2018-2023 McLaren 720S Rear Wheel: A Guide to Specs, Damage, and Replacement Costs

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

While the McLaren 720S wheels themselves have not been the subject of specific recalls, the vehicle has had recalls that involve the wheel and brake area. It's important for owners to be aware of these for overall vehicle safety.

• NHTSA Recall 20V-231: This recall addresses a foam pad under the fuel tank that could trap moisture, potentially leading to corrosion and a fuel leak. While not directly a wheel issue, it's a significant safety recall for the 2018-2020 model years.
• NHTSA Campaign 25V216000: A small number of McLaren models, including the 720S from 2020-2025, were recalled for incorrectly routed hydraulic brake lines. This could cause a rear wheel to lock up unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
• Forum-Reported Issues: Owners on forums have reported various minor electrical and mechanical issues, such as faulty sensors, issues with the vehicle lift system, and loose engine bay screws causing rattles. While not wheel-specific, these point to the general maintenance and inspection required 🎬 See this full rebuild of a crash-damaged McLaren 720S. for these complex vehicles. Some owners have noted that the butterfly doors can make contact with the wheel arches if opened carelessly, potentially chipping the paint.

Symptoms of a Damaged Wheel

A damaged wheel can present several distinct symptoms. Ignoring these can be dangerous, especially at the high speeds the 720S is capable of.

• Vibration or Shaking: The most common symptom of a bent wheel is a vibration that can be felt in the steering wheel or through the seat. This vibration typically worsens as speed increases.
• Visible Wobble: In severe cases, you may be able to see the wheel wobbling when looking at it from another vehicle or as it spins on a jack stand.
• Poor Handling: A bent or cracked wheel can cause the vehicle to pull to one side or feel unstable during cornering.
• Difficulty Balancing: If a tire shop has trouble balancing a wheel, it's often a sign that the wheel itself is bent or out of round.
• Slow Air Leak: A hairline crack in the wheel, which can be difficult to see, may cause a slow, persistent loss of tire pressure.

Technical Specifications

Ensuring you have the correct wheel is critical for fitment and safety. The McLaren 720S uses a staggered setup, meaning the front and rear wheels have different dimensions.

Buying a Used 2018-2023 McLaren 720S Wheel

Given the extremely high cost of a new OEM wheel, buying a used one can be a smart financial decision. However, for a high-performance vehicle like the 720S, inspection is everything. The initial data for this part mentioned it was bent and scuffed, which are serious concerns that must be addressed.

Why Choose a Used OEM Wheel?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) McLaren wheels are forged, a process that makes them significantly stronger and lighter than standard cast wheels. While many high-quality aftermarket forged wheels exist, they are also very expensive. Cheap aftermarket replicas are almost always cast, not forged. A cast wheel is not designed to handle the stress a 720S can generate and is prone to catastrophic failure under load. A used OEM wheel ensures you get the original engineering, strength, and fitment intended for the car.

Step-by-Step Inspection Guide

1. Check for Bends: Lay the wheel on a flat surface and look for any gaps between the rim edge and the floor. Roll it slowly on its edge and watch for any wobble or deviation. 🎬 Watch: A quick guide on how to check for a bent wheel. A bent wheel is a serious issue that requires professional straightening.
2. Inspect for Cracks: Carefully examine the entire wheel, paying close attention to the area around the lug holes, where the spokes meet the barrel, and along the inner and outer lip. Use a bright light. Even a hairline crack makes the wheel unsafe and non-repairable for this level of performance.
3. Look for Previous Repairs: Search for signs of welding, grinding, or sanding. Welded repairs on a forged aluminum wheel are extremely dangerous as they create weak points that can fail under stress. If you see any evidence of a weld, reject the wheel immediately.
4. Examine the Finish: Note any curb rash, deep scuffs, or peeling clear coat. While cosmetic, significant damage can indicate a hard impact that may have caused unseen structural issues. Refinishing a wheel can cost several hundred dollars.
5. Check the Mounting Surfaces: The hub mounting surface should be flat and clean. The lug bolt seats should be free of galling or damage, which can prevent proper torquing.

The Dangers of Incorrect Offset

Offset is the distance from the wheel's mounting surface to its centerline. Using a wheel with the wrong offset can cause serious problems. Too little offset (pushed out too far) can cause the tire to rub on the fender. Too much offset (tucked in too far) can cause the wheel or tire to interfere with suspension components or the inner wheel well. Both scenarios can also put excessive stress on the wheel bearings, leading to premature failure.

Cost Comparison

Prices for McLaren 720S wheels can vary dramatically based on condition, style (standard vs. super-lightweight), and source.

Frequently Asked Questions