Ferrari Recalls F355 Over Fuel Leak Problems

Italian carmaker Ferrari recently issued a safety recall concerning 2,356 F355 vehicles in the United States. The recall concerns both Ferrari 355 and 355 F1 models, manufactured between 1995 and 1999, due to a fault which might lead to a potential fuel system failure. But the interesting part is yes to come: the problem is the same as the one noticed by the company 12 years ago.

“Ferrari is recalling certain model year 1995 through 1999 Ferrari 355 and 355 F1 vehicles. Independent automobile repair facilities may have improperly installed certain screw clamps that are located in close proximity to the fuel lines and that fasten the water sleeve to the thermostat connection. The improper installation of these screw clamps may damage the fuel supply pipes,” the notification stated.

The original repair could have damaged the fuel hoses, which in turn could cause smoke or even an engine fire. However, a new fuel divider blocks should fix the issue this time around.

“Fluid could leak into the engine compartment, causing smoke and, in some circumstances, a fire, rendering the vehicle inoperable and possibly resulting in a crash,” the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says on its official site.

According to Ferrari, “Dealers will install a new fuel divider block, which will serve to provide a greater distance between these screw clamps and the fuel lines. This will eliminate the possibility of any damage to the fuel supply pipes which could cause fluid leakage.”

Just as expected, this service will be performed free of charge. The recall is expected to begin sometime in December 2009, but owners of the vehicle in question may also contact Ferrari at 201-816-2600.