Lamborghini Gallardo problems

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The Lamborghini Gallardo (/ɡaɪˈjɑːrdoʊ/; Spanish: ) is a sports car built by the Italian automotive manufacturer Lamborghini from 2003 to 2013. It is Lamborghini's second car released under parent company Audi, and the best-selling model at the time with 14,022 built throughout its production run. Named after a famous breed of fighting bull, the V10 powered Gallardo has been Lamborghini's sales leader and stable-mate to a succession of V12 flagship models—first to the Murciélago (4,099 built between 2001 and 2010), then to the Aventador, being the first entry-level Lamborghini in one-and-half decades. On 25 November 2013, the last Gallardo was rolled off the production line. The Gallardo was replaced by the Huracán in 2014.

Overview

After Megatech purchased Automobili Lamborghini S.P.A in 1994, Italdesign Giugiaro was hired to design concept cars to replace their existing cars. One of the concepts built by them was the Lamborghini Calà, built to replace the Lamborghini Jalpa and was displayed at the 1995 Geneva Motor Show.

After the Volkswagen AG took hold of the company in 1998, the Lamborghini Gallardo was built on the basis of the Calà and had many features absorbed from the concept car such as the exterior design and the traditional V10 engine.

The car name is taken from the 18th century Spanish bullfighting breeder Francisco Gallardo. It means "gallant".

photo of Lamborghini Gallardo car production

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Lamborghini Gallardo model years

lamborghini gallardo 2008 photo
Gallardo 2008
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1

1

13

4.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lamborghini gallardo 2006 photo
Gallardo 2006
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2

2

7

4.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lamborghini gallardo 2004 photo
Gallardo 2004
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2

1

4

4.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Lamborghini Gallardo problems

The Lamborghini Gallardo is a high-performance sports car that has been praised for its impressive capabilities and striking design. However, like any complex machine, the Gallardo is not without its issues. Here are some of the most common problems reported by owners of this car:

  1. Engine Problems: The Gallardo's engine can experience a range of issues, including overheating, oil leaks, misfires, timing chain tensioner failures, and valve spring failures. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, such as faulty gaskets, damaged oil lines, worn out seals, and clogged fuel injectors. If not addressed promptly, engine problems can lead to serious damage and costly repairs.
  2. Transmission Problems: The Gallardo's transmission can also experience problems, such as sluggish shifting and hydraulic actuator failures. These issues can be caused by internal leaks and can lead to the hydraulic pump and power steering lights indicating a failure.
  3. Suspension Problems: The Gallardo's suspension can experience issues, such as worn out bushings and ball joints, which can lead to a rough ride and reduced handling capabilities.
  4. Clutch Problems: The Gallardo's clutches can overheat and fail, especially in the early models. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as high temperatures, heavy use, and faulty components.
  5. Fuel Consumption and Type: The Gallardo's high-performance engine requires high-octane fuel, which can be more expensive than regular gasoline. It's important to factor in the cost of fuel when budgeting for the ownership of a Lamborghini Gallardo.

Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help prevent these issues from occurring. It's important for Gallardo owners to have a trusted mechanic with experience working on these high-performance cars. Upgraded parts can also help to improve performance and prevent common issues from occurring. In the event that repairs are needed, it is highly recommended to take the car to a professional who specializes in Lamborghinis. Attempting to fix issues yourself or taking the car to an inexperienced mechanic could lead to further damage and more costly repairs in the future.

These are just a few of the most common problems reported by owners of the Lamborghini Gallardo. It's important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to perform regular maintenance to keep their cars running smoothly. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, brake and tire replacements, and fluid top-ups, is essential to the longevity and reliability of the Gallardo.

Lamborghini Gallardo

Is a Lamborghini Gallardo reliable?

Owns this car

This Lamborghini is by far the most reliable and best performing Lambo I have owned. I owned a 1970 Miura, 1985 Countach and 1990 Testarossa plus all the Corvettes up to 1996. The Gallardo was so far above in performance and reliability I just giggled every time I drove it.

What is the best year Gallardo to buy?

We recommend looking at the 2008 specifically if you seek out a clean Gallardo Spyder. Just remember to look for a car that hasn't spent its first few years in a service bay, as there are plenty of those cars on the market. 2009-2010 LP560 – Second gen, all new exterior, solid engine, and greatly improved E-Gear.

How many miles will a Lamborghini Gallardo last?

The Expected Duration of Excellence: Delving into a Lamborghini's Lifespan

Lamborghini ModelApproximate Longevity (in miles)
Gallardo180,000 – 220,000
Murciélago170,000 – 210,000
Diablo150,000 – 190,000
Countach140,000 – 180,000

Is Gallardo a good daily driver?

