McLaren 720S ceramic brake system

the Carbon Ceramic Brake (CCM) system on the McLaren 720S is regarded as one of the most effective braking setups ever fitted to a production road car. Utilizing technology derived from the McLaren Senna, the 720S system provides immense stopping power and significant unsprung weight savings.

1. Technical Specifications

The 720S uses a staggered setup to balance braking force and cooling efficiency.

2. 2026 Replacement Costs

Carbon ceramic components are high-value items. Prices have remained premium in 2026 due to the specialized manufacturing process.

• Full Set of Rotors (4):

• Brake Pads (Full Set):

• Caliper Refurbishment

3. Critical Maintenance: “Weight Over Thickness”

Unlike traditional iron brakes, you cannot judge a 720S ceramic disc’s health by its thickness alone.

• Minimum Weight: Every rotor has a specific “Minimum Weight” (e.g., $5,450\text{g}$) stamped on the hub. As the carbon fibers oxidize during high-heat track use, the disc loses mass. Once it falls below the stamped weight, it is structurally compromised and must be replaced.

• Surface Pitting: If the surface feels rough like sandpaper or shows “dark spots,” the ceramic layer has started to delaminate (pitting). This is usually caused by excessive track heat or using aggressive aftermarket pads not designed for CCM.

• Pad Life: Never let your pads drop below 3mm. If the metal backing plate touches the ceramic rotor, it will destroy the disc surface instantly, turning a $1,500 pad job into a $20,000 rotor replacement.

4. 720S vs. 765LT Brake Upgrades

In 2026, many 720S owners choose to upgrade to the 765LT/Senna brake specification.

• The Difference: The 765LT utilizes a “Generation 3” CCM-R material that is 60% stronger and has 4x the thermal conductivity of the standard 720S discs.

• The Benefit: While the diameters are similar, the LT/Senna discs handle track abuse much better and are less prone to “fading” during 20+ minute sessions.

5. Where to Source

• Surface Transforms (ST): By 2026, many enthusiasts switch to Surface Transforms rotors. These are “interwoven” carbon discs that can be refurbished (re-surfaced) up to three times for a fraction of the cost of new OEM discs.

• Pagid RSC1/RSC2: The go-to aftermarket pads for 720S owners who want more “initial bite” than the factory Brembo pads.