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DIYs: McLaren Do It Yourself Thread

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#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
  1. McLAREN DIYs
    Well as we learn more and more (and as suggested by @carbon Need help ASAP. Battery too low/dead, can't open door or hood!), I figured we could start a Do It Yourself (DIY) thread where people can post their DIY achievements. Hopefully, we can compile our collective accomplishments in an easier-to-find spot. For those looking for 3rd party service options, you can check out this thread: McLaren 3rd party service options.

    I figure what I can do is compile links to different parts of this and other threads for different projects, a bit like our FAQs: Common McLaren Questions, Problems & Fixes thread, and so this first post can act a bit like a table of contents for other things in the thread. All suggestions are welcome.
  2. Airbrake
    Airbrake causes transmission problem: Airbrake Problems
  3. Battery
    A DIY Battery repair: DIY - A123 Systems Lithium-Ion Battery repair?

    DIY battery reset procedure:
  4. Brakes
    Brake pads: Changing out brake pads and Changing brake pads and Removing handbrake pads
    Parking brake: Parking brake turns back on after turning it off. Anyone have this issue?
  5. Bumper
    https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/73921-diy-front-bumper-removal.html#post1408641
  6. Conversions
    12C to 650 conversions: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/69546-12c-650-conversion.html#post1441225
  7. Doors
    Soft Close Doors:
  8. Electronics
    Electrical Weirdness and Warning Lights
  9. USB/AUX Port
  10. Engine
    Cylinder firing order: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/83890-engine-system-fault-first-day-ownership.html#post1541674
    Ignition Coil Failure: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/83890-engine-system-fault-first-day-ownership.html#post1541906
    Random CEL Check Engine Light/OBDII code for "Cylinder Misfire" https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/83890-engine-system-fault-first-day-ownership.html#post1543610
  11. Exhaust
    Down Pipe's Install: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/67370-downpipe-install.html#post1328034
    https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/52817-buying-used-akrapovic-exhaust-12c-owner-does-fit-650s.html#post1096609
  12. Filters
    Air Filter: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/74097-diy-gain-0-53-seconds-60-130mph-new-air-filters-only.html#post1411769
  13. Headlights (12C)
    The $50 Easy-Bake-Oven fix for cloudy/foggy/moldy headlights found here: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/66938-diy-12c-moldy-headlight-fix-less-than-50-00-a.html#post1318714 and a video here: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/51889-12c-headlight-haze-fix.html#post1407201
    Video of headlight removal: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/77498-fogging-headlight-lens-update.html#post1544730
  14. Hood Release (12C)
    Manual Hood Release (e.g., to access for dead battery): https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-owners-lounge/42346-dead-battery-solutions.html#post902122
  15. Hoses and Clamps
    Heater hose and clamp replacement: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/84410-step-step-heater-hose-clamp-replacment.html#post1549106
  16. HVAC LCD Panels (12C/650)
    A DIY OLED replacement walk through found here: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/39097-oled-lcd-climate-control-replacement-walkthrough-2.html#post828393
  17. Intake Sound Generator (ISG)
    A DIY removal/block off for the ISG: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/73793-diy-how-delete-your-isg-intake-sound-generator-saves-weight-eliminate-un-mete.html#post1407241 and https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/83666-oil-change-diy-procedure-isg-delete-mod.html
  18. IRIS/Infotainment
    Upgrading Infotainment: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/15058-iris-isn-t-up-snuff-full-replacement-nexus-7-tablet.html#post395273, 2013 - Audio Upgrade/Stealth Install, IRIS - instructions on how to remove it?

    IRIS Sideloading Apps
    A user that we haven't seen in a long time by the name of FTYL rooted/jailbroke/sideloaded apps IRIS. You can find comments of his exploits here (need to have an "Owner" badge to view these first 3 links in Owners Lounge):
    https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-owners-lounge/6761-iris-2-a-3.html#post145049
    Sideloaded Apps on IRIS and (envy-causing) screenshots here:
    https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-owners-lounge/6761-iris-2-a.html#post158625
    And basic info about IRIS/android versions here:
    https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-owners-lounge/6761-iris-2-a-2.html#post145617

