Maserati Ghibli II (AM336) Common Problems & Reliability
The second-generation Maserati Ghibli (Tipo AM336) was introduced to the UK market in 1993 as the ultimate, most refined evolution of Maserati's Biturbo architecture. Styled by the legendary Marcello Gandini, the Ghibli II featured a dramatically chiselled, aggressive wedge silhouette with flared wheel arches, a high boot line, and an opulent Connolly leather and burr walnut cabin. While domestic Italian cars received a tax-break 2.0-litre engine, UK-bound models were powered by a potent 2.8-litre 24-valve twin-turbocharged V6 producing 284bhp and a massive 305lb-ft of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. From 1996 onward, the model evolved into the highly acclaimed Ghibli GT, benefiting from Ferrari's operational takeover with a Getrag 6-speed gearbox, Ferrari 456-derived tubular rear axle, and markedly improved build quality. Today it is an appreciating, muscular 1990s Italian modern classic that rewards rigorous specialist upkeep.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Maserati Ghibli II (AM336) Faults & Repair Costs
Cooling System Degradation and Radiator Core Corrosion
The densely packaged engine bay of the twin-turbo Ghibli II creates immense underbonnet thermal loads. Aging aluminium-and-plastic radiators, brittle header tanks, and tired coolant hoses perish over time, leading to sudden coolant loss. The aluminium-alloy cylinder heads and block have zero tolerance for overheating, which quickly causes warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets. Specialist recored all-aluminium radiators are strongly recommended.
Engine temperature gauge climbing above normal halfway mark in urban traffic, Sweet smell of hot ethylene glycol coolant inside cabin or under bonnet, Visible green/blue coolant staining along lower radiator crimped joints
- Inspect radiator lower tank and aluminium fins for flaking corrosion and weeping
- Check coolant expansion tank for hairline heat cracks and oil contamination
- Verify that twin electric cooling fans trigger promptly at operating temperature
Twin IHI Turbocharger Oil Seal Wear and Coking
The Ghibli II's 2.8-litre V6 uses twin water-cooled IHI turbochargers operating at high boost pressures. If oil change intervals exceed 6,000 miles or if previous owners failed to allow a gentle idle-down cooling period after spirited driving, oil coking develops in the turbo bearing cartridges. This degrades the shaft seals, causing oil consumption, blue exhaust smoke, and boost lag.
Puffs of blue oil smoke from exhaust tailpipes on startup or when accelerating off throttle, Noticeable loss of mid-range boost pressure and sluggish acceleration, Oil pooling inside intercooler boost pipes and turbo compressor housings
- Inspect tailpipes for heavy black oily soot and observe exhaust while blipping throttle
- Check boost gauge on instrument panel to confirm boost reaches approximately 0.8 bar under load
- Review service history for evidence of high-grade synthetic oil changes and turbo rebuilds
Structural Subframe and Body Corrosion
Although the Ghibli II featured improved galvanisation compared to 1980s Biturbos, UK winter road salt still causes localized structural corrosion. The fabricated steel front subframe that supports the engine and steering rack, the rear chassis outriggers, inner sill structures, and lower rear wheel arch lips are primary corrosion points that require careful inspection before purchase.
Visible rust bubbling along lower wheel arch lips and front sill jacking points, Flaking rust scale on front tubular subframe and lower wishbone mounts, Advisories or MOT failure notes for corrosion within 30cm of safety-critical mountings
- Inspect the front subframe thoroughly from underneath on a vehicle lift
- Check the inner boot floor, spare wheel well, and battery tray for corrosion
- Probe sills and rear wheel arch seams for signs of filler or poorly disguised repair patches
Buying a used Maserati Ghibli II (AM336)? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.