The Gallardo is a reliable car, comfortable and versatile. As for DD, the only downside that comes to mind is trunk space. But if you have an H2, go for it. R8 just might be the most comfortable and daily drive able super car/exotic... But cargo space is still not great.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Lamborghini Gallardo years

We have researched Lamborghini problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lamborghini Gallardo cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Lamborghini Gallardo model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lamborghini Gallardo model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Lamborghini Gallardo years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Lamborghini Gallardo car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Lamborghini Gallardo , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Lamborghini Gallardo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Gallardo model years

A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Gallardo model years

There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Gallardo model years

There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lamborghini Gallardo . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lamborghini Gallardo vehicles.

List of Lamborghini Gallardo complaints

Lamborghini Gallardo 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-08-30
  • Date Complaint: 2019-10-17
  • VIN: ZHWGU22T88L
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I DROVE MY CAR THROUGH THE DRIVE-THRU AND IT WAS UNEXPECTEDLY VERY SLOW. I GOT STUCK IN THE DRIVE-THRU FOR ABOUT 7 MINUTES WHILE THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING AND THE AC WAS BROWN AT MAX. I WAS IN GEAR 1 AND WAS PULLING THE LEFT AND RIGHT PADDLE SHIFTERS TO SET TO NEUTRAL BECAUSE I PICKED UP FOOD FROM THE WINDOW AT IN-N-OUT BURGERS AND SUDDENLY THE CAR WAS JUST AUTOMATICALLY SHUT OFF COMPLETELY. SO THE SHUT-DOWN OCCURRED RIGHT AT THAT MOMENT SO I DON'T KNOW IT HAD SET TO NEUTRAL PRIOR TO THE SHUT-OFF OR NOT. IT'S IN A INDETERMINISTIC STATE. ALL ELECTRICAL POWER WAS GONE. PEOPLE HELPED PUSHING MY CAR OUT TO OF THE DRIVE-THRU TO PARK SAFELY. I CHECKED AGAIN AND FOUND THAT ONLY THE RADIO WAS WORKING. THIS CAR HAS NEVER BEEN CRASHED OR SALVAGED SO THERE IS NO REASON THAT IT BEHAVES LIKE THIS. THE SOFTWARE MUST BE FAULTY. PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT, RADIO AND MUSIC CANNOT BE PLAYED WITHOUT INSERTING THE KEY. AFTER THE INCIDENT, RADIO AND MUSIC CAN BE PLAYED WITHOUT INSERTING A KEY. THIS IS INDICATIVE OF SOMETHING FAULTY. I VERIFIED THE BATTERY WAS GOOD AND FULLY CHARGED, AND HAD GOOD CONTACT WITH THE CHASSIS. I CHECKED ALL THE FUSES AND THEY ALL WERE GOOD. I'VE BEEN OWNING AND DRIVING MANY CARS IN MY 28 YEARS AND NEVER HAD EXPERIENCED ANY CAR SHUT-OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DRIVE UNTIL THIS ONE.
Lamborghini Gallardo 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2013-03-30
  • Date Complaint: 2013-04-04
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS BEING RENTED FROM A BUSINESS TO DRIVE A FEW LAPS ON A PRIVATE RACE TRACK. ON THE SEVENTH LAP, THE BRAKES SUDDENLY AND COMPLETELY FAILED, LEADING TO THE VEHICLE LEAVING THE RACE TRACK AND CRASHING. *TR
Lamborghini Gallardo 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2008-02-12
  • Date Complaint: 2008-02-12
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: ZHWGU12N96L
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE WHILE VEHICLE WAS BEING REFUELED
Lamborghini Gallardo 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2006-05-05
  • Date Complaint: 2008-01-24
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: ZHWGU11S34L
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: VEHICLE IN OPERATION WHEN FIRE OCCURRED IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT. FIRE WAS CAUSED BY THE IGNITION OF FLUID FROM THE HYDRAULIC TRANSMISSION CONTROL ON THE HOT EXHAUST. PRESSURE LINE FAILURE WAS IDENTIFIED. *TR
Lamborghini Gallardo 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2008-01-07
  • Date Complaint: 2008-01-10
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: ZHWGU22T96L
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE WHILE REFUELING. *TR

