Are Maserati Ghibli Reliable

The Maserati Ghibli offers Italian flair and thrilling performance, but reliability can be a mixed bag. While many owners love its style and driving dynamics, it often requires more maintenance than average luxury sedans—making proper care essential.

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Are Maserati Ghibli Reliable? A Deep Dive into Performance and Ownership

When you think of Maserati, images of roaring V6 engines, sleek Italian design, and the iconic trident logo likely come to mind. The Maserati Ghibli brings that exotic flair to the midsize luxury sedan segment, offering a blend of performance, style, and prestige. But behind the glamorous exterior lies a more complicated question: Are Maserati Ghibli reliable?

Unlike mainstream luxury brands such as Lexus or Acura—known for bulletproof dependability—Maserati has historically struggled with consistency in build quality and long-term reliability. The Ghibli, introduced in 2013 as Maserati’s entry-level sedan, was meant to compete with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. While it succeeds in delivering a thrilling driving experience, its reliability record has left some owners frustrated. In this article, we’ll break down what real owners and industry experts say about the Ghibli’s dependability, common issues, maintenance needs, and whether it’s a smart long-term investment.

Understanding Maserati’s Reliability Reputation

Maserati has long been associated with passion, performance, and Italian craftsmanship—but not always with reliability. Over the past two decades, the brand has ranked near the bottom in major reliability surveys like those from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Ghibli, while newer than some classic Maserati models, hasn’t fully escaped this reputation.

Are Maserati Ghibli Reliable

Visual guide about Are Maserati Ghibli Reliable

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Industry Ratings and Owner Feedback

According to Consumer Reports, the Ghibli has consistently received below-average predicted reliability scores. For example, the 2014 and 2015 model years were flagged for multiple problem areas, including engine, transmission, and electrical systems. More recent models (2018–2020) have shown improvement, but still lag behind competitors.

On owner forums like Reddit’s r/Maserati and CarTalk, many Ghibli drivers praise the car’s sound, handling, and presence on the road. However, a significant number report unexpected breakdowns, warning lights, and costly trips to the dealership. One common theme? The Ghibli feels like a sports car dressed as a luxury sedan—fun to drive, but not always built for daily, trouble-free commuting.

Why Reliability Matters for Luxury Buyers

For many buyers, a luxury car isn’t just about performance—it’s about peace of mind. You expect smooth operation, advanced tech, and minimal downtime. Unfortunately, the Ghibli often demands more attention than rivals. This doesn’t mean it’s a bad car, but it does mean you need to go in with eyes wide open.

Common Issues Reported by Ghibli Owners

While every car has its quirks, the Ghibli has a few recurring problems that potential buyers should know about. These issues are most common in earlier model years (2014–2017), but some persist even in newer versions.

Electrical System Glitches

One of the most frequently reported issues involves the car’s electrical system. Owners have experienced malfunctions with the infotainment screen, dashboard warning lights (even when nothing is wrong), and problems with the key fob or push-button start. In some cases, the car wouldn’t start due to a faulty sensor or software glitch.

For example, a 2016 Ghibli owner in California reported that the car’s touchscreen would freeze during drives, requiring a full system reboot. Another user in New York said their Ghibli wouldn’t recognize the key fob unless it was held directly against the steering column—a known issue that Maserati eventually addressed with a software update.

Suspension and Steering Problems

The Ghibli’s sport-tuned suspension gives it sharp handling, but some owners have reported premature wear on suspension components. Issues like worn control arms, noisy bushings, and uneven tire wear have been noted, especially in cars with high mileage or driven aggressively.

Additionally, the electronic power steering system has been known to develop faults. A few owners reported sudden loss of steering assist, which is not only alarming but potentially dangerous. Maserati issued recalls for certain model years to address steering-related software bugs, but not all vehicles were covered.

Engine and Turbocharger Concerns

The Ghibli comes with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine (either 3.0L or 3.8L), which delivers impressive power—up to 424 horsepower in the Ghibli Trofeo. However, turbocharged engines under high stress can be more prone to issues like oil leaks, turbo failure, or carbon buildup.

Some owners have reported oil consumption problems, where the engine burns through oil faster than expected. While this isn’t uncommon in performance engines, it requires frequent top-offs and vigilant monitoring. In rare cases, turbochargers have failed prematurely, leading to expensive repairs.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Owning a Maserati Ghibli isn’t just about the purchase price—it’s about what comes after. Maintenance and repair costs are significantly higher than average, even for a luxury vehicle.

Routine Service Expenses

A standard oil change for a Ghibli can cost between $200 and $400 at a Maserati dealership, compared to $100–$150 for a BMW or Audi. Why? Specialized tools, certified technicians, and OEM parts all drive up the price. Tire replacements are also costly, especially if you opt for high-performance summer tires.

