What’s the Best Way to Tune the Adjustable Dampers on a McLaren 720S for Daily Driving?

From the moment you lay your eyes on a McLaren 720S, you’re captivated by its sleek design and promise of unparalleled performance. The car’s aerodynamic silhouette and aggressive front aren’t just for aesthetics, they’re meticulously designed to optimize speed, handling, and efficiency. The rear of the car compliments the front, with the exhaust pipes placed centrally for a balanced and symmetrical design. The McLaren 720S is indeed a remarkable piece of machinery, but what truly sets it apart is its ability to be as comfortable on the track as it is on your daily commute.

The secret to this lies in the vehicle’s adjustable dampers. These devices modulate the car’s suspension system, allowing you to switch between a stiff, track-ready setup and a softer, more comfortable configuration for daily driving. But tuning these dampers to your preference can be a bit of a mystery. So, how best to adjust these dampers for a daily drive? Let’s dive in and explore.

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Understanding the McLaren 720S Adjustable Dampers

The McLaren 720S, like many high-performance cars, uses a sophisticated suspension system that includes adjustable dampers. These devices are used to control the car’s suspension, providing a smooth ride at any speed. The adjustable dampers can be set to several different modes, each of which offers a different balance between comfort and performance.

The dampers are connected to the car’s suspension system and are filled with a special hydraulic fluid. When you’re driving, the dampers absorb the shocks and vibrations from the road, reducing the impact on the car’s body. The fluid inside the damper moves from one chamber to another, providing a cushioning effect that smooths out the ride.

For daily driving, you’ll want to adjust the dampers to a setting that prioritizes comfort over performance. This will help to smooth out bumps and potholes, providing a more enjoyable driving experience. However, it’s important to remember that the McLaren 720S is a performance car at heart, so the ride will still be relatively firm compared to a standard sedan or SUV.

Tuning the Adjustable Dampers for Daily Driving

When it comes to tuning the adjustable dampers on your McLaren 720S for daily driving, the process is straightforward. The car’s settings are controlled via the Active Dynamics Panel located on the center console. Here, you’ll find two dials labeled ‘H’ and ‘P’. The ‘H’ dial controls the handling settings, while the ‘P’ dial manages the powertrain settings.

To tune the dampers for daily driving, rotate the ‘H’ dial to the ‘Comfort’ setting. This mode adjusts the suspension to its softest setting, smoothing out the ride and making the car more comfortable for everyday use. If you’re driving on particularly rough roads, you might also want to consider raising the car’s ground clearance using the vehicle lift system.

Despite its comfort mode, remember that the McLaren 720S is a high-performance vehicle, and as such, even in this setting, the ride will be firmer than that of a regular car. However, this adjustment will provide you with the most comfortable ride possible in this type of car.

Comparing McLaren’s Adjustable Dampers to Other Car Brands

While McLaren’s adjustable damper system is impressive, it’s worth noting that other high-performance car brands also offer adjustable suspension systems. For instance, cars from Audi have the Audi Drive Select system, which adjusts the damping based on the selected driving mode.

There are also aftermarket systems available that offer adjustable damping. These systems can be a good option if you want to fine-tune your suspension beyond the settings offered by the factory system. However, it’s crucial to remember that any modifications to your vehicle should be performed by a professional to ensure they’re done correctly and safely.

Pricing and Maintenance of Adjustable Dampers

Like any other component of a high-performance car, adjustable dampers may need maintenance or replacement over time. The price can vary widely depending on whether you’re replacing a worn-out damper or upgrading to a more advanced system.

A straightforward damper replacement on a McLaren 720S can cost in the region of $2,000 to $3,000, while a high-end adjustable damper system can set you back up to $7,000 or more. However, the improved comfort and performance that these systems provide often justifies their cost for many drivers. Ensure you get a comprehensive quote before proceeding with any work.

In conclusion, the McLaren 720S is an impressive vehicle that offers a unique balance of daily comfort and track-ready performance. With its adjustable dampers, you can easily tweak the vehicle’s handling to suit your specific driving needs. Whether you’re heading to the office or setting a new lap record, the McLaren 720S is a car that is ready for anything.

How McLaren’s Adjustable Dampers Compare to Other Suspension Systems

Certainly, the McLaren 720S’s adjustable dampers are a standout feature, but let’s take a moment to see how they fare against other suspension systems present in other high-performance cars. For instance, Audi Drive Select system also allows drivers to modify the damping based on the chosen driving mode.

On the other hand, there are certain brands which offer air suspension systems that adjust the ride height according to the speed and type of terrain. Various cars from the Dourado luxury segment provide this feature, enhancing the ride quality, especially on bumpy roads.

For those who want to customize their suspension even further, there are aftermarket systems available that offer adjustable damping. These systems are ideal for those looking for a more personalized driving experience. For example, the Assetto Corsa offers a comprehensive tuning system that allows drivers to adjust the spring rates according to their preference.

However, remember it’s crucial to have any modifications to your vehicle performed by a professional to guarantee the work is done correctly and safely. Even slight alterations such as changing the steering wheel or the interior color need expert handling to ensure the integrity of the car is maintained.

The Cost and Maintenance of McLaren’s Adjustable Dampers

Like all parts of a high-performance vehicle, the adjustable dampers on the McLaren 720S require proper maintenance and might need to be replaced over time. The cost of replacement or upgrade can range significantly.

A basic damper replacement for your McLaren 720S can be in the ballpark of $2,000 to $3,000. However, if you opt for a high-tier adjustable damper system, you could be looking at upwards of $7,000. These costs can increase if you’re considering additional upgrades like installing twin-turbo engines or opting for an exclusive McLaren orange paint job.

Despite these costs, many drivers find the improved comfort and performance these systems provide to be worth the expense. However, before any work is done, make sure to get a comprehensive quote.

It’s also worth mentioning that maintaining the dampers in good condition will help maintain the car’s ride quality. Regularly checking the carbon fiber components, ensuring the spring rates are correct, and making sure the hydraulic fluid is at the right level are all important parts of damper maintenance.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. Whether you’re originally posted in the front rear of the pack, whether you’re cruising to work or making the most of a track day, the McLaren 720S with its adjustable dampers is a vehicle that’s ready for any challenge. The ability to adjust the vehicle’s handling to your specific driving needs, thanks to its advanced damper system, is truly a game-changer.

Remember, it’s not just about the speed and power. It’s that unique blend of performance and comfort, the kind only a McLaren 720S can provide. And though the ride might be a bit firmer than your typical sedan, the thrill of driving such a high-performance vehicle more than makes up for it.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Assetto Corsa Competizione or a Coach Dave follower, whether you fancy a carbon fiber finish or prefer the McLaren orange, the McLaren 720S is indeed a car that stands out on every road, ready to provide an unparalleled driving experience.