Jenson Button: Suzuka will show 2014 McLaren F1 car's weak spots

One of the weaknesses of the MP4-29 is that it is too unsettled when there are high-speed direction changes - a feature that is prevalent at Suzuka.

With McLaren likely to be in the spotlight at Suzuka ahead of its 2015 switch to track owner Honda, Button concedes that the situation is not ideal.

"I think circuits that have a high-speed nature but not a big change of direction will be fine, like Brazil, but Suzuka could be tricky for us," explained the 2011 Japanese GP winner.

"It is a shame, especially for the future of this team, that it could be a really tricky race for the team. But we have a few little things that could help us."

Button believes that the weakness in high-speed corners is symptomatic of the lack of downforce McLaren has had all season.

"Traction has been a big issue, and also when the car is unsettled it is very difficult," he said.

"In gradual high-speed corners we are reasonably good, but on corners with a sharp turn-in we are nowhere.

"We have no initial turn-in, we don't get it in, and then the rear falls over. The change of direction in high speed is the same.

"For the first part we are good, but as soon as you change direction and go over the central part of the steering wheel we lose speed.

"It has been a weakness, and something that has improved over the year.

"I think it is just a lack of downforce. We started the year knowing we had a lack of downforce but wanting a driveable car - which it is.

"But the problem is we needed to start pushing it to make it more edgy - and we've done that!

"But it's all great planning for next year."

When asked if he felt recent progress on the car would allow McLaren to end the year with a podium finish, Button said: "Seeing a podium finish this year is going to be tricky.

"I don't think we will be quick enough to get a podium. We could get close enough for it if people in front make a mistake, but I don't think we will get it [on pure pace]."