My Ferrari 550 Maranello Update - How Owning A Classic V12 Has Made Me A Zen Master

[@JayEmmOnCars]

CarVertical: The History Checking Service Use This Link or Code "JM20" for a Discount! www.carvertical.com/gb/landing/v3?b=1e4c9523&a=JayEmm&voucher=jm20&chan=JM

[@pgtmr2713]

About $2-300 in tools, $175 engine crane, $100 for a decent jack. That's dollars. I'd have brought the 550 home, extracted the engine myself, brought the engine back to them for the repair. Sent the shell to a body shop for the rust repairs. Take your time, invite some friends, hopefully knowledgeable friends. Simply taking an engine in and out, is really not that challenging. Working on the engine would be a completely different thing. 12k lbs. for the job also doesn't sound like an unreasonable pricing either. Where's the drive after all that? The nirvana that makes it all worth it.

[@matthewkvaughn]

You’re fantastic James. Not only are your videos and style exceptionally interesting and tailored specifically to my interests, you clearly are a great person. The fact that you seem so honest, trustworthy, and kind makes watching your videos exponentially more enjoyable and helpful.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

That's so kind Matthew!

[@jonnyfartpants]

Was just about to post almost the same.

[@UTubeSL]

Spot on.

[@Matt-go7ss]

That's nice of jays mum to comment 😂

[@masturdate]

Oh he’s a big cuddly teddy bear 🥰

[@thomaswatson9950]

One of the few people that make content on exotic cars like this that come across so genuine, honest and not 'flexing' your fancy car, for that you have my respect

[@Boric78]

Its funny how being normal and knowledgeable when presenting makes you like the individual. I don't know Jay, but when I saw the introduction I was like "Oh no, I hope he doesn't have to sell it".

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Alfredo!

[@marcel1463]

I really like the honest introduction in this video. I watch this channel now for about 3 years and i really like the style the videos are made.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Marcel!

[@jamesonslow]

It's lovely to see someone "doing car ownership properly", by which I mean both doing your best to get your pride and joy in the best shape, but also then using it for its intended purpose. Nice job!

[@GregoryTKint]

That really takes me back... to 1998 or 1999, when I had the opportunity to drive a F355 from Brussels to Amsterdam and then the "Maranello" 550 back from Amsterdam to Brussels in the same day. When we got to Amsterdam, I felt knackered to be honest. But the return drive in the 550 was an eye-opener. There was no comparison, this thing felt solid, quick and refined. The gearbox felt like Swiss clockwork and I found the drive to be so much more pleasant. I had no idea what I was driving but I did know this car was unlike anything I had ever experienced. This experience also made me realise I am more of a GT kind of guy 🤷‍♂ When I stepped back into my Calibra (ok, don't judge 😉) later that day, it felt like a toy... and not in a good way. So, I completely get the nostalgia and love for the 550. Great to hear you are keeping it 👍 PS: At the end of the day, I was also allowed to take the F355 Spider for a quick spin (well back to dealer) and I much preferred that to regular one I must admit. PPS: Intro was rather fun and you managed to weave the advertiser in rather well 😂

[@Gavin-oq5tt]

Ouch! But £12k was a lot less than I thought you might say. I bought my 550 (blue) shortly after you. Low miles, but a higher price. Even then, it needed major gearbox work - very close to your £12k. But I must say, what a fantastic car it is. I was driving early today - it is such a pleasure (as you will know). Brisk (but that is not really the point) and beautiful handling. Looking forward to more 550 content!

[@PaulBriden]

Even before I retired and could afford an exotic car, the realisation of the costs made us stop and realise we would have to give up other hobbies to run the car. If I could spend £10,000 like £1000.00 I would have one. Sadly we are not rich enough without having to make other sacrifices. In fact I would buy a new one with a warranty. What also puts me off is having a car that spends a lot time in the workshop and costs a lot of money and I am not driving it. Each to their own, if like Jay you have 3, so what if one is away you have another 2 to choose from.

[@sultanoftippoo3857]

@@PaulBriden Sorry you didn’t get the car of your dreams Paul. Classic Ferrari ownership doesn’t need to be a nightmare though. Like you I’m now retired (18 months in and never busier) but I didn’t want all my investments in a pension I couldn’t touch/feel. This was why I bought my F355 and I’ve loved every minute of ownership. Sure servicing isn’t cheap (around £750 per year and the cambelt change every 3-4 years that costs about £3k) but depreciation is a non issue and in fact the car has increased in value by about 15% which has more than covered the maintenance/servicing costs. The key I think is taking time to find the right car (low miles, verified history and of course a very thorough pre purchase inspection) and with a bit of luck you’ll have something that won’t break the bank and give years of pleasure.

