McLaren 650S Problems: Common Issues and Repair Costs
The McLaren 650S, produced from 2014 to 2017, is a mid-engine supercar that delivers incredible performance, handling, and looks. But as these cars age, owners start to see some common issues. This guide covers those problems, how much they cost to fix, and what to expect as an owner or potential buyer.
1. Regular Service and Running Costs
Routine servicing on the McLaren 650S is actually reasonable for a car in this class.
- Annual service (oil change, basic inspections, suspension calibration): around £1,000
- Battery replacement (12V lithium battery): around £2,000
- Brakes, tires, and fluids can add another £500 to £1,000 per year depending on driving style
One UK owner reported a full dealer service with oil, filters, and sensors at around £1,050. This makes the 650S surprisingly affordable compared to other exotic brands.
2. Paint and Body Issues
McLaren owners have reported some cosmetic and body-related issues with the 650S:
- Paint bubbling around trim and panel edges
- Windscreen seal peeling or cracking
- Stress cracks around windows or glass corners
These problems don’t affect performance but can hurt resale value if left untreated.
Repair costs:
- Repainting or correcting paint bubbling: £500 to £2,000 per panel depending on severity
- Windscreen seal replacement: typically £200 to £500
- Stress cracks or glass replacement: varies by area, but £500 to £1,200 is common
3. Electrical and Sensor Glitches
Like many modern supercars, the 650S can experience minor electrical quirks:
- Faulty door or boot sensors
- Infotainment glitches or Bluetooth connection issues
- Key not detected errors or warning lights
These are usually fixed with a software update or minor parts replacement.
Typical fix costs:
- Door latch or sensor replacement: around £150 to £300
- Software updates or diagnostic reprogramming: around £100 to £250
- Infotainment screen or control unit repair (rare): £500 to £1,000
4. Suspension and Structural Wear
The 650S uses a hydraulic ProActive Chassis Control suspension system, which is advanced and smooth—but not cheap to fix.
Known issues include:
- Leaking dampers or worn hydraulic components
- Snapped springs, especially in colder climates
- Occasional alignment or ride height sensor failures
Repair costs:
- Suspension damper or spring replacement: £1,000 to £3,000 depending on parts and labor
- Full suspension refresh: around £4,000 to £6,000 at a specialist if all four corners are involved
5. Brakes and Tires
These are regular wear items on any performance car, and they’re expensive on the 650S.
- Carbon ceramic brake replacement (full set): £7,000 to £12,000
- Brake pad set (if rotors are fine): £800 to £1,500
- Tires (high-performance brands): £1,200 to £2,500 for a full set
Most owners get 8,000 to 12,000 miles from a set of tires and significantly more from the brakes if not tracked regularly.
6. What Owners Say
Owners generally find the 650S reliable when properly maintained. Common feedback includes:
“Mine’s been bulletproof, just regular servicing and some sensor issues. Still cheaper than my Ferrari was to run.”
“After 20,000 miles, only real cost has been paintwork and a door switch. No regrets.”
“Buy with a warranty or have a McLaren specialist on speed dial. These cars are amazing but can punish neglect.”
7. Summary of Typical Costs
| Repair or Maintenance Item | Estimated Cost (UK) |
|---|---|
| Annual service | £1,000 |
| Battery replacement | £2,000 |
| Paint correction | £500 to £2,000 per panel |
| Sensor or latch repair | £150 to £300 |
| Suspension component | £1,000 to £3,000 per corner |
| Carbon ceramic brakes | £7,000 to £12,000 |
| Tire replacement | £1,200 to £2,500 |
Tips Before Buying a 650S
- Get a full pre-purchase inspection by a McLaren specialist. This is essential for spotting issues with the paint, sensors, suspension, or electronics.
- Use the car regularly. Most electrical faults happen when the car sits unused for long periods.
- Consider an extended warranty or budget at least £3,000 per year for maintenance and surprise repairs.
- Work with independent McLaren experts for savings of 30 to 50 percent compared to main dealers.
- Join owner forums like McLaren Life or Owners Club forums to find parts and advice.
Final Thoughts
The McLaren 650S is a powerful, exciting, and surprisingly practical supercar if you go in prepared. While it’s not perfect—no supercar is—most issues are manageable and predictable. With proper servicing, use of specialists, and a smart budget plan, the 650S can deliver years of incredible driving without becoming a financial nightmare.
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