The ultimate grand tourer: effortless performance with Volkswagen Group engineering beneath the British luxury. The W12 engine itself is robust and surprisingly reliable even at high mileage, but the complex supporting systems are expensive when they fail. Main concerns: vacuum hose failures requiring engine removal (€5,000-14,000), air suspension failures (€6,000+ per corner), and transmission issues on early cars. Pre-2007 cars had more problems; 2008+ models are significantly improved. Budget for high running costs but expect remarkable reliability for a supercar-level grand tourer if properly maintained. Always verify fuel filter recall (2004-2008) and carbon ceramic brake screw recall (2007-2011) completed.
Plastic vacuum hoses over transmission become brittle from heat, crack and leak · more· less
The W12 generates significant heat that causes rubber and plastic vacuum hoses to dry out, become brittle, and eventually crack. The worst offender is a plastic vacuum pipe that runs across the transmission—it becomes brittle from heat exposure over time and splits. A single leaking vacuum line triggers multiple warning lights, rough idle, and can prevent the car from idling at all. The repair is expensive because on most 2003-2007 models, it requires complete engine and transmission removal (40-50 hours labor). Dealerships quote €13,700+, independent specialists €5,000-8,000. Good news: 2007+ models with the gray vacuum solenoid visible at the rear of the intake manifold can often have this repaired without full engine removal via steering rack removal. Always check for updated metal replacement parts.
Air suspension strut failure€6,000 - €16,000
Air springs crack with age, car sits low overnight, typical lifespan 10 years · more· less
The Bentley Continental's Continuous Dampening Control air suspension bears the weight of a 2,475 kg (5,456 lb) car. At 10 years old, rubber air springs develop small cracks and slowly leak air overnight, causing one corner or side to sag. Full air suspension replacement at dealerships can cost €16,000+. However, aftermarket options exist: remanufactured struts cost €400-600 each on eBay, and quality aftermarket brands like Arnott, RMT, and Aerosus offer good alternatives at lower cost. Must be replaced in pairs (both fronts or both rears). Some owners convert to coilover suspension to eliminate recurring air suspension costs. Early repair prevents damage to control arm bushings and other suspension components. Most Continental GTs will need this repair between 60,000-120,000 km.
Transmission valve body failure (early cars)€1,600 - €5,000
ZF 6HP26 valve body seals leak internally, harsh 2-1 downshift, especially 2004-2006 models · more· less
The ZF 6HP26 transmission is generally robust when properly maintained, but 99% of issues stem from valve body fluid pressure loss due to failed solenoids or internal sealing gaskets. Early symptoms include harsh 2-1 downshifts when coming to a stop—this is particularly common on 2004-2005 Continental GTs and was acknowledged by Bentley dealers. Other signs: unusual noises, delayed shifts, or check engine light with transmission codes. Remanufactured valve body from ZF costs €1,600. DIY rebuild with new solenoid pack (€300-400) and Sonnax zip kit (€150) is possible for mechanicals. Aggressive city driving with early torque converter lockup (as early as 1st gear in sport mode) accelerates wear. Essential: transmission fluid changes every 60,000-80,000 km with genuine ZF fluid or Shell M1375.4. Cars maintained this way regularly exceed 300,000 km.
Window regulator motor failure€1,200 - €2,500
Window motor with integrated ECU fails, creates hissing sound, no separate motor available · more· less
Each window has its own complex motor with integrated ECU. When failing, you'll hear a distinctive hissing sound when operating the window. Bentley doesn't sell the motor separately from the regulator assembly on many models, requiring replacement of the entire unit at €1,200+ per window (not including labor). Opening door panels can reveal other issues and increase repair complexity. Specialty repair shops offer refurbished units and custom metal parts that can save 40-70% off dealership prices. This is a common Bentley issue across all Continental GT model years. Windows operating more slowly than usual is an early warning sign.
Control arm bushing failure€800 - €2,000
Upper control arm bushings tear around 100,000 km, causes clunking over bumps · more· less
The front upper control arm bushings are a known weak point on VW Group platforms including Bentley. These rubber bushings deteriorate with age regardless of mileage, but typically fail around 100,000 km or 14+ years. Symptoms: clunking or squeaking noises from the front suspension over bumps, uneven tire wear, vibration in steering wheel. There are two upper control arms per side. Some owners report this as a design flaw due to a steel bolt configuration through the steering knuckle that places unusual stress on the bushings. Aftermarket replacement bushing sets are available. Independent shop labor varies but expect dealership rates of €200-300/hour. Worn bushings affect handling and tire wear, so don't delay repair.
