IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast / GTS

The 812 Superfast went on sale in the UK in 2017 as Ferrari's last naturally aspirated front-engined V12 grand tourer, with a 6.5-litre V12 producing 800bhp and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. It is a very usable daily supercar, but its electronics and battery care demand attention from used buyers.

What changed for 2017

  • •UK launch of the 812 Superfast, 6.5-litre V12 producing 800bhp
  • •Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with rear-mounted transaxle
  • •812 GTS retractable hardtop convertible introduced in 2019

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Parking brake efficiency below requirements at the MOT test
  • !Tyre tread depth advisories on performance tyres
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

DCT gearbox sensor, seal and clutch wear

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The 7-speed Getrag dual-clutch gearbox shares architecture with the 458's unit and can suffer speed-sensor failures, causing loss of even or odd gears with transmission warnings, and pump spindle seal leaks that let hydraulic fluid mix with the oil. Clutch wear can also run ahead of mileage. Dealer rebuilds cost several thousand pounds, so verify the gearbox shifts cleanly when cold and warm, and check whether any sensor or seal work has been done.

Est. Repair Cost: £5,000–£12,000
Warning Signs:

Loss of even or odd gears with transmission warning messages, Hydraulic fluid weeping from the gearbox weep hole, Clutch wear running ahead of expected mileage

What to Inspect:
  • Test gear selection in reverse and low-speed manoeuvres when cold and warm
  • Inspect the gearbox weep hole for oil residue
  • Ask whether the gearbox has had sensor, seal or clutch work done
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Electrical faults and warning-light clusters

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The 812 is generally strong but not immune from electrical faults, with reports of warning-light clusters, camera and infotainment malfunctions and occasional major electrical system warnings that can strand the car. Some issues clear with a restart or software update, while others need dealer diagnosis. Porous intake-manifold castings and solenoid cover plate leaks have also been blamed for fluid leaks. Test every electronic function and scan for stored fault codes.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£2,500
Warning Signs:

Multiple warning lights illuminated at the same time, Camera, infotainment or other electronic malfunctions, Major electrical warnings that can leave the car immobile

What to Inspect:
  • Test every electronic function during the test drive
  • Scan for stored fault codes and warning-light history
  • Check for fluid leaks around the intake manifold and solenoid cover plate
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Battery-related faults on cars that stand

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Like other modern Ferraris, the 812 is sensitive to battery voltage, and cars left standing for days can develop battery-related faults and obscure error codes. A quality trickle charger is essential if the car is not driven regularly, and lithium battery replacement is costly. Check battery age and health, ensure a conditioner is used, and test voltage after an overnight stand.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£900
Warning Signs:

Multiple dashboard warnings after the car has been standing, Slow boot-up of screens and electronic systems, Obscure error codes following a flat or weak battery

What to Inspect:
  • Check battery age and health with a multimeter or diagnostic tool
  • Confirm a battery conditioner is used when the car stands
  • Test voltage after an overnight stand and look for warning lights
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast / GTS

  • Check for warning-light clusters and scan for stored electronic faults
  • Confirm the battery is healthy and the car has been kept on a conditioner
  • Verify any recall campaigns, including fuel-system campaigns, are completed
2018
Check a 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast / GTS by Registration