Segment:
Mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive V8 sports car
Era Context:
Successor to the 348, bridging the gap to modern V8 Ferraris, celebrated for its styling and driving dynamics.
Competitors:
Porsche 911 (993), Chevrolet Corvette C5, Lotus Esprit V8, McLaren F1 (aspirational).
Design:
Pininfarina design, praised for its clean lines and aerodynamic efficiency.
Powertrain:
Naturally aspirated 3.5L V8 engine, delivering exceptional sound and performance.
Transmission Options:
Available with a traditional manual gearbox or the innovative F1-style electro-hydraulic automated manual transmission.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive factory workshop service and repair
Specific Systems:
Engine, transmission, chassis, suspension, brakes, steering, electrical, HVAC, bodywork, diagnostics
Type:
Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Detailed coverage of engine assembly, disassembly, components, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, and ECU diagnostics.
Transmission Drivetrain:
In-depth procedures for manual and F1-style automated manual transmissions, including clutch, differential, and driveshaft maintenance.
Chassis Suspension:
Comprehensive details on front and rear suspension systems, including geometry, component replacement, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Full coverage of the hydraulic brake system, including ABS, disc brake assembly, fluid service, and component diagnostics.
Steering:
Detailed instructions for steering rack, column, and power steering system service.
Electrical Electronics:
Extensive wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for ECUs, lighting, instrumentation, comfort systems, and F1 transmission control.
Body Interior:
Information on body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, and convertible top systems.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common and specific faults, including error codes.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, belt adjustments, spark plug replacement, and fluid checks.
Repair Rebuild:
Complete engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper servicing, suspension component replacement, and electrical system repairs.
Installation Adjustment:
Procedures for installing new parts, adjusting clearances, and calibrating electronic systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage guidelines for specialized tools required for F355 maintenance and repair.
Depth:
Extremely detailed, covering complete engine and transmission rebuilds to intricate electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced, including ECU data analysis, sensor readings, and system-specific fault finding.
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Typically searchable text within the PDF for efficient information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages for physical reference.
Resolution:
High-resolution scans and text ensure clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding:
N/A (PDF format)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3496 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 77.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total), designed by Cosworth
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic M2.7, later M5.2
Horsepower:
380 PS (375 hp) at 8,250 rpm
Torque:
363 Nm (268 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch injectors
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
Crankshaft:
Flat-plane crankshaft
Type:
Ferrari F1 (Electro-hydraulic automated manual)
Clutch:
Twin-plate dry clutch
Differential:
Limited-slip differential (LSD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5)
F1 Transmission Hydraulic Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific hydraulic fluid type and reservoir capacity.
Crash Test Results:
No official crash test ratings from common agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for this era of Ferrari.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Construction:
Steel monocoque chassis with aluminum body panels
Audio System:
Typically a premium aftermarket or original period-correct stereo system, often not deeply integrated into diagnostics.
Traction Control:
Optional ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) on some models, integrated with ABS and engine management.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; no Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration as standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Annually or every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact details).
Major Service Interval:
Timing belt replacement typically recommended every 3-5 years or 30,000 miles due to rubber degradation. Crucial for V8 engines.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 Liters (10.0 US Quarts)
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual. High-quality synthetic oil, typically 10W-40 or 15W-50, meeting API SL or similar. E.g., Mobil 1 or equivalent.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Ferrari's recommended coolant or equivalent with corrosion inhibitors).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific recommendation and compatibility).
Timing Belts:
Critical component. Age and mileage-based replacement is essential to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Valve Guides:
Wear in valve guides can lead to oil consumption and smoking, particularly on earlier models.
F1 Transmission Actuators:
Potential issues with hydraulic pump, actuators, and sensors on the F1 transmission can require specialized diagnosis and repair.
Exhaust Headers:
Cracking or failure of exhaust headers can occur due to heat cycles and vibration.
Electrical Connections:
Degradation of electrical connectors and wiring looms can lead to intermittent faults.
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual for specific plug type and gap (e.g., NGK PFR6B or equivalent).
Tire Sizes:
Front: 225/40 ZR18, Rear: 265/40 ZR18 (typical sizes, confirm with manual/vehicle).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x108
Founding Principles:
Founded by Enzo Ferrari, dedicated to racing and high-performance road cars.
Successor:
Ferrari 360 Modena
Key Developments:
Significant improvement over the 348, featuring a more powerful engine, revised suspension, and modern F1 transmission option.
Production Years:
1995-1999
Production Numbers:
Total production ~2,583 Berlinetta, ~1,050 GTS, ~1,600 Spider
Manufacturing Location:
Maranello, Italy