[@PaulBriden]

@@sultanoftippoo3857 I agree with a lot of what you say. Finding the right car though it not always easy. The prime example is this car, clod destroying the sump bolt. Not you, but sadly these cars get serviced by garages who are cheap and do not know what they are doing, or are owned by owners who cannot really afford them. As for value, this is always precarious, value and what you can sell a car for are always very different. It is all subjective and personal choice, a good debate though, enjoy your car. Cheers.

[@BigUriel]

​@@PaulBriden Admittedly I am a cheapskate, but personally I'd have just left the bolt. It's the sump, the bolts are not load bearing and the oil in the sump is not pressurized they only have to clamp hard enough to prevent the oil from leaking out under gravity, there are so many bolts that with a good seal it'd probaly be fine without that bolt.

[@PaulBriden]

@@BigUriel What you are saying sounds correct to me, unless the sump needed removing for any reason. Looking at the bigger picture I would more concerned about any other nasties that "Clod the Mechanic" may have done.

[@MuscleBandit]

How often do we get to watch anything about cars like this and actually find out about all liabilities with full disclosure. We all could have done with this level of transparency from the Top Gear lads 20yrs ago and great show as it was it was all about cinematics and the trio as much as the cars themselves. In fairness to Top Gear it was impossible for them to capture the real life cold light of day ownership experience of cars which were then brand new. Thankfully we now have Jay and a certain few others like Matt at High Peak autos who cover all manor of cars in pretty much every way. Super entertaining and the insight from their personal ownership experiences is invaluable for those of us wandering whether to pull the trigger on a modern classic. Thumbs up as usual 👍😎

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks chap!

[@LordPrometheous]

Few car channels can keep me engaged, interested, and entertained when cars aren't being driven. This one does. Well done, Jay.

[@brianbradford3363]

I had a similar experience after buying a 10yr old Alfa. Repairs and maintenance equalling my purchase price within 3 months. But after spending the money and having this done properly, I'm now enjoying a beautifully practical and sporty piece of Milano engineering. 10 months and counting without a fault and another 12,000kms + of use. 🇮🇹

[@sportzntouring]

Ouch! Great that you have stayed so positive throughout the process James! I've got to say, she's looking great!

[@anthonyknox1493]

Superb video James. You perfectly capture the emotional roller coaster of classic car ownership. It doesn't matter whether it's a 10k car, or a 100k one, the struggle, heartache and joy are all the same, it's just the invoice that's different!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Anthony!

[@poovaneswaranvsupramaniam35]

So very true

[@Mirage8v]

It is great to see you talk about this dream car with such passion! People who talk like this about their dreams, are worth listening to. It doesn't matter what car it is about, as long as you can talk about your passion in such a spirited way.

[@Gadne92.5]

