The McLaren 675LT Spider, produced between 2016 and 2017, is an iconic supercar that offers exhilarating performance, lightweight engineering, and an open-top driving experience. As the convertible version of the track-focused 675LT Coupe, it combines McLaren's race technology with the luxury and exclusivity expected in the world of high-performance vehicles. However, like any precision-built supercar, the 675LT Spider has specific issues that owners or prospective buyers should be aware of.
In this article, we’ll dive into the most common problems associated with the McLaren 675LT Spider, offering a comprehensive look into potential pitfalls and essential buying and ownership advice.
Common Problems with the 2016-2017 McLaren 675LT Spider
1. Carbon Ceramic Brake Wear and Maintenance
The McLaren 675LT Spider, like most high-performance McLaren models, is equipped with carbon ceramic brakes. These brakes offer outstanding stopping power and resist fade under intense heat and hard use. However, they also come with unique challenges. Carbon ceramics are highly sensitive to both temperature and usage conditions, meaning they’re ideal for track performance but wear quickly and unevenly in everyday, lower-speed driving.
Symptoms: Drivers may notice vibrations under braking, reduced stopping power, or even squealing, which can indicate uneven wear or glazing on the discs.
Causes: Common causes of carbon ceramic wear include frequent use in stop-and-go traffic, where they don’t get hot enough to perform optimally. Moisture or prolonged periods of inactivity can also lead to rotor surface corrosion.
Resolution: Regular, careful inspection of the brakes is essential. Replacement is typically required sooner than with standard brakes if the car isn’t primarily used in performance environments. Some owners choose to swap the carbon ceramics with traditional steel brakes to avoid frequent costly replacements.
Average Repair Cost: A full set of replacement carbon ceramic discs and pads for the 675LT Spider can cost between $15,000 and $20,000, making it one of the more significant maintenance expenses.
2. Transmission Overheating and Software Issues
The McLaren 675LT Spider’s 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is designed for rapid gear changes and smooth performance at high speeds. However, this transmission has been known to overheat when subjected to high-stress environments, such as extended track use or aggressive driving in hot conditions. Additionally, the transmission control software occasionally experiences glitches that affect shifting smoothness and timing.
Symptoms: Drivers may notice delayed or rough gear shifts, especially when the transmission is hot. In some cases, warning lights may indicate an overheating transmission or other DCT-related issues.
Causes: Overheating is often the result of extended periods of high-speed driving or excessive idling in hot weather. Transmission software issues may also cause the DCT to behave erratically, especially under rapid acceleration or heavy braking.
Resolution: Updating the transmission control software and installing additional cooling if track use is intended can alleviate these issues. In severe cases, McLaren service may recommend a transmission service to recalibrate or even replace certain internal components if there is physical wear.
Average Repair Cost: Transmission software updates are typically done under warranty or during service visits. If the DCT requires a replacement, costs can soar, averaging $15,000 to $20,000.
3. Turbocharger and Boost-Related Problems
The 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 in the McLaren 675LT Spider is renowned for its powerful performance, but turbocharger issues are a known point of concern for this high-output engine. Excessive turbo wear, boost leaks, or turbo lag can diminish engine performance over time. Turbo issues may occur if the engine is not properly cooled down after high-speed runs, causing premature wear in turbo bearings and seals.
Symptoms: Reduced boost, loss of power, increased turbo lag, or a noticeable decrease in throttle response are common indicators of turbo-related issues. The car may also produce excessive exhaust smoke if seals are leaking.
Causes: Turbo issues typically arise from high-stress driving without sufficient cooldown periods. Boost leaks, caused by faulty intercooler piping or worn seals, can also contribute to reduced performance.
Resolution: Turbo inspection and proper cooldown protocols are essential. Turbocharger replacement or repairs may be necessary if the unit is severely worn or damaged.
Average Repair Cost: Turbocharger repairs or replacements can cost around $6,000 to $10,000 per unit, depending on the extent of wear and required labor.
4. Electrical System Glitches and Sensor Failures
Advanced electronics play a significant role in the McLaren 675LT Spider’s performance and driving experience, but complex electronics are also a known source of issues. The car’s multiple sensors and control units can develop faults over time, causing dashboard warning lights or malfunctions in systems like the infotainment, adaptive dampers, or stability control.
