IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2009–2013 Lamborghini Gallardo

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2009–2013 Lamborghini Gallardo. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2009–2013 period has 2 more issues than the Lamborghini Gallardo average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

eGear Clutch and Actuator Wear

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The automated manual transmission uses a single-plate clutch and a hydraulic actuator. Stop-start traffic and reversing uphill are the primary killers of these clutches.

Most affected: All eGear models

Estimated cost: £3,500–£6,000Affects: 2003–2013Often appears around: 15k-30k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Slipping under load
  • •Difficulty selecting reverse
  • •Gearbox warning light
  • •Skipping gears

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Get a specialist diagnostic clutch readout (PIS value)
  • ✓Test reverse engagement on a slight incline
  • ✓Listen for the eGear pump priming when opening the driver door

Leaking Nose Lift Shocks

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The hydraulic system that raises the front to clear speed bumps can leak fluid from the shocks.

Most affected: Models with lifting system

Estimated cost: £1,500–£3,000Affects: 2004–2013Often appears around: 20k-50k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Fluid on the garage floor
  • •Slow lift operation
  • •Knocking from front suspension

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Operate the lift 3-4 times in succession
  • ✓Inspect the shock boots for oil residue
  • ✓Check the hydraulic fluid level in the front compartment

Excessive Oil Consumption

ModerateEngine

The 5.0L and 5.2L V10 engines can develop higher-than-expected oil consumption as they age, particularly around valve cover gaskets and camshaft seals. The engine can consume up to 1 litre per 1,000 miles if gaskets have deteriorated. Oil leaks from the valley of the V can drip onto the undertray, making them hard to spot visually.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £500–£2,500Affects: 2003–2013Often appears around: 30,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Frequent low oil level readings
  • •Burning oil smell from the engine bay
  • •Oil spots under the car (especially from the centre)
  • •Blue smoke from the exhaust on startup

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check oil level at every fuel stop
  • ✓Inspect the valley of the V for oil residue
  • ✓Look for oil drips on the undertray
  • ✓Monitor oil consumption between services

Buying Tips for the 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo

  • ✓On E-Gear models, ask for a "clutch snap" readout from a specialist to determine the exact wear percentage left on the clutch.
  • ✓Check the power steering system for leaks, a known weak point on early 5.0-litre models.
  • ✓Listen for timing chain rattle on startup; while rare on the 5.2-litre, the early 5.0-litre engines can suffer from tensioner wear.
  • ✓Verify the operation of the front suspension lift system, essential for navigating UK speed bumps.
  • ✓Inspect the Audi-sourced switchgear; the soft-touch plastics often become sticky and degrade over time.
  • ✓Ensure the air conditioning blows cold, as the compressors are known to fail and require engine-out replacement on some models.
2008 Lamborghini Gallardo2014 Lamborghini Gallardo

Browse 2009–2013 Lamborghini Gallardo in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2009–2013 Lamborghini Gallardo vehicles.

View 2009–2013 Directory

Other Lamborghini Gallardo Year Periods

20032004–200720082009–20132014

Looking at a specific 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo?

Enter the registration number to check its full MOT history, outstanding finance, write-off status, and more.

Free Vehicle Check