Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (320 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2015
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, with the 458 Italia widely regarded as a modern classic and one of the most desirable modern Ferraris.
4 problems reported (3 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentDual-clutch transmission (DCT) concerns
Isolated reports of speed sensor and solenoid problems; described as field-repairable and not typically catastrophic. General concerns about long-term reliability of the DCT unit, though major failures are not frequently cited.
- RecurrentInterior quality and aging
Sticky buttons, loose headliners, and general wear in older, higher-mileage examples (e.g., 2010-2012 models). Piano black trim and touch-sensitive buttons noted as prone to fingerprints and may become less responsive over time.
- RecurrentDated technology
Infotainment system is considered obsolete; Apple CarPlay was not available from the factory (optional aftermarket add-on).
+ 1 more issueShow fewer
- IsolatedSteering feel
Described by some as overly light and lacking in feedback, especially at high speeds, making it difficult to sense front-end grip.
The version owners recommend
458 Speciale: The track-focused variant is mentioned as the ultimate, most collectible version. However, for most buyers, the standard 458 Italia is highly recommended. The consensus indicates that a well-specified, later-model-year (2014-2015) Italia in good condition represents the best blend of driving pleasure, reliability, and value retention. The Spider convertible is also noted as a desirable configuration for open-top driving.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ferrari 488, Ferrari F8 Tributo, Ferrari 430, McLaren 570S/720S and Lamborghini Huracán.
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Overall sentiment
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, with the 458 Italia widely regarded as a modern classic and one of the most desirable modern Ferraris. The consensus among owners and enthusiasts is that it represents a high point for the brand, celebrated for its naturally aspirated 4.5L V8 engine, which is praised for its intoxicating sound, high-revving character (up to 9,000 RPM), and exceptional reliability for a high-performance exotic. The driving experience is described as exhilarating, with sharp, nimble handling and a sense of special occasion. The car is noted for being surprisingly usable and reliable enough for regular driving, with multiple reports of trouble-free ownership and examples exceeding 100,000 miles with normal maintenance. Criticisms are relatively minor and focus on dated interior technology, some build quality niggles in older examples, and a steering feel that some find overly light and lacking in feedback at speed. The model is seen as a strong financial proposition, with values appreciating steadily due to its status as the last naturally aspirated mid-engine V8 Ferrari and the final Pininfarina design in its lineage.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as the purist's choice against its turbocharged successors (488, F8). It is consistently favored over the 488 for its engine sound and natural aspiration, though the 488 is acknowledged as faster and more technologically advanced. Compared to contemporaries like the McLaren 570S/720S and Lamborghini Huracán, the 458 is perceived as more reliable and engaging, though some note McLarens offer superior performance. The Chevrolet Corvette C8 is frequently cited as offering comparable or superior performance at a fraction of the cost, but lacking the brand prestige, emotional appeal, and collectible status of the 458. It is seen as a more focused, driver-oriented machine than front-engined GT cars like the F12 or Aston Martin DBS.
Recommended configurations
A later production year (2014-2015) is suggested for potentially improved build quality and the most updated components. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is universally recommended, with a focus on the dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and maintenance history. For buyers prioritizing sound, aftermarket exhaust systems (e.g., Armytrix) are mentioned as popular enhancements. Purchasing with a factory Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranty is advised for first-time Ferrari buyers to mitigate repair costs. Choosing a car with documented, regular use is preferred over an ultra-low-mileage example to avoid issues from sitting.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for enthusiasts seeking a modern, reliable, and emotionally engaging supercar that is also a sound financial investment. Ideal for owners who plan to drive the car regularly, as it is reputed to be robust with proper maintenance. Suitable for those who value the theater and sound of a high-revving naturally aspirated engine over ultimate peak horsepower. NOT recommended for those who prioritize the latest interior technology and infotainment, as the system is dated. Buyers should budget for significant maintenance costs if purchasing without a warranty, though major catastrophic failures are reported as rare. Verify transmission service history and check for common age-related issues like sticky interior buttons or minor electrical gremlins.
Remarks
The F136 engine is repeatedly cited as one of Ferrari's most reliable engines ever and among the most reliable high-performance V8s in any car, with many examples surpassing 100,000 miles. This reputation for mechanical robustness is a cornerstone of the model's positive owner experience. The car's significant and steady appreciation is directly linked to its status as the last naturally aspirated mid-engine V8 Ferrari, cementing its collectibility. While the DCT has known issues, they are portrayed as manageable and less severe than the reputation of competitors' gearboxes. Analysis based on approximately 30 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2015Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 1 | 3 | fuel system |
| 2014 | 2 | 3 | unknown or other |
| 2012 | 3 | 4 | air bags |
| 2011 | 1 | 6 | air bags |
| 2010 | 3 | 6 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices22 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2015 · air bags:frontalcampaign 15V433000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (FNA) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ferrari 458 Italia, 458 Spider, 458 Speciale, 458 Speciale A, California T, FF, F12 Berlinetta, and LaFerrari vehicles manufactured December 19, 2014, to April 29, 2015. The affected vehicles may be equipped with a driver side air bag module that was improperly assembled. This can cause the air bag to deploy in a rotated orientation.
