Vehicle Segment:
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Grand Tourer (GT)
Key Competitors:
Aston Martin DB7, Bentley Continental GT, Jaguar XKR, Porsche 911 (996/997 generation)
Design Philosophy:
A blend of powerful performance, luxurious comfort, and classic Ferrari styling, designed for long-distance touring.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides owners and independent mechanics with factory-level repair and maintenance data, enabling accurate servicing and troubleshooting for a complex, high-performance vehicle.
Sections Covered Volume 1:
General Information, Engine, Injection-Ignition, Clutch-Gearbox, Steering, Suspensions & Wheels
Sections Covered Volume 2:
Brakes, Controls-Driving Instructions, Air Temperature Control System, Electrical System
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages across two volumes (specific count not provided, but typical for factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service / Repair / Workshop Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition timing, emission controls
Powertrain Systems:
Clutch, manual transmission (or F1 gearbox if applicable to specific sub-models), final drive, drivetrain components
Chassis Systems:
Steering system (power steering, alignment), suspension components (shock absorbers, springs, control arms), wheel bearings, hub assemblies
Braking Systems:
Brake system hydraulics, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) if equipped
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and related sensors
Climate Control Systems:
Air conditioning system components, heater core, ventilation system, climate control module
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, locks, glass, seats, trim, driving controls
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II where applicable), electrical circuit testing
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, reassembly, and installation
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized Ferrari tools and equipment required for certain tasks
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and detailed component overhauls.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V12
Engine Displacement:
5.5 Liters (5500 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85 mm x 80 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
485 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque:
420 lb-ft (569 Nm) @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Crash Test Data:
No formal government crash test ratings available as is typical for low-volume, exotic sports cars of this era.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS, Traction Control System (TCS), optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger airbags, reinforced chassis structure
Infotainment System:
Basic infotainment, typically comprising an aftermarket or original stereo system with CD player, and climate controls. No integrated navigation or advanced connectivity as per contemporary standards.
Driver Assistance Features:
Traction control, ABS. Primarily focused on driver engagement rather than extensive electronic aids.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic audio input. No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration from factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Major services, including timing belt replacement (if applicable, though this V12 used chains), spark plugs, and fluid flushes, are often recommended around 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) or 3-5 years.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic), API and ACEA specifications are critical for high-performance V12s.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) or GL-4/GL-5 gear oil, viscosity and specifications are critical. Refer to manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 high-temperature brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (due to performance driving), suspension bushings, exhaust system components, potential for sticky residue on interior plastics.
Electrical Concerns:
Wiring harness integrity, aging sensors, door lock actuators, power window motors can be points of concern over time.
Engine Specifics:
While robust, meticulous maintenance is key for the V12. Issues can arise from neglected fluid changes or cooling system faults.
Automotive Press Awards:
The Ferrari 550 Maranello was widely acclaimed by automotive journalists for its performance, design, and return to a manual transmission in a flagship Ferrari GT. Specific awards not readily documented but received significant praise.
Performance Ratings:
Highly rated for its top speed, acceleration, and handling characteristics among contemporary GT cars.
