The 2017 Ferrari California T is a grand touring convertible with a retractable hardtop, offering open-air thrills combined with Ferrari performance and luxury. Introduced in 2008, the California aimed to broaden Ferrari's appeal. The "T" signifies the turbocharger added in the 2015 refresh. Available in a single well-equipped trim, its price ranged from approximately $200,000 new. Its blend of everyday usability, stunning looks, and Ferrari prestige made it popular.
The Good
The 2017 Ferrari California T offers exhilarating performance thanks to its turbocharged engine, luxurious comfort with a well-appointed interior, and striking Ferrari design. It provides a more reliable Ferrari ownership experience compared to some models. The retractable hardtop enhances practicality, appealing to both emotional buyers seeking a thrilling drive and practical buyers wanting a usable grand tourer.
The Bad
While generally reliable for a Ferrari, the California T can experience issues with the retractable hardtop mechanism, which can be costly to repair. Early models had some reported problems with the DCT (dual-clutch transmission). Also, be aware of potential for high running costs, including expensive maintenance and repairs. Ensure thorough pre-purchase inspection.
2017 Ferrari California: Quick Overview
- Engine: 3.9-liter Twin-Turbo V8
- Horsepower: 552 hp @ 7,500 rpm
- Torque: 557 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Fuel Economy: 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway (EPA estimates)
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 3.6 seconds
- Top Speed: 193 mph
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable
- Trim-Level Features:
The 2017 California T was offered in a single, well-equipped trim level. Standard features included: - Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable seats with memory
- Heated seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display
- Navigation system
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Rear parking sensors
- Carbon-ceramic brakes
- Retractable hardtop
- Optional Features:
- Upgraded audio systems (JBL Professional)
- Various interior trim options (carbon fiber, aluminum, wood)
- Exterior color options
- Special stitching
- Front and rear parking cameras
- Adaptive headlights
- Magneride adaptive suspension
2017 Ferrari California Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2017 |
| Make | Ferrari |
| Model | California |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Italy |
| Manufacturing City | MARANELLO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.9-L V-8 DOHC 32V |
| Engine Size | 3.9L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 7-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $210,843 USD |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2017 Ferrari California Have?
The 2017 Ferrari California T, while more reliable than some older Ferrari models, has some frequently reported problems and potential long-term reliability concerns. The most common issue revolves around the retractable hardtop mechanism. Failures can be expensive to diagnose and repair, involving complex hydraulics and sensors. Some owners have reported issues with the dual-clutch transmission (DCT), experiencing jerky shifting or complete failure, although this was more prevalent in earlier California models.
Electrical issues, while not widespread, can occur, affecting various systems like the infotainment or climate control. Oil leaks are also a potential concern, especially as the car ages. Carbon ceramic brakes are durable, but replacement can be extremely expensive.
Recalls for the California T are relatively infrequent, but it's essential to check with Ferrari or the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability largely depends on proper maintenance and adherence to the service schedule. Neglecting maintenance can exacerbate potential issues and lead to costly repairs down the line. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified Ferrari technician are crucial.
Electrical issues, while not widespread, can occur, affecting various systems like the infotainment or climate control. Oil leaks are also a potential concern, especially as the car ages. Carbon ceramic brakes are durable, but replacement can be extremely expensive.
Recalls for the California T are relatively infrequent, but it's essential to check with Ferrari or the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability largely depends on proper maintenance and adherence to the service schedule. Neglecting maintenance can exacerbate potential issues and lead to costly repairs down the line. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified Ferrari technician are crucial.
How long will the 2017 Ferrari California last?
The 2017 Ferrari California T, given its nature as a grand tourer, often sees lower than average annual mileage compared to daily drivers. Many are driven sparingly, averaging perhaps 3,000-7,000 miles per year. With diligent maintenance, including regular fluid changes and inspections, the engine and transmission can prove durable. However, expect potential issues with the retractable hardtop, electronics, and aging rubber components (seals, hoses) over time. The car's longevity hinges on proactive care and addressing minor issues promptly. Some owners report 100,000 miles or more with careful ownership.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2017 Ferrari California T features a 6.5-inch infotainment display, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port for entertainment. The standard audio system provides decent sound quality, while an optional JBL Professional sound system offered enhanced audio experience. The infotainment system is functional but can feel dated compared to more modern systems.