Scheduled maintenance follows a strict timeline. For example, the 30,000-mile service may include replacing spark plugs, air filters, and brake fluid—adding up to $1,000 or more. Missing these services can void your warranty or lead to bigger problems down the road.

Unexpected Repairs and Downtime

Because the Ghibli uses complex systems and low-production-volume parts, repairs can take longer and cost more. If your transmission fails or your infotainment system crashes, you might be without your car for days or even weeks while waiting for parts.

One owner in Texas shared that their Ghibli was in the shop for three weeks due to a faulty fuel pump—costing over $3,500 out of pocket after warranty expiration. Stories like this are not uncommon, which is why many experts recommend budgeting an extra $2,000–$3,000 per year for unexpected repairs.

Extended Warranty and CPO Programs

Given the potential for high repair bills, purchasing an extended warranty or buying a certified pre-owned (CPO) Ghibli is highly advisable. Maserati’s CPO program includes a 12-month/unlimited-mile warranty, roadside assistance, and a 300-point inspection. While it adds to the upfront cost, it can save you thousands in the long run.

Driving Experience vs. Daily Practicality

So, is the Ghibli worth it despite the reliability concerns? For many owners, the answer is yes—because the driving experience is genuinely special.

Performance and Handling

The Ghibli accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds (depending on the trim), thanks to its powerful engine and rear-wheel-drive layout. The exhaust note is throaty and aggressive, turning heads wherever you go. The steering is responsive, and the chassis feels planted through corners, making it a joy on winding roads.

Compared to a BMW 540i or Mercedes E450, the Ghibli feels more raw and driver-focused. It doesn’t isolate you from the road—it connects you to it. For enthusiasts who value emotion over comfort, this is a major selling point.

Interior Quality and Features

Inside, the Ghibli offers premium materials like leather, real wood trim, and aluminum accents. Higher trims include features like heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and adaptive cruise control. However, some critics note that the infotainment system feels outdated compared to rivals, with a slower interface and less intuitive controls.

The cabin is also quieter than earlier models, but road and wind noise can still be noticeable at highway speeds—especially with sportier tire setups.

Fuel Economy and Practicality

The Ghibli isn’t the most fuel-efficient sedan. Expect around 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. While not terrible for a performance sedan, it’s worse than hybrid or diesel alternatives. Trunk space is decent at 17.7 cubic feet, but the sloping roofline limits rear headroom for taller passengers.

Tips for Buying a Used Maserati Ghibli

If you’re considering a used Ghibli, here are some practical tips to avoid costly mistakes:

Final Verdict: Is the Maserati Ghibli Reliable?

The short answer? The Maserati Ghibli is not the most reliable luxury sedan on the market—but it’s not a lemon, either. It’s a high-performance Italian car with a passionate following and a distinctive character. If you’re willing to accept higher maintenance costs and occasional hiccups in exchange for thrilling drives and head-turning style, the Ghibli can be a rewarding ownership experience.

However, if your priority is hassle-free daily driving, low repair bills, and strong resale value, you might be better off with a Lexus GS, Audi A6, or Genesis G80. These cars offer similar luxury and tech with far fewer reliability concerns.

Ultimately, the Ghibli is best suited for enthusiasts who view their car as more than just transportation—it’s a statement. With proper care, regular maintenance, and a realistic mindset, many owners enjoy their Ghiblis for years. Just don’t expect the same bulletproof reliability as a Toyota or Honda. This is Maserati: beautiful, bold, and a little bit high-maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Maserati Ghibli reliable long-term?

The Ghibli has below-average long-term reliability, especially in early model years. While newer models have improved, it still requires more maintenance than most luxury sedans.

What are the most common problems with the Maserati Ghibli?

Common issues include electrical glitches, suspension wear, turbocharger problems, and infotainment system failures. Many of these are more frequent in 2014–2017 models.

How much does it cost to maintain a Maserati Ghibli?

Routine maintenance can cost $200–$400 per service, and unexpected repairs often exceed $2,000. Budgeting $2,000–$3,000 annually for upkeep is wise.

Should I buy a used Maserati Ghibli?

Yes, but only with a pre-purchase inspection, full service history, and preferably a warranty. Avoid high-mileage examples without coverage.

Does the Ghibli have a good resale value?

No, the Ghibli depreciates faster than competitors due to reliability concerns and high ownership costs. Expect significant value loss in the first few years.

Is the Maserati Ghibli worth it despite reliability issues?

For driving enthusiasts who value performance and style, yes. But if you prioritize reliability and low costs, consider alternatives like the BMW 5 Series or Lexus GS.