The 2019 McLaren 570S uses McLaren's M838TE 3.8L twin-turbo V8 mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. While newer than prior models, it shares the platform's known weaknesses: transmission thermal issues, engine bearing failures, and complex hydraulic systems that demand meticulous maintenance.
Main and Rod Bearing Failure (M838TE Engine)
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 30,000-60,000 mi
Symptoms: Metallic knocking or rattling at idle, especially when cold, Loss of oil pressure warnings on dash, Metal shavings in oil during analysis, Sudden catastrophic failure with no warning in some cases
Fix: Complete engine-out teardown, crankshaft inspection/replacement, new main and rod bearings, plus all seals and gaskets. Engine removal alone is 12-16 hours due to mid-engine layout. Total job runs 40-60 shop hours if catching early; full short block replacement if grenaded is 60-80 hours.
Estimated cost: $25,000-45,000
Dual-Clutch Transmission Oil Cooler Failure
Common · high severityTypical onset: 20,000-50,000 mi
Symptoms: Transmission overheat warnings, especially in traffic or spirited driving, Harsh or delayed shifts when transmission is hot, Visible fluid leaks near transmission cooler lines, Limp mode activation to protect transmission
Fix: Replace transmission oil cooler and associated lines. Requires raising vehicle, removing undertray and access panels. Cooler itself is expensive OEM part. Expect 8-12 hours labor plus full transmission fluid flush with expensive McLaren-spec fluid.
Estimated cost: $4,500-7,500
Transmission Mount Hydraulic Failure
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 25,000-55,000 mi
Symptoms: Excessive vibration or clunking during gear changes, Visible fluid leaking from transmission mount area, Drivetrain movement felt through chassis under acceleration, Increased NVH (noise/vibration/harshness) at idle
Fix: The hydraulic engine/transmission mounts fail internally and leak fluid. Replacement requires supporting powertrain, removing failed mount, installing OEM replacement. 6-10 hours labor depending on which mount; multiple mounts often need replacement simultaneously.
Estimated cost: $3,000-5,500
Shift Solenoid Pack Failure (DCT)
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 40,000-70,000 mi
Symptoms: Hard shifts or banging into gear, Gear selection delays or refusal to shift, Transmission fault codes (clutch actuator/solenoid related), Intermittent neutral engagement failures
Fix: DCT solenoid pack replacement requires dropping transmission pan, draining fluid, replacing entire solenoid body assembly. McLaren-specific programming/adaptation required post-install. 10-14 hours labor plus expensive OEM solenoid pack and proprietary transmission fluid.
Estimated cost: $6,000-9,500
Fuel Filter Clogging (Tank-Mounted Assembly)
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 30,000-60,000 mi
Symptoms: Hesitation or stumbling under hard acceleration, Intermittent check engine light with fuel system codes, Reduced power at high RPM, Poor fuel economy
Fix: Fuel filter is integrated into tank-mounted pump assembly. Requires fuel tank drop, which on mid-engine layout means removing rear clamshell, suspension components, and exhaust. Not serviceable separately—entire pump/filter assembly replacement needed. 12-16 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $3,500-6,000
Head Gasket Failure (Both Banks)
Rare · high severityTypical onset: 50,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust (coolant burning), Coolant loss with no visible external leaks, Overheating under load or track use, Rough idle or misfires, Milky appearance in oil (severe cases)
Fix: Both cylinder heads must be removed due to V8 configuration and typical failure pattern. Engine-out service required for proper access. New head gaskets, ARP studs recommended, head resurfacing, all new coolant/oil. 50-70 hours labor for both banks with engine removal.
Estimated cost: $18,000-28,000
Hydraulic Lift System Failure
Common · low severitySymptoms: Front lift system won't raise or lower, Hydraulic fluid leaks at lift cylinders, Slow or incomplete lift operation, Warning lights for suspension system
Fix: Hydraulic lift cylinders and lines develop leaks or internal seal failures. Individual cylinder replacement is 4-6 hours each side; pump replacement adds another 6-8 hours. System must be bled with proprietary McLaren scan tool.
Estimated cost: $2,500-5,000
Only buy with comprehensive warranty or deep pockets for $10K-$40K engine/transmission work; this is a six-figure exotic with five-figure repair bills, not a weekend toy for the budget-conscious.
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.