Common Problems with the
2019–2022 McLaren GT

We've identified 6 known issues that can affect the 2019–2022 McLaren GT. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

6
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
4
Minor

The 2019–2022 period has 4 more issues than the McLaren GT average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

ABS/ESC Brake Line Recall

SeriousBrakes

The GT was included in a McLaren recall for incorrectly routed rear brake pipes that could cause the ABS and ESC systems to malfunction. This could lead to a loss of vehicle control.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £0 (Recall)Affects: 20192024Often appears around: N/A (Recall)

Typical symptoms

  • ABS/ESC warning light
  • Unusual braking behaviour
  • Rear wheel locking under braking

What to inspect before you buy

  • Verify recall completion via VIN
  • Check for brake warning lights
  • Test ABS function

Power Tailgate Motor Failure

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The electric motor that operates the rear tailgate can fail or become sluggish, particularly on higher-mileage cars. The tailgate may fail to open fully, close slowly, or stop mid-operation. The motor assembly is not cheap to replace.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £800–£1,500Affects: 20192024Often appears around: 20k-40k miles

Typical symptoms

  • Tailgate opens slowly or not at all
  • Tailgate stops mid-operation
  • Grinding noise from tailgate motor
  • Tailgate warning light

What to inspect before you buy

  • Operate the tailgate multiple times and observe speed
  • Listen for grinding or hesitation
  • Check if the tailgate completes its full travel

Tailgate Latch and Sensor Niggles

MinorBodywork & Rust

The electric rear tailgate can occasionally fail to latch correctly or show a "Boot Open" warning when it is actually closed.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £400–£900Affects: 20192022Often appears around: N/A

Typical symptoms

  • Tailgate doesn't open/close via button
  • Warning light on dashboard

What to inspect before you buy

  • Operate the tailgate several times using both the key and the internal button

Software Connectivity Issues

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Owners have reported occasional glitches with the smartphone integration and navigation system.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £200–£600 (Software update)Affects: 20192023Often appears around: N/A

Typical symptoms

  • Phone doesn't connect
  • Nav system freezes

What to inspect before you buy

  • Ensure the car has the latest firmware

Luggage Area Trim Wear

MinorInterior & Trim

The GT's party piece is its large rear luggage compartment, but the leather and trim in this area can scuff and wear prematurely, especially if luggage is loaded frequently. The area sits directly above the engine bay and is exposed to heat.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £500–£1,500 (Refurbishment)Affects: 20192024Often appears around: 15k-30k miles

Typical symptoms

  • Visible scuffs on luggage area leather
  • Trim pieces becoming loose or creased
  • Discolouration of leather from heat exposure

What to inspect before you buy

  • Inspect the luggage area leather for scuffs and wear
  • Check trim pieces are secure
  • Look for heat-related discolouration near engine bay

Brake Dust and Carbon Ceramic Maintenance

MinorBrakes

The GT uses carbon ceramic brakes as standard. While they last much longer than steel discs, the pads still produce significant dust that can coat the wheels. Pad replacement when eventually needed is very expensive. The calipers can also develop surface corrosion if the car is stored in damp conditions.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £300–£500 (Cleaning) / £5,000–£8,000 (Pad replacement)Affects: 20192024Often appears around: Age and use related

Typical symptoms

  • Heavy black brake dust on wheels
  • Scoring on wheel faces from dust
  • Surface corrosion on caliper bodies

What to inspect before you buy

  • Inspect wheels for excessive dust and scoring
  • Check caliper condition for corrosion
  • Ask about brake pad thickness and history

Buying Tips for the 2019 McLaren GT

  • Check the operation of the power-operated rear tailgate
  • Verify the infotainment system is responsive; it uses a newer interface than the 570S
  • Ensure the leather in the luggage area is free from excessive scuffs or damage
  • Verify all parking cameras and sensors are functional given its length

Browse 2019–2022 McLaren GT in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2019–2022 McLaren GT vehicles.

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