McLaren 720S Problems: Common Issues and Repair Costs
The McLaren 720S is a world-class supercar that blends advanced engineering with extreme performance. With a lightweight carbon-fiber chassis and a 710-horsepower twin-turbo V8, it offers a driving experience few can match. However, owning one comes with its own challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common problems reported by 720S owners and what it typically costs to fix them.
1. Regular Maintenance and Service Costs
Owning a supercar like the McLaren 720S comes with a premium maintenance schedule.
- Annual servicing costs range from £2,000 to £3,500, depending on location and whether you use a main dealer or an independent specialist.
- One owner reported a standard annual service at around £2,800, including wheel alignment and transport.
- A major service (typically every three years or 30,000 miles) can reach £6,000 to £7,000.
It’s advisable to budget £2,500 to £4,000 per year for maintenance alone.
2. Infotainment and Electrical Problems
The 720S is known for minor electrical issues, particularly related to the infotainment system and door sensors.
Common issues:
- Frozen or unresponsive touchscreen
- Delays in the digital instrument cluster
- Door latch sensor errors
- Keyless entry inconsistencies
Typical repair costs:
- Software update or reprogramming: £200 to £400
- Replacing a faulty sensor or latch: £500 to £1,200
Although most of these are not major failures, they can be frustrating for daily use.
3. Suspension and Hydraulic Faults
The McLaren 720S features a Proactive Chassis Control II suspension system that uses hydraulic fluid rather than conventional springs and dampers.
Common complaints include:
- Suspension fault warnings on the dashboard
- Leaks in hydraulic lines
- Ride height adjustment failure
Repair costs:
- Hydraulic system service or fluid flush: £300 to £800
- Replacement of leaking parts or sensors: £500 to £1,500
These issues are uncommon but can be expensive if ignored.
4. Battery Drain and Electrical Quirks
The 720S relies heavily on electronics, and the 12V battery can drain quickly if the car is not used regularly.
Symptoms:
- Warning lights during startup
- Central locking issues
- Infotainment freezing
Battery replacement cost: £300 to £600, depending on labor and battery type
Using a trickle charger is highly recommended for long-term storage or infrequent use.
5. Bodywork and Trim Issues
While the carbon body of the 720S is extremely strong, some owners report minor trim problems:
- Front splitter and side skirt damage from curbs or speed bumps
- Paint chipping from road debris
- Cracking in glass roof panels
Repair costs:
- Front splitter or trim repair: £500 to £1,500
- Paint correction or respray: £400 to £1,000 per panel
- Glass roof replacement: £800 to £1,500
Protective film and ceramic coating are smart investments for new buyers.
6. Brake and Tyre Wear
The 720S comes standard with carbon-ceramic brakes and high-performance tyres. These last longer than regular components but are far more expensive to replace.
Costs:
- Brake pads: £800 to £1,500
- Carbon-ceramic discs (full set): £6,000 to £10,000
- Tyres (full set): £1,200 to £2,500
Aggressive driving or track use can dramatically reduce lifespan.
7. Real Owner Feedback
Many owners praise the 720S as one of the best supercars available, but they do caution about service pricing and minor quality issues.
“My 2021 720S Spider has been fantastic. No major problems, just the usual minor stuff. But be ready for the dealer costs.”
“The infotainment is still a bit slow, and the door sensors needed adjusting. Otherwise, it’s rock solid.”
“The car is reliable, but the servicing costs are not small. Expect a few thousand a year.”
8. Recalls and Manufacturer Fixes
McLaren has issued a few recalls for the 720S:
- Brake hydraulic hose inspection and replacement
- Fuel tank NVH foam pad removal due to corrosion risk
If your car is affected, these repairs should be completed free of charge by an official McLaren dealer.
Summary Table of Repair and Maintenance Costs
| Problem Area | Estimated Cost (UK) |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing | £2,000 to £3,500 |
| 3-year major service | £6,000 to £7,000 |
| Infotainment software update | £200 to £400 |
| Door latch or sensor repair | £500 to £1,200 |
| Suspension fluid service | £300 to £800 |
| Hydraulic component replacement | £500 to £1,500 |
| 12V battery replacement | £300 to £600 |
| Body panel or paintwork repair | £400 to £1,500 per item |
| Glass roof panel replacement | £800 to £1,500 |
| Brake pad replacement | £800 to £1,500 |
| Carbon-ceramic disc replacement | £6,000 to £10,000 |
| Tyre replacement (set of four) | £1,200 to £2,500 |
Tips for McLaren 720S Owners
- Use a battery tender if the car sits for more than a week at a time.
- Get your car serviced at a trusted independent specialist to save 20 to 30 percent over dealer prices.
- Protect paint and bodywork with PPF (paint protection film).
- Stick to regular service intervals, especially for hydraulic and brake systems.
- Have a warranty or emergency fund ready for unexpected issues. Set aside at least £3,000 to £5,000 per year for maintenance and repairs.
Final Thoughts
The McLaren 720S offers world-class performance and everyday drivability, but it also requires a serious commitment to service and care.
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