McLaren SLRs recalled over fire risk

There’s hot news for McLaren Mercedes SLR fans – the £314,000 supercar is being recalled over fears it could catch fire!

Mercedes has discovered that under extreme conditions, the high temperatures generated by the SLR’s electrics can put undue strain on the alternator, with the risk of an engine bay blaze.

As a result, the firm has recalled all 1,000 SLRs produced between 2005 and 2006. Owners of the exclusive coupé – which is powered by a 626bhp supercharged V8 and has a top speed of 208mph – are being told to return their cars to their dealers, who will replace the alternator and fit a modified electronic control unit (ECU).

No fires or accidents have been reported yet, but owners should be on their guard. Mercedes says the problem occurs when the ECU automatically shuts down non-essential electrical items, such as the air-con and radio, to reduce strain on the alternator. If this happens, owners should turn the engine off and contact their dealer immediately.