Every U.S. Ferrari 296 GTB Recalled Over Fire Risk
A safety recall has been issued for every 2022 and 2023 Ferrari 296 GTB and GTBs in the U.S. over fire concerns. The issue is with the corrosion of a fuel tank pipe leading to fuel leaks. First discovered in early April, Ferrari has already implemented a fix at the factory. But there are still over 400 Ferrari 296 GTB and GTBs supercars on the streets.
What is causing the Ferrari 296 GTB corrosion issues?
The simple explanation is that galvanic corrosion is causing the aluminum pipe to degrade. That’s because the pipe makes contact with the high-voltage battery cover, made from a combination of steel and fiberglass. Excessive corrosion of the pipe occurs, causing a fire risk from leaking fuel.
Ferrari says it is not aware of any incidents related to the potential for fuel leaks. Shielding the pipe with insulation material began at the factory on April 20. There are 425 296 vehicles in this recall, built between March 2021 and last month. The recall entails replacing the pipe with one that has a rubber sleeve, similar to the new part now implemented at the factory. Ferrari has also issued a stop-sale notice to dealers until any 296 models in inventories have received the fix.
How common are Ferrari recalls?
While Ferrari has issued nine recalls in the last four years, that’s fairly high relative to the low production output of the automaker. Last year two safety recalls over brake problems took in a large swath of cars built between 2005 and 2022. And in 2020, 812 Superfast models got a recall over the potential loss of rear windows that could blow out from inadequate bonding. So the Italian automaker is not immune to recalling its cars.
As for the 296 GTB and GTBs, the model has been heralded as a revolutionary Ferrari based on its hybrid system and power. Its 3.0-liter V6 packs 654 hp, which spins through a dual-clutch transmission. Its plug-in hybrid electric motor sits between the two.
Where can Ferrari owners get more recall information?
But 296 buyers can improve on those numbers, impressive as they already are. Its Assetto Fiorano option adds both aerodynamic and horsepower additions. Its lightweight components and aerodynamic aids help it slip through the atmosphere better. But just to seal the deal, Ferrari also increases the power to 818 hp and 546 lb-ft of torque.
Though the powertrain is more modern and techy, the overall interior and exterior design is more organic and simplified, and not in a bad way. In many ways, it is an updated version of its 1980s GTB iteration. It’s not retro, but rather timeless.
For those 296 GTB and GTBs oners concerned or wanting more information, they can go to Ferrari’s recall website to get more information. Refer to NHTSA recall No. 23V-329.
