The McLaren M838TE is a 3,799 cc, twin — turbocharged V8 petrol engine developed jointly by McLaren and Ricardo, produced between 2011 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), dry — sump lubrication, and direct fuel injection. This powerplant was engineered to deliver exceptional power density and responsiveness, enabling the MP4 — 12C to achieve supercar performance benchmarks.
Fitted exclusively to the first — generation McLaren MP4 — 12C and its deriva…
Production years 2011–2017 meet Euro 5 standards for applicable road-going models (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/MCL/838).
The McLaren M838TE is a 3,799 cc twin-turbocharged V8 engineered for high-performance sports cars (2011-2017). It combines dry-sump lubrication with twin parallel turbochargers to deliver exceptional power density and throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances extreme performance with necessary emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,799 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 69.9 mm | |
Power output | 441–464 kW (592–622 PS) | |
Torque | 600–660 Nm @ 3,000–7,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch MED17.1.1) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with separate charge air cooling | |
Turbocharger | Twin parallel Mitsubishi Heavy Industries TD04 | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | McLaren C30 Spec (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 190 kg |
The McLaren M838TE was used exclusively in McLaren Automotive's MP4-12C platform with longitudinal, rear-mid mounting. This engine received minor running updates during its production run, including ECU and turbo actuator revisions documented in service bulletins, creating subtle interchange limits for certain components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M838TE's primary reliability focus is on the longevity of its turbocharger wastegate actuators, with potential for sticking or failure under high thermal stress. McLaren service data indicates a notable service rate for these components, while owner reports frequently cite sensitivity to improper warm-up/cool-down cycles. Aggressive driving without adequate engine temperature management can accelerate wear, making adherence to operating procedures critical.
Analysis derived from McLaren technical bulletins (2011-2017) and aggregated UK specialist workshop data (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 M838TE is a robust engine when maintained correctly. Its main concerns are the turbo actuators and ignition coils, which are known service items. With strict adherence to McLaren's service schedule, use of correct fluids, and proper warm-up/cool-down, these engines can be very reliable for long-term ownership.
The most frequently documented issues are turbocharger wastegate actuator failures, ignition coil pack degradation, electric water pump failures, and PCV system clogging. These are well-covered in McLaren's service bulletins and are considered normal wear items for a high-performance engine.
The M838TE was used exclusively in the first-generation McLaren MP4-12C, including the Coupe and Spider road cars, as well as the 12C GT3 race car. It was succeeded by the M838T E and then the M840T in later models like the 650S and 720S.
Yes, the M838TE responds very well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes can safely add 50-70 kW, leveraging the engine's strong internals and turbo setup. More aggressive stages require upgraded turbos, intercoolers, and fueling. Always have tuning performed by a reputable McLaren specialist.
As expected for a 600+ PS supercar, fuel economy is not its strong suit. Expect combined figures around 10.5 L/100km (27 mpg UK) under normal driving, which can easily drop to 20+ L/100km (under 14 mpg UK) during spirited or track use. Official NEDC figures are around 24.2 mpg UK (11.7 L/100km).
Yes. Like virtually all modern high-performance engines, the M838TE is an interference design. A timing chain failure would almost certainly result in catastrophic valve and piston damage, requiring a full engine rebuild.
McLaren mandates the use of its proprietary 'C30' specification 5W-30 synthetic oil. This is a bespoke formulation designed for the engine's high stresses and temperatures. Using any other oil can void warranty and lead to premature wear or failure.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MCLAREN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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