To use the limited-time McLaren Formula 1 avatar in Google Maps, start navigation, tap the blue arrow or current vehicle icon, swipe through the available vehicles, select the McLaren avatar if it appears, and tap Done. It changes the vehicle marker on the map—not your actual car. Current reports say the avatar is available through November 23, 2026, as it rolls out to users.
How to change your Google Maps vehicle icon
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Open Google Maps and start navigation to a destination.
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Tap the blue arrow or the vehicle icon marking your location.
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Swipe left or right through the available avatars and choose the McLaren Formula 1 car if it is listed.
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Bburago 1:24 Scale 2024 Formula Race McLaren MCL38 Diecast Vehicle with Helmet, Norris #4- Authentic Formula 1 Styling – Realistic race-inspired design and proportions
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Choose a color if the option is offered, then tap Done.
Google’s general instructions describe this in-navigation method for selecting a vehicle avatar: Google Maps Help. Depending on the app version, the selection may also be available under Settings and the Your vehicles or Driving avatar controls; menu labels can vary.
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- McLaren Die-Cast Formula Vehicle in 1/43 scale
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- Acrylic Box with Decorative Sleeve
- Driver Number and Name: #4 Lando Norris McLaren racing team representation
- 2024 Race Season Model: Features the McLaren MCL38 from the 2024 racing season with accurate livery and design details
What the McLaren avatar does—and does not do
The avatar is a visual customization of the marker representing your location during navigation. It does not change your car, its performance, or the route Google Maps calculates. The reference is to a McLaren Formula 1 team car avatar, not a McLaren F1 road car.
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Availability and reported end date
Coverage describes the McLaren avatar as a temporary option associated with the United States Grand Prix. Jalopnik reports that the selection page stated: “Celebrate the United States Grand Prix with the official team avatar, available until November 23, 2026.” Treat that as the reported availability window, not a guarantee that the avatar will remain available until that date for every user. Jalopnik’s report attributes the wording to the in-app selection page.
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- Officially Licensed Replica – Authentic styling and branding from the original manufacturer
- Die-Cast Metal Construction – Durable metal body with detailed plastic components
- Highly Detailed Design – Realistic exterior styling and interior details
- Free-Rolling Wheels – Smooth movement for display or play
- Perfect for Collectors & Kids – Great gift for automotive fans
9to5Google reports that the avatar can appear on a phone and on a vehicle display using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Those are reported behaviors, rather than details from a specific official Google announcement of this avatar: 9to5Google’s coverage.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why the McLaren option may not appear
Reports describe the feature as a server-side rollout, so it may not show up for all users at the same time—even when their Google Maps app is current. Android Central also reports uneven availability across devices: Android Central’s coverage.
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- MCLAREN F1 TEAM CAR TOY – LEGO Speed Champions McLaren F1 Team MCL38 Race Car vehicle set for boys and girls ages 10 and up to build, display and race
- 1 DRIVER MINIFIGURE – The vehicle kit includes a driver minifigure wearing a McLaren outfit and a winged helmet for kids to place inside the cockpit and role-play thrilling race action
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS – A McLaren F1 car with details from the real-life 2024 version, including a halo bar, rear wing, sponsor stickers and wider rear tires imprinted with “Pirelli”
- F1 FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY – Race for the checkered flag alongside the whole family with other building sets (sold separately) in the LEGO F1 range
- PLAY & DISIPLAY – After kids have enjoyed playing out racing stories with the F1 car toy, they can display it on a shelf or bedside table
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Start navigation and check the avatar selector again; the option is selected from the navigation map.
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If the McLaren avatar is not listed, check again later. Updating the app alone may not make a server-side feature appear immediately.
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Bburago 1:24 2024 Race McLaren MCL38 with Helmet, Piastri #81- McLaren Die-Cast Formula Vehicle in 1/24 scale
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If the reported availability window has passed, the limited-time option may no longer be offered.
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