Generations
Continental_R — Continental R/T/SC
1991–2003
6.75L V8 Turbo
Continental_GT_Mk1 — Continental GT First Generation
2003–2010
6.0L W12 Twin Turbo, 6.0L W12 Speed
Continental_GT_Mk2 — Continental GT Second Generation
2011–2018
6.0L W12 Twin Turbo, 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Bentley Continental problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Wheel bearing failure with excessive play
Continental R models show significantly elevated wheel bearing failure rates compared to typical luxury vehicles. The combination of high vehicle weight (over 2.4 tonnes) and performance driving loads places exceptional stress on the bearing assemblies. Failed bearings create dangerous handling characteristics and can lead to wheel detachment in extreme cases. The MOT failure rate peaks at nearly 24 times the national fleet average, indicating this is a widespread design-related issue rather than isolated component failures.
What happens if ignoredComplete bearing failure can cause wheel detachment while driving, creating extreme danger. Even partial failure causes unpredictable handling and rapid tyre wear. Replacement requires specialist knowledge of the suspension geometry and bearing specifications unique to this model.
Specialist
£400–£800
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£400
Major
Parking brake control system failure
The Continental GT series suffers from electronic parking brake system failures at rates over 30 times the national average. The system combines electronic actuation with traditional cable mechanisms, creating multiple failure points. Common issues include actuator motor failure, cable stretch, and electronic control module faults. This is particularly problematic as the system cannot be manually released when failed, potentially stranding the vehicle.
What happens if ignoredSystem failure can leave the parking brake permanently engaged, preventing vehicle movement, or permanently disengaged, creating a safety hazard on inclines. Repair typically requires replacement of actuator motor assembly and recalibration of the electronic system.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£800
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£200–£500
Major
Suspension bushes and joints premature wear
Continental GT models exhibit suspension component wear at nearly 10 times the fleet average due to the combination of high kerb weight (2.4+ tonnes) and performance-oriented suspension tuning. Lower arm bushes, anti-roll bar links, and ball joints suffer accelerated deterioration. The air suspension variants are particularly susceptible as the system maintains ride height under load, placing constant stress on rubber components.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components compromise handling safety and accelerate tyre wear. Multiple components typically require replacement simultaneously due to the interconnected suspension design. Alignment will be disturbed and must be reset after component replacement.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Main dealer
£800–£1,600
Parts only
£200–£600
Major
Engine management light and emissions system faults
Continental GT models show engine management light activation at over The complex twin-turbo W12 and V8 engines use multiple lambda sensors, catalytic converters, and secondary air injection systems that are prone to failure. Carbon build-up on intake valves is common on direct-injection engines, affecting mixture control and emissions compliance.
What happens if ignoredEmissions system failures cause MOT failure and may indicate serious engine internal issues. Catalytic converter replacement is extremely expensive on multi-bank engines. Carbon cleaning may be required on direct injection variants to restore proper combustion.
Independent garage
£200–£800
Specialist
£300–£1,200
Main dealer
£400–£2,000
Parts only
£100–£1,500
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Bentley Continental fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Power steering fault
Steering · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 51x the fleet average
Sample: 231 tests
Parking brake inefficient
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 38x the fleet average
Sample: 10,484 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 30x the fleet average
Sample: 2,258 tests
Wheel bearings worn
Suspension · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 288 tests
Reversing lamp inoperative
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 1,781 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 9.9x the fleet average
Sample: 470 tests
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Related
- Bentley Continental buyer's guide
- Bentley Continental service history check
- Bentley Continental service schedule & costs
- Bentley Continental MOT failure rates
- Bentley Continental price guide
- Buying a car without service history
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Bentley Continental reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Bentley Continental?
The Bentley Continental has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Wheel bearing failure with excessive play.
Is the Bentley Continental reliable?
The Bentley Continental has 1 dangerous and 3 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Bentley Continental problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.
Which Bentley Continental generation is most reliable?
The Continental_GT_Mk1 (2003–2010) has the fewest dangerous issues (0). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.