The 2021 570S with the M838TE 3.8L twin-turbo V8 is a relatively recent model, but early examples and hard-driven units are showing the same cooling, bearing, and transmission issues that plagued earlier Sports Series cars. Engine failures from cooling system defects and bearing wear are the primary concerns.
Catastrophic Engine Failure - Rod Bearing and Crankshaft Wear
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 15,000-40,000 mi
Symptoms: metallic knocking from engine bay especially on cold starts, oil pressure warning lights, metal particles in oil during analysis, sudden loss of power followed by seizure in worst cases
Fix: Complete engine-out disassembly required. Typically involves crankshaft replacement, main and rod bearings, and full machine work. Often triggers replacement of pistons, rings, and head gaskets while apart. 60-80 hours labor due to mid-engine layout and carbon tub access.
Estimated cost: $35,000-65,000
Transmission Oil Cooler Failure and Leaks
Common · high severityTypical onset: 20,000-50,000 mi
Symptoms: transmission fluid leaking under vehicle center section, overheating transmission warnings on track or spirited driving, burnt transmission fluid smell, harsh shifts when fluid level drops
Fix: Oil cooler lines crack at fittings or cooler itself develops internal leaks. Requires chassis lift and undertray removal, cooler replacement, and full SSG (Seamless Shift Gearbox) fluid flush. 8-12 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $3,500-6,000
Transmission Mount Degradation
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 25,000-60,000 mi
Symptoms: clunking when shifting from reverse to drive, excessive drivetrain movement felt through cabin on hard acceleration, vibration at idle that wasn't present before, transmission case contacting subframe in extreme cases
Fix: Hydraulic transmission mounts fail from heat cycling and stress. Requires lifting powertrain slightly for access. OEM mounts only. 6-9 hours labor due to carbon tub constraints.
Estimated cost: $2,800-4,200
Fuel System Debris and Filter Clogging
Occasional · medium severitySymptoms: intermittent stumbling or misfires under hard acceleration, rough idle that clears after running, check engine light for fuel trim codes, limp mode activation in severe cases
Fix: Manufacturing debris or tank coating flaking off contaminates fuel system. Requires fuel tank drop, full system flush, filter replacement, and sometimes injector cleaning or replacement. 10-14 hours labor for complete service.
Estimated cost: $2,500-5,500
Shift Solenoid Pack Failures
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 30,000-70,000 mi
Symptoms: delayed or harsh 2-3 or 5-6 shifts, transmission fault warnings on dash, stuck in single gear (limp mode), erratic shifting patterns when warm
Fix: SSG solenoid pack develops electrical faults or internal valve sticking. Requires transmission oil pan removal and valve body work. Often done with fluid and filter service. 7-10 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $3,000-5,000
Head Gasket Failure from Cooling System Issues
Rare · high severityTypical onset: 20,000-50,000 mi
Symptoms: white smoke from exhaust on startup, coolant loss with no visible leaks, overheating warnings, oil contamination with coolant (milky oil cap), misfires on specific cylinders
Fix: Often secondary to cooling system failures or improper bleeding procedures. Requires engine removal, head removal both banks, machine work, and full cooling system overhaul. 50-70 hours labor with proper leak-down and pressure testing.
Estimated cost: $25,000-40,000
Skip the 2021 unless you have $10k+ annual maintenance budget and access to McLaren-certified techs; earlier M838TE reliability issues persist, and catastrophic failures remain too common for a car this new.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.