    Some information about IRIS screen hardware versions is here:
    https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/60633-iris-complete-story-thread.html#post1220017
    and here:
    https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/60633-iris-complete-story-thread.html#post1253234
  19. Oil Change
    A DIY Oil change posts: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/30794-tips-suggestions-mclaren-mp4-12c-oil-change.html#post665562 and https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/83666-oil-change-diy-procedure-isg-delete-mod.html#post1536506
  20. Panels
    How to remove the panel that is between the engine class cover and the rear spoiler: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/78129-12c-opening-engine-compartment.html#post1461033
  21. Parts
    1. Thread on cheap and interchangeable parts for P11 series (12C, 625C, 650S, 675): https://www.mclarenlife.com/threads/p11-cars-12c-650s-675lt-–-interchangable-parts-guide-diy-fix-it-yourself.100082/
  22. Rattles, Squeeks, Buzz
    For the Dash: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/65986-dash-buzz-rattle-solved-steering-spring.html#post1300538
  23. Radiators
    Front duct cleaning: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/74273-front-duct-cleaning.html#post1414121
  24. Seats
    https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/12593-comfort-entry-exit-problem.html#post365985
  25. Sensors
    Pass Occupancy Sensor replacement: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/73282-diy-replace-passenger-seat-airbag-occupancy-sensor.html#post1402250
  26. Skid Plates
    Attachment with 3M and no drilling: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-650s/94115-diy-front-skid-plate-no-drilling.html#post1674939
  27. Transmission
    A $1 fix for some transmission problems here:
  28. Windows
    How to resolve/reset over sensitive window pressure sensor setting when window auto-lowers/won't stay up: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/78233-interesting-issue-who-can-help.html#post1464393
  29. Errata
    McLaren Font Logo Graphic Details: https://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/74953-anyone-have-mso-graphic-logo.html#post1421265
  30. VARIOUS PDFs AND MANUALS POSTED HERE
    McLaren Technical Portal (~$35/hr):https://mclarencars.techinfoportal.com/
 

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#3 · (Edited by Moderator)
Zombie! I had the same idea last week and below is what I have compiled "so far".... As always I'm on step behind the genius's... Please add/ update this as you best see fit...


To work on a 2012 -2017 Mclaren P11 Super Series vehicle you really need an OEM McLaren SERVICE MANUAL.
So START HERE FIRST and download it for FREE!

http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/80634-who-wants-service-manual.html

Read the entire thread (2 pages) and have a great laugh! I promise you won't regret it!!! Then download the priceless gift of the OEM McLaren SERVICE MANUAL Valentin gave all of us for now and into the future. And be sure to click the "Like" button for Valentin on Post #19!!!!
THANKS AGAIN VALENTIN!!!


DIY - 12C Moldy Headlight Fix for less than 50.00
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/66938-diy-12c-moldy-headlight-fix-less-than-50-00-a.html
& http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/51889-12c-headlight-haze-fix.html

AUX/USB Port
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/66762-diy-my-aux-usb-port-broken-how-i-fixed.html

DIY - A123 Systems Lithium-Ion Battery repair?
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/67434-diy-a123-systems-lithium-ion-battery-repair.html

Dash Rattle/Buzz/Noises
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/65986-dash-buzz-rattle-solved-steering-spring.html

Rough Idle
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/35329-why-does-idle-speed-increase-when-i-open-door.html#post749721


The dreaded Transmission Leak - Resolved
  • see post #74 - Kudo's to TonyC817 for being the pioneer!
  • see post #107 - Pictures of the problem, the repair procedure, the completed repair
  • see post 108 - Full write up of the issue and how to fix it permanently by yourself for just a few dollars.
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/2087-gearbox-leaking-what-do-you-think-has-happened.html

HVAC displays
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/39097-oled-lcd-climate-control-replacement-walkthrough.html

Battery - Reset procedure
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/65962-battery-monitor-reset.html
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/59122-dead-battery-help-jump-tender.html

Soft Close Doors
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/65466-soft-close-install-2014-spider.html
Soft Close Doors (retro-fit) are here !!
12C Soft close door retrofit
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/63450-12c-soft-close-doors-now-official-my-intro.html


Here is how you get to the manual hood release:
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-owners-lounge/42346-dead-battery-solutions.html#post902122


http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/12593-comfort-entry-exit-problem.html

http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/73921-diy-front-bumper-removal.html

window auto-lowers / won't stay up. how to resolve/reset over sensitive window pressure sensor setting.
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/78233-interesting-issue-who-can-help.html

How to remove the panel that is between the engine class cover and the rear spoiler
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/78129-12c-opening-engine-compartment.html

Down Pipe's Install http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/67370-downpipe-install.html
 
#6 · (Edited by Moderator)
MORE...
MORE...
MORE...

DIY Oil Change
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/30794-tips-suggestions-mclaren-mp4-12c-oil-change.html


GOOD TO KNOW... McLaren Logo Font details...
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/74953-anyone-have-mso-graphic-logo.html

The McLaren corporate font is called Serene MTC, it's a proprietary modified version of Serene. Then you can find a vector image of the "Mclaren" logo online (Use Serene Light MTC)


Front radiator ducts
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/74273-front-duct-cleaning.html


CHECK YOUR AIR FILTERS!!!
DIY: Gain 0.53 seconds 60-130MPH with new AIR FILTERS...


