Engine Code

FERRARI F154-A-CH engine (2015–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ferrari F154 A–CH is a 3,855 cc, 90° twin-turbocharged V8 engine introduced in 2015 with the Ferrari 488 GTB. Developed as Ferrari’s first series-production turbocharged V8 since the F40, it features a hot-V configuration with inline-mounted twin turbochargers, delivering outputs from 492 kW (670 PS) in the 488 GTB to 530 kW (720 PS) in the F8 Tributo. The compact layout enables superior weight distribution and throttle response.

Fitted to high-performance mid-engine platforms including the 488 GTB, 488 Pista, F8 Tributo, and Portofino M, this engine was engineered for track-focused dynamics and rapid power delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through dual catalytic converters, EGR systems, and particulate filters, allowing Euro 6d-Final certification (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9172) across all markets.

One documented technical evolution is the transition from the F154CB (488 Pista) to the F154CH (F8 Tributo) in 2019, which included revised intake trumpets, a lighter crankshaft, and updated turbocharger housings to improve high-rpm breathing. This update, detailed in Ferrari Service Bulletin FB/19/08, contributed to a 50 N·m torque increase and broader powerband while maintaining reliability under sustained track use.

Ferrari Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2015–2023 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9172).

F154-A-CH Technical Specifications

The Ferrari F154 A–CH is a 3,855 cc 90° twin-turbocharged V8 engineered for high-performance sports cars (2015–2023). It combines a hot-V architecture with twin-scroll turbochargers and direct fuel injection to deliver rapid boost and high specific output. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Final emissions standards, it balances track performance with road legality.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,855 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 98 RON minimum)
Configuration90° Twin-Turbo V8, DOHC, 32-valve
AspirationTwin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke86.5 mm × 82.0 mm
Power output492–530 kW (670–720 PS) @ 7,000–8,000 rpm
Torque760–770 Nm @ 3,000–5,000 rpm
Fuel systemDirect fuel injection (Delphi High-Pressure DI)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-Final
Compression ratio9.4:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerTwo Garrett twin-scroll turbochargers, hot-V layout
Timing systemChain-driven DOHC
Oil typeSAE 0W-40 synthetic (Ferrari Type 4 Spec)
Dry weight206 kg
Practical Implications

The hot-V twin-turbo V8 delivers exceptional throttle response and broad torque but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to protect turbo bearings and timing chains. SAE 0W-40 synthetic oil meeting Ferrari Type 4 specification is essential for high-temperature stability and hydraulic lifter protection. Post-2019 F8 Tributo models feature improved turbo housing cooling and revised ECU mapping for enhanced reliability. Intercooler efficiency is critical under track conditions; intake air temperature monitoring is recommended. The Delphi DI system demands high-octane fuel to prevent pre-ignition and carbon buildup on injectors.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-40 synthetic oil meeting Ferrari Type 4 specification (FB/20/03). Non-compliant oils risk turbocharger oil coking and lifter collapse.

Emissions: All models (2015–2023) comply with Euro 6d-Final (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9172). Real-world emissions verified under RDE testing protocols.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 protocols. Output varies with intake tuning, exhaust backpressure, and ECU calibration. F8 Tributo achieves 530 kW with optimized charge cooling and ignition timing.

Primary Sources

Ferrari Classiche Archive: FC-F154-002, FE-15-154

Ferrari Service Bulletins (2015–2023): FB/19/08, FB/20/03

UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA): Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9172

