The 2018 McLaren 570GT is powered by the M838TE 3.8L twin-turbo V8 and represents McLaren's 'grand tourer' take on the Sports Series platform. While brilliant to drive, these cars suffer from engine bearing failures, transmission cooler leaks, and hydraulic system issues that can result in catastrophic damage if ignored.
Connecting Rod Bearing Failure (Big End Bearing Knock)
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 15,000-40,000 mi
Symptoms: Knocking or rattling from engine bay on cold start that may disappear when warm, Metallic ticking that worsens under load, Low oil pressure warning, Metal debris in oil during analysis
Fix: Engine-out procedure required. Full bearing inspection and replacement, often accompanied by crankshaft polishing or replacement if journals are scored. 40-60 hours labor depending on additional damage. Many techs recommend full short block replacement given labor involved.
Estimated cost: $25,000-45,000
Transmission Oil Cooler Leak
Common · high severityTypical onset: 20,000-50,000 mi
Symptoms: Transmission fluid puddle under center of car, Burning smell after spirited driving, Transmission overheating warnings on display, Slipping or delayed shifts when hot
Fix: Cooler lines and cooler assembly replacement. Requires partial underbody panel removal and exhaust work for access. Flush and refill with fresh SSG fluid. 8-12 hours labor. Critical to address immediately as running low on trans fluid destroys the SSG dual-clutch.
Estimated cost: $3,500-5,500
Hydraulic Lift System Failures
Occasional · medium severitySymptoms: Front lift system won't raise or lowers unexpectedly, Hydraulic pump runs continuously, Fluid weeping from lift rams, Error codes related to ride height sensors
Fix: Typically hydraulic rams, seals, or pump replacement. Common issue is degraded seals allowing pressure loss. Pump failures also occur. 4-8 hours labor depending on component. System uses specialized McLaren hydraulic fluid.
Estimated cost: $2,800-6,500
Fuel Filter Clogging and Fuel System Issues
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 30,000-60,000 mi
Symptoms: Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration, Limp mode activation, Hard starting when hot, Fuel pressure faults
Fix: Fuel filter replacement requires dropping tank or significant undertray removal. McLaren recommends replacement every 3 years regardless of mileage. 3-5 hours labor. Sometimes accompanied by fuel pump replacement if contamination is severe.
Estimated cost: $1,200-2,500
Transmission Mount Degradation
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 25,000-50,000 mi
Symptoms: Excessive clunking during shifts, especially 1-2 and 2-3, Vibration through chassis during acceleration, Driveline shunt on throttle lift, Visible tearing or separation of rubber mount
Fix: Transmission mount replacement requires gearbox support and partial suspension drop for access. Often both mounts done simultaneously. 6-10 hours labor. Common wear item on hard-driven cars.
Estimated cost: $2,200-3,800
Head Gasket Failures (Less Common but Catastrophic)
Rare · high severityTypical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, Coolant loss with no visible leaks, Overheating, Oil contamination in coolant reservoir, Misfires on specific cylinders
Fix: Engine-out service. Both banks typically done together. Heads resurfaced, new gaskets, ARP studs recommended. 50-70 hours labor. Often uncovers other issues like warped heads requiring replacement.
Estimated cost: $20,000-35,000
Buy only with comprehensive pre-purchase inspection including oil analysis and bore scope, full service history, and a healthy savings account — when they're good they're incredible, but engine failures can total the car financially.
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.