Dear friends I wonder how much is the ownership cost for a 612? And also I would like to know what are the common problems with these cars? What to look for when buying a used one, of course... Is this a DIY type of car? For instance, can I change the timing belt myself? Regards Ricardo
I can only speak for my 2008 OTO, but ownership cost is very reasonable. There's just the usual fluid changes, although keep in mind it takes 13 quarts of oil and has 2 filters. I had 2 sets of Pirelli P Zeros which only lasted about 10K miles, but now I have Michelin PS 4S and I think they may last a little longer. Belt changes are only every 5 years and are not engine out so doable yourself if you have the skill. Certainly the most common problem is sticky buttons, then retracting leather dash and rear panel, and then cracked fuel pump. Overall it's a pretty reliable car.
My experience with my 612 OTO (owned since new) is also that it has been quite reliable. It's in getting its second set of belts right at this moment. I wouldn't confuse "reliable" with inexpensive, though. As pointed out, basic service costs are considerably higher than on most "normal" cars, and if something does break, parts are pretty expensive. But as far as Italian exotics go, I'd say it's pretty darn reasonable.
Some of what was mentioned already plus some others for sure... Yes, did fuel pumps. Yes, did sticky buttons. Yes timing belt. No, it isn't DIY unless you're ready to go pro! Headliner will come down in any warmer climate after 10-12 years. Full interior pull apart to address that. Window switches go bad and are extremely expensive, unless you follow my $5 repair sequence noted in my "I just pulled the engine out of my 612 today" thread. Then they last forever and can take "over-extension" and abuse. Front and rear (race engineered, non-sealed) tie rods will fail after 25 to 35K. If yours haven't yet, you just haven't had them checked properly. Must do the main lower plenum coolant hose every major service. This is under the intake plenum. Approx 3" diameter, 14" hose. It will ruin your week when it goes. Water pumps like to go every 20-30K. Watch CV axles boots throwing grease on rear axles. Those aren't fun to replace. The rest is bullet proof. Well, except the clutch if you don't know how to drive an F1 properly... ;-)
Front ball joints corroded on mine. The mirror adjustment knob is a bit fragile. Front radiator is exposed to flying gravel which can punch a hole in it, resulting in air conditioning that doesn't cool. Apparently, it's now a rare part to get hold of.
