Ferrari Reputation Threatened By Odometer Controversy

2016 Ferrari 488 GTB (Credit: © Ferrari)

Ferrari, an automaker that enjoys an enviable reputation, is facing a new controversy that could leave its image tarnished. No, we’re not talking about car fires, this is about alleged odometer fraud.

The Daily Mail ran a story about an ex-salesman from Ferrari suing his former employer. He says Ferrari uses a Deis Tester at dealerships around the globe to roll back odometers, so they can sell used cars for more money. He alleges this is all done with the blessing of Ferrari headquarters.

According to the lawsuit, the former salesman was fired when he discovered mechanics at the dealership where he worked had been using the Deis Tester. The guy had been working there for 22 years, and so supposedly was let go because of an “egregious violation of business ethics.” The irony.

This lawsuit is juicy, really juicy. Some big businesses men who own Ferraris are named as participating in the alleged fraud. We’re talking tens, hundreds maybe even millions of dollars in fraud for each vehicle sale.

These allegations seem pretty unbelievable, considering the reputation of Ferrari. After all, we’re not talking about Volkswagen, here. Companies are accused of wrongdoing all the time, so we’ll see if anything comes out of this lawsuit. It’s possible the former salesman is just mad at his old employer, and this is some sort of revenge. Or he could’ve grown a conscience and wants to make things right. Who knows?

If any of this proves true, it’ll be earth-shattering for Ferrari.