I lusted after 360 Maranello since youtubers Rob Ferretti and Doug DeMuro had one. I was able to afford one early 2017 but after a week the "F1" clutch went, that was 5k (euros). I used specialist for normal maintenance which was surprisingly cheap (oils, brake fluids, coolant change etc.). The 360 is so DIY friendly than a moron like me can for example change sparkplugs and coils outside under 2 hours. But ... the car had all the "known issues" like door cables had to be done 3 times, sticky buttons went from "ehh thats ok" sticky to annoying sticky. But worst were to come, the whole gearbox started to act up (randomly dropping to Neutral even with under 5k km driven clutch & flywheel and properly calibrated F1-system) and Actuator was sent to UK for inspection & repair - no fault was found. That whole job cost another 5-6k (euros). Next the gearbox had to come out as there was no apparent fault found anywhere. Inside the gearbox was a shaft which change the odd gears, that was began to "stick" into one of the bearings it had, cold it was okay but when warm, errors happened. When car was in also the cambelts, auxiliary belts and few other things were done like ball joints (uniballs wearing quickly in 360 - known issue), wheel bearing x 2, etc. And also a "Major service" meaning all the fluids and so forth. Also inspecting whole F1-system, replacing the pump and the "accumulator" ball etc. Total bill was over 16k (euros) from the Ferrari Main Dealer. After that I drove the car from Finland to Maranello, over 5 000km and guess what. Just after arriving into Germany, on the way towards Italy, the 6th gear was no more. I was so fed up with the car that I did the trip with 5th gear, then sent the car to official dealer for some F1-system parts, clutch change and some other bits'n bobs totaling to around 6-7k (euros). After that, very quickly I proceed to sell the car. I had my dream car, A RED FERRARI, for just under 5 years and the ownership costs me at least 32 000 (euros) just in services (not including my own maintenance like brake pads, sparkplugs, coils, etc.) which equals around £28 000.... Real bummer. I drove the thing like JayEmm, over 22k km (~14k miles) even while car was basically "in service" or broken" half of my ownership. But the stress of "what will broke down next" was way too big compared to the enjoyment the car gave me (when it worked). Just to warn others ... If you're "DIY" guy and you have a warm garage, go for it. If not, then have a thick wallet. 360 Maranello is surprisingly DIY friendly model; old enough that average Joe can do anything with it, you can find parts (shared with Maserati and Alfa-Romeo, even with basic Fiats!) from eBay etc. and new enough that it (usually) wont broke down after 1000-2000 miles. Everything is easily accessible, even the cambelts if one knows what he is doing.

[@DonAl9114]

I really feel sorry for you. This could be called bad luck. The 550 is just amazing and you ,use enjoy every single drive with it. Don’t bother to much about the service bill. You own an amazing 12 cylinder Ferrari and all of us would like to do so as well. If I’m ever crazy enough I follow your advice and such a beast for my garages. 😊😊😎

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

The car has 105,000 miles. FEW Ferraris do even 50,000 miles. THINK about this, and if it does not register, read my message to Jay Emm and learn.

[@paulgart]

Last Summer I bought a lovely 1982 400i GT which had been sitting in Italy for over 25 years and so needed a lot of mechanical work. I got it examined by Ferrari in Bologna and got a quote to replace everything and so bought the car with that quote in mind. Needless to say when the work started they found a few more things and so the bill ended up about €10,000 more than expected and that’s the thing with old cars and especially old Ferraris, if you can’t afford to look after then then don’t think about buying them. BTW, it’s a lovely car and spending the money on repairs was well worth it 😍

[@simonhughes7382]

Engine out job due to a cross threaded screw? Stuff of Ferrari/ supercar nightmares! Total respect for the way you've handled it and the attitude afterwards. Lets just hope you get some more fantastic miles out of it dashboard light-free :) Great update vid, look forward to seeing more.

[@screamingwheels98]

James, as a long time viewer of the channel, really enjoy the content - this video on the 550 ownership experience was just what I needed as I contemplate a 550 or 575 in the near future. Thank you! Bottom line - it’s an amazing car, you bought it at a great price and even with the ‘investment’ you’ve made, you’ve probably not lost any money on it - the best type of car to buy! Enjoy!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

That's the plan!

[@TraneFrancks]

The tale of ownership, as painful as it must have been … what a stunning car. I love these so much. It's amazing that it's already got 100k miles on it. Well done, car!

[@nekite1]

That is an absolutely gorgeous car and worth all the money spent on it. The joy of driving one of those must be immense!

[@sidneygriffiths5737]

Omg would love to get behind the wheel of one of these

[@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13]

One of Ferraris greatest cars... They're never gonna make em like that again.

[@johnsebastian5378]

Very much enjoyed your masterful story of your 550. For those of us who drool over the idea of owning one, you are a godsend!

[@HighPeakAutos]

That’s really not bad. You can spend thousands fixing something that you hate (I do regularly). Enjoy you dream car.

[@Quebecoisegal]

"He must have felt like a king, I know I do", loved that line. When I had a Morgan 4+4 I felt like an empress!!

