2021 McLaren GT Engine Oil and Fluids Operations

The 2021 McLaren GT is an exceptional supercar that combines high-performance engineering with grand touring capabilities. The engine oil and fluids are crucial components that guarantee the optimal operation of this exquisite machine. In this introduction, we will examine the engine oil and fluids of the 2021 McLaren GT, highlighting their role in maintaining the vehicle’s optimal performance, efficiency, and durability. In addition, the sophisticated transmission, suspension, and braking systems of the McLaren GT require a variety of specialized fluids to maintain their performance. These fluids, meticulously crafted to satisfy McLaren’s exacting standards, ensure smooth gear shifts, exceptional ride comfort, and dependable stopping power, even under the most demanding driving conditions.

In this introduction, we will discuss the specific varieties of engine oil and fluids required by the 2021 McLaren GT, as well as their significance in maintaining the vehicle’s performance, precision, and comfort. We will also discuss the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations, highlighting the vital role these lubricants play in keeping the McLaren GT in pristine condition. Understanding the significance of these engine lubricants and fluids is crucial for any McLaren GT owner who wishes to maximize the performance of their supercar.

Engine Oil

It is normal for your engine to consume oil and the rate of consumption will vary with many factors. The oil consumption may be higher when the vehicle is new or if you frequently drive at high engine speeds.
It is important to follow the service schedule for oil and filter changes and to regularly check the level of your oil in between.
You will only be able to estimate the oil consumption after the vehicle has been driven for several thousand miles or kilometres.

NOTE: Lubricant additives could damage the engine or gearbox. Damage caused by such additives is not covered by the vehicle warranty. Further information is available from your McLaren retailer.

NOTE: The oil pressure warning light is not a low oil level indicator.

Checking the engine oil

1. Ensure the following conditions are met:
   • Vehicle stationary and positioned on a level surface.
   • Neutral selected and the foot brake applied (use left foot).
     NOTE./: The foot brake must be applied for the entire duration of the oil level check.
     
2. The level is viewed in the Vehicle Info section on the Folding Driver Display, see Oil status.
   Start the engine and hold the engine speed at 2,000 rpm for 120 seconds. Allow the engine oil temperature to reach a temperature of 90°C (194°F).
   NOTE: The throttle pedal can be fully depressed as the engine speed will be electronically limited to 2,000 rpm.
3. When the timer has reached ‘0’, the oil level will be shown on the Folding Driver Display along with a description.
   NOTE: The line on the display indicates the maximum oil level for 19 seconds after the oil level is read.
4.  If the engine oil is below the target level, top up the oil in accordance with the following procedure.

NOTE: Once the oil level check has been completed and returned a value, do not continue to test the system. This may lead to aeration of the oil and return a false value. To end the oil level check, release the throttle pedal and return to the Vehicle info menu by moving the menu stalk back.

Topping up the engine oil
WARNING: There is a risk of injury if the service cover is removed, even when the engine is not running. Engine components become very hot and there is a risk of severe burns. The engine ignition system carries a high voltage. Never touch ignition system components; ignition coils, ignition wiring (spark plug connections).

1. Remove the service cover.
   See Service cover – 720S and 765LT Coupe.
   See Service covers – 720S and 765LT Spider.
   
2. Unscrew the engine oil filler cap.
3. Top up with the correct quantity of engine oil. Refer to top quantity.
   Check the Folding Driver Display to ensure level is correct.
   NOTE: If you have inadvertently overfilled the engine with oil, you must have any excess removed at your McLaren retailer. The engine or the catalytic converter could be damaged.
   Refit the engine oil filler cap.
   ENVIRONMENTAL: When topping up, take care not to spill any oil. Oil must not be allowed to escape into the soil or waterways.
   NOTE: Ensure the oil filler cap is refitted correctly.
4. Install the service cover
   See Service cover – 720S and 765LT Coupe.
   See Service covers – 720S and 765LT Spider.

Top up quantity

Based on the oil status displayed on the Folding Driver Display, add the required quantity of oil as shown in the following table, then check the engine oil level again.

Segments on display	Quantity of oil required
½ – under filled	0.90 litre
1 – min.	0.70 litre
1 ½ – OK	0 litre

Segments on display	Quantity of oil required
2 – OK	0 litre
2 ½ – OK	0 litre
3 – OK	0 litre
3 ½ – max.	0 litre
4 – overfilled	Contact your McLaren retailer

Oil temperature
If the oil temperature is too high, a warning will be displayed on the Folding Driver Display. Reduce the vehicle and engine speed until the warning message disappears.

Gearbox oil level
If you experience oil loss or problems with gear shifts, have the gearbox checked by your McLaren retailer.

NOTE: The clutch and gearbox oil has mileage-related service intervals. This maintenance can only be carried out by your McLaren retailer.

Coolant
Coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze/corrosion inhibitor. Only check the coolant when the vehicle is positioned on level ground and the engine is cool.

