2021 McLaren 570S

The 2021 McLaren 570S is a mid-engine sports car known for its thrilling performance and striking design. It came standard with a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 562 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. All 570S models used a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners generally praise the car’s exhilarating acceleration, sharp handling, and exotic looks. Common complaints revolve around reliability issues, high maintenance costs, and limited practicality for daily driving.

Engine

3.8L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets or lines is the standard fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure can result in a loss of power, reduced acceleration, unusual noises (whining or screeching) from the engine, and potentially increased exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks may occur from hoses, fittings, or the water pump, leading to overheating, low coolant levels, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking components and ensuring proper coolant levels and system pressure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Clutch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed shifting, difficulty engaging gears, and potential clutch slippage.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement or repair of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mechatronic unit controls the transmission’s shifting functions. Failure can result in erratic shifting, inability to shift gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the Mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive dampers can experience failures, leading to a harsh ride, poor handling, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Damper replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+ (depending on which dampers need replacement and if performed individually or as an axle pair).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can leave the car unable to start, especially if it sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the parasitic draw, which could involve faulty modules or aftermarket accessories. A battery tender can help mitigate the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as those related to the engine, transmission, and stability control system, can malfunction, triggering warning lights and affecting vehicle performance.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, and connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $3,000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Latch Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the doors, especially the signature dihedral doors. The latches can become sticky or fail completely.
  • Solution: Latch adjustment, lubrication, or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the air conditioning system to blow cold air. Could be caused by a leak, bad compressor, or other issues.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing faulty components in the AC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 McLaren 570S offers thrilling performance but can suffer from reliability issues common to high-performance vehicles. Engine and transmission problems, such as oil leaks, turbocharger failures, and clutch issues, can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins and interior features like the AC system are other potential areas of concern. Overall, owning a 570S requires careful maintenance and a willingness to address potential issues promptly to minimize more extensive and expensive repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant mechanical failures, with associated repair costs spanning from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands.