IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Ferrari 458 Italia

The 458 Speciale arrived as the lightweight, track-focused variant with 597bhp. These are the most desirable 458 variants but command significant premiums. The standard 458 was now well-understood by specialists.

What changed for 2012

  • •Speciale with 597bhp
  • •Lightweight body components
  • •Revised suspension tuning

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !DCT sensor issues
  • !Sticky buttons
  • !Dashboard shrinkage
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

DCT Gearbox Sensor Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Internal wiring loom or sensor failure within the Getrag dual-clutch gearbox. Ferrari usually quotes for a full gearbox, but specialists can now repair this.

Est. Repair Cost: £5,000 (specialist) – £25,000 (dealer)
Warning Signs:

Loss of even or odd gears, Gearbox failure message, Car won't select any gear

What to Inspect:
  • Check gearbox history for previous repairs
  • Ensure shifts are instant and crisp in both manual and auto modes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Dual-Clutch Gearbox Fluid and Seal Leaks

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The Getrag 7DCL750 dual-clutch transmission can develop oil leaks from the main shaft seals, leading to fluid loss, pressure drops, and degraded shift quality. Early 2010–2011 models are particularly susceptible to seal deterioration from heat cycling in the transmission tunnel. Skipping the recommended transmission fluid service interval accelerates wear on the clutch packs and valve body.

Est. Repair Cost: £2,000–£6,000
Warning Signs:

Visible oil seepage on the transmission housing or undertray, Burning smell from the transmission area, Rough or hesitant gear changes, Gearbox warning light

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the transmission housing and weep hole for oil residue
  • Check transmission fluid level and condition
  • Verify that the gearbox fluid has been changed at the recommended interval
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Carbon Ceramic Brake Replacement Cost

ModerateBrakes

While CCM brakes last a long time, if they reach their wear limit (measured by weight/density), the cost to replace four discs and pads is astronomical.

Est. Repair Cost: £12,000–£18,000
Warning Signs:

Visual pitting on the disc surface, Reduced braking performance, Brake wear warning light

What to Inspect:
  • Check for a "Brake Life" percentage in the car's menu (if available)
  • Inspect for chips on the edges of the discs
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Fuel Filler Neck and Tank Ventilation Faults

ModerateFuel System

The capless fuel filler system on the 458 is prone to the anti-spit-back valve or filler neck flap failing to seal correctly. This can cause fuel to leak during spirited left-hand turns, petrol odours around the car, and difficulty refuelling as the pump keeps clicking off. NHTSA investigated this issue across 2010–2015 models.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Petrol smell around the car or inside the cabin, Fuel leaking from the filler area during cornering, Difficulty refuelling (pump clicking off repeatedly), Check engine light related to EVAP system

What to Inspect:
  • Smell the fuel filler neck inlet for petrol odour
  • Inspect for fuel residue around the filler cap area
  • Scan for EVAP-related fault codes
  • Check if the filler neck flap closes fully after refuelling
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2012 Ferrari 458 Italia

  • The Speciale is the most desirable variant but check for track use
  • Verify the DCT gearbox has been serviced
  • Check the dashboard leather condition
2010–20112013
Check a 2012 Ferrari 458 Italia by Registration