Back to case studies
Case study

A First-Time FERRARI Buyer Who Did Not Want to Miss the Obvious

03 Jul 2026 Richard B. FERRARI California 2010
A First-Time FERRARI Buyer Who Did Not Want to Miss the Obvious

Why they booked

The buyer was looking for their first car and found a FERRARI that seemed ideal. It was affordable, small enough to manage easily, and suitable for everyday driving.

Because this was their first used car purchase, Richard B. was not fully confident checking it themselves. They did not want to miss obvious warning signs such as worn tyres, poor bodywork repair, leaks, brake wear, dashboard warnings, or signs of poor maintenance.

They booked a Premium inspection so someone experienced could check the vehicle before they made the decision.

Inspection findings

Prior to carrying out a road test under bonnet fluid levels were checked and found to be correct, at this point the vehicle was started with no permanent warning lights displayed on the driver’s information panel, with the vehicle started readily from cold.


The road test was carried out at speeds of up to 70mph, in mixed road and traffic conditions.

Warning lights came on various system failures ⚠️⚠️⚠️

During the road test the pay attention to the performance of the engine and transmission with the engine and transmission performance be considered in line with a similar vehicle the same make and model the similar mileage.


Throughout the course of the road test the vehicle handled and performed in a good manner, steered the chosen path of travel correctly and was free from any abnormal noise or vibration.


During the road test there was no evidence of any excessive smoke from the exhaust, undue audible noises from the transmission and no evidence of overheating.


With final checks revealing no evidence of coolant leaks in and around the engine bay, or evidence of major oil leakage around the engine bay and or on the underside of the vehicle.



Overall conclusion vehicle good for the age overall as a feeling condition for the age and mileage. However it has list of issues and potential issues needs repairs and would need investment ⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️

Vehicle aesthetic is good for the age with some previous bodyworks carried out considered satisfactory. Some visual issues expected for age.

Vehicle interior is in good condition. Full valet is recommended before collection.



A structurally sound vehicle with no evidence of major accident damage or significant corrosion. But with accident damage repairs in past. Satisfactory.



No service history present.



Advised call previous service provider to see if the vehicle has any records.


Prior to purchase, consideration must be given to the collective cost involved in the rectification of the desirable items listed within the report.These items should be reflected in the purchase price of the vehicle or rectified before purchase.

See my attached video feedback.

Please call me back once you have reviewed all report in detail.




Recommendation always obtain appropriate extended warranty for your car. View packages. https://carexamer.com/extended-warranty



I would reconsider purchasing this vehicle unless most issues rectified and diagnoses for gearbox/clutch given.

Poor condition findings

Road test

Cruise control

Road test

Warning lights

Various system failures

Electric controls

Cigarette lighter

Plug-in diagnostic £1000

Engine control

Cleared faults approximately 80km ago Red photos initial scan Grey after road test Seller advised vehicle also has some recall

Plug-in diagnostic

Central electronics system

Interior / Luggage Compartment

Door seals/hinges

Driver Door dropped down and intermittently touching quarter glass when closing door - top hinge worn or needs adjustment or possibly something with thread for bolt

Front suspension / steering £2400

Shock absorbers (conditions/leaks)

Lost damping effect Leak cleaned of some time ago

Rear suspension £2400

Shock absorbers/bushes

Leaking

Rear suspension £1200

Suspension arms/fixings

Both rear bushes excessive play on control arm both sides

Body exterior

Bumpers/number plates

Front bumper lower grill damaged or not fitted correctly Parking sensor broken and glued back