[@ricado372]

Hi, a couple of things. It would have been great to see you enjoying it at the end of the film and you're getting really good at this. You really made what some people may consider a boring subject very entertaining. Bravo.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Hi Rich, a driving video will be coming soon - I wanted to get this out ASAP

[@davelee212]

Working late, needed a break, popped open a beer and spent 25 minutes listening to James talking about cars - I needed that! It could be any car to be honest, a Ferrari 550 or the Vauxhall Nova 1.6 GSi (well.... actually, that'd be cool if you could find one) your passion comes through so well on your videos. I don't think you're a million miles from me (I'm in Colchester) so maybe I'll see you on the road and give you a wave one day :-p

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Always good to get a wave :)

[@jeromeuk]

Finally someone giving true facts about owning an ageing sophisticated car. Purschase price is one thing, but the budget to keep the car on the road is something else. I have been there before, a lot of stress and pain in the process, which sadly takes some of the pleasure away. That is not only happening to others...it will almost certainly happen to anyone owning such cars.

[@ghibli608]

Thank you for sharing. I feel your pain. I used to own a Ferrari F355, a peach… until I added the maintenance costs. 46.000,-€ for covering 38.000 km. At some point I was done…. And am now afraid to take the plunge into Ferrari ownership again.

[@andrewturnbull8955]

But in the end, you have a beautiful car, James. I love your content and your presentation style (just like one of the gents in the street - only with half a million pounds worth of motors! LOL). You get what you deserve when it comes down to it - and to a lot of us out there: You make us smile. P.S. I've only ever seen one episode of Top Gear since the current trio have been in situ - as none of them (well, Chris Harris is alright) have the level of charm, charisma and basic informal friendliness which you have in abundance. Can only hope that as your content grows, so does your Ferrari collection (can't wait to see you have a SWB 250 GTO!)

[@blueshark3098]

Thank you, thank you, thank you for deciding to keep it after all the repair and maintenance work! That car is also one of my dream cars, and I'm glad you're enjoying it as a car, rather than treating it like a collectible asset. Good show!

[@Pete...NoNotThatOne]

JayEmm, I am so sorry to hear of the recurring issues with this car, but I’m glad you’ve got it back now. I can sympathise, as I’ve been restoring a ‘89 RR Silver Spur for two years. I had it in paint and bodywork for a year and a half, got it back at the start of June. All excited, I decided to take the old lady out for a drive. Twenty k’s up the highway, the radiator expansion bottle split, depressurised the coolant system, and popped a head gasket. Literally fifteen minutes into my first drive. Car is in my mechanics now, waiting for the heads to be decked. I like the idea of going Dollars Per Kilometre, it makes me feel better.

[@thomasmcwilliams6762]

you have a really good attitude towards everything that has happened with your 550. And like you said now you can really put the miles on it with all of these jobs done and enjoy driving this fantastic car!

[@tes77a]

Really appreciate the explanation and honesty of the costs. Have to say I was very lucky to see this car in the flesh twice in September and it is absolutely amazing, worth every penny to enjoy for many miles to come 👍

[@JJ-zg1hh]

The 550 has cost a lot of money but it's value has no doubt soared as well. Money well spent in my view - just look at the results! Fabulous car.

[@johnconcialdi5584]

Great video, I have a 1998 550M almost exactly the same spec as yours except the carpet. I got it with 8000 miles on it and now have 56K on it. It is my first of 2, the other being an F8 which I also love. Strangely we are in sync on cars as I also have an AP2 S2000 which is is damn near perfect with 50K on the clock. The 550M will always be special for exactly the reasons you cite. It's a gentleman drivers car. You are engaged with it and if you treat her well you get rewarded with immense pleasure. Treat her wrong and well, you know. I have had to replace the leather on my dash 4 times which is a bit annoying especially since she is always garaged. Other than little a things and a clutch change at 45K miles, a cracked rear window, cracked windscreen, failed air conditioning parts, hood shock replacement, rear package shelf leather restoration, control system for the AC replacement, cam seals, it's prefect. Did I just say that, my S2k and NSX never ever fail......Still love the car, I must be a masochist.

[@ozeskiman]

Loved the full update James. Thanks to you, I started my 575M on the Classiche journey in mid 2021. I've got a tremendous AD in Melbourne, Zagame, and they have managed to source and replace every part except for the fuel return valves. I've chased dealers worldwide and they are NA. Ferrari has been asked constantly if and when they will be, with no forthcoming advice. The Classiche Program is in the final stages and hopefully I will also make the trip to the factory to get the red folder. Mine could possibly be the 1st 575M to be given the sign off. You mentioned a fuel smell. I've had a very low smell for a while and since all the lines were replaced it hasn't solved the problem. The dealer is at a loss. Do you know your cause?

