2017 McLaren 650S

The 2017 McLaren 650S is a high-performance sports car known for its exhilarating speed and striking design. It boasts a mid-mounted 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 661 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners often praise the 650S for its incredible acceleration, precise handling, and exotic styling. However, common complaints include its high maintenance costs, limited practicality, and occasional electronic glitches.

Engine

3.8L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine or under the car, a burning oil smell, and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the source of the leak and labor involved)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can experience issues such as bearing failure or wastegate malfunction. Symptoms include reduced boost pressure, a whining or grinding noise from the turbochargers, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the affected turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+ (depending on if one or both turbos need repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Dual-clutch transmissions can experience clutch wear over time, especially with aggressive driving. Symptoms include slipping during gear changes, jerky shifting, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+ (depending on labor and parts)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit controls the shifting functions of the dual-clutch transmission. Failure can lead to erratic shifting, inability to shift, or a complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers, part of McLaren’s ProActive Chassis Control system, can sometimes leak or fail. Symptoms include a bouncy or unstable ride, uneven tire wear, and a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ (per damper)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, especially when the car is left unused for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the source of the drain (often a faulty module or accessory) and repairing or replacing the offending component. Using a battery tender when storing the car.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, such as freezing, crashing, or unresponsive touch screen.
  • Solution: Updating the software or replacing the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hydraulic Door Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The 650S features dihedral doors that are assisted by hydraulic struts. These struts can fail over time, causing the doors to droop or become difficult to open and close.
  • Solution: Replacing the hydraulic door struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ (per door)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the air conditioning system, such as failure to blow cold air or inconsistent cooling.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the issue (e.g., refrigerant leak, compressor failure) and repairing or replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 McLaren 650S is a thrilling performance machine, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems can be costly to repair, as can transmission clutch wear or mechatronic unit failures. Suspension damper issues, electrical glitches, and hydraulic door strut failures also contribute to the potential for expensive maintenance. While some issues may be relatively minor, others can be quite severe, highlighting the importance of a thorough pre-purchase inspection and diligent maintenance to minimize the risk of costly repairs.