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Maserati Ghibli Problems & Known Issues

The most common Maserati Ghibli problems ranked by severity — what to watch for, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you ignore it.

Generations

M157 — First Generation
2013–2021
3.0 V6 Twin-Turbo, 3.0 V6 Diesel

Top issues to watch for

The most serious Maserati Ghibli problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Major
Engine MIL illumination (diesel)
M1572013–202140k–60k miles
This typically indicates emissions system faults including EGR valve carbon build-up, DPF sensor failures, or AdBlue system malfunctions. The trend is worsening year-on-year, suggesting progressive component degradation or inadequate UK driving cycle compatibility.
What happens if ignoredEmissions system faults can progress to engine protection mode, limiting power and speed. DPF blockages require forced regeneration costing £200-400, while EGR valve replacement costs £400-800. Continued driving with active MIL warnings may cause catalytic converter damage.
Independent garage
£200–£600
Specialist
£300–£800
Main dealer
£500–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£400
Major
Electrical system malfunctions
M1572013–202130k–80k miles
NHTSA data shows 15 complaints about electrical system failures including wiring harness problems and unexpected shutdowns. These issues appear concentrated in early production years and may relate to complex integration between multiple ECUs in the vehicle's CAN bus network. UK market vehicles share the same fundamental electrical architecture.
What happens if ignoredElectrical system failures can cause unexpected vehicle shutdown, potentially dangerous in traffic. Diagnosis requires specialist equipment and labour costs are high due to complex wiring. Repairs typically range £500-2000 depending on the affected system.
Specialist
£500–£1,500
Main dealer
£800–£2,000
Parts only
£200–£800
Minor
Steering rack gaiter deterioration
M1572013–2021100k–120k miles
The protective rubber gaiters (bellows) that seal the steering rack ends against dirt and moisture deteriorate on diesel variants, particularly around 100,000+ miles. Split gaiters allow contamination into the rack mechanism and cause premature wear of internal components. This appears as an MOT failure at significantly higher rates than the national fleet average, suggesting a design or material weakness specific to this model.
What happens if ignoredFailed gaiters allow road salt and debris to contaminate the steering rack internals, leading to accelerated wear and eventual rack replacement. A steering rack replacement typically costs £800-1,500 fitted. The car remains safe to drive but should be repaired before the next MOT test.
Independent garage
£150–£250
Specialist
£200–£350
Main dealer
£300–£500
Parts only
£50–£100
Minor
Accelerated brake disc wear
M1572013–202140k–120k miles
Both petrol and diesel variants show brake disc wear failures at over three times the fleet average across multiple mileage bands. The Brembo brake system fitted to Ghibli models appears to consume discs faster than typical saloon cars, likely due to the performance-oriented brake compound and disc design. This is a worsening trend affecting both front and rear discs.
What happens if ignoredWorn brake discs reduce stopping performance and can cause brake pad damage if driven too long. Front disc replacement typically costs £300-600 per axle, rear discs £250-500 per axle. The car should not be driven if discs are worn below minimum thickness.
Independent garage
£400–£700
Specialist
£500–£900
Main dealer
£700–£1,200
Parts only
£200–£400

1 more known issues tracked

Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.

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MOT failure hotspots

Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Maserati Ghibli fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.

Track rod ends worn
Steering · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 8.1x the fleet average
Sample: 224 tests
Tyre cords visible or damaged
Tyres · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 7.5x the fleet average
Sample: 489 tests
Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the req...
Tyres · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 5.3x the fleet average
Sample: 308 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 5.2x the fleet average
Sample: 1,208 tests

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Related

Maserati Ghibli reliability FAQs

What are the most common problems with the Maserati Ghibli?

The Maserati Ghibli has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Engine MIL illumination (diesel) and Electrical system malfunctions.

Is the Maserati Ghibli reliable?

The Maserati Ghibli has 0 dangerous and 2 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.

How much does it cost to fix Maserati Ghibli problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Engine MIL illumination (diesel)) costs £200–£600 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.