[@RedLP5000S]

The 550 Maranello is one of the finest Ferraris in their portfolio. I would do what it took to make her road worthy too, Jay.✌🏻🇺🇸

[@Wanderhirsch]

So good! I am happy for you James that you were able to take care of all the issues. The car is stunning! And your presentation style on point! Looking forward to the S2000 update, I hope you don't (have to) give up.

[@andrewhurstcars]

Nice one James. As with any second-hand car, any running costs need to be viewed in proportion to the purchase price when new, no matter what the depreciation has been. A £150k V12 is always going to throw up some big bills over time.

[@checker3694]

Fabulous to see high mileage ferraris, well done keep racking up those miles

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

Fabulous but exremely RISKY too. Ferraris are not Mercedes Diesels or Lexus LS's.

[@checker3694]

@@anastassiosperakis2869 Engine good for 300k, transmission 150 to 200k if used correctly, like all ferraris avoid 2nd till fully warmed up,there was a Testarossa in Northern California 20 years ago had turned 200k, and I knew someone then his 308qv 124k. Most faluirs on that 550 will be because of road salt deterioration attacking components, and age related, not wear failures.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

@@checker3694 If this is really true, which, evidence shows, nobody should believe for a MINUTE, it PROVES that Ferraris are VERY WASTEFULLY Designed. DO you understand why? (assuming what you say it trueDO you have any evidence for it?)

[@checker3694]

@@anastassiosperakis2869 Sorry did not mean to Trigger you, check your Meds. I am sure in some countries they are laws and punishments for applying high mileage to ferraris. The world wide ferrari club of low mileage drivers and carers, could have this car taken from James for abuse of a ferrari

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

@@checker3694 don't act like a 5 year old, I thought I was speaking to an adult. Check that Countach poster on your bedroom wall, I think it is not straight. When you are able to have a serious discussion, waste my time again. BYE.

[@sellsidedream8766]

I’m happy to share my full history file on my 550. Owned it since 2005 and it’s cost me much more than yours. Steering rack , fuel pumps , cat converter x2. AC x2. And the list goes on and on

[@duncanmartin2626]

It cost the previous owner 17 grand before he sold it. It's just cost 25 grand for the last year or 2 in your care. When you come to do this update in 2 years time, what's the over/under on "maintenance" costs? £15k? Love the detail, and the honesty, can't wait for the Celica update (15k on a Celica - that thing is going to be special!).

[@hsttms9998]

Still an amazing car. Looks better then the later 599 GTB. Keep the car, James and enjoy. You will regret selling it.

[@fredericwessling6886]

It’s not better then a 599

[@jjchockey]

@@fredericwessling6886gated shifter…

[@steverogers7473]

Bloody hell! £25k in two years! I am so glad your channel allows you to continue to do what you love. Thanks for the honest video and background detail. 👍

[@geoffnorton9279]

Brilliant video. A great lesson to future potential owners. Sorry to hear that it has cost you so much. A beautiful and now closer to pristine condition, classic Ferrari.

[@andybroer651]

I'm glad you are keeping your 550, I had a ride in one and always thought I might obtain one, however with kids I ended up with a Maserati Granturismo S and Cabrio S which have similar performance but also useable rear seats! I enjoy many of your videos and am happy you have 'made it' via youtube. Congrats! I'll be watching for more from California, USA.

[@Engines_For_Us]

Mate I don't own a ferrari and can't afford one but during the whole video I was interested and it felt so relevant. You are brilliant and genuine. Keep it up

[@LeeK9R]

1:00 ''allow me to pay for it without having to resort to any crazy totally out of nowhere sponsored videos that aren't related to car stuff at all'' 1:36 ''I want to say a huge thank you to todays sponsor hellofresh'' LOL

[@darrenhitchcox6345]

Ferrari ownership is never cheap. My dad had a 16000 mile 355 GTS F1 and the service cost on that went into 5 figures with clutch and a replacement subframe part. Stunning car, but the electrics only played part time !!!

[@tonyosullivan2382]

The intro sponsorship was genius, brilliant 😄. I would have loved to have seen the engine bay when finished though. Great work 🤙

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Congratulations 🍾🎈🎊🎉 on keeping your spirits up sir. You're a Zen Master. Now go enjoy your car. (:

[@neptune45]

I had one for 4 years from 2012 to 2016 it was costing me in service about $8,000 per year. Steering rack, ECU, Motor mounts, Sticky switches, air conditioning , the 4 year server was called the major at $12,000. But I do miss the car. I sold it when it when up in price and got a 458 italia which was only about $1200 per year to run it. Like a toyota. I still love the 550. The V12 just keep pulling.

