Is Maserati Reliable? An In-Depth Review of Maserati’s Reliability

Maserati is an Italian luxury car brand famous for its sleek designs, rich heritage, and love of high performance. Founded in 1914, the company combines craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create vehicles that turn heads and stir emotions. Maserati cars, such as the Ghibli, Levante, and Quattroporte, stand out with their elegant styling and powerful engines. Known for their exclusivity, they’re a favorite among those who admire artistry and luxury. While questions about reliability often arise, Maserati’s charm lies in delivering an unforgettable driving experience, making it more than just a car—it’s a statement of style and passion.

When thinking about luxury car brands, Maserati’s name often comes to mind. Known for its sleek designs, rich interiors, and Italian craftsmanship, Maserati feels synonymous with elegance and performance. However, one question often looms for potential buyers and enthusiasts alike—Is Maserati reliable? While Maserati owners rave about the brand’s exclusivity and prestige, reliability isn’t always the first concept that comes up in conversations about the brand. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Maserati reliable—or not—and determine whether it delivers on practicality as much as it does on glamour.

What Makes a Car Reliable?

Before dissecting Maserati’s track record, it’s worth understanding what makes a car reliable. A reliable car is one that starts every morning without fail, runs smoothly for a reasonable number of years, and doesn’t leave its owner stranded by the side of the road. Reliability also ties into the cost and frequency of maintenance—how often does the car require repairs? Are these repairs affordable or do they come at a premium? For many, reliability is key because owning a car is not just about luxury or speed, but also assurance that it will serve its purpose day in and day out.

Maserati’s Reputation for Reliability

Maserati is not a newcomer to the automotive world. Owned by Stellantis, it’s backed by the same parent company as luxury brands like Alfa Romeo and mainstream giants such as Jeep. With a history that spans over 100 years, Maserati has established itself as a maker of powerful, stylish vehicles in the luxury segment.

That said, when we talk about Maserati reliability, the reactions are often mixed. The brand has faced criticism in the past for having cars that are less dependable compared to its competitors such as Porsche, Audi, or Mercedes-Benz. Despite recent improvements, its reputation before the 2010s painted a picture of a high-maintenance vehicle that required deep pockets not just to purchase, but also to maintain.

The Maserati Experience

Maserati cars, such as the Ghibli, Levante, and Quattroporte, are highly sought after for their exclusivity. Driving one often feels like making a statement, offering an experience that many other brands can’t replicate. From exceptional interior details to striking exteriors, Maserati excels in creating a sense of uniqueness. However, reliability sometimes takes a backseat to features such as performance and luxury.

For instance, while the Maserati Ghibli is a beautiful sports sedan equipped with powerful engines and cutting-edge technology, some owners have reported issues over time. Common critiques include electrical glitches, issues with infotainment systems, and occasional mechanical hiccups. These types of problems, while not universal or guaranteed, can eventually create doubts about whether Maserati is reliable.

Comparing Maserati to Competitors

When assessing Maserati’s reliability, it’s essential to consider how its competitors perform in the same area. Brands like Porsche, Lexus, and BMW rank significantly higher on reliability indices, such as Consumer Reports and J.D. Power studies. Porsche, for example, has a history of blending high performance with durable engineering, making it a favorite among those looking for reliability in a luxury car.

Lexus, on the other hand, leans heavily into dependability. With vehicles that consistently rank amongst the most reliable in the industry, Lexus caters to buyers who want luxury with peace of mind. Maserati, by comparison, struggles to achieve the same level of dependability. While Maserati vehicles are breathtaking to drive, their higher maintenance costs and reported long-term issues may deter those who prioritize reliability.

Improvements in Maserati Reliability

The question “Is Maserati reliable?” becomes more nuanced when we consider the brand’s focus on improvement in recent years. Maserati has been actively working on addressing previous flaws and advancing their offerings. For example, newer models have shown noticeable improvements in design, manufacturing quality, and technology integration.

The Maserati Levante, the brand’s first SUV, has shown the company’s commitment to combining durability with luxury. This model specifically caters to customers who value practicality. Similarly, Maserati’s move toward hybrid technology suggests an interest in developing vehicles that don’t just focus on style or performance, but also on long-term efficiency and dependability.

The brand has also taken steps to extend warranty programs and improve dealership experiences. For instance, Maserati now offers reassurance through its “Bumper-to-Bumper” standard coverage, lasting four years or 50,000 miles. This demonstrates that the company is aware of customer concerns and is ready to step up their game.

The Costs of Maintenance and Repairs

It’s critical to address one major aspect of owning a Maserati—the cost of maintenance. Even if Maserati were recognized as reliable, luxury vehicles typically require a higher investment in upkeep compared to mainstream brands.

The cost of repairing a Maserati can be steep. Routine maintenance such as oil changes or brake pad replacements often costs more than it would for brands like Toyota or Hyundai. This is due to the premium-quality parts and specialized labor involved. Additionally, Maserati vehicles may require maintenance more often than their competitors. For instance, sourcing parts for Maserati repairs can sometimes take longer, as they’re not as widely available as parts for German or Japanese luxury cars.

While Maserati has a small but loyal customer base, new buyers may find these repair and maintenance expenses discouraging if they’re used to vehicles that blend luxury with practicality.

Why People Still Love Maserati

Despite mixed reviews around the brand’s reliability, there’s no denying the allure of owning a Maserati. The brand is iconic. Maserati cars are not just about getting from point A to point B—they’re vehicles designed to turn heads, stir emotions, and provide a gut-punch of adrenaline when you step on the accelerator.

People invest in Maserati not just for reliability but for the joy of having something extraordinary. The harmonious roar of the Ferrari-derived engines (present in several older models), coupled with their Italian styling, sets Maserati vehicles apart from their German and Japanese competitors. A Maserati is about passion, exclusivity, and craftsmanship—a combination that keeps buyers coming back despite potential reliability concerns.

Should You Buy a Maserati?

If reliability is your top priority, a Maserati might not make the cut. Brands like Lexus, Porsche, or even BMW could be a better fit for someone who wants luxury with minimal concerns. On the other hand, if you’re someone who values artistry, performance, and making an impression, and you’re willing to handle the higher maintenance costs, Maserati could very well be the car for you.

Ultimately, is Maserati reliable? The answer will depend on your definition of reliability. If measured by low maintenance costs, flawless performance, and consistency, it’s fair to say Maserati may not excel in this area. However, if reliability is balanced with a love for exclusivity and a willingness to accept occasional hiccups for sheer driving pleasure, then Maserati could stand out.

Final Thoughts

Maserati may have its shortcomings, but for those who value performance and style above all else, it delivers in spades. It’s a brand that requires commitment, both emotionally and financially, but that commitment often pays off in the form of unrivaled luxury and driving experience. While other brands often win the conversation around dependability, Maserati remains a compelling choice for those who prioritize passion over practicality. Whether Maserati is the right choice for you, though, ultimately depends on your personal priorities as a buyer.