McLaren Artura Common Problems & Reliability
McLaren's first production plug-in hybrid, combining a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor for 680 PS combined. The MCLA carbon fibre chassis is new. Early cars had significant launch issues including fuel system recalls and software problems, but 2024+ cars are substantially improved.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common McLaren Artura Faults & Repair Costs
Fuel Pipe Assembly Recalls (Fire Risk)
The Artura has been subject to multiple fuel system recalls. The high-pressure fuel pipe nuts can loosen causing a fuel leak, and a separate recall addressed low-pressure fuel pipes that could detach. Both pose a fire risk near hot engine components. McLaren issued a stop-sale order in 2022 while these were resolved.
Smell of fuel from engine bay, Fuel warning light, Visible fuel residue on engine components, Dashboard fuel system warning
- Verify recall completion via VIN with McLaren
- Inspect engine bay for signs of fuel residue
- Check for any fuel system warning lights
- Ask for documentation of recall repairs
Hybrid Battery and 12V System Issues
The Artura's 7.4 kWh high-voltage battery can develop charging issues, and failures in the DC-DC power converter can prevent the HV battery from properly charging the 12V system. This can leave the car unable to start or "bricked" with multiple warning lights.
Car will not start, Multiple dashboard warning lights, HV battery not charging, 12V battery repeatedly going flat, Hybrid system fault warning
- Check the 12V battery state
- Verify the HV battery charges fully
- Look for hybrid system warning lights
- Ask about any previous hybrid system faults or repairs
Software and Powertrain Calibration Problems
Early Arturas suffered from significant software bugs affecting powertrain calibration, infotainment stability, and vehicle dynamics control. McLaren has addressed most through OTA updates, but cars that have not been updated may still exhibit these issues.
Infotainment glitches or freezes, Inconsistent throttle response, Hybrid mode transition judder, Dashboard reboots while driving
- Verify all software updates have been applied
- Test the hybrid mode transitions
- Check infotainment stability
- Drive in both electric and hybrid modes
Suspension Calibration and Ride Quality
The Artura uses a new suspension setup with the MCLA platform. Some owners report inconsistent damping feel between modes and occasional clunking from the front suspension. Software calibration updates have improved this but some early cars may still feel unsettled.
Inconsistent ride between Normal and Sport modes, Clunking from front suspension over bumps, Excessive body roll, Suspension warning light
- Drive in all suspension modes and compare feel
- Listen for clunks from the front end
- Check for suspension warning lights
- Verify software calibration is current
Brake Line Routing Recall
Part of the wider McLaren recall affecting multiple models including the Artura. Incorrectly routed brake lines may cause the ABS and ESP to apply braking force to the wrong rear wheel.
Unusual rear wheel lock-up under braking, ABS/ESP warning light, Pulling to one side during braking
- Verify recall completion via VIN
- Check for brake-related warning lights
- Test ABS function safely
Buying a used McLaren Artura? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.