ISG Delete
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/73793-diy-how-delete-your-isg-intake-sound-generator-saves-weight-eliminate-un-mete.html


DIY replacement - Pass Occupancy Sensor
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/73282-diy-replace-passenger-seat-airbag-occupancy-sensor.html


mysterious warning lights/ electrical connection issue?
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/72233-airbag-parking-brake-air-brake-faults.html



Parking Brake
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/50409-parking-brake-turns-back-after-turning-off-anyone-have-issue.html


low battery
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/68506-need-help-asap-battery-too-low-dead-can-t-open-door-hood.html


Brake Pads
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/67074-removing-handbrake-pads.html


No solution, but interesting...
http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/76353-airbrake-problems.html

Transmission Software Flash?

12c to 650 conversion

http://www.mclarenlife.com/forums/mclaren-mp4-12c/52817-buying-used-akrapovic-exhaust-12c-owner-does-fit-650s.html
 
#7 · (Edited by Moderator)
#9 ·
This is probably the best thread on the forum! Thanks Zombie!
 
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#12 · (Edited by Moderator)
#15 ·
Let's add more DIY's to this thread... any P11 owner can help us build this database of how-to's... who's gonna post the next new DIY?
 
#17 ·
BUMP!

Its been almost a year since we've added any new content to this DIY thread! With all the new owners lately it seems somebody has something new to contribute? :)
 
Z
#18 ·
I changed the rear CCB pads on my friends 570S coupe last week (including bypassing the wear sensors since Pagids don’t have a wear sensor), but we were pressed for time so I didn’t take pics or document it. Really easy tho. I’ll try to document the process when I do mine.

If anyone has any questions about it in the meantime I can definitely answer them tho.

Thanks!

Z.
 
T
#22 ·
v1 battery to V2 battery

do you know anyone thats done a V1 to V2 battery swap? that V1 has a 3 wire connector and the V2 has a single wire but comes with heat shrink to splice the wire/wire together jus tnot sure which to splice together
 
#23 · (Edited)
You disconnect the two brownish wires (CAN BUS) and they will no longer be used. Then you only use the one remaining orange wire connected to the new 1-wire connector on the new style battery. Finally You will need to pay your dealer one hour of shop time to re-configure your ECU as well.
 
#24 ·
SOFT CLOSE DOORS - NEW PROCEDURE!

You can do both doors in less than 2 hours! VERY EASY!


GO TO THIS LINK....
https://www.mclarenlife.com/threads/soft-close-install-in-a-2014-spider.65466/


READ POST #1, #28, #36, #37, #38

- FIRST, read SAILINGMAGNUS's post #1 write up
- NEXT, Read TEXZEN's post #28 write up
- LAST, Read IMA2NR's post #36 ,#37, #38 - new procedure how-to do the driver side without accessing the manual lock key mechanism


Thanks to SAILINGMAGNUS and TEXZEN both for their contributions to this community and knowledge base!

AND ALWAYS Be sure to give these guys a "thumbs up" if their post helped you in anyway!
 
#25 ·
Windscreen Wiper Motor Problem Solved (DIY REPAIR)


www.mclarenlife.com

Windscreen Wiper Problem Solved

If anybody is still interested in the problem with the windshield wiper motor going bad. It was a relatively easy and quick fix. - wiper motor was not working anymore - message in the display to go to the workshop - Just got the motor out (that was the tricky part). I could give details, if...
www.mclarenlife.com www.mclarenlife.com
 
#26 ·
DIY HOW-TO: Polish your Acid Rain stained EXHAUST FINISHERs


www.mclarenlife.com

DIY HOW-TO: Polish your Acid Rain stained EXHAUST FINISHERs

My Exhaust Finishers looked terrible! Years of acid rain setting on them just being cooked in from the exhaust heat. UGLY! BEFORE.... BEFORE and AFTER... Well, the good news is they will polish out in just minutes with a bit of Mothers Chrome Wheel Polish! Very cheap and easy. While I...
www.mclarenlife.com www.mclarenlife.com
 
#27 ·
DIY HOW-TO: 12C, 650S, 675LT - DASH RATTLE - BUZZING SOUND -- SOLVED! --

www.mclarenlife.com

DIY HOW-TO: 12C, 650S, 675LT - DASH RATTLE - BUZZING...

So my 2012 12C is now 8 years young! I feel miles are unimportant for this issue to occur, it’s more likely time and/or exposure to sunlight or maybe even temperature changes of the air blowing thru your HVAC system. Also I had my airbag replace under the Takata Recall, and I’m sure the stresses...
www.mclarenlife.com www.mclarenlife.com
 
#28 ·
P11 cars (12C, 650S, 675LT) – INTERCHANGABLE PARTS GUIDE - DIY FIX IT YOURSELF

www.mclarenlife.com

P11 cars (12C, 650S, 675LT) – INTERCHANGABLE PARTS GUIDE...

This thread will be a place to share resources and information regarding replacement parts and or equivalent parts from other vehicle brands to maintain and repair any P11 Super Series McLaren for PENNIES ON THE DOLLAR. (MP4-12C, 12C, 625, 650S, 675LT) A quick introduction about myself: I am...
www.mclarenlife.com www.mclarenlife.com
 
#29 ·
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