IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
1997 Maserati Ghibli II (AM336)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 1997 Maserati Ghibli II (AM336). 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Cooling System Degradation and Radiator Core Corrosion

SeriousCooling System

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,800
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • 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
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Twin IHI Turbocharger Oil Seal Wear and Coking

SeriousEngine

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,200–£2,800
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • 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
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Structural Subframe and Body Corrosion

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£3,000
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • 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
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 1997 Maserati Ghibli II (AM336)

  • Prioritize late-production Ghibli GT (1996–1998) models, which feature Ferrari-era build standards, Getrag 6-speed gearboxes, and superior rust protection.
  • Verify that the cam belt, tensioner bearings, and water pump have been renewed strictly within the last 3 years or 24,000 miles by a Maserati specialist.
  • Inspect the structural front subframe, lower door bottoms, rear wheel arches, and floor pans thoroughly for structural corrosion.
  • Check that both IHI water-cooled turbochargers spool cleanly without emitting blue exhaust smoke on boost or overrun.
  • Test all interior electrical switchgear, including electric window lifts, dashboard lighting, and the signature Swiss-made oval analogue clock.
Check a 1997 Maserati Ghibli II (AM336) by Registration