There are no safety recalls for the 2012 McLaren MP4-12C, but owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA.
2012 McLaren MP4-12C problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Equipment | 1 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Equipment › Electrical › Infotainment — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 8,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2012 McLaren MP4-12C complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Visibility/Wiper · at 8,000 miles · reported Aug 15, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 McLaren MP4-12C. The contact stated that while driving during rainy weather, the front windshield wipers intermittently failed to operate as needed. An unknown windshield wiper error message was displayed on the instrument panel. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V541000 (Visibility); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.
Equipment · reported Jan 28, 2022
This is the cars main navigation, radio, and other configuration critical to the cars operability and safety. McLaren calls this the IRIS system, and they issued an upgrade after the first one had many documented problems throughout the world, with the IRIS II system. They replaced them while the cars were under warranty, but once the warranty expires on your car, you have to pay upwards of $10,000 to replace what is essentially a radio touch screen. There is a high documented failure rate of the IRIS systems in following McLaren Models. The MP4-12C, the 650S, the 675LT. The part is made by…
Exterior Lighting · reported Jan 28, 2022
The main headlights on the McLaren MP4-12C are susceptible to condensation, and mold that cannot be cleared as it is internal. This is caused by a faulty seal, or glue, holding the top clear glass, to the plastic molding which allows condensation to happen, causing the mold. Almost all McLaren MP4-12C's have the moldy headlights, reducing visibility and creating a hazard for the driver, as well as incoming traffic, as the light pattern is no longer uniform making it hard to see at night. The only solution is to replace the headlights with new ones costing more than $4,000.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2012 McLaren MP4-12C have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2012 McLaren MP4-12C as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2012 McLaren MP4-12C?
Owners report equipment problems most often (1 reports), followed by exterior lighting (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 8,000 miles.
Are McLaren recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized McLaren dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.