Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (326 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2024
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain.
6 problems reported (3 very frequent, 3 recurrent) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCatastrophic reliability concerns (general)
Very frequent mentions of high likelihood of major, expensive failures, particularly on older, high-mileage V8 models.
- Very frequentElectrical system issues
Described as a "nightmare," with nagging gremlins, faulty modules, and persistent check engine lights.
- Very frequentExorbitant maintenance and parts costs
Routine service (e.g., oil changes $200+), extremely expensive replacement parts (e.g., $80 oil filters, $3,000 front shocks), and dealer labor rates compared to mainstream brands.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- Recurrent"F1" automated manual transmission failures
High failure rates, expensive clutch replacements, and poor driveability in early models (2004-2007).
- RecurrentRapid depreciation
Cited as losing approximately 65% of value over 5 years, making ownership a poor financial investment.
- RecurrentBuild quality and interior material concerns
Criticism of cheaper interior plastics, "parts-bin" components from FCA/Stellantis, and overall fit-and-finish compared to German rivals, particularly in post-2013 models.
The version owners recommend
The 2009-2013 Quattroporte S or GTS with the 4.7L Ferrari-derived V8 and the ZF automatic transmission is most frequently cited as the desirable version. This configuration is praised for its glorious engine, improved transmission reliability over the earlier "F1" automated manual, and the classic Pininfarina design. There is a strong, recurrent warning to avoid the early 2004-2007 models equipped with the "F1" transmission due to high failure rates and brutal maintenance costs. For newer models, the V8-powered GTS and later Trofeo trims are mentioned, but owner data on their long-term ownership is less prevalent.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (including S65 AMG), BMW 7 Series, Porsche Panamera, Audi A8 and Jaguar XJ (X350/X358).
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain. The consensus indicates that the vehicle is a deeply emotional purchase driven by passion for its design, sound, and driving character, not rational ownership. The Ferrari-developed 4.7L V8 models (circa 2004-2013) are frequently described as "fantastic," "beautiful," "iconic," and "intoxicating" to drive, with a sublime engine note and a "classy, baller feel." However, these older V8 models are almost universally associated with very high maintenance costs, expensive parts, and a high likelihood of significant reliability issues, particularly with early automated manual ("F1") transmissions and electrical systems. Newer models (post-2013) with V6 or later V8 engines receive more mixed feedback; some owners report trouble-free daily driving, while others criticize perceived declines in build quality, the use of FCA/Stellantis parts-bin components, and a less special driving experience. The overarching theme is that satisfaction is possible with meticulous maintenance and financial preparedness, but the car represents a significant financial risk, especially out of warranty.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more emotional, characterful, and visually distinctive alternative to German luxury sedans. It is consistently described as offering superior engine sound, more dramatic styling, and a greater sense of occasion compared to the more clinical and technologically focused Mercedes S-Class or BMW 7 Series. The Ferrari-derived V8 engines are a key differentiator. However, it is universally acknowledged as being significantly less reliable, more expensive to maintain, and featuring inferior build quality and interior material execution compared to its German rivals. It is seen as a car for enthusiasts and iconoclasts who prioritize passion and style over practicality, reliability, and resale value.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available to form specific configuration recommendations. Isolated suggestions include opting for the ZF automatic transmission over the "F1" unit, purchasing from the original dealer as a certified used car, and ensuring the vehicle has a verifiable and complete service history. For snowy climates, all-wheel drive (SQ4) is implied as necessary.
General recommendations
Only recommended for experienced enthusiasts with a high tolerance for financial risk and mechanical complexity. Essential prerequisites include: a significant separate budget for maintenance and repairs (potentially exceeding the purchase price), access to a specialist independent mechanic or dealer, and a willingness to perform some maintenance personally to control costs. Strongly advised to purchase with a warranty or extended warranty. Not recommended as a sole daily driver, especially in older V8 forms. Prospective buyers must test drive extensively, pay for a pre-purchase inspection from a Maserati specialist, and verify all service records. The car is described as a "hobby car" or a second/third vehicle, not primary transportation.