[@rod4607]

I have also dearly loved this car since its release. I love the English language and the way you put things together Jay. Hearing you talk about cars is nectar of the gods to my down trodden taxi driving ears.

[@leonardmills5003]

Well what can I say? This video was a lot more entertaining than I expected!

[@Leynad778]

Thanks to great engine-channels (foremost the German Motorenzimmer) on KZbin I got a clue about the ridiculous complexity of modern engines and the common costs almost mandatory to get them running for so long, so I'm not surprised at all. I would even say you got lucky and others had more costly engine-failures with far newer cars. Seems you don't know as much, otherwise you wouldn't drive them that often, but even just putting them in the garage cause harm since all the plastic- and rubber parts getting brittle just by time and contact by oil like all those seals and connections. Highest respect for the guys who can disassemble such engines and put them back in without breaking another thing in the process. These engines are so complex, that manufacturers doesn't even protest after the EU announced to ban combustion engines.

[@albanana683]

Dude, I love you and your channel, but I myself, and probably 99.76% of your subscribers knew this video was on the cards. Glad it wasn't quite the catastrophe it could have been. Stay with your dream for as long as you can.

[@pauldorset2124]

Many people could not understand why you would keep the car after all that, we, your subscribers do! It's a keeper James and you know it. On the down side, there were so many adverts in this video you must surely have recouped the £12K 😡😡 Looking forward to the next update. (It's been so long I'd forgotten you still had the Celica!)

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Wait, how many adverts did you get?

[@JelloTypeR]

I didn’t have a single advert in my play through. Weird…

[@pauldorset2124]

@@JelloTypeR Blimey, how did you manage that? Can't remember the last time I watched anything without at least 2 ads at the start? The ads in this video of James's were about a third and then two thirds in from memory. They ruin pretty much every video I watch, I skip most but some like today were fixed time.

[@andrewbuckley2892]

Great update .... as I have a 550 I was beginning to worry what would cause such a calamity ! I will be checking out my oil pumps ! Cheers Andrew

[@scpromark]

You’re so good at this. Entertaining, informative and educational. Top job. Bravo!

[@furmanodell]

As a one time Ferrari owner, I love these stories.

[@sdfswords]

You'll buy it twice, James, but what a nice bit of garden sculpture it will make. When my last Alfa Spyder unceremoniously sucked a valve while climbing a very steep grade, I drove it back 60 miles with a distinct metallic rattle, and parked it on the edge of my garden.

[@FreddyZeus100]

I like to see car KZbinrs actually talk about money as the reason most of them are in the position they are is because of the viewers not saying that’s the same for all but it’s good to hear the true running coat of such a car nether the less!

[@jamesengland7461]

I think I'll just have the heart attack for you. Wow what a bill. It takes a truly special car to salve that kind of pain.

[@MRVSKIN]

Love the fact that your so brutally honest. Thank you

[@mortierautomotive]

The 550 is also my childhood dream car, thanks for making this video!

[@tonymoreton7166]

I've reached the conclusion it's 20y old plus cars. My 360, M3 & wife's 987 Boxster have been running into similar (though less than these) hefty bills. Plus side is no depreciation and that irreplaceable NA sound. Enjoy that V12, you've earned it.

[@castel32]

It is a gorgeous elegant car. I remember seing on TV Michael Schumacher onboard one. Stunning. You will not loose a penny once it is all certified classic, I suppose. Love your videos and your normal person reactions and acknowledgement of being in a lucky position in life. Best of luck.

[@Inazuma68]

I guess it doesn‘t matter wich 10 or 12-cyl car you are driving. These things are always very expensive the sooner or later. I had the chance to drive one in the spring and I must say I was blown away how drivable it is and it is a quick car, perfect GT

[@robertseely4469]

Best wishes for many years of trouble free driving with this gorgeous peice of rolling art!

[@dwtrksvc]

I love your passion for the 550. It truly is a dream car. Yeah it doesn't have the Miami Vice, grab your attention like the Testarossa but nobody puts 20k a year on a Testarossa. 👍

[@mattbuckley392]

Outstanding. Such a fine watch and really appreciate your enthusiasm and patience towards maintaining your dream. It looks great Jay ... it really does.

