Electric Power Steering for Ferrari 348: Modernizing the Last Ferrari Without Assistance

The Ferrari 348 (tb/ts, then GTB/GTS) holds a special place in the brand's history: it is the last series Ferrari sold without power steering for the majority of its production, and the last to retain the famous 5-speed gearbox with exposed gate, first gear at the bottom left. A raw character, highly appreciated by purists — but which comes at a cost when it comes to maneuvering in the city or parking.

Why is the steering on a 348 so physical?

Contrary to what one might think, it's not just a matter of habit or tire size. Several elements add up on the 348:

  • Direct steering ratio: about 3.25 turns lock to lock, compared to 3.5 to 4 turns on most road cars of the time. The more direct the steering, the more effort is required.
  • Effort proportional to the steering angle, with a pronounced steering feedback — the car naturally "pulls" to center itself, which is enjoyable on the road but tiring in slow maneuvers.
  • Central-rear longitudinal V8 architecture, a first for a series Ferrari (along with the 288 GTO and the F40), which significantly loads the front axle.
  • Tight turning radius, which requires multiple steering wheel turns during parking or U-turns.

Result: a delightful steering feel once in motion, but exhausting at a standstill or at very low speeds — especially since road irregularities are directly felt through the steering wheel, without hydraulic filtering.

Did the 348 come with power steering from the factory?

Almost never. In the early series (348 tb and ts, 1989-1993), Ferrari simply did not offer power steering. It was only with the late 1993 facelift — the models renamed 348 GTB and GTS — that hydraulic assistance made its appearance, along with a better weight distribution (43/57 front/rear on the GTS) and a reinforced chassis.

In other words: if you own a 348 tb or ts, your car never had power steering. And if you drive a late-series GTB/GTS, the original hydraulic system is now over thirty years old — pump, hoses, and fluid, which, like any aging hydraulic power steering, eventually leak or lose efficiency.

In both cases, the issue is the same: how to regain (or obtain for the first time) reliable power steering without altering a car whose heritage value continues to rise?

The EZ Power Steering Electric Power Steering Kit for Ferrari 348

This is exactly the problem solved by our EZ Electric Power Steering kit specifically designed for the Ferrari 348, available in left-hand drive (LHD) as well as right-hand drive (RHD) versions.

⚠️ This kit is not suitable for American models.

The principle: the original steering column is replaced by a complete column integrating an electric motor and its control electronics, ready to be installed. No welding is required, neither on the column nor on the supports. However, a slight cut of a few centimeters needs to be made in the apron, in a non-visible location, to discreetly position the motor.

What the kit brings concretely:

  • An intelligent ECU that adjusts assistance in real time: smooth for low-speed maneuvers, firmer and more direct once launched, to preserve the sporty character of the 348.
  • A adjustment potentiometer allowing you to adjust the steering stiffness according to your driving style.
  • An integrated safety feature: in case of electrical power failure, the column switches back to manual mode seamlessly, without jolts or loss of control.
  • A hydraulic-free system: no pump, no hoses, no steering fluid – therefore, no possibility of leaks and no maintenance related to power steering.
  • A "non-intrusive" installation that relies on the vehicle's original battery and alternator, without modifying the existing electrical system.

How is the installation done

The estimated labor time for a Ferrari 348 is 5 to 7 hours, achievable by a mechanic or an experienced DIYer with a proper workbench. The kit comes with a detailed and illustrated installation manual, and our team is available to assist you with any questions during the installation.

Basically: the original column is removed, the EZ Power Steering assisted column is positioned in its place on the existing mounting points, and then electrically connected. Only a slight cut of a few centimeters in the bulkhead, invisible once the vehicle is reassembled, is necessary to discreetly accommodate the motor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the kit compatible with all 348 models, including GTB/GTS models already equipped with original hydraulic power steering?
Yes. The kit completely replaces the existing system - whether there was original hydraulic assistance or not - with the EZ Power Steering electric column.

Can I revert to manual steering if I sell the car?
Yes, since the installation requires no welding and is limited to a minor, invisible cut in the bulkhead, it is possible to return to a configuration close to the original at any time.

Do you own a Ferrari 348 tb, ts, GTB, or GTS and want to learn more about the kit suitable for your vehicle? Request your free quote or contact our team at +33 7 63 85 49 81.