The McLaren M838T is a 3,799 cc, 90‑degree V8 twin‑turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2017. Developed in collaboration with Ricardo, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), dry sump lubrication, and direct fuel injection. This compact, lightweight powerplant was engineered to deliver exceptional power density, enabling supercar performance with strong low‑end torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted exclusively to McLaren Automotive's f…
Production years 2011–2017 meet Euro 5 standards for applicable road models (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/MCL/5678).
The McLaren M838T is a 3,799 cc 90-degree V8 engineered for high-performance supercars (2011-2017). It combines twin-turbocharging with dry-sump lubrication to deliver explosive acceleration and a high-revving character. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances extreme performance with necessary road car compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,799 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 69.9 mm | |
Power output | 441–500 kW (598–675 PS) | |
Torque | 600–700 Nm @ 3,000–7,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (Bosch MED17.1.1 ECU) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with twin intercoolers | |
Turbocharger | Twin parallel turbochargers (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | McLaren C30 Spec (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 190 kg |
The McLaren M838T was used exclusively across McLaren Automotive's first-generation sports car platforms with longitudinal, mid-mounted installation. This engine received model-specific power and cooling adaptations-for example, the 675LT featured uprated turbos and enhanced cooling-and from 2017 was succeeded by the M840T variant, creating clear generational boundaries. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M838T's primary reliability focus is long-term turbocharger and heat management, with elevated stress in track or hot climate use. McLaren service data indicates a notable incidence of turbo actuator failures and heat-related ancillary component degradation, while UK DVSA records show generally high MOT pass rates for road-legal variants. Sustained high-RPM operation and inadequate cool-down make adherence to service schedules and fluid specifications critical.
Analysis derived from McLaren technical bulletins (2011-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M838T is a robust engine when maintained correctly. Its primary long-term concerns are turbo actuators and ancillary components like water pumps, often linked to heat stress. Adhering strictly to McLaren's service schedule, using the correct C30 oil, and allowing for proper engine cool-down significantly enhance its longevity and reliability.
The most frequently documented issues are turbocharger wastegate actuator failures, ignition coil/spark plug wear leading to misfires, and failures of the electric water pump or thermostat. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets are also common as the engine ages. These are covered in McLaren service bulletins.
The M838T powered McLaren's first-generation sports cars: the MP4-12C (2011-2014), the 650S (2014-2017), the Asia-Pacific specific 625C (2014-2016), and the track-focused 675LT (2015-2016). It was replaced by the M840T engine in 2017 with the launch of the 720S.
Yes, the M838T responds very well to tuning. ECU remaps can safely extract significant additional power (50-100+ PS) on stock hardware. More aggressive builds involve upgraded turbos, intercoolers, and exhausts. Any tuning should be performed by a specialist familiar with McLaren systems to ensure reliability.
As expected for a 600+ PS supercar, fuel economy is not its forte. Real-world combined figures typically range from 15-20 mpg (UK) (14-18 L/100km). Highway cruising can yield slightly better figures, while aggressive driving will drastically reduce efficiency. It requires 98 RON premium unleaded fuel.
Yes. The M838T is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (an extremely rare event), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. This underscores the importance of using the correct oil to ensure proper lubrication.
McLaren mandates a specific 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting their 'C30' specification. This is not a standard ACEA or API grade. Using the correct McLaren-approved oil is absolutely critical for protecting the engine, particularly the turbos and timing components, under high-stress conditions.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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