2018 McLaren 570S
The 2018 McLaren 570S is a mid-engine sports car known for its exhilarating performance and striking design. The only engine option available for the 2018 570S is a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 562 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners often praise the car’s razor-sharp handling, blistering acceleration, and exotic car appeal. Criticisms often revolve around the car’s reliability, particularly concerning electrical systems and hydraulic components, as well as the high cost of maintenance and repairs.
Engine
3.8L Twin-Turbocharged V8
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets on the engine, leading to a noticeable oil smell, low oil levels, and visible oil drips. Common sources include valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and turbocharger oil lines.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals. In more severe cases, the affected component (e.g., oil cooler lines) needs to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with the turbochargers, including premature failure, whistling noises, and reduced boost pressure. This can result in a significant loss of power.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the root cause (e.g., wastegate malfunction, damaged impeller). Replacement of the turbocharger unit is often required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can originate from hoses, connections, or the water pump. Symptoms include a sweet smell, low coolant levels, and overheating.
- Solution: Identify the source of the leak. Replacing hoses, tightening connections, or replacing the water pump can resolve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed driving or when shifting between gears. Hesitation when accelerating can also occur.
- Solution: Software updates can sometimes improve shifting performance. In some cases, valve body issues or clutch pack wear may require repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure is a reported issue, though less common. Symptoms can include complete loss of drive, loud noises, or inability to shift.
- Solution: Complete transmission replacement or rebuild is often necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $15,000 - $25,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Hydraulic Suspension Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The 570S utilizes a hydraulic suspension system, which can be prone to leaks. Symptoms include the car sitting low on one side, ride height issues, and warning lights.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the leaking component (e.g., hydraulic struts, lines, or accumulator). Replacement of the affected part.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can leave owners with a dead battery, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the parasitic drain. Possible causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, and unresponsive touchscreens.
- Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the car can malfunction, triggering warning lights and potentially affecting performance. Examples include TPMS sensors, oxygen sensors, and ABS sensors.
- Solution: Identify the faulty sensor through diagnostics and replace it.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Hydraulic Door Struts Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The dihedral doors are supported by hydraulic struts, which can fail over time, causing the doors to droop or not stay open.
- Solution: Replacement of the hydraulic door struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Air Conditioning Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of air conditioning systems failing or blowing warm air.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause of the failure, such as a refrigerant leak, compressor failure, or faulty blend door actuator. Repair or replacement of the affected component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sticky Interior Buttons
- Description/Symptoms: Over time, the coating on some of the interior buttons can degrade, resulting in a sticky or tacky feel.
- Solution: While some owners attempt to clean or refinish the buttons, replacement is often the most effective long-term solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 McLaren 570S offers a thrilling driving experience but is not without its potential problems. The most common issues revolve around the engine (oil and coolant leaks, turbocharger issues), transmission (harsh shifting/failure), suspension (hydraulic leaks), and electrical systems (battery drain, infotainment glitches). Repair costs can be significant, particularly for engine, transmission, and suspension issues. While not all 570S models experience these problems, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, including budgeting for potential maintenance and repairs. The severity of the issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures.