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

In today's video, I give you the long awaited update on my 1999 Ferrari 550 Maranello. This car has been away for almost a year - so what happened, why did it take so long and how much has it cost me? All revealed - today!
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#Ferrari #550Maranello #V12
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Chapter Listing
0:00 Introduction
2:49 History of the 550 Maranello
5:44 My Car
10:13 The Last Bill & Ferrari Classiche
11:59 What Happened
17:34 Zen Motoring
20:26 Costs and Conclusions
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[@JayEmmOnCars]

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[@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.

[@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

[@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 🥰

[@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!

[@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.

[@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 😂

[@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!

[@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!

[@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.

[@sportzntouring]

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

[@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

[@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

[@LordPrometheous]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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

[@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. 🇮🇹

[@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.✌🏻🇺🇸

[@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 👍

[@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…

[@HighPeakAutos]

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

[@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.

[@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!)

[@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13]

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

[@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!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 😍

[@richardharrold9736]

DON'T SELL IT! You've already regretted selling stuff like the E34, you'd always rue the day you let your first Ferrari go!

[@richardharrold9736]

The irony of having a food sponsor on a video about a car with "YUM" in its registration plate... Was that deliberate?!

[@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 :)

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@WarriorsPhoto]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@f-u-nkyf-u-ntime]

Had a very similar journey with my XF. After obsessive maintenance including a gearbox service at 85,000 miles at 114,000 miles the gearbox decided to give out. It started missing gears on the downshift then the upshift and I went through all the cheap options, reprogramming then more reprogramming then a GSM but all to no avail and I had to get the gearbox completely rebuilt with a new Mechatronix, total bill for the rebuild alone was £5000. The bill smarted to say the least but it was still cheaper than replacing the car, anyway I drove out of the gearbox specialist thinking I had a sorted car. I didn't. The gearbox was still missing gears, so I took it back to the specialists and they diagnosed an air leak problem on the engine, to be precise an intermittent failure of the inlet manifold control valve and although it made no difference to the running of the engine they wouldn't look at the gearbox until the codes were clear. Another £800 later and I'm pulling out of the jaguar specialist and as I go to pull out on to the main road the gearbox dropped out of drive. I put it back but every time I slowed down it would drop out, I can't describe the mixture of rage and depression I felt. I tried to nurse it home but the more it dropped out of gear the more noise it made doing it, I genuinely thought the gearbox was about to sieze so I abandoned the car. When I eventually got back I was so incensed that I went on to auto trader and found an XJ 3.0ltr supercharged portfolio with only 16,000 miles on it so I rage bought it. My XF was recovered and the gearbox specialist said there was still an air leak code which wound me up no end given the last £1000 I've spent on the engine has been trying to solve that very issue, anyway I got in touch with my Jag specialist and they've still got the car and have said that they'll do the airleak free of charge (that's what building a good relationship with a specialist will do) but it's still waiting for that work to be done before the gearbox problems can be looked at. Meanwhile I'm thoroughly enjoying my new XJ. Best car I've ever had.

[@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!!!

[@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.

[@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 👍

[@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!

[@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 !!!

[@thegoodcomputingco]

Absolutely exceptional! I love seeing these cars (or really any car) used and enjoyed, not stored :D - Great update - thanks!

[@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

[@tonyosullivan2382]

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

[@robertseely4469]

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

[@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!).

[@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. 👍

[@scpromark]

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

[@billtaylor8655]

I’m happy for you. You have an amazing car you can afford to get sorted and will revel in driving. I enjoy your videos. I learn a great deal about older cars and I feel as if I’m getting to know you. Keep up the good work.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@modmod392]

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

[@dasstig5274]

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

[@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.

[@rogerhudson2814]

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

[@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!

[@MyMarsham]

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.

[@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!

[@PatrickMcTie]

I applaud your love for the 550!! One of my all time favorite Ferraris as well. So happy to see such a gorgeous car, in great hands. Earned my subscription with this video.

[@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.

[@MRVSKIN]

Love the fact that your so brutally honest. Thank you

[@jonnyyates7901]

You'll have to balance out by releasing 12k of 550 content over the next few years 😂 I've had a couple of calls like that in the past, makes you want to take a crowbar to it!

[@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?

[@rogeradshead7345]

Another cracking report James, and a realistic view of the kind of unexpected bills these terrific cars can throw up from time to time. Like many others who have commented, I'm very happy to hear that you are keeping it: As an owner of a similar car, with similar miles, I'm keen to continue sharing in your experiences. I know of three people here in New Zealand that have sold their 550s and soon after regretted it: Two of them have bought their original cars back twice, the other one having re-purchased his once, and only one of the three isn't still the owner. All the evidence you need to know that you have made the right decision. BTW, what tyres are you running at present? There appears to be a worldwide shortage of the correct tyre sizes in any brand.

[@Tential1]

Congrats on your success. Great content, well deserved and done.

[@rjdavies1982]

Hi jay, enjoyed that vid! Having a classic I know that feeling of waiting for a call from the garage! I was thinking it would be great to see you interview the first owner of the car and to get their experiences of having the car new!

[@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

[@SoerenAU]

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

[@brucehorn7600]

Congratulations on getting the car sorted. I hope you enjoy it. I am looking forward to seeing future videos of this car in action, perhaps a drive to get through Italy?

[@johnmandragon4830]

Buy a 90's V12 Ferrari they said, it will be fun they said...... Glad you won't be selling it, you would be mad to, you can now have true confidence in it, well, as much as you ever can in an older car. When you come to sell it all this grief will pay off, yours will stand out from the crowd.

[@juniorbennett8219]

hard to take a large bill when your not expecting it ,bloody right keep it and enjoy hopefully no more surprises 🤔

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Fingers firmly crossed!

[@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.

[@poovaneswaranvsupramaniam35]

You are just amazing james....congratulations on your achieved successes....it was through your sheer interest and determimation that you are at your current position , as well as th3 achieved success....looking forward to you coming over to malaysia to make a video of our car scene , or even a review video of published videos

[@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

[@jayjohnson3732]

I applaud your perspective. I too have had to fund some unplanned maintenance on a "somewhat" exotic car that is also a dream of mine. Not on the same level, but still something that was a dream. My Boxster. My bill was nothing like yours, but it still hurt. And it too was worth it.

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@ravesilly]

I am in the same boat with my E46 M3. Here's hoping I'm able to become a zen master when everything is said and done.

[@DeltaDubai03]

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

[@furmanodell]

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

[@F1YMS]

Really enjoy these types of videos, gives great insight. Thank you Jay.

[@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.

[@julesdowner5585]

Good for you ! A very admirable video and attitude!

[@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🙂

[@leonardmills5003]

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

[@davidfairbairn8]

Mate, that really is looking good even compared to when you got it. I’d say better. Wow, you should be so proud of everything you’ve done but that car yeah, should be proudest of that. It really is a present but future classic. Loving your recent videos, especially the old everyday common cars. Good work and pleased you’re lovin the 550.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks David, much appreciated

[@ATomRileyA]

Think of it this way if you hang on to it long enough it will keep going up in value and you will make a profit :)

[@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. 👍

[@RemlichtFilm]

I have a similar relation ship with my dream car, Lancia delta intergrale 16 v 😢 you’ve brightened up my day because now I feel that is cheap compared to the 550!

[@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.