Driver-assistance features are limited compared to contemporary vehicles. It includes rear parking sensors as standard. Optional features included front and rear parking cameras.
Safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, and airbags. The carbon-ceramic brakes provide excellent stopping power. No official crash-test ratings are available for the Ferrari California T from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, which is common for low-volume, high-performance vehicles. Optional equipment includes adaptive headlights, which enhance visibility.
While not packed with the latest tech, the California T focuses on delivering a pure driving experience. The emphasis is on performance and driver engagement rather than advanced driver-assistance systems.
Driver-assistance features are limited compared to contemporary vehicles. It includes rear parking sensors as standard. Optional features included front and rear parking cameras.
Safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, and airbags. The carbon-ceramic brakes provide excellent stopping power. No official crash-test ratings are available for the Ferrari California T from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, which is common for low-volume, high-performance vehicles. Optional equipment includes adaptive headlights, which enhance visibility.
While not packed with the latest tech, the California T focuses on delivering a pure driving experience. The emphasis is on performance and driver engagement rather than advanced driver-assistance systems.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Rosso Corsa
Nero
Blu Pozzi
Giallo Modena
Grigio Silverstone
Rosso Dino
Bianco Avus
Interior Colors
Cuoio
Nero
Sabbia
Rosso Ferrari
Crema
2017 Ferrari California Prices and Market Value
The 2017 Ferrari California T had a starting MSRP of around $200,000 when new. As of late 2023, used market prices generally range from $130,000 to $170,000, depending on mileage, condition, and options. Depreciation is moderate for a Ferrari, holding value relatively well due to its appeal and collectibility. Low mileage, excellent condition, rare color combinations, and desirable options packages positively impact resale value. Maintenance history and a clean Carfax report are also crucial factors influencing price.
2017 Ferrari California Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2017 Ferrari California T is undeniably costly. Insurance premiums are high, reflecting the vehicle's value and performance. Fuel consumption is significant, requiring premium gasoline. Maintenance, including scheduled services and potential repairs, can be very expensive due to the specialized parts and labor involved. Carbon ceramic brake replacement is a particularly high cost. Long-term ownership requires a substantial budget and proactive maintenance to mitigate potential issues. This is not an economical vehicle to own.
2017 Ferrari California Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
48.07 liters
City Mileage
6.25 km/l
Highway Mileage
4.34 km/l
2017 Ferrari California Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2019-01-09
Recall no.
19v006000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ferrari North America (Ferrari) IS Recalling Certain 2014 Ferrari California, 2014-2015 Ferrari 458 Italia, 458 Spider, 2014-2016 Ferrari FF, 2014-2017 Ferrari F12, 2015-2018 Ferrari California T, 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale A, 2016 Ferrari F60 America, 2016-2017 Ferrari F12 Tdf, 2016-2018 Ferrari 488 Gtb, 488 Spider, 2017-2018 Ferrari Gtc4lusso and 2018 Gtc4lusso T Vehicles Nationwide. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Ferrari Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 8, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Ferrari Customer Service AT 1-866-551-2828. Ferrari's Number FOR This Recall IS 65.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date
2019-06-04
Recall no.
19v411000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) IS Recalling Certain 2018 488 Spider, 488 Pista, 2015 458 Speciale A, 2016-2018 488 Gtb, 2015-2017 F12 Berlinetta, 2016 F12 Tdf, and 2016-2018 Carlifornia T Vehicles. THE AIR BAG Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) MAY Malfunction, Possibly Causing THE Non-deployment or Improper Deployment OF THE AIR Bags And/Or Seat Belt Pretensioners.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, AIR Bags And/Or Seat Belt Pretensioners That DO NOT Deploy AS Intended CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Ferrari Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE AIR BAG Ecu, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 2, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Ferrari Customer Service AT 1-201-816-2668. Ferrari's Number FOR This Recall IS 70.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags: AIR Bag/Restraint Control Module
Recall date
2019-06-04
Recall no.
19v411000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) IS Recalling Certain 2018 488 Spider, 488 Pista, 2015 458 Speciale A, 2016-2018 488 Gtb, 2015-2017 F12 Berlinetta, 2016 F12 Tdf, and 2016-2018 Carlifornia T Vehicles. THE AIR BAG Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) MAY Malfunction, Possibly Causing THE Non-deployment or Improper Deployment OF THE AIR Bags And/Or Seat Belt Pretensioners.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, AIR Bags And/Or Seat Belt Pretensioners That DO NOT Deploy AS Intended CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Ferrari Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE AIR BAG Ecu, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 2, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Ferrari Customer Service AT 1-201-816-2668. Ferrari's Number FOR This Recall IS 70.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Recall date
2022-07-26
Recall no.
