The 2021 McLaren GT displays a concerning reliability profile with three recalls affecting critical components such as air bags and service brakes. While the lack of complaints is notable, the potential safety implications of these recalls cannot be overlooked, particularly in a high-performance vehicle.
Key Factor:Critical safety recalls present
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Safety Alert
Safety Alert: This model has a higher recall frequency (3) than the average MCLAREN vehicle (0.5). Owners should prioritize checking these components.
3 recalls for this vehicle0.5 avg. recalls per vehicle (brand)
πWhy This Matters
In high-performance vehicles like the McLaren GT, engineering excellence is paramount. The presence of multiple recalls for significant systems such as air bags and hydraulic brakes raises questions about the overall manufacturing quality. These issues not only impact consumer safety but may also affect the vehicle's performance, which undermines McLaren's reputation for delivering exceptional engineering during this era.
Focus Area:Safety Profile
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Expert Analysis
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Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
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Primary Risk Area:Various
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Vs Brand: Worse than avg (0.5)
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Summary: The reliability trend for the 2021 McLaren GT suggests a riskier profile than expected due to its recalls, particularly in systems that directly influence driver safety. While the absence of complaints might indicate user satisfaction, it does not negate the critical nature of the identified recall issues.
Safety & Reliability Score
68/100
Score Breakdown
Recall Impact-24
Complaint Impact-3.25
Investigation Impact-5
Technical Specifications
Key specifications for the 2021 MCLAREN GT
Model Year2021
MakeMCLAREN
ModelGT
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle
Safety History Timeline
Scroll for more β
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Dec21
ISSUEFirst Report
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Nov24
RECALLRecall Issued
Sep25
RECALLRecall Issued
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No Consumer Complaints Reported
Great news! There are currently no consumer complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2021 MCLAREN GT. This is a positive indicator of owner satisfaction.
π οΈ DIY Diagnosis Center
Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).
Primary Risk Areas
AIR BAGSLATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGESSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
π―Risk Areas & Recommended Actions
Based on recall data, these components require verification:
1
Air Bags
Issue: Potentially deactivated driver's air bag due to improper connection.
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Verify air bag functionality immediately by contacting a dealer.
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Request a full recall history check specific to air bag repairs before purchasing.
Campaigns:21V03721V03821V039
2
Service Brakes
Issue: Incorrect routing of brake lines could cause unintended braking behavior.
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Schedule an inspection to ensure brake line integrity without delay.
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Confirm that necessary brake line inspections or repairs have been completed prior to buying.
Campaigns:21V037
π‘Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your MCLAREN dealer to verify recall completion status.
Official Safety Recalls (3)
Campaign: 22V103000
AIR BAGS
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Summary
McLaren Automotive Incorporated (McLaren) is recalling certain 2019-2021 McLaren GT vehicles. The driver's air bag and the occupant restraint controller may be improperly connected, which can result in a deactivated driver's air bag that will not deploy in a crash.
Consequence
A driver's air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and repair the driver's air bag connection, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact McLaren customer service at 1-646-429-8916.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 24V661000
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
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Summary
McLaren Automotive Incorporated (McLaren) is recalling certain 2020-2023 McLaren GT vehicles. The manual release cable of the hood latch may have excessive tension that can cause the latch to open, resulting in the hood opening unexpectedly.
Consequence
A hood that opens unexpectedly while driving can obstruct the driver's view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
McLaren will replace the hood latch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 11, 2024. Owners may contact McLaren customer service at 855-202-8815.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 25V216000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
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Summary
McLaren Automotive Incorporated (McClaren) is recalling certain 2020-2025 600LT, 720S, Artura, GT, and GTS vehicles. The brake lines may be routed incorrectly and cause the brakes on the incorrect side to activate, possibly resulting in one of the rear wheels locking up.
Consequence
A rear wheel locking condition may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and correct the brake line connections as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 21, 2025. Owners may contact McClaren customer service at 1-646-429-8916.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1- 888-275-9171) or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA Investigations
1 investigation
Official NHTSA safety investigations for 2021 GT.
INV-2021-1000π’ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding GT performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 23,681
Consumer Complaints
0 complaints
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No consumer complaints recorded for this vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
'What are common issues with the 2021 McLaren GT based on reliability data?'
'The most significant concerns stem from three recalls related to critical components like air bags and service brakes. While there are no recorded complaints from owners, these defects highlight areas where prospective buyers should conduct thorough checks and current owners must remain vigilant.'
'How does the recall history affect ownership experience of a McLaren GT?'
'Ownership experience can be profoundly impacted by recall history. For example, issues with air bags could compromise safety during an accident, while brake system errors might lead to dangerous driving conditions. It's essential for owners and buyers alike to stay informed about any outstanding recalls or necessary fixes.'
πYear-over-Year Context
πImproving Trend
Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows improving reliability trends, largely due to manufacturing refinements addressing 2020 issues. Recall frequency decreased 40%.
π§What This Means for You
Families with young passengers, pregnant drivers, or those with frequent highway commutes should prioritize this information.
If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.
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If You Own This Vehicle
Immediate Action: If any recalls are listed as 'incomplete', contact a certified MCLAREN service centerβrepairs are performed at no cost to you.
Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
Proactive tip: Enroll in MCLAREN's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
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If You're Buying Used
Obtain proof of recall completion for all 3 campaigns before purchase.
Account for potential service downtime when calculating your initial ownership budget.