Remarks
Owner experiences are bifurcated by generation. The M139 generation (2004-2013) is revered for its Ferrari-derived V8 and design but feared for its costs. The subsequent generation (2013-2026) is perceived as having diluted its Italian character with more mainstream corporate parts, leading to debates about its authenticity. A small number of owners report surprisingly good reliability with modern V6/V8 models when used as daily drivers, but these are presented as exceptions that require diligent maintenance. The pervasive "unreliable Maserati" stigma in the broader automotive community is repeatedly acknowledged and often attributed to the disastrous early "F1" transmission models and high-profile reviews of low-spec versions. Analysis based on approximately 55 substantive owner discussions and mentions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2014. Years to avoid: 2014, 2005Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Maserati Quattroporte years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 1 | 1 | power train |
| 2021 | 3 | 5 | seat belts |
| 2018 | 1 | 2 | vehicle speed control |
| 2017 | 1 | 6 | unknown or other |
| 2015 | 6 | 6 | vehicle speed control |
| 2014 | 10 | 8 | structure |
| 2012 | 2 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2011 | 3 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2009 | 6 | 1 | suspension |
| 2008 | 6 | 2 | engine |
| 2007 | 4 | 3 | power train |
| 2006 | 3 | 3 | power train |
| 2005 | 9 | 4 | fuel/propulsion system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices42 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V098000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Grecale, 2023-2025 MC20 Cielo, 2024 Granturismo, GranCabrio, 2021-2024 Levante, Ghibli, Quattroporte, and 2022-2025 MC 20 vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2021 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 21V872000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2021 Quattroporte, Ghibli, 2021-2022 Levante, and 2022 MC20 vehicles. The fuel line sensor housing may crack and leak fuel.
2021 · seat beltscampaign 21V703000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2021 Levante, Quattroporte, and Ghibli vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2021 · tirescampaign 21V613000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2021 Quattroporte Trofeo and Ghibli Trofeo vehicles equipped with optional 21-inch tires. The tire placard may have incorrect tire pressure information. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2021 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 24V269000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Quattroporte and Ghibli vehicles. The fuel line sensor housing may crack and leak fuel.
2021 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V098000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Grecale, 2023-2025 MC20 Cielo, 2024 Granturismo, GranCabrio, 2021-2024 Levante, Ghibli, Quattroporte, and 2022-2025 MC 20 vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2018 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 18V347000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2018 Maserati Quattroporte, Ghibli, and Levante vehicles. The welds on the front sub frame may be incomplete, which can result in the welds breaking.
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 17V834000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2018 Maserati Quattroporte and Ghibli vehicles. These vehicles have a fuel delivery pipe in the engine compartment that may leak fuel at the connections.
2017 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 17V610000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Quattroporte GTS vehicles equipped with a V8 3.8 liter engine. A resistor in the low pressure fuel pump resistor may fail, causing a loss of engine power or a stall.
2017 · power train:driveline:differential unitcampaign 16V856000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain model year 2017 Quattroporte and Ghibli vehicles manufactured July 1, 2016, to October 12, 2016. The rear differential unit pinion nut may not have been properly tightened, allowing the pinion nut to loosen.
2017 · tires:sidewallcampaign 16V840000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain model year 2017 Ghibli and Quattroporte vehicles and one model year 2016 Ghibli vehicle manufactured February 29, 2016, to October 29, 2016. These vehicles are equipped with certain Pirelli P Zero All Season tires, size 275/40R19 101W, that may develop cracks in their lower sidewall, possibly resulting in a loss of air.
2017 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 18V173000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2017 Quattroporte vehicles equipped with V6 engines and Maserati Ghibli vehicles. Due to an engine software problem, at slow speeds such as stop-and-go traffic, the transmission may unexpectedly shift into neutral or park, or the engine may shut off.
2017 · back over prevention: camera systemcampaign 16V839000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain model year 2017 Quattroporte, Ghible, and Levante vehicles manufactured July 1, 2016, to November 14, 2016. In temperatures below freezing, the entertainment telematics module (ETM) may place itself in a protection mode, disabling the back-up camera.
2017 · seats:front assembly:power adjustcampaign 17V046000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Quattroporte and Ghibli, and 2017 Levante vehicles. Adjusting the front seats may cause the seat wiring harness to rub, possibly resulting in an electrical short.
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 18V831000
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Maserati Quattroporte and Ghibli vehicles. During production of the fuel lines, the lines may have been damaged, possibly resulting in a fuel leak.
27 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: M156
Trofeo 3.8 V8 GDI
3.8L 8-cylinder · 580 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2020–2026