2021 McLaren 720S

The 2021 McLaren 720S is a mid-engine sports car renowned for its blistering performance and striking design. It features a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners often praise the car’s exhilarating acceleration, precise handling, and comfortable (for a supercar) ride. Criticisms often revolve around the car’s high price tag, occasional reliability concerns, and limited practicality.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including the oil lines, valve covers, and turbocharger connections. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Identify and replace the leaking seals, gaskets, or lines. Torque fasteners to the correct specifications.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers, including failure, excessive noise, or decreased performance.
  • Solution: Inspect the turbochargers for damage or wear. Replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+ depending on if one or both turbos need replacing.

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature clutch wear can occur, especially with aggressive driving. Symptoms include slipping, jerky shifts, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch packs. Ensure proper transmission calibration after replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
• Transmission Software Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional software glitches that cause erratic shifting or temporary loss of gear engagement.
  • Solution: Reprogram or update the transmission control module (TCM) software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Suspension

• Hydraulic Suspension Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The 720S utilizes a complex hydraulic suspension system. Leaks can occur in the lines, accumulators, or dampers. Symptoms include a ride height that is not level, abnormal noises, and error messages.
  • Solution: Identify and repair or replace the leaking components. Bleed the hydraulic system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive battery drain, especially when the car is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws in the electrical system. Replace the battery if necessary. Consider using a battery tender.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the cause of the drain.
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or unresponsiveness.
  • Solution: Restart the system. Update the software. Replace the infotainment unit if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $3,000+ (replacement)

Exterior

• Door Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The dihedral doors on the 720S are supported by gas struts. These struts can fail, causing the doors to droop or not stay open.
  • Solution: Replace the door struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per door

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2021 McLaren 720S is a high-performance vehicle, and as such, can experience issues commensurate with its complexity. Engine oil leaks, turbocharger problems, and transmission clutch wear appear to be the most significant and costly issues. Electrical gremlins and suspension leaks also contribute to potential maintenance expenses. While not every 720S will experience all of these problems, potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and factor them into the ownership cost. The severity and cost of repairs can be considerable, emphasizing the importance of thorough pre-purchase inspections and extended warranties. Recalls: None Found