifold alone can cost you over $6000 including parts and labor, maybe as low as $3000 if you're "lucky". If I had it to do over again, I'd buy one that had already had new catalytics on it (Tubi or Hyperflow), new manifolds (Tubi or anything else other than the OEM which will likely just crack again). If the 30K service hasn't been done, not a deal killer, but take $10-$15K off the price and get it done yourself so you know how well it's been done. I got a good deal that way, but be prepared to be without your car as it's in thr shop for a very good chunk of time (at least a month if not 2)