To the 430 Gurus: I'm looking at trading my 348tb for a 2006 F430-F1 at a FNA dealer. I have come to know my 348 intimately, by doing all my own maintenance & repairs ie. brake pads, fluids, rad removals, spark plugs, filters, antifreeze changes, electrical gremlins, etc etc. (I have a well stocked shop, and a 4-post lift). Will I be able to do same with a F430? Every model line has its unique quirks and things to look out for. What are the major ones on the F430 model that, if present, would affect (lower) the purchase price? Thanks in advance.
Once you get a 430, your tools will gather dust. There just isn't much to do other than change fluids. The only problem area of note is the exhaust manifolds. A new design was introduced late in 2007. Earlier cars with any miles will already have them changed out. If not, they fall under the 8 year/80K warranty in the US. Don't know about Canada. Dave
The F430 is a very easy car to maintain compared to previous models or many other brands. Everything is so accessible, just remove the side panels of the engine bay and almost everything is right there. The only problem is that the F430 is much more complex in ECU's and electronics compared to the 348. Some maintenance operations can't be done without a SD3 or DEIS. Header and exhaust brackets are the main issues on the F430 because the whole exhaust line is fixed too rigidly and can't expland with the heat. That's why the headers brake including the newer design.
Dave, is that confirmed that exhaust manifolds are being uniformly replaced by Ferrari under the 8 year/80k mile Federal Emissions Parts warranty? Thanks
Just dive in the water's fine. Lots of history on some of the problem areas. Do your homework and you'll get a great car!
There was a recent thread where a 2005 owner from Virginia just got his done under warranty, so I assume since they have pre cats that they are covered. Dave