Recalls Lamborghini Gallardo

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Lamborghini Gallardo.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Lamborghini Gallardo 2008
  • Report Received Date: 2013-09-30
  • Manufacturer: Automobili Lamborghini America LLC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
  • Summary: Automobili Lamborghini America LLC (Lamborghini) is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2009 Gallardo Coupes and Spyders fitted with carbon ceramic brake discs. The stainless steel screws that secure the brake rotors may fail after being exposed to salty conditions.
  • Consequence: Failure of the securing screws may result in a reduction of braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Lamborghini will notify owners, and dealers will replace the screws, free of charge. The safety recall began during November 2013. Owners may contact Lamborghini at 1-866-681-6276. The manufacturer's numbers for this campaign are L71X-R.01.13 (model year 2007 and 2008 Gallardo Coupe and Spyder) and L71X-R.02.13 (model year 2009 Gallardo Coupe and Spyder).
  • Model: Lamborghini Gallardo 2006
  • Report Received Date: 2012-09-04
  • Manufacturer: AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI
  • Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
  • Summary: Lamborghini is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 Gallardo Coupe and Spyder vehicles. In certain driving conditions, the high pressure steering pipes near the the steering assistance hydraulic system pump might leak.
  • Consequence: Leaking fluid, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
  • Remedy: Lamborghini will notify owners, and dealers will update the power steering system free of charge. The safety recall began on September 26, 2012. Owners may contact Lamborghini at 1-866-681-6276.
  • Model: Lamborghini Gallardo 2004
  • Report Received Date: 2012-09-04
  • Manufacturer: AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI
  • Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
  • Summary: Lamborghini is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 Gallardo Coupe and Spyder vehicles. In certain driving conditions, the high pressure steering pipes near the the steering assistance hydraulic system pump might leak.
  • Consequence: Leaking fluid, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
  • Remedy: Lamborghini will notify owners, and dealers will update the power steering system free of charge. The safety recall began on September 26, 2012. Owners may contact Lamborghini at 1-866-681-6276.
  • Model: Lamborghini Gallardo 2006
  • Report Received Date: 2006-02-24
  • Manufacturer: AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE BOLTED CONNECTIONS ON THE SUSPENSION'S DOUBLE WISHBONES MAY COME LOOSE OVER TIME OR UNDER EXTREME LOADING.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD LEAD TO A REDUCTION IN HANDLING STABILITY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPAIR THE DOUBLE WISHBONE SUSPENSION AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 28, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI AT 1-781-788-0600.

Latest negative Lamborghini Gallardo car reviews

  1. Hazel Stark 2024-01-11

    Vehicle year: 2008

    The new Gallardo did not meet my expectations. Lamborghini made no changes. The shifter occasionally gets stuck, which is frustrating.

Latest positive Lamborghini Gallardo car reviews

  1. Eldon Tromp 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2008

    Beats the Ferrari...I've owned 2--no question about it. Improved horsepower, AWD and very exotic lines--a real head turner. Frankly, more fun to drive and the e-gear is a must! Design allows it to be a daily driver if that's what you want. And lastly, the sound--there is nothing else like it and you'll have to hear it to understand.

  2. Stephen Tillman 2024-11-14

    Vehicle year: 2008

    The 2008 is the last year of the original Gallardo. Several deficiencies from earlier years were addressed and overall, it is the greatest car I have ever owned. The e-gear is great (although not quite as good as the 09 560-4 that I recently drove) and I was always a 6-speed guy. The only real issue I have is all the attention it draws....but it's a Lamborghini, so I suppose it comes with the territory. I am surprised by the one negative review, because ultimately calling a 200k car a 'good deal' seems flawed from the start...gas mileage stinks, they are largely impractical and wicked extreme in nearly every way...but it's a Lamborghini!!! and it's wonderful.

  3. Sheridan Stehr 2024-11-07

    Vehicle year: 2008

    Hey there! I recently purchased the Nera Gallardo and made some modifications to the exhaust. However, I've noticed that it can be a bit too loud for phone conversations inside. On the bright side, this car effortlessly reaches speeds over 150mph and the brakes are amazing at high speeds. The ride is also quite comfortable, even for long drives. It's definitely not an everyday car though, as it tends to attract a lot of attention and other drivers often want to race it, from sports motorcycles to trucks. It gets around 12-14 mpg, but who really cares about that? While the Corvette may be cheaper and have superior numbers, how often do you actually see one on the road?

  4. Tito Kihn 2024-10-16

    Vehicle year: 2006

    This is a car that you should definitely consider getting. You'll be blown away by the smooth ride!

  5. Tyrell Hudson 2024-10-05

    Vehicle year: 2008

    This is a car that you should definitely consider getting. You'll be blown away by the smooth ride!

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