[@brett31979]

A beautiful car. Drive the wheels off it! My memory of a black one goes back to the late 90s. My friend and I were 19 and drove over to F40 Motorsports (Can you believe I have been driving past for 20+ years and not known that Wayne was the host of a tv show Chasing Classic Cars? Woooosh! Right over my head.) But on this day a black and tan one was being cleaned and prepped for a new owner to drive it away. We were down front by the road just walking the lot looking at all the cars. The new owner came out and he looked like a local weather man to us. He looked at us and asked, "Cool car, huh, guys?" We offered our sincere affirmations along the lines of "Absolutely. What an amazing car." To which the guy responded, "Too bad YOU'LL never own one," and proceeded to get in the car and drive away. We believe we may have enjoyed the last laugh because that same car - or same color combination 55 Maranello - was back on the lot for sale once more six months later. And so.... while I do appreciate the vehicles themselves, even as I gain the income to enjoy them, I have a general disconnect with the brand. And that despite a wealthy person's mechanic taking me for a lap around Lime Rock in a 250 once in the early 00s - which was a lifetime experience. I guess we can't blame the cars for the few owners whose only lack in life is character. I'm glad the rest retain their enthusiasm and passion for driving such as yourself.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I do my very best to try and fight against Ferrari owners like him. I think they're more common in the USA than here

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Fantastic video. Great introduction to the video it was hilarious. Really nice to see this car is sorted. Looking forward to more videos with this car. Keep up the good work.

[@petervandermeulen6641]

In the end you have a great car knowing all that is right and future proof. Now its time to enjoy.

[@global_nomad.]

thanks for sharing all the details.....loving the cost per mile logic...drive it more! happy to have been along on your journey, long may it continue

[@rodoherty1]

You're a fantastic presenter/communicator. I hope that talent will serve you very well for the rest of your life!

[@dasstig5274]

thanks James, i can vicariously live the 550 dream through you. one of my favourite Ferraris since the old need for speed days!

[@DeltaDubai03]

A very well told story of "unfortunate" events... The 550 remains beautiful, even more so from the inside now.

[@Michael_Lorenson]

One of my absolute favorite Ferraris, as well. I was _happy_ when Ferrari announced this return to the front-engine V12 layout, and there is really nothing I don't love about the 550 Maranello -- except the cost. I did not realize how few Maranellos were produced, so I'm happy you snagged one. That you caught the oil pump before it completely failed makes the whole thing worthwhile, especially considering you also now have the _Classiche_ certification, and an issue-free car. I suspect that your thousand-pound-per-month maintenance cost experience will continue, though.

[@bartboosman953]

Can't speak for the 550, but the 456 from which the 550 is derived, is actually a great car for the DIY enthusiast. Every component can be accessed, removed, serviced or replaced, except no job can be done quickly. Most jobs require many steps and these need to be adhered to. It's not difficult, just time consuming. Hence the astronomic garage bills. It's also very rewarding to know you did the job properly. These cars are beautifully and thoughtfully engineered and while working on it you can clearly see why they had cost a fortune to build. If you do maintain your 456/550 yourself, and don't count your hours, it's actually not very expensive at all as most parts/gaskets/bearings/belts and other stuff can be bought for very reasonable prices at several vendors and if you do need odd components then ebay is your friend.

[@Rogcljon]

Great news it's back as frightening as those bills sound seeing yours and hearing how good it still feels to drive if funds allowed I would buy one tmrw even if it did cost a grand a month 🤕 . Thanks for the update 👍

[@modmod392]

James, your content is almost as great as your shirt collection 😊

[@Conan3145]

And that is a cautionary tale well told 😵‍💫. I read that a super yacht or biz jet owner can expect running costs at 10% of purchase price per annum with moderate use. I suspect amortising these bills per mile travelled will be best done over the next decade? 😳 A followup video on TCO at 3 years would be most welcome. 🙏

[@michaelcole3998]

What a legend, I think I would have lost the will to live with a bill that big 😂. Pure total love and dedication..... legend

[@cherylalbright2086]

Wow, great retelling of a Ferrari owners journey through maintenance hell.. Actually, it could've been much worse.. I totally relate to you regarding your dream Ferrari.. Mine has always been the 599GTB, finally found mine and took the leap last June. Now of course I had to wait about 7 weeks more to take her home, had to get custom paint job to re-do the racing theme she had worn previously. I still need to take her to my Ferrari mechanic to do a complete list of things that I want done to make sure I prevent major problems.

