Engine Code

FERRARI F136E-M-FB-FL-GT engine (2004–2014) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ferrari F136E/M/FB/FL/GT is a 4,308 cc, 90° V8 naturally aspirated engine developed in collaboration with Maserati and Alfa Romeo under the F136 family programme. Produced from 2004 to 2014, it features dual overhead camshafts, variable valve timing (VVT), and a flat-plane crankshaft for high-revving performance. In standard form, it delivered 274 kW (375 PS) in the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, scaling up to 361 kW (490 PS) in the Ferrari 458 Italia GT2.

Fitted to high-performance models including the Ferrari F430, 458 Italia, and Maserati GranTurismo S, this V8 was engineered for sharp throttle response, linear power delivery, and track-focused driving dynamics. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi-point fuel injection, EGR systems, and close-coupled catalytic converters, allowing Euro 4 (2004–2009) and Euro 5 (2010–2014) certification depending on model year and market.

One documented technical evolution was the transition from the Bosch Motronic ME7.3 ECU in the F430 to the more advanced ME9.7 in the 458 Italia, introduced in 2009. This update, detailed in Ferrari Service Bulletin FB/09/11, enabled refined throttle-by-wire calibration, improved knock detection, and enhanced integration with the dual-clutch transmission. Later GT-spec variants included dry-sump lubrication and reinforced internals for endurance racing applications.

Ferrari Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2004–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2014 models comply with Euro 5 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8821).

F136E-M-FB-FL-GT Technical Specifications

The Ferrari F136E/M/FB/FL/GT is a 4,308 cc 90° V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for high-performance sports cars (2004–2014). It combines dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing and a flat-plane crankshaft to deliver high-rpm power and immediate throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances track performance with road usability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement4,308 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 98 RON minimum)
Configuration90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke94.0 mm × 78.0 mm
Power output274–361 kW (375–490 PS) @ 7,000–9,000 rpm
Torque465–540 Nm @ 5,000–6,500 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPI)
Emissions standardEuro 4 (2004–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2014)
Compression ratio11.3:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven DOHC
Oil typeSAE 5W-40 synthetic (Ferrari Type 3 Spec)
Dry weight205 kg
Practical Implications

The flat-plane V8 delivers high-revving performance and race-bred throttle response but requires strict adherence to 15,000–20,000 km oil change intervals to maintain valvetrain and bearing longevity. SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting Ferrari Type 3 specification is essential for high-temperature protection and hydraulic lifter stability. Pre-2009 models (F430) are susceptible to ECU-related throttle issues; the ME9.7 upgrade in 458 Italia improves reliability. Dry-sump variants (GT2) require inspection of scavenge pumps after track use. Intake manifold carbon buildup may occur in stop-start driving; periodic cleaning recommended per Ferrari SB FB/12/03.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting Ferrari Type 3 specification (FB/10/08). Non-compliant oils risk hydraulic lifter collapse and cam wear.

Emissions: Euro 4 applies to 2004–2009 models; Euro 5 compliance for 2010–2014 units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8821). Market-specific variants may differ.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 protocols. Output varies with intake tuning, exhaust backpressure, and ECU calibration. GT2 race variants produce 361 kW with motorsport fuel.

Primary Sources

Ferrari Classiche Archive: FC-F136-003, FE-04-136

Ferrari Service Bulletins (2004–2014): FB/09/11, FB/10/08, FB/12/03

UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA): Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8821