Battery drain (dual battery system)€400 - €1,200
Parasitic drain from aging relays, CD changer, or entertainment modules · more· less
The Continental GT uses a dual battery system: one for main electronics/comfort features, one dedicated to engine starting. As cars age, parasitic drain becomes common—batteries die after sitting for 3-7 days. Common culprits: glove box lights staying on, trunk lights, CD changer constantly running, navigation DVD drive, aftermarket electronics, failed alternator diodes, or aging relays. A low battery triggers multiple false warnings: brake failure warnings, rear brake light warnings, and can even mimic air suspension failure. The entertainment center is a frequent drain source. Prevention: use a battery conditioner/trickle charger when not driving daily, and lock the car with the alarm system to shut down electrical memory. If the key fob is nearby, the car constantly readies itself for starting, accelerating drain. Diagnosis: use clamp amp meter to find which circuit is drawing current, then pull fuses systematically to isolate the problem module.
Turbo oil line blockage and failure€5,000 - €12,000
Feed and return lines clog with old oil, causes turbo oil starvation, blue smoke · more· less
The turbo oil feed and return lines are prone to blockage if oil changes are neglected. As oil ages and loses viscosity, it thickens and struggles to flow through narrow turbo lines, eventually blocking them. This causes turbo oil starvation and ultimate turbo failure. If the return line blocks, oil leaks into the exhaust, producing thick black/blue smoke. Blue smoke from the exhaust is a clear warning sign. Non-genuine oil filters have been cited as contributing factors in documented turbo failures. Bentley only sells complete turbo assemblies with wastegate, requiring engine removal. Dealership quotes: €30,000+ for both turbos with related lines. Independent specialists can replace just the turbo cartridge for under €6,000-8,000. Prevention is key: strict adherence to 10,000 km / annual oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil and genuine filters. W12 takes 10+ quarts.
Head gasket failure (rare but catastrophic)€15,000 - €20,000
W12 design has minimal material between cylinders, irregular gasket shape prone to blowing · more· less
Not common, but when it happens, it's expensive. The W12 is essentially two VR6 engines married at the crankshaft, resulting in an irregular head gasket shape with very little material between cylinder edge and block wall—this design is vulnerable to gasket failure. Symptoms: coolant in oil (milky appearance), oil in coolant, overheating, white smoke from exhaust. The "official" dealership line is that head gasket failure requires a complete new engine (€17,000+). However, Flying Spares and specialists now source individual head gaskets (€200-400 per bank). The real cost is labor: removing and reinstalling the W12 engine takes 40-50 hours at €200-300/hour. Independent specialists quote €5,000 just for engine removal/installation labor. Some owners find used engines for €6,000-8,000 online and swap rather than rebuild. Check carefully for any signs of coolant/oil mixing during inspection.
Ignition coil pack failure€500 - €1,500
Failed coil packs cause rough idle and misfires, 12 coils total on W12 · more· less
Ignition coil failures manifest as rough idle, engine hesitation, loss of power, increased fuel consumption, and check engine light with misfire codes P0300-P0312. The W12 has 12 individual coil packs, one per cylinder. Common issue on 2004-2006 models, possibly resolved by 2008+. Individual coil packs cost €35-300 depending on source; genuine Bentley coils are expensive but aftermarket alternatives exist. Diagnosis: swap the coil from the misfiring cylinder with another and see if the misfire code follows the coil. Spark plugs (€50-60 each, 12 required) should be replaced every 4 years as preventive maintenance alongside coils. Owner-reported DIY time: 2-3 hours to replace all 12 plugs and coils. Ignored coil failures can melt the catalytic converter—unburnt fuel from misfires ignites inside the cat, overheating and eventually clogging it (€3,000-8,000 to replace).
Stainless screws corrode in salty conditions, rear rotors can detach, major recall 2007-2011 · more· less
Bentley recalled 2007-2011 Continental GT/GTC/Flying Spur models equipped with optional carbon ceramic brakes. Stainless steel screws securing brake rotors can fail after salt exposure, causing rotors to detach and drastically reducing braking ability. Recall began November 2013 (campaign RE13/14). Verify with Bentley using VIN that screws have been replaced. If buying a car with carbon ceramic brakes, confirm recall completion—this is critical for safety. Note: carbon ceramic rotors themselves are extremely expensive to replace when worn (€10,000-15,000 per axle, potentially €30,000 for a complete set). They last much longer than iron rotors but cost vastly more. Standard iron brakes are much more economical for most owners.