[@gunsandcars3648]

worth every penny, its a 550 , the best car ever made by Ferrari, you are luckiest man in the world.

[@SoerenAU]

Bugger'!!! - Nice of you to share all the troubles one can incurr, so open and frankly.

[@MrCarrera28]

I completely understand your decision to keep it and drive it; spending all that money means you have a well fettled and reliable Ferrari. Selling it now would mean that someone else gets to to enjoy the fruits of efforts!! Drive it, enjoy it and pretty quickly the visceral pleasure will, I am sure, overwhelm the momentary financial pain.

[@Clarkecars]

And this is why I own an XKR coupe. Even my 128,000 mile 1995 XJ12 is never a big problem. But then I do know how to do much of the maintenance and repairs myself.

[@philharris6077]

Great video and story Jay! You have motivated me to take my Maserati 4200 Spyder out of storage and get it running again. Last summer, on a 40 mile guilt trip, it felt like it was running on 7 cylinders. But the real last time I drove it, Sept 2018, I did about 150 miles before the Cambiocorsa "F1 Transmission" gave up the ghost and I had to limp it to Migalore Cars. A few weeks later I had a £3000 bill to pay. Sell it? .... well the transmission is good now, and once I've replaced the melted switches, done a bit of body work - baring any bad luck - I have a sort-of-Ferrari, for under £20k...

[@gph42]

I've gota say that after watching a lot of videos on we'll say "exotic" cars or cars I'll never be able to afford the maintenance costs are just amazing. Nobody would put up with a camry having these sorts of problems. I understand the driving experience is amazing when the exotics are in fine fettle but goodness me is it worth it. Seriously. Hope you understand what l mean. Love ya channel James. Take care.

[@rogerhudson2814]

That car just needs driving and loving. If any car should be a 'keeper ' it's that 550.

[@DermotCarroll]

I have been lurking for some time now!!! but i have to say that your reiews are brilliant.... i look forward to the video when you push the 550 ... and the wonderful sounds that will be there! i love the channel, and wish you the best!!!

[@innotech]

back when I was only obsessed with mid engine supercars the 550 was a disappointment but over the years I have learned to greatly appreciate this car and actually love it much more than the modern ones

[@unaeruditi]

I appreciate your honesty. No matter how much one desires one of these they are still out of the realm of the average person. You'd figure by now Ferrari would build a car that was reliable to the point like MB which I drive a 240D with 263K in nice shape and I have ZERO PROBLEMS except for the usual maintenance. Double roller timing chains rule not belts. It still amazes me that Ferrari can't build a car that could last 10 to 15 years and all you have to do is put oil and brakes on it. And the metal rusts? That's got to do with the cheap metal that is used over there you can get them or buy steel that has some anti-rust inhibitors then dip it. They can make a Ferrari completely analog for with a 600 hp engine and a beautiful interior. Even cheaper cars don't have sticky buttons. You'd figure that all these rich people that own these things would give feedback to the company and tell them what's wrong. Well as far as owning one I'll probably go with a Porsche for my dream and take Jay Leno's advice too. He has more cars than God and doesn't even own a Ferrari because he's a down-to-earth kind of guy and does not want the arrogance associated with owning one and that says alot.

[@joelpethick3406]

such a good intro hahaaa, I enjoy every single one of your videos so much. My passion for all things automotive is definitely influenced by you and for that thank you James!

[@Canadian_Gamer]

This was an entertaining watch. I fondly remember this car being offered in blue with tan interior. I've said it before and I'll say it again... the modern Ferrari's have lost their way as far as styling is concerned however this one got it right. Pininfarina did some incredible work back in the day.

[@Joolz1982]

Thanks for sharing always interesting to hear about stuff done. And better to know how the car is and fully checks / Serviced and once it is fully fixed, it is fixed.

[@Bigpawes2]

Hello James just watched your stream on the 550 I have to hand it to you, regarding all you have done with the car, I think the sump problem must have happened since I owned the car. As you know I had it for approx four years without any issues other than normal servicing plus cam belt changes and new disks rotors. happy motoring from now hopefully🙂