Symptoms: Random warning lights, unresponsive infotainment, or sudden system failures are common symptoms. Some owners report temporary issues that resolve after restarting the car, while others experience persistent electrical faults.
Causes: Electrical issues are often caused by aging or damaged wiring, software bugs, or moisture exposure in sensitive components.
Resolution: Software updates and diagnostics can often resolve minor glitches, while more severe issues may require replacement of faulty sensors or modules. Regular service checks can help ensure that all systems are functioning correctly.
Average Repair Cost: Minor electrical diagnostics typically cost around $200 to $500, while replacing components can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the system affected.
5. Retractable Roof Mechanism Issues
The Spider’s retractable hardtop is a complex mechanism prone to wear, especially if it is used frequently. Issues with the roof can stem from the hydraulic system or electronic sensors that control the roof’s movement. Over time, components like the roof’s motor or the hydraulic actuators may wear out or fail, preventing the roof from opening or closing smoothly.
Symptoms: The roof may refuse to open or close, operate slowly, or produce unusual noises during operation. In some cases, dashboard warning lights will alert the driver to roof-related issues.
Causes: The mechanism’s complex hydraulic and electronic systems are susceptible to wear and can also be affected by debris or lack of lubrication.
Resolution: Regular lubrication and inspection of the roof’s moving parts can prolong the mechanism’s life. If the motor or hydraulic actuators fail, they may need to be replaced to restore full functionality.
Average Repair Cost: Roof mechanism repairs or part replacements typically cost between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the nature of the issue.
6. Suspension Wear and Alignment Problems
The McLaren 675LT Spider’s suspension, while excellent for performance, is sensitive to wear, especially when exposed to rough roads or heavy track use. Control arms, bushings, and dampers may wear out faster than in standard road cars. Additionally, improper alignment can result from even minor impacts, affecting the handling and ride comfort.
Symptoms: Rough or noisy ride, uneven tire wear, and difficulty maintaining straight-line stability are all signs of suspension issues. The car may feel unsteady or unpredictable at high speeds if alignment is off.
Causes: Hard driving, track use, and exposure to potholes or uneven road surfaces contribute to accelerated suspension wear. Misalignment can result from even small impacts or curb strikes.
Resolution: Regular suspension checks and alignment are crucial, especially for owners who drive aggressively. Replacing worn control arms and bushings, or upgrading to performance-rated components, can improve durability.
Average Repair Cost: Suspension repairs and realignment typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000, with higher costs for parts-intensive replacements.
What to Look For When Buying a 2016-2017 McLaren 675LT Spider
If you’re considering buying a McLaren 675LT Spider, a thorough inspection is essential. Focus on checking for any signs of powertrain wear, such as turbo lag, transmission hesitation, or worn brakes. Inspect the retractable roof for smooth operation and ensure there are no warning lights on the dashboard, as electrical issues can be costly to diagnose and repair. Reviewing the service history is also critical to ensure that regular maintenance, especially for the brakes, transmission, and suspension, has been performed.
A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a McLaren specialist is highly recommended to identify any hidden issues and evaluate the vehicle’s overall condition.
How Expensive Is It to Own a 2016-2017 McLaren 675LT Spider?
Owning a McLaren 675LT Spider is a commitment, with costs reflecting the car’s status as a high-performance supercar. Here’s an overview of expected expenses:
- Routine Maintenance: Basic services, including oil changes, fluid top-offs, and filter replacements, typically cost $1,500-$2,000 per visit.
- Tire and Brake Replacement: Expect around $4,000-$5,000 for high-performance tires and up to $20,000 for new carbon ceramic brakes if needed.
- Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums vary by location and driver profile but generally range between $3,000 and $10,000 per year due to the vehicle’s value and performance.
- Fuel Costs: The 675LT Spider has a fuel economy of around 16 mpg, with fuel expenses varying depending on usage.
Final Thoughts
The McLaren 675LT Spider is a thrilling and exclusive supercar that rewards its owners with unmatched performance and luxury. However, it’s not without its quirks and known issues, from brake and transmission concerns to electrical glitches and retractable roof problems. Proper maintenance and awareness of these common issues can ensure that you enjoy the full potential of this high-performance machine. For those willing to invest the time and resources, the 675LT Spider remains a stunning addition to any collection, delivering an unforgettable driving experience on both road and track.