Topping up the coolant – 720S and 765LT Coupe
WARNING: There is a risk of injury if the service cover is removed, even when the engine is not running. Engine components become very hot and there is a risk of severe burns. The engine ignition system carries a high voltage. Never touch ignition system components; ignition coils, ignition wiring (spark plug connections).

1. Remove the service cover.
   See Service cover – 720S and 765LT Coupe
2. Slowly unscrew the cap by half a turn anti-clockwise and allow excess pressure to escape.
3. Unscrew the cap fully and remove it.
   
4. The coolant level is correct when it is at the top of the + marker.
5. Top up the coolant if necessary. See Coolant.
6. Replace the cap by turning it clockwise to the stop.
   Install the service cover.
   See Service cover – 720S and 765LT Coupe.

Topping up the coolant – 720S and 765LT Spider
WARNING: There is a risk of injury if the service covers are removed, even when the engine is not running. Engine components become very hot and there is a risk of severe burns. The engine ignition system carries a high voltage. Never touch ignition system components; ignition coils, ignition wiring (spark plug connections).

1. Remove the service covers.
   See Service covers – 720S and 765LT Spider.
2. Remove the service cover release tool from the tool kit.
   
3. Using the service cover release tool, rotate the two captive fixings 90° anti-clockwise to release the rear of the rear deck vent.
   Using the service cover release tool, rotate the two captive fixings 90° anti-clockwise to release the front of the rear deck vent.
4. Lift the rear deck vent to remove. NOTE: Place the rear deck vent inside the vehicle to avoid the risk of damage.
5. Slowly unscrew the cap by half a turn anti-clockwise and allow excess pressure to escape.
6. Unscrew the cap fully and remove it.
   
7. The coolant level is correct when it is at the top of the + marker.
8. Top up the coolant if necessary. See Coolant.
9. Replace the cap by turning it clockwise to the stop.
10. Replace the rear deck vent, securing with the four bolts.
11. Install the service covers.
    See  Service covers – 720S and 765LT Spide.

Power steering fluid

Right-hand drive models

WARNING: The power steering fluid is highly flammable. Fire, naked flames and smoking are prohibited when handling power steering fluid.
WARNING: The power steering fluid is toxic. Keep containers sealed and away from children. If fluid is accidentally consumed, seek medical help straight away.
WARNING: The vehicle must not be in vehicle lift mode. Before you check the power steering fluid level check the vehicle lift icon is not illuminated on the Driver Display. See Vehicle lift,

Checking fluid level

1. Switch the ignition on and start the engine. Select Comfort handling mode, see Handling control.
2. Allow the engine to idle for 20 seconds before checking the fluid level. Open the luggage compartment, see the Front luggage compartment. Remove the access cover, then unscrew the cap anti-clockwise and remove it.
3. Measure the distance, inside the reservoir, down to the fluid level. The maximum fill level is 50 mm and the minimum fill level is 55 mm from the top of the filler neck.
4. Top up if necessary using only Pentosin CHF202 power steering fluid, and contact your McLaren retailer.
5. Replace the cap and access cover.
6. Close the luggage compartment, see the Front luggage compartment.

Brake fluid
WARNING: Brake fluid is highly flammable. Fire, naked flames and smoking are prohibited when handling brake fluid.
WARNING: Brake fluid is toxic. Keep containers sealed and away from children. If fluid is accidentally consumed, seek medical help straight away.
WARNING: Only use fluid from new, air-tight containers.
NOTE: Avoid spilling brake fluid, it is harmful to painted surfaces. Any spillages must be removed immediately with a mixture of car shampoo and water.
NOTE: The engine must be switched off before carrying out the brake fluid check and top up process.

Right-hand drive models

Left-hand drive models

Checking fluid level

1. Open the luggage compartment, see the Front luggage compartment.
2. Remove the access cover, then unscrew the cap anti-clockwise and remove it.
3. The brake fluid is correct if the level just covers the base of the filter in the filler neck.
4. Top up if necessary using only new Pentosin DoT 5.1 brake fluid.
5. Replace the cap and access cover.
6. Close the luggage compartment, see the Front
7. luggage compartment.

Windscreen washers
WARNING: Some washer fluids are highly flammable. Fire, naked flames and smoking are prohibited when handling washer fluid.
WARNING: Washer fluid is toxic. Keep containers sealed and away from children. If fluid is accidentally consumed, seek medical help straight away.
NOTE: Add washer fluid to the reservoir all year round.

The reservoir for the windscreen washers is located in the luggage compartment.
The reservoir has a capacity of approximately 2.5 liters.

Checking fluid level

1. Open the luggage compartment, see Front luggage compartment.
2. Mix a solution of screenwash concentrate and water in a container before adding to the reservoir. Concentration of the washer solution should be mixed to suit the outside temperatures.
   
3. Remove the access cover.
4. Open the reservoir cap, top up the reservoir with washer fluid and close the cap.
5. Replace the access cover.
6. Close the luggage compartment, see the Front luggage compartment.

FAQs

Useful Link

View Full PDF:  McLaren GT 2021 User Manual | Auto User Guide
2021 McLaren GT Interior Features Quick Guide