How much on average should one budget on maintaining their Maserati

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nuvolablue

Junior Member
Messages
80
I really must heed the advice given over and over here...... To try and see as many cars before I buy 'the one'...... My problem is I know I will fall in love with the first one I see. My car buying track record has always been impulsive!.... Any tips here?

Maybe I should take the wife along, she's often the voice of reason, but still a petrol head and even she is smitten with the prospect of Maserati ownership, so not sure that'll help.

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Bebs

Bebs

Member
Messages
3,366
nuvolablue said:
I really must heed the advice given over and over here...... To try and see as many cars before I buy 'the one'...... My problem is I know I will fall in love with the first one I see. My car buying track record has always been impulsive!.... Any tips here?

Maybe I should take the wife along, she's often the voice of reason, but still a petrol head and even she is smitten with the prospect of Maserati ownership, so not sure that'll help.

Sent from my Pixel 3 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
There’s nothing wrong with going for the first one you see, providing a PPI checks out and doesn’t throw up any major works needed.
There is always the option of negotiating a reduced price to take any work into account, although that rarely covers it entirely.
I went for the first one I saw but I needed a LHD in the UK and so didn’t have much choice. The PPI on my 2010 car threw up quite a list of deferred work and I ended up throwing £10K at it to bring it up to my required standard. Here is the list:

  • New front wishbones top and bottom required
  • New valve cover gaskets required
  • New engine mounts required
  • New coolant expansion tank required
  • Corrosion on underside of subframe - clean up, treat and seal all underside of vehicle, replace chassis plates
  • Nearside and off side rear suspension covers missing - fit replacements
  • Mirror adjustments switch not working - replace
  • Major service required.
  • All 4 brake discs somewhat corroded and will need replacing at 'some point in the near future' (now replaced with uprated larger diameter discs all round)
  • Metallic clicking sound can be heard with drivers side window down under load at low speeds (likely to be hand brake caliper)
  • Driver's door Chrome surround damaged - replace
  • All seat adjustment levers missing - replace
  • Boot lid handle not working
  • Boot lid chrome trim loose
  • Boot lid edge badly chipped
  • Front bumper grilles slightly adrift
  • Off side rear anti stone chip film pealing
  • All alloys scuffed or chipped
  • both doors have 'thumb dents' requires a smart repair or full bodyshop.
I don’t mean to put you off ownership at all, merely important you go into ownership eyes open.
 
Ewan

Ewan

Member
Messages
6,815
What era of QP are you considering? A QP VI should have lower running costs than a QP V. As would a good QP IV (but those are hard to find).
As others have said, buy the best you can find/afford in the first place, and have a PPI by a Maserati specialist.
You certainly should have years when £1500 is plenty. But there will be others when it’ll be more. I’d recommend budgeting on £6k over 3 years and 15k miles of ownership.
 
B

bigbob

Member
Messages
8,972
There is a huge resource on here so if you give more of an indication of which type of QP and age then people can help more. Early QPV had annual servicing and if you go for the DS box then there is clutch wear to think about with its associated costs and the issue of whether you like how the DS drives. The QPV got the ZF auto gearbox in early 2007 and the option of the 4.7 was added soon after to supplement the 4.2 around about the time the GranTurismo was launched. Service intervals were moved to two years/12.5k miles at that stage (ish).

I have had my 4.7 auto GranTurismo since 2011 and have been content to use two year intervals. Over that time maintenance has cost me £2000 pa. That includes getting the car undersealed which I would recommend. On top of that you need to add car tax, tyres, insurance and fuel. Like any older car, depreciation is now minimal but is replaced by maintenance costs to a degree.

There are lots of scare stories on here but be sensible and have things like the brakes and suspension inspected for wear before you buy and factor in when the last service was performed. Some items may need addressing but a car of this sort of age will always produce different views of what should be replaced when. I would not seek out a warranty on an older car as the exclusions list will be quite long. Use that money to self insurer for maintenance.

If you are looking at the QPVI then most have a V6 engine and there is the option of diesel if that is what you want. They are bigger and don't look as nice in my opinion but they are great to drive and everything is newer. They are still a Maserati albeit not built in Modena if that is important to you. It is for me as a Maserati is not a logical purchase and I don't want something built in a repurposed factory from elsewhere in what was the Fiat empire. Best of luck.
 