High maintenance costs, but engine itself is robust
The W12 engine has proven surprisingly reliable even at high mileage when maintained properly—many examples exceed 150,000 km. However, the complex support systems (air suspension, vacuum lines, electrical modules) are expensive to repair. Budget €3,800-7,200 annually for maintenance and repairs. Pre-2007 models had more issues; 2008+ are significantly improved. Always buy with full service history from specialists or Bentley dealers. A €20,000 purchase price doesn't change the €100,000 car running costs. Extended warranty is highly recommended.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Professional Bentley dealer inspection
Essential. Have dealer perform VAGCOM scan for stored fault codes. Costs €600+ but can save thousands by revealing hidden issues.
Complete service history
Must have full Bentley dealer or authorized specialist records. Cars with service gaps are extremely risky. Verify transmission fluid changes every 60,000-80,000 km.
Check all documentation
Owner's manual, navigation disc, two sets of keys (€750 per replacement set), jack, service records, recall completion certificates.
Cold start test
Engine must be completely cold. Listen for any unusual noises, rough idle, or warning lights during first 5 minutes.
Extended test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds. Transmission must warm up fully to reveal any issues.
Specific for this vehicle
Air suspension overnight test
Car should not drop overnight. Check if one corner/side sits lower after sitting 8+ hours. Small cracks in air springs leak slowly. Ask owner how long since suspension was replaced.
Inspect for coolant/oil mixing
Check engine oil for milky appearance and coolant for oil contamination. Head gasket failure is rare but catastrophic (€15,000-20,000 repair).
Test all electrical functions systematically
Check every window, seat motor (all 23 adjustment directions), lock, light, radio, navigation, climate control. Electronics failures are expensive. Hissing sound from windows indicates motor failure.
Check for vacuum hose leaks
Pop hood, remove "B" cover at rear of intake. If you see gray vacuum solenoid = good (easier repair). Listen for hissing sounds. Multiple warning lights with rough idle indicate vacuum leak (€5,000-14,000 repair on early cars).
Inspect control arm bushings and suspension
Drive over speed bumps and rough surfaces. Listen for clunking or squeaking from front suspension. Check for uneven tire wear. Torn bushings are common at 100,000+ km.
Verify both recalls completed with VIN
Fuel filter corrosion recall (2004-2008). Carbon ceramic brake screw recall (2007-2011 if equipped). Contact Bentley dealer with VIN to confirm.
Battery and charging system test
Check both batteries. Ask how long car can sit before going flat. Parasitic drain is very common. Low battery causes false warnings including brake failure and air suspension errors.
Inspect for turbo issues
Watch for blue or black smoke from exhaust during hard acceleration. Check oil change history—irregular servicing leads to turbo oil line blockages (€5,000-12,000 repair).
Transmission operation check
Feel for harsh 2-1 downshift when coming to stop (common on 2004-2006). Clunking, hesitation, or unusual noises indicate valve body issues. Verify transmission fluid changes in service history.
Brake inspection (especially carbon ceramic if equipped)
Standard iron brakes: check pad/rotor wear. Carbon ceramic: verify recall screw replacement completed. Carbon ceramic rotors cost €10,000-15,000 per axle to replace when worn.
Check leather, wood trim, and interior electronics
Inspect seats for tears, stains, wear. Test all seat motors. Check wood trim for cracks or delamination. These luxury elements are expensive to restore.
Review model year improvements
Pre-2007 cars had more problems. 2008+ models have significant improvements. If considering 2003-2006, ensure all known issues have been addressed.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Fuel filter corrosion (2004-2008)Verify completed
Carbon ceramic brake screws (2007-2011, if equipped)Critical - verify completed
Brake pressure loss - engine clip/brake pipe (pre-2008)Verify completed
Contact Bentley dealer with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The carbon ceramic brake recall is particularly important for safety. The fuel filter recall addresses potential fire risk from filter housing corrosion due to road salt exposure.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years/unlimited mileage)Expired on all 2003-2011 models
First year complimentary serviceNot applicable (used cars)
All 2003-2011 Continental GTs are outside factory warranty. Extended warranty coverage can be purchased through Bentley dealers in 12 or 24-month increments. Given the high repair costs for common issues like air suspension (€6,000-16,000), transmission valve body (€1,600-5,000), and vacuum lines (€5,000-14,000), extended warranty is highly recommended. Budget €5,000-6,500 annually for comprehensive coverage. Always read exclusions carefully.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.