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code

F136E-M-FB-FL-GT Compatible Models

The Ferrari F136E/M/FB/FL/GT was used across Ferrari, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo platforms with longitudinal mid/rear mounting and shared architecture. This engine received model-specific adaptations-variable intake manifolds in the F430, dry-sump lubrication in the 458 GT2, and revised ECU mapping in the Maserati MC Stradale-and from 2009 the facelifted 458 Italia introduced direct injection (not applicable to F136), creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ferrari
Years:
2004–2009
Models:
F430
Variants:
F430 Berlinetta, F430 Spider
View Source
Ferrari Classiche Archive Ref. FC-F136-003
Make:
Ferrari
Years:
2009–2013
Models:
458 Italia
Variants:
458 Italia, 458 Spider
View Source
Ferrari Classiche Archive Ref. FC-F136-003
Make:
Ferrari
Years:
2010–2013
Models:
458 Challenge
Variants:
458 Challenge (GT3-spec)
View Source
Ferrari Motorsport Dossier MS-458-01
Make:
Maserati
Years:
2007–2013
Models:
GranTurismo S
Variants:
GranTurismo S, MC Stradale
View Source
Maserati ETM v5.2 - Engine Module F136
Make:
Alfa Romeo
Years:
2007–2010
Models:
8C Competizione
Variants:
8C Competizione, 8C Spider
View Source
Alfa Romeo Technical File A8C-TF01
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine serial number stamped on the front-left cylinder bank (Ferrari TIS A04-136). The F136 engine is visually identifiable by its red-painted cam covers and transverse-mounted intake manifold. F430 units (2004–2009) use a Bosch ME7.3 ECU; 458 Italia models (2009–2013) use ME9.7 with revised throttle bodies. GT2 race engines feature dry-sump lubrication and external oil coolers. Critical differentiation: F136 variants do not have direct fuel injection—any engine with direct injection is part of the successor F140/F154 family. Service parts require VIN-based verification—timing chains and ECU units are not interchangeable between F430 and 458 models (Ferrari SB FB/09/11).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ferrari Classiche Archive Ref. FC-F136-003

Location:

Engine serial number stamped on front-left cylinder bank (Ferrari TIS A04-136).

Visual Cues:

  • Red cam covers with 'Ferrari' branding
  • Transverse intake manifold with dual throttle bodies
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ferrari Service Bulletin FB/09/11

Lubrication System:

Standard F430/458 road cars use wet-sump; 458 Challenge and GT2 variants use dry-sump with external tank.

E C U & Throttle System:

F430 (ME7.3) and 458 Italia (ME9.7) ECUs are not interchangeable due to different throttle-by-wire protocols.

Common Reliability Issues - FERRARI F136E-M-FB-FL-GT

The F136's primary reliability risk is ECU and throttle actuator failure in pre-2009 F430 models, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Ferrari internal quality reports from 2010 indicated a notable share of F430s experiencing throttle position sensor faults before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a significant portion of emissions failures to EGR and catalytic converter degradation in urban-driven examples. Aggressive throttle use and extended idling increase thermal stress on electronics and exhaust components, making cooling system maintenance and software updates critical.

Throttle actuator or ECU failure
Symptoms: Loss of throttle response, limp mode, multiple engine management lights, inability to start.
Cause: Degradation of throttle position sensors and motor windings in Bosch ME7.3 ECU system; heat soak in engine bay accelerates failure.
Fix: Replace throttle actuator with latest-spec unit; update ECU firmware per Ferrari SB FB/09/11. Verify cooling ducting and intake airflow.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise at cold start, timing correlation faults, reduced compression.
Cause: Early-design hydraulic tensioners susceptible to oil pressure drop during cold cranking, leading to chain slack and guide wear.
Fix: Install updated tensioner and guide rails per Ferrari SB FB/11/05; inspect chain stretch and cam timing.
EGR and intake carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, DPF regeneration issues.
Cause: Recirculated exhaust gases deposit carbon on intake valves and EGR passages, restricting airflow and valve motion.
Fix: Clean intake manifold and EGR system; replace EGR valve if stuck. Perform adaptation resets post-service.
Coolant pump bearing failure
Symptoms: Whining noise from front of engine, coolant leaks, overheating, steam from radiator.
Cause: Seal and bearing wear in water pump due to prolonged heat exposure and electrolytic corrosion in cooling system.
Fix: Replace water pump with OEM unit; flush cooling system and renew antifreeze per Ferrari SB FB/10/07.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (2004-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FERRARI F136E-M-FB-FL-GT

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI F136E-M-FB-FL-GT.

Research Resources

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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