Ferrari 812 Ultimate Buyer’s Bible: Best & Worst Years, Full Reliability, Hidden Costs & Expert Guide (2018–2024)
📌 What Is The Ferrari 812? Definition & Model Lineup
The Ferrari 812 is a front-mid-engine, rear-drive grand tourer introduced in 2017 as the successor to the F12berlinetta. The “812” refers to 800 CV (metric horsepower) and 12 cylinders. Its 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 (F140 GA) produces 789 hp (Superfast) / 830 hp (Competizione) and revs to 9,500 rpm. The 812 family includes:
- 812 Superfast (2017–2023) – fixed-head coupé, most produced.
- 812 GTS (2020–2024) – retractable hardtop convertible, first front-engined V12 Ferrari convertible since 1969.
- 812 Competizione (2022, limited to 999 units) – 830 hp, carbon-fiber aero, track-focused.
- 812 Competizione A (2022, 599 targa units) – open-top with unique flying buttresses.
⚡ Why The Ferrari 812 Is Legendary (And Why Year Choice Matters)
The 812 represents the last of the pure, naturally aspirated V12 front-engine Ferraris before hybridization. It offers razor-sharp steering, rear-wheel steering (Virtual Short Wheelbase), and a dual-clutch transmission that shifts in under 200 ms. However, early production years suffered from electrical glitches and transmission calibration issues, which makes choosing the right model year crucial for ownership satisfaction.
⭐ The Definitive Best & Worst Years of Ferrari 812 (Full Analysis)
✔ Final evolution: revised ECU mapping, upgraded infotainment (Apple CarPlay standard), improved transmission smoothness, and no major recalls. Reliability index: 9.4/10
✔ Major software overhaul, front lift optional, still naturally aspirated perfection. Fewer reported electrical issues than 2018-19. Sweet spot for price vs. reliability.
⚠ Frequent TCU glitches, harsh 1-2 shift, battery drain, and fuel gauge errors. Many required dealer software updates. Avoid without full service history.
⚠ Improved but still has occasional park sensor failures, and infotainment freezes. Check if TSB 812.19 (transmission reflash) was performed.
📋 Year-by-Year Reliability & Common Faults (2018-2024)
| Year | Variant(s) | Known Issues (with severity) | Owner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Superfast | High: DCT harshness, battery drain, false TPMS, fuel level sensor | ⭐ 6.2/10 |
| 2019 | Superfast | Medium: infotainment reboots, occasional rear camera lag | ⭐⭐⭐ 7.1/10 |
| 2020 | Superfast / GTS intro | Low: GTS early roof seal noise (fixable), otherwise solid | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.8/10 |
| 2021 | Superfast / GTS | Very low: minor USB connection issues; no powertrain complaints | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.3/10 |
| 2022 | Superfast / Competizione | Competizione: aggressive brake pad wear on track, otherwise perfect | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.5/10 |
| 2023-2024 | Final Superfast/GTS | Essentially flawless, but note high depreciation on final units | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.4/10 |
✅ Advantages & ❌ Disadvantages – Full List
✔ Advantages
- Last naturally aspirated V12 Ferrari GT – 830hp emotional soundtrack
- Rear-wheel steering delivers agility of a smaller car
- High residual value (2021+ models)
- Usable luggage space (two golf bags)
- Exclusive, timeless design by Ferrari Styling Centre
- Carbon-ceramic brakes standard – immense stopping power
✖ Disadvantages
- Annual maintenance $2k–$4k; major service every 5 years: $6k+
- Fuel consumption ~18L/100km (13 mpg US), gas guzzler tax
- Insurance premiums extremely high (group 50+)
- Limited rear visibility, no standard front lift on early cars
- Electronics in 2018-19 model years are glitch-prone
- High-performance tires wear every 8k-12k miles
🛡️ Is The Ferrari 812 Safe? Complete Safety & Driver Assistance
Yes, exceptionally safe for a super GT. Standard equipment: 6 airbags, advanced ESC with F1-Trac, cornering stability, high-strength aluminum spaceframe, and carbon-ceramic brakes (398mm front, 360mm rear). From 2021, optional Advanced Driving Pack includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. No Euro NCAP rating, but crash structure is derived from F12 that earned 5-star Ferrari internal rating. However, the sheer power requires responsible driving.
🔧 How To Maintain a Ferrari 812 – Full Service Schedule & Costs
| Service Interval | Items Included | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual / 6,200 miles | Oil & filter change, brake fluid check, ECU health scan, belt inspection | $1,800 – $2,400 |
| 2-year / 12,500 miles | Annual + cabin filter, spark plugs (every 4 years), tire rotation | $2,500 – $3,200 |
| 5-year / 31,000 miles (Major) | Full fluid flush (transmission, coolant, brake), auxiliary belt replacement, valve clearance check, suspension inspection | $5,500 – $7,000 |
| Brake pads & rotors (front) | Carbon-ceramic wear (approx 30k miles) | $4,500 – $6,000 per axle |
Pro tip: Always use a Ferrari-certified specialist for resale value. Pre-2020 cars benefit from a full software reflash at major dealer (cost ~$600) which solves most early gremlins.
📝 How To Inspect a Used Ferrari 812 – 12-Point Checklist
- PPI by Ferrari specialist (non-negotiable).
- Verify DCT fluid changes – every 5 years or 30k miles.
- Check for software version – ask dealer for latest TSB updates for 2018/19 cars.
- Inspect front lift system (if equipped) for hydraulic leaks.
- Listen for cold start rattles – timing chain tensioners (rare but expensive).
- Test every electronic feature – windows, A/C, parking sensors, infotainment.
- Examine tires for uneven wear – indicates alignment/suspension issues.
- Review service records for major service completion.
- Look for accident repair – check VIN on Ferrari historical database.
- Road test at low speeds – feel for transmission hesitation (especially 2018).
- Check battery voltage and charge cycle – parasitic drain common on early cars.
- Request a Ferrari warranty extension if available.
🏁 Ferrari 812 Types & Ideal Usage (Daily, GT, Track)
812 Superfast: Best for grand touring and spirited backroads. 812 GTS: open-air cruising, retains 99% of coupé rigidity. 812 Competizione: track weapon and collector piece, stiffer suspension. For daily driving, 2021+ GTS is most livable due to updated tech. Avoid 2018 for regular use.
📊 Production Numbers & Rarity – Which Year Is Most Collectible?
Total 812 production: approx 11,500 units (all variants). Breakdown: 812 Superfast ~8,300, 812 GTS ~2,500, Competizione (999 coupés + 599 Aperta). Rarest: 2022 Competizione A (targa). Best collector years: 2021-22 Competizione, 2021 GTS final editions. Worst collector year: high-mileage 2018 examples with missing service history.