N

nuvolablue

Junior Member
Messages
80
Bebs said:
There’s nothing wrong with going for the first one you see, providing a PPI checks out and doesn’t throw up any major works needed.
There is always the option of negotiating a reduced price to take any work into account, although that rarely covers it entirely.
I went for the first one I saw but I needed a LHD in the UK and so didn’t have much choice. The PPI on my 2010 car threw up quite a list of deferred work and I ended up throwing £10K at it to bring it up to my required standard. Here is the list:

  • New front wishbones top and bottom required
  • New valve cover gaskets required
  • New engine mounts required
  • New coolant expansion tank required
  • Corrosion on underside of subframe - clean up, treat and seal all underside of vehicle, replace chassis plates
  • Nearside and off side rear suspension covers missing - fit replacements
  • Mirror adjustments switch not working - replace
  • Major service required.
  • All 4 brake discs somewhat corroded and will need replacing at 'some point in the near future' (now replaced with uprated larger diameter discs all round)
  • Metallic clicking sound can be heard with drivers side window down under load at low speeds (likely to be hand brake caliper)
  • Driver's door Chrome surround damaged - replace
  • All seat adjustment levers missing - replace
  • Boot lid handle not working
  • Boot lid chrome trim loose
  • Boot lid edge badly chipped
  • Front bumper grilles slightly adrift
  • Off side rear anti stone chip film pealing
  • All alloys scuffed or chipped
  • both doors have 'thumb dents' requires a smart repair or full bodyshop.
I don’t mean to put you off ownership at all, merely important you go into ownership eyes open.
Click to expand...
Wow... That's comprehensive. Who did you use for your PPI, and rough cost, if you don't mind disclosing?

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N

nuvolablue

Junior Member
Messages
80
bigbob said:
There is a huge resource on here so if you give more of an indication of which type of QP and age then people can help more. Early QPV had annual servicing and if you go for the DS box then there is clutch wear to think about with its associated costs and the issue of whether you like how the DS drives. The QPV got the ZF auto gearbox in early 2007 and the option of the 4.7 was added soon after to supplement the 4.2 around about the time the GranTurismo was launched. Service intervals were moved to two years/12.5k miles at that stage (ish).

I have had my 4.7 auto GranTurismo since 2011 and have been content to use two year intervals. Over that time maintenance has cost me £2000 pa. That includes getting the car undersealed which I would recommend. On top of that you need to add car tax, tyres, insurance and fuel. Like any older car, depreciation is now minimal but is replaced by maintenance costs to a degree.

There are lots of scare stories on here but be sensible and have things like the brakes and suspension inspected for wear before you buy and factor in when the last service was performed. Some items may need addressing but a car of this sort of age will always produce different views of what should be replaced when. I would not seek out a warranty on an older car as the exclusions list will be quite long. Use that money to self insurer for maintenance.

If you are looking at the QPVI then most have a V6 engine and there is the option of diesel if that is what you want. They are bigger and don't look as nice in my opinion but they are great to drive and everything is newer. They are still a Maserati albeit not built in Modena if that is important to you. It is for me as a Maserati is not a logical purchase and I don't want something built in a repurposed factory from elsewhere in what was the Fiat empire. Best of luck.
Click to expand...
Hi, yes it's the definitely the QP V I want and with the ZF box..... That's the car I fell in love with in my early twenties... And don't want to worry about the F1 box foibles, although I'm sure most of it is scaremongering.

The newer shape just doesn't tickle the heartstrings for me.

Ideally want the late 2008 onwards face-lift version and If I can stretch to the 4.7 that would be great. Hope that helps.

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safrane

safrane

Member
Messages
16,881
Re PPI.
I could not get anyone to go to the car, so had to pay to transport 2 cars down to SI...I also had to pay for the time of the garage owner to take it down and wait in one case.. I did not buy that car BTW.

So you may need to add that to your budget.

One good thing about having the car at the garage of your choice, is that the dealer MAY not want to have to organise any repairs else where as it is already at a garage.
 
Bebs

Bebs

Member
Messages
3,366
nuvolablue said:
Wow... That's comprehensive. Who did you use for your PPI, and rough cost, if you don't mind disclosing?

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Click to expand...
I used Nuvola who were situated very close to the private seller I bought it off.

Nuvola London - Independent Maserati Specialists

With over 10 years experience, Nuvola London has gained an enviable reputation as the foremost retailer of pre-owned Maserati cars in the capital.
www.nuvolalondon.com www.nuvolalondon.com
Honestly can’t remember the exact cost but around £200-300. I then negotiated a hefty chunk off the purchase price using the PPI as leverage.
 
N

nuvolablue

Junior Member
Messages
80
Bebs said:
I used Nuvola who were situated very close to the private seller I bought it off.

Nuvola London - Independent Maserati Specialists

With over 10 years experience, Nuvola London has gained an enviable reputation as the foremost retailer of pre-owned Maserati cars in the capital.
www.nuvolalondon.com www.nuvolalondon.com
Honestly can’t remember the exact cost but around £200-300. I then negotiated a hefty chunk off the purchase price using the PPI as leverage.
Click to expand...
Thanks. Oh yes, I've dealt with Nareman many moons ago in the early 2000s, before he hit the big time. Sold me a set of tasty alloys for my Alfa 156. Nice guy.

I'm sure we both had the same inspiration for our respective company and forum profile names!!

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N

nuvolablue

Junior Member
Messages
80
safrane said:
Re PPI.
I could not get anyone to go to the car, so had to pay to transport 2 cars down to SI...I also had to pay for the time of the garage owner to take it down and wait in one case.. I did not buy that car BTW.

So you may need to add that to your budget.

One good thing about having the car at the garage of your choice, is that the dealer MAY not want to have to organise any repairs else where as it is already at a garage.
Click to expand...