22v536000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2009 430, 2019-2020 488 Pista, 2016 F60 America, 2005-2011 612 Scaglietti, 2010-2011 612, 2018-2022 812, 2020-2022 F8 Spider, 2020-2022 F8 Tributo, 2021-2022 Roma, 2009-2017 California, 2015-2017 California T, 2013-2017 F12 Berlinetta, 2017 F12 Tdf, 2012-2016 FF, 2017-2020 Gtc4 Lusso, 2018-2020 Gtc4 Lusso T, 2013-2015 Laferrari, 2017 Laferrari Aperta, and 2019-2022 Portofino Vehicles. THE Brake Fluid Reservoir CAP MAY NOT Vent Properly, Creating A Vacuum Inside THE Brake Fluid Reservoir, and Resulting IN A Brake Fluid Leak That MAY Lead TO A Partial or Total Loss OF Brake Function.
Consequence
A Loss OF Brake Function CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Brake Fluid Reservoir CAP and Update THE Software TO Provide A NEW Warning Message FOR Low Brake Fluid, Free OF Charge. Interim Owner Notification Letters, Informing Owners OF THE Safety Risk, Were Mailed September 22, 2022. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed November 29, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Ferrari Customer Service AT 1-201-816-2668. Ferrari's Number FOR This Recall IS RC 80. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Number 21v-833.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2017 Ferrari California Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2017 Ferrari California Insurance
Insurance for a 2017 Ferrari California is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Convertible with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2017 Ferrari California Compare to Other Convertible?
The 2017 Ferrari California T competes with grand touring convertibles like the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, Aston Martin Vantage, and Mercedes-AMG SL63. In terms of performance, the California T offers similar acceleration to the 911 Turbo S, but the Porsche might have a slight edge in handling and overall track performance. The Aston Martin Vantage provides a more raw and engaging driving experience, while the Mercedes-AMG SL63 focuses on luxury and comfort.
Regarding features, the Porsche offers a more modern infotainment system and available advanced driver-assistance systems. The Aston Martin prioritizes driver-focused features. In terms of reliability, the Porsche 911 is generally considered more reliable than the Ferrari. Pricing is competitive within the class, but maintenance costs are typically higher for the Ferrari.
Alternatives? The Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet offers similar performance with greater reliability and more modern technology. The Mercedes-AMG SL63 provides a luxurious and comfortable grand touring experience. If a raw, driver-focused experience is desired, the Aston Martin Vantage is a compelling option. The Ferrari excels in its brand cachet and unique Italian flair.
Regarding features, the Porsche offers a more modern infotainment system and available advanced driver-assistance systems. The Aston Martin prioritizes driver-focused features. In terms of reliability, the Porsche 911 is generally considered more reliable than the Ferrari. Pricing is competitive within the class, but maintenance costs are typically higher for the Ferrari.
Alternatives? The Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet offers similar performance with greater reliability and more modern technology. The Mercedes-AMG SL63 provides a luxurious and comfortable grand touring experience. If a raw, driver-focused experience is desired, the Aston Martin Vantage is a compelling option. The Ferrari excels in its brand cachet and unique Italian flair.
Ranks #162 Convertible
| 1 | 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2015 Lexus IS | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2009 Honda S2000 | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF | (4.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 BMW 8 Series | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2021 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Audi S5 Sportback | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ferrari F8 Spider | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2021 Jeep Compass | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2019 Buick Cascada | (0.0★) |
| 162 | 2017 Ferrari California | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Ferrari California a Good Convertible?
The 2017 Ferrari California T is ideal for buyers seeking a blend of Ferrari performance, open-air thrills, and relative everyday usability. It's a good fit for those who appreciate the Ferrari brand and are prepared for the higher running costs. Whether it's worth buying depends on individual priorities. If reliability and cutting-edge technology are paramount, alternatives like the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet might be better choices. A used California T can be a good value, especially if thoroughly inspected and well-maintained. Prioritize models with complete service records and a clean bill of health from a reputable Ferrari mechanic.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma