Segment:
Front-engined V12 Grand Tourer (GT)
Key Competitors:
Aston Martin DB7, Bentley Continental R, Rolls-Royce Corniche, Maserati Ghibli (later models)
Design Philosophy:
Designed to blend Ferrari's performance heritage with the comfort and practicality of a grand tourer.
Engine Layout:
Front-mounted V12 engine with rear-wheel drive.
Body Style:
2+2 coupe with elegant Pininfarina styling.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of the F116 V12 engine, including disassembly, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2), and exhaust systems.
Transmission:
Comprehensive procedures for both the 6-speed manual transaxle and the 4-speed automatic transaxle, including clutch, differential, gearbox, and hydraulic systems.
Chassis And Suspension:
Detailed information on the front and rear suspension (double wishbone), steering system, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, and chassis structure.
Braking System:
In-depth coverage of the ABS-equipped hydraulic braking system, including brake pad and disc replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flushing, and component testing.
Electrical System:
Extensive diagrams and troubleshooting for the entire electrical system, including lighting, ignition, starting, charging, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, and ECU functions.
Bodywork And Interior:
Procedures for body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seat adjustment, HVAC system, and aerodynamic components.
Fuel System:
Detailed instructions for fuel tank removal, fuel pump service, fuel lines, and the multi-point fuel injection system diagnostics.
Cooling System:
Service and repair of the radiator, cooling fans, water pump, thermostat, and coolant passages.
Exhaust System:
Information on exhaust manifold removal, catalytic converter service, mufflers, and exhaust pipe repairs.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant flush, and brake fluid replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, and symptom-based troubleshooting for all major vehicle systems.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls, and electrical system repairs.
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing specific components such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, ignition coils, sensors, and more.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific Ferrari 456 procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair information, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Configuration:
65-degree V12
Displacement:
5.5 Liters (5473 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85 mm x 80 mm
Valvetrain:
48 Valves (4 per cylinder), DOHC
Horsepower:
478 hp @ 7000 rpm (456 GT), 512 hp @ 7250 rpm (456 M GT)
Torque:
569 Nm (420 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (456 GT), 584 Nm (431 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm (456 M GT)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 Engine Management System, Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Shellcat ESI)
Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 12.4 Liters (13.1 US Quarts)
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transaxle (456 GT)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (456 GT Automatic, 456 M GT Automatic)
Drive Layout:
Rear-wheel drive with rear transaxle (engine front, gearbox/differential rear).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (refer to manual for specific Ferrari recommendations)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific Ferrari recommendations)
Length:
Approx. 4,730 mm (186.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,900 mm (74.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,300 mm (51.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,690 kg (3,726 lbs) (Manual), Approx. 1,770 kg (3,902 lbs) (Automatic)
Audio System:
Factory premium audio system, often with CD player. Manual may cover basic diagnostics and speaker replacement.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control system. Manual details HVAC system components, blower motor, refrigerant, and troubleshooting.
ABS:
Standard ABS system for enhanced braking control.
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) for improved grip under acceleration.
Original Features:
Primarily focused on mechanical and electrical systems, not modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or navigation as found in contemporary vehicles.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact Ferrari recommendations).
Major Service:
Timing belt replacement recommended every 3-5 years or at specific mileage intervals (e.g., 50,000-75,000 km), a critical procedure detailed in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific Ferrari recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific hydraulic fluid type
Timing Belt Tensioners:
Potential failure of early tensioners requires diligent adherence to replacement schedules or upgraded components. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on rubber bushings can lead to noise and handling degradation. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many older high-performance cars, intermittent electrical issues can arise. The detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are essential for diagnosis.
Clutch Wear:
Subject to wear based on driving style. Manual covers clutch replacement procedures.
Maintenance Schedule Highlights
Yearly Tasks:
Brake fluid flush, coolant check, inspection of belts and hoses.
50K Km Tasks:
Spark plug replacement, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change, inspection of suspension components.
Legacy:
Continues Ferrari's tradition of producing powerful, luxurious, and high-performance grand tourers.
456 Gt:
Introduced in 1992 as the successor to the 412, featuring a more modern design and enhanced performance.
456 M Gt:
Introduced in 1998 as a significant update ('M' for Modificata), featuring revised styling, interior, and powertrain enhancements.
Production Years:
1992-2003
Manufacturing Location:
Maranello, Italy