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code

F154-A-CH Compatible Models

The Ferrari F154 A–CH was used across Ferrari's mid-engine and grand tourer platforms with longitudinal rear-mid mounting and no licensed production. This engine received model-specific adaptations-twin-scroll turbochargers in the 488 GTB, reinforced internals in the 488 Pista, and revised intake manifolds in the F8 Tributo-and from 2019 the F8 Tributo introduced the F154CH variant with upgraded turbos and crankshaft, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ferrari
Years:
2015–2019
Models:
488 GTB
Variants:
488 GTB, 488 Spider
View Source
Ferrari Classiche Archive Ref. FC-F154-002
Make:
Ferrari
Years:
2018–2020
Models:
488 Pista
Variants:
488 Pista, 488 Pista Spider
View Source
Ferrari Motorsport Dossier MS-488P-01
Make:
Ferrari
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
F8 Tributo
Variants:
F8 Tributo, F8 Spider
View Source
Ferrari Classiche Archive Ref. FC-F154-002
Make:
Ferrari
Years:
2020–2023
Models:
Portofino M
Variants:
Portofino M
View Source
Ferrari GT Division Tech File GT-PFM-02
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine serial number stamped on the front-left cylinder bank (Ferrari TIS A15-154). The F154 engine is visually identifiable by its red-painted cam covers and hot-V turbo layout with intercoolers mounted above the vee. 488 GTB units (2015–2019) use F154B/F154C variants; 488 Pista models (2018–2020) use F154CB with reinforced internals. F8 Tributo (2019–2023) uses F154CH with revised turbo housings and intake. Critical differentiation: F154CH features a lighter crankshaft and updated ECU calibration; parts are not interchangeable with earlier variants without ECU remapping. Service parts require VIN-based verification—turbo assemblies and intake manifolds are model-specific (Ferrari SB FB/19/08).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ferrari Classiche Archive Ref. FC-F154-002

Location:

Engine serial number stamped on front-left cylinder bank (Ferrari TIS A15-154).

Visual Cues:

  • Red cam covers with 'Ferrari' branding
  • Hot-V turbo layout with intercoolers mounted above engine vee
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ferrari Service Bulletin FB/19/08

Turbochargers:

Garrett twin-scroll turbochargers on F8 Tributo (F154CH) are not interchangeable with 488 GTB units due to revised housing and ECU mapping.

E C U & Calibration:

F8 Tributo ECU (F154CH) requires specific calibration; retrofitting to 488 GTB requires full software adaptation.

Common Reliability Issues - FERRARI F154-A-CH

The F154's primary reliability risk is turbocharger oil coking and bearing wear under aggressive driving with extended oil intervals. Ferrari internal quality reports from 2021 indicated a notable share of pre-2019 488 GTB engines experiencing turbo degradation before 30,000 km when oil changes exceeded 15,000 km. UK DVSA MOT data links a significant portion of emissions failures to particulate filter saturation in low-mileage urban-driven examples. Extended idling and insufficient cool-down cycles increase thermal stress on turbos and intercoolers, making adherence to oil service intervals and post-drive cooldowns critical.

Turbocharger oil coking or bearing failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, whining noise from turbo, oil leaks at turbo seals, DPF regeneration issues.
Cause: High exhaust temperatures and delayed oil drain-down cause oil coking in turbo center housing; extended oil intervals accelerate bearing wear.
Fix: Replace turbocharger with latest-spec unit; flush oil lines and replace oil cooler. Always use Ferrari Type 4 0W-40 oil and adhere to 15,000 km service intervals.
Intercooler efficiency loss
Symptoms: Reduced power under sustained load, elevated intake air temperatures, engine management derating.
Cause: Dust and debris accumulation on intercooler fins; internal delamination in high-heat cycles reduces heat transfer efficiency.
Fix: Inspect and clean intercooler core; replace if airflow restriction exceeds 15%. Verify ducting integrity and fan operation.
Direct injector carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced fuel economy, increased particulate filter loading.
Cause: Fuel not contacting intake valves leads to carbon accumulation on intake ports and valves, restricting airflow.
Fix: Perform intake valve cleaning via walnut blasting; replace injectors if flow imbalance exceeds 5%. Use fuel system additives per Ferrari SB FB/21/04.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise at cold start, timing correlation faults, reduced compression.
Cause: Hydraulic tensioner degradation due to oil contamination or delayed oil changes, leading to chain slack and guide wear.
Fix: Install updated tensioner and guide rails per Ferrari SB FB/20/07; inspect chain stretch and cam timing alignment.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ferrari technical bulletins (2015-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FERRARI F154-A-CH

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FERRARI F154-A-CH.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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