IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2019 Ferrari 488 GTB / Spider

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2019 Ferrari 488 GTB / Spider. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
2
Minor

The 2019 period has 1 more issue than the Ferrari 488 GTB / Spider average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Turbo Wastegate Actuator Wear

SeriousEngine

The electronically controlled wastegate actuators on the twin IHI turbochargers can develop wear in the linkage or internal motor, leading to inconsistent boost pressure, turbo flutter sounds, and eventual loss of power. Owners report a faint fan-like flutter from the rear air intakes as an early warning sign. Complete turbo failure can follow if left unaddressed, with replacement units costing around £10,000 each.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £2,500–£10,000 per turboAffects: 2015–2019Often appears around: 20,000–40,000 miles (exacerbated by infrequent use)

Typical symptoms

  • •Fan-like fluttering noise from rear air intakes
  • •Loss of boost pressure or power
  • •Check engine light for boost-related fault codes
  • •Uneven acceleration between left and right cylinders

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for turbo flutter from the rear intakes under load
  • ✓Check boost pressure readings via diagnostic tool
  • ✓Inspect wastegate actuator linkage for play
  • ✓Ask for turbo inspection history

Oil Consumption and Carbon Buildup

ModerateEngine

The twin-turbo V8 can develop higher-than-expected oil consumption as mileage increases, with owners reporting up to 1 litre per 1,500 miles under hard use. Additionally, carbon buildup on the direct-injection intake valves is a known issue, requiring periodic walnut blasting to restore performance and prevent misfires.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £1,800–£2,500 (walnut blasting)Affects: 2015–2019Often appears around: 20,000–50,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Higher than expected oil consumption between services
  • •Blue smoke on cold start after the car has been sitting
  • •Rough idle or misfires at low RPM
  • •Reduced fuel economy

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Monitor oil consumption between services
  • ✓Check intake valves for carbon deposits via borescope
  • ✓Ask about previous walnut blasting or carbon cleaning
  • ✓Inspect for oil residue in the intake pipes

Exhaust Valve Actuator Failure

MinorExhaust & Emissions

The vacuum-operated valves that control the exhaust note can stick or fail, leading to a permanent "quiet" or "loud" mode.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £400–£800Affects: 2015–2019Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Lack of exhaust noise change between modes
  • •Ticking sound from the rear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Switch between Strada and Sport/Race and listen for the valve opening at idle

Infotainment Freezes and Sensor Faults

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The infotainment system can experience software freezes, Bluetooth connectivity drops, and screen blackouts. Tyre pressure monitoring sensors are also prone to failure, triggering false warnings. Corroded wiring harness connectors can cause intermittent "Check Engine" lights linked to the Manettino system.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £350–£1,200Affects: 2015–2019Often appears around: Any (software-related), 30,000+ miles (wiring)

Typical symptoms

  • •Infotainment screen freezing or going black
  • •Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay connectivity drops
  • •False tyre pressure warning lights
  • •Intermittent Check Engine light without a clear cause

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test all infotainment functions during the test drive
  • ✓Check for stored fault codes related to TPMS or CAN bus
  • ✓Verify latest software updates are installed
  • ✓Inspect wiring connectors for corrosion

Buying Tips for the 2019 Ferrari 488 GTB / Spider

  • ✓Check for any signs of turbocharger oil leaks or smoke on heavy acceleration
  • ✓Ensure the car has been kept on a battery conditioner; low voltage causes "e-Diff" errors
  • ✓Verify the car still has the balance of its 7-year maintenance plan
  • ✓Inspect the front air intakes for stone damage or debris buildup
2015–2018 Ferrari 488 GTB / Spider

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Other Ferrari 488 GTB / Spider Year Periods

2015–20182019

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