1992 Ferrari 348 tb problems

General information about Ferrari-348 tb
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

The Ferrari 348 (Type F119) is a mid-engine V8-powered 2-seat sports car produced by Italian automaker Ferrari, replacing the 328 in 1989 and remaining in production until 1995. It was the final V8 model developed under the direction of Enzo Ferrari before his death, commissioned to production posthumously.

Variants

348 TB, TS

The 348, badged 348 TB for the coupé (Trasversale Berlinetta) and 348 TS for the targa (Trasversale Spider), featured a naturally aspirated 3.4-litre version of the quad-cam, four-valve-per-cylinder V8 engine. As with its predecessors, the model number was derived from this configuration, with the first two digits being the displacement of the engine and the third being the number of cylinders. The engine, which had a power output of 300 PS (221 kW; 296 hp), was mounted longitudinally and coupled to a transverse manual gearbox. This marked the first street Ferrari application of the transverse gearbox design, originally developed for the Ferrari 312T F1 car. The "t" in the model tb and ts designations refers to the transverse position of the gearbox, which Ferrari sought to highlight for the model range, celebrating this technical lineage. This was the also the first time Ferrari featured a mid engine longitudinal V8 in one of its standard road cars, after the 288 GTO. Overall, 2,894 examples of the 348 TB and 4,228 of the 348 TS were produced.

The 348's styling differed from previous models with straked side air intakes and rectangular taillights resembling the Testarossa, stylistic themes reminiscent of the F40, the world's fastest production car at the time, and other prestigious Ferrari models of the past. The model was also the final design overseen by chief stylist Leonardo Fioravanti, known for such designs as the F40, Daytona, 512 Berlinetta Boxer, 288 GTO P5, P6 and others. The F355 that succeeded the 348 returned to the styling cues of the 328 with round tail lights and rounded side air scoops.

The 348 was fitted with dual-computer engine management using twin Bosch Motronic ECUs, double-redundant anti-lock brakes, and self-diagnosing air conditioning and heating systems. In 1990, the Bosch Motronic engine management system was updated from the 2.5 to the 2.7 version. Later versions of the 348 (1993 and beyond) have Japanese starter motors and Nippondenso power generators to improve reliability, as well as the battery located within the front left fender for better weight distribution.

All 348s have OBD-I engine management systems, though European and general market variants do not come with the self-test push button installed, which is needed to activate this troubleshooting feature.

Similar to the Testarossa but departing from the 512 BB and 308/328, the oil and coolant radiators were relocated from the nose to the sides, widening the side of the car substantially, but making the cabin much easier to cool since hoses routing warm water no longer ran underneath the cabin as in the older front-radiator cars. This also had the side effect of making the doors very wide.

The 348 was equipped with a dry sump oil system to prevent oil starvation at high speeds and during hard cornering. The oil level could only be accurately checked on the dipstick when the engine was running due to this setup. The 348 was fitted with adjustable ride-height suspension and a removable rear sub-frame to speed up the removal of the engine for maintenance.

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Common 1992 Ferrari 348 tb problems

The Ferrari 348 TB, produced in 1992, is a mid-engined sports car that has been praised for its performance and design, but it has also been associated with several common problems.

One of the most significant issues with early 348 V8 engines is excessive chain tensioner wear in the lower drive system, which can lead to failure of the inner support bearing for the cam-drive jack shaft. This problem was addressed by the factory through several updates, but if you're considering an early 348, it's advisable to have the engine inspected by a professional.

Another concern with the 348 is the clutch, which tends to last only 10-15,000 miles. Some cars have a single-plate clutch, while later cars have a multi-plate item, which costs twice as much to replace. It's essential to check the clutch for slipping or gear selection issues and be aware of the high cost of replacement.

The suspension of the 348 is another area that has been problematic. The platforms that hold the suspension springs in place can crack, allowing the springs to slide down the dampers. This issue can be addressed by regularly inspecting the suspension and replacing any damaged components.

The electronic climate control system in the 348 has also been known to play up, with the ECU at the heart of the problem. Replacements for the ECU are not available, but repairs are possible by addressing the soldered joints that usually cause the issues.

Finally, it's worth noting that the 348 was Ferrari's first modern car, and the company went to exceptional lengths to repair problems with existing cars and improve the build quality of new ones. However, many owners have cheapened out on necessary maintenance and repairs, so it's essential to have any 348 inspected by an expert before purchasing.

In summary, while the Ferrari 348 TB is a desirable sports car, it's essential to be aware of the common problems associated with its engine, clutch, suspension, and climate control system. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of this classic Ferrari.

What are the common problems with the Ferrari 348?

Ferrari 348 common problems

Engines: early 348 V8s could suffer from extensive chain tensioner wear in the lower drive system, along with failure of the inner support bearing for the cam-drive jack shaft. Both designs were updated but if buying an early car it's worth investing in a professional inspection.

Can you daily drive a Ferrari 348?

I use my 348 as a daily driver every day the sun shines. It runs great without any problems. However, I would NEVER suggest having one as your only car.

How many Ferrari 348 TB were made?

2,894 examples

Overall, 2,894 examples of the 348 TB and 4,228 of the 348 TS were produced.

What is the difference between a 348ts and a TB?

Let's start with 348 TS; here, 't' means trasversale, referencing to the transverse gearbox mounted at the rear of the engine. 's' is for spider – this was the open-top 348, with a targa top. The 348 TB used the same engine, but was a closed hard-top coupé, rather than an open spider.

1992 Ferrari 348 tb car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ferrari 348 tb problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Ferrari 348 tb vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1992 Ferrari 348 tb complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Ferrari 348 tb.

2015-10-08

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-10-08
VIN: ZFFRG35AXN0
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1992 FERRARI 348 TB. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE PASSIVE SEAT BELT RESTRAINT BECAME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V142000 (SEAT BELTS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 1,500.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1992 Ferrari 348 tb problems:

1992 348 ts-Common issues with this model | FerrariChat

https://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/threads/1992-348-ts-common-issues-with-this-model.128505/

- Some cabin rubber coated parts going gummy/gooey. No big deal, they can be stripped and painted, re-coated, or just replaced with N.O.S. - ...

Common 348 Problems? | Ferrari Life Forum

https://www.ferrarilife.com/threads/common-348-problems.2324/

Jun 6, 2004 ... I have a ferrari 348 ts made year 92,and the speedometer doesnt work.I don't know why...and i even know if the 50.000 km are true. Have anyone ...

348 Issues | FerrariChat

https://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/threads/348-issues.484321/

... common issues, problems and maintenance with these together in one thread. ... My Ferrari 348 ... Triple Black Karting. Feb 8, 2014. 217.

1992 Ferrari 348 DIY Engine Out Major | Normal Guy Supercar

https://www.normalguysupercar.com/1992-ferrari-348-major/

With only 9 hours of work over 3 nights, we had the engine out! This went pretty smooth and other than a few oil/coolant baths, no significant issues came up.