2015 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 19V006000
Ferrari North America (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2014 Ferrari California, 2014-2015 Ferrari 458 Italia, 458 Spider, 2014-2016 Ferrari FF, 2014-2017 Ferrari F12, 2015-2018 Ferrari California T, 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale A, 2016 Ferrari F60 America, 2016-2017 Ferrari F12 tdf, 2016-2018 Ferrari 488 GTB, 488 Spider, 2017-2018 Ferrari GTC4Lusso and 2018 GTC4Lusso T vehicles nationwide. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
2015 · service brakes, hydrauliccampaign 21V833000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2010-2015 458 Italia, 2012-2015 458 Spider, 2014-2015 458 Speciale, 2015 458 Speciale Aperta, 2016-2019 488 GTB, and 488 Spider vehicles. The brake system may leak brake fluid, resulting in a loss of braking ability.
2014 · latches/locks/linkages:trunk lid:lockcampaign 14V487000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 F458 Italia and F458 Spider vehicles manufactured March 5, 2010, to May 20, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the secondary latch for the front trunk storage compartment may not release when the vehicle is stationary. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 401, "Interior Trunk Release."
2014 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 19V006000
Ferrari North America (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2014 Ferrari California, 2014-2015 Ferrari 458 Italia, 458 Spider, 2014-2016 Ferrari FF, 2014-2017 Ferrari F12, 2015-2018 Ferrari California T, 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale A, 2016 Ferrari F60 America, 2016-2017 Ferrari F12 tdf, 2016-2018 Ferrari 488 GTB, 488 Spider, 2017-2018 Ferrari GTC4Lusso and 2018 GTC4Lusso T vehicles nationwide. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
2014 · service brakes, hydrauliccampaign 21V833000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2010-2015 458 Italia, 2012-2015 458 Spider, 2014-2015 458 Speciale, 2015 458 Speciale Aperta, 2016-2019 488 GTB, and 488 Spider vehicles. The brake system may leak brake fluid, resulting in a loss of braking ability.
2012 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V381000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2012 Ferrari California, 458 Italia, 458 Spider, and FF vehicles that have not already had their passenger frontal air bag replaced. These passenger frontal air bag modules have air bag inflators that may explode in the event of a crash due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
2012 · latches/locks/linkages:trunk lid:lockcampaign 14V487000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 F458 Italia and F458 Spider vehicles manufactured March 5, 2010, to May 20, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the secondary latch for the front trunk storage compartment may not release when the vehicle is stationary. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 401, "Interior Trunk Release."
2012 · engine and engine coolingcampaign 12V211000
FERRARI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 458 ITALIA AND 2012 CALIFORNIA VEHICLES BECAUSE THE CRANKSHAFT MAY FAIL DUE TO INCORRECT MACHINING.
2012 · service brakes, hydrauliccampaign 21V833000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2010-2015 458 Italia, 2012-2015 458 Spider, 2014-2015 458 Speciale, 2015 458 Speciale Aperta, 2016-2019 488 GTB, and 488 Spider vehicles. The brake system may leak brake fluid, resulting in a loss of braking ability.
2011 · latches/locks/linkages:trunk lid:lockcampaign 14V487000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 F458 Italia and F458 Spider vehicles manufactured March 5, 2010, to May 20, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the secondary latch for the front trunk storage compartment may not release when the vehicle is stationary. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 401, "Interior Trunk Release."
2011 · engine and engine coolingcampaign 12V211000
FERRARI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 458 ITALIA AND 2012 CALIFORNIA VEHICLES BECAUSE THE CRANKSHAFT MAY FAIL DUE TO INCORRECT MACHINING.
2011 · air bags:frontalcampaign 20V007000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2009-2011 California and 2010-2011 458 Italia vehicles equipped with non-desiccated, passenger frontal air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
2011 · service brakes, hydrauliccampaign 21V833000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2010-2015 458 Italia, 2012-2015 458 Spider, 2014-2015 458 Speciale, 2015 458 Speciale Aperta, 2016-2019 488 GTB, and 488 Spider vehicles. The brake system may leak brake fluid, resulting in a loss of braking ability.
2011 · air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator modulecampaign 18V188000
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) is recalling certain 2009-2011 Ferrari California, and 2010-2011 Ferrari 458 Italia vehicles that have not had their passenger frontal air bag replaced. These passenger frontal air bag modules have air bag inflators that may explode in the event of a crash due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
7 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
4.5 V8
4.5L 8-cylinder · 605 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2013–2016