Owning a Maserati is about more than just driving a luxury vehicle. It’s about performance, precision, and engineering that sets it apart from the crowd. But that high level of performance comes with greater responsibility when it comes to maintenance, especially oil changes.

If you’ve been treating your Maserati the same way you would a standard sedan, you might be missing critical steps that protect the engine and preserve your vehicle’s performance. Here’s why a basic oil change isn’t enough for a Maserati and what your car really needs to stay in top shape.

High-Performance Engines Require High-Quality Oil

Maseratis are built with powerful engines, often turbocharged or supercharged, that generate a lot of heat and operate at high RPMs. These engines rely on synthetic oil specifically formulated to handle extreme pressure and temperatures.

Standard oil, or even generic synthetic oil, may not meet the exact requirements for your engine. Using the wrong type of oil or a low-quality product can lead to reduced lubrication, overheating, and premature wear on critical engine components.

Precision Tolerances Mean No Room for Error

European performance engines are manufactured with tighter tolerances than most vehicles. This means that the space between moving parts is minimal and requires precise lubrication at all times.

If the oil viscosity isn’t correct or the oil isn’t changed at proper intervals, even small changes in lubrication can affect performance. Over time, this can lead to reduced responsiveness, increased internal friction, and long-term damage to the engine.

Extended Service Intervals Are a Risk

Some drivers believe that synthetic oil allows for longer intervals between oil changes. While this is true in general, it doesn’t apply as cleanly to high-performance vehicles like Maseratis. These engines often place more stress on the oil, breaking it down faster than usual.

Even if your car's onboard system says you have thousands of miles left, that doesn’t mean the oil is still performing at its best. Following the manufacturer’s recommended service interval is essential, but in some cases, it’s wise to change the oil even sooner based on how and where you drive.

Specialized Filters and Parts Are Required

An oil change for a Maserati isn’t just about replacing the oil because it also involves using a high-quality filter that meets exact specifications. Some generic filters don’t provide the same level of filtration or may not fit properly, which can reduce oil flow or allow contaminants into the engine.

A trusted service shop with experience in European cars will use the right filter, drain plug gaskets, and tools to ensure the job is done properly without cutting corners.

Improper Oil Changes Can Trigger Warning Lights

Maseratis have complex onboard systems that monitor performance and alert drivers to maintenance needs. If the wrong oil is used or the oil change is not done according to the vehicle’s needs, it can trigger warning lights, error codes, or cause the car to enter limp mode.

These issues can lead to frustrating trips back to the shop and may even require reprogramming or recalibration of vehicle systems to correct.

What to Expect from a Proper Maserati Oil Service

An experienced technician will do more than just drain and refill your oil. A proper oil service for a Maserati should include:

• Draining old oil completely and disposing of it correctly
• Installing the correct OEM or equivalent oil filter
• Refilling with the exact oil type, grade, and quantity recommended by Maserati
• Resetting oil change and maintenance indicators
• Inspecting for leaks or worn components under the hood
• Checking other fluids, belts, and hoses while the car is in the shop

This level of service protects your investment and helps your Maserati perform the way it was designed to.

Protect Your Maserati with Help from Velocity Motorwerks in St. Augustine, FL

If you’re driving a Maserati in St. Augustine, you deserve service that matches the quality of your vehicle. At Velocity Motorwerks, we specialize in high-end European vehicles and understand the attention to detail that your Maserati demands. From precision oil changes to full-system inspections, we go beyond the basics to keep your car running at its peak.

Schedule your next service today and experience the difference of specialized care for your Maserati.