Yeah, I've not heard of many PPI places that are willing to travel - they want you to bring the car to them. Who/what is "SI" in your post above please ?
 
dickygrace

dickygrace

www.richardgracecars.co.uk
Messages
7,339
If you’re after a 2008-2011 QPV, preferably an ‘S’; finding a good one will be incredibly hard. I’ve not managed to find many in around the last 8 years. It’s a long topic, don’t mind helping you out if you wish to call, zero agenda. You need a ‘59 onwards 4.7 S really, avoid variator issues.

As a pointer, the last one I bought at around £15k, had had more than that spent on it in the prior 12 months. I still spent £3k bringing it up to standard.
 
Felonious Crud

Felonious Crud

Administrator
Staff member
Messages
21,196
nuvolablue said:
Thanks EnzoMC..... What's considered a good warranty?

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Welcome, Mr Blue. Some years back now but I had one from WarrantyWise and it was excellent. They quibbled nothing and paid main dealer rates. The car came from Nuvola, which used Lancaster Colchester for any work that needed doing, and there was clearly a good and trusting relationship between all parties which meant my car wanted for nothing.

These days I self-insure (different brand, same principle). Have something put by in case you need it.
 
MarkMas

MarkMas

Chief pedant
Messages
8,948
nuvolablue said:
I really must heed the advice given over and over here...... To try and see as many cars before I buy 'the one'...... My problem is I know I will fall in love with the first one I see. My car buying track record has always been impulsive!.... Any tips here?

Maybe I should take the wife along, she's often the voice of reason, but still a petrol head and even she is smitten with the prospect of Maserati ownership, so not sure that'll help.

Sent from my Pixel 3 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...


Lots of discussion on this here:


I would say budget £3k per year on maintenance and servicing. But also be sure you have another £3k available in case of catastrophe (otherwise you risk having an undrivable and unsalable car on your hands).
 
N

nuvolablue

Junior Member
Messages
80
dickygrace said:
If you’re after a 2008-2011 QPV, preferably an ‘S’; finding a good one will be incredibly hard. I’ve not managed to find many in around the last 8 years. It’s a long topic, don’t mind helping you out if you wish to call, zero agenda. You need a ‘59 onwards 4.7 S really, avoid variator issues.

As a pointer, the last one I bought at around £15k, had had more than that spent on it in the prior 12 months. I still spent £3k bringing it up to standard.
Click to expand...
That's a very kind offer, thank you. I will be in touch via DM in due course.

Interesting you say that about finding a good one.....I've seen a few facelift ones on AT recently in that price bracket, most have now sold.......maybe they were/are considered to be ones to avoid. Could it be that people here just have impeccable standards of their cars ? Which is good to know, but does make you wonder what's available currently on the market may not be up to standard.

All very helpful, and I'm learning lots by the day. Thanks.
 
MarkMas

MarkMas

Chief pedant
Messages
8,948
dickygrace said:
If you’re after a 2008-2011 QPV, preferably an ‘S’; finding a good one will be incredibly hard. I’ve not managed to find many in around the last 8 years. It’s a long topic, don’t mind helping you out if you wish to call, zero agenda. You need a ‘59 onwards 4.7 S really, avoid variator issues.

As a pointer, the last one I bought at around £15k, had had more than that spent on it in the prior 12 months. I still spent £3k bringing it up to standard.
Click to expand...

nuvolablue said:
That's a very kind offer, thank you. I will be in touch via DM in due course.

Interesting you say that about finding a good one.....I've seen a few facelift ones on AT recently in that price bracket, most have now sold.......maybe they were/are considered to be ones to avoid. Could it be that people here just have impeccable standards of their cars ? Which is good to know, but does make you wonder what's available currently on the market may not be up to standard.

All very helpful, and I'm learning lots by the day. Thanks.
Click to expand...

I think you have to bear in mind that Richard's idea of 'a good one' is about 300% higher than most ordinary buyers. He only takes in and sells top-notch cars.

I have bought two QPVs in the past few years (one from a dealer and one privately) and both were fine. They needed a few £££ spent to bring them up to the standard that I am comfortable with, and could have spent more. But they would have needed another £10-15k to make it to Richard's forecourt (if at all)!


 
Gazcw

Gazcw

Member
Messages
7,785
nuvolablue said:
Some really helpful advice here, thanks all for contributing. The estimates given here are pricey, but not jaw-dropping. I feel I'm at the point where I need to scratch the Maserati ownership itch. Fortunately I'm now of an age and position to be able to afford it (just about), and I don't want to get too much older .....Otherwise I'll be more suited to a Jag than a Maser ! :p

Glad I've found this forum. Sounds like a lot more research will be worthwhile before pulling the trigger on a QP.
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I ran a QP for a few years. I was well under 2k a year on servicing, but nothing went wrong. I spent way over that in xpipe, big brakes, carbon trims, paint etc. All by choice.

For cheaper running go zf box if you are worried about the £3k every 30-40k miles.
 
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