The Ferrari F136FB–F136GT is a 4,499 cc, 90° V8 naturally aspirated engine produced between 2009 and 2014. It forms part of the longitudinal F136 engine family, delivering high — revving performance with a focus on throttle response and acoustic refinement. Featuring DOHC valvetrain, dry — sump lubrication, and variable valve timing (VVT), it produced 361–375 kW (490–507 PS) and 485–510 Nm of torque across applications.
Installed in the Ferrari California (F136FB) an…
All production years 2009–2014 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5842).
The Ferrari F136FB–F136GT is a 4,499 cc 90° V8 engineered for grand touring and sports models (2009–2014). It combines naturally aspirated design with variable valve timing and dry-sump lubrication to deliver high-rpm power and dynamic responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances track capability with road usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,499 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 98 RON min) | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
Power output | 361–375 kW (490–507 PS) @ 7,500–8,000 rpm | |
Torque | 485–510 Nm @ 5,000–6,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (Bosch MED17 ECU) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Dual overhead camshafts, chain-driven (double-row) | |
Oil type | SAE 5W-40 (Ferrari Class 2, API SM/CF) | |
Dry weight | 202 kg |
The Ferrari F136FB–F136GT was used across Ferrari's California and 458 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake tuning for grand touring in the California and high-flow heads in the 458 Italia-and from 2010 the F136GT revision introduced higher compression and revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The F136FB–F136GT's primary reliability risk is timing chain guide wear in high-mileage applications, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Ferrari service data from 2013 reported timing-related faults in approximately 8% of pre-2012 units beyond 60,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show a notable rise in emissions failures linked to oxygen sensor degradation in high-heat zones. Sustained high-RPM operation and delayed maintenance increase stress on guides and sensors, making oil quality and timely inspections critical.
Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (2009-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The F136FB–F136GT is a robust naturally aspirated V8 when maintained to factory standards. Early F136FB units (2009–2011) showed occasional timing chain guide wear beyond 60,000 km if oil changes were delayed. The F136GT (2010+) benefits from improved materials and calibration. Regular oil changes with Ferrari 5W-40 and adherence to service intervals ensure long-term reliability.
The most documented issues include timing chain guide wear, pre-catalytic oxygen sensor failure, intake manifold actuator faults, and valve cover oil leaks. These are covered in Ferrari service bulletins and technical updates. Sensor and actuator issues are often heat-related, while timing components require preventive replacement based on mileage and service history.
The F136FB powered the Ferrari California (2009–2012), while the F136GT was used in the 458 Italia (2010–2014) and 458 Spider (2011–2015). These engines are not shared with other manufacturers. Each variant is tuned for its application—California for grand touring, 458 for high-performance dynamics.
Yes, though tuning is more limited than turbocharged engines. ECU remaps can yield +15–25 kW by optimizing fuel and ignition maps, especially on F136GT units. Supporting modifications like exhaust and intake upgrades enhance gains. However, due to high factory output and redline, significant power increases require internal modifications and careful thermal management.
Realistic consumption is ~15–18 L/100km (15–17 mpg UK) in mixed driving, rising to 25+ L/100km (9 mpg UK) under spirited use. The California achieves slightly better economy due to GT tuning, while the 458 Italia’s high-RPM focus reduces efficiency. Fuel quality must be 98 RON minimum to prevent knock and maintain performance.
Yes. The F136 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Preventive maintenance of the chain system is essential—any rattling at startup should be investigated immediately to avoid catastrophic failure.
Ferrari specifies SAE 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting Ferrari Class 2 (API SM/CF) standards. This oil must be used to ensure proper protection of the high-RPM valvetrain and dry-sump system. Oil changes are recommended every 15,000 km or annually, with more frequent intervals under track conditions.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FERRARI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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