1997 Bentley Continental
1997 Bentley Continental
The Bentley Continental is a luxurious coupe that was introduced in 1997. It is powered by a 6.75-liter V8 engine that produces 420 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. The Continental is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Owners of the 1997 Bentley Continental generally praise the vehicle for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and timeless styling. However, there are some common issues that owners have reported with the vehicle.
Engine
- 6.75-liter V8
- Oil leaks: The 6.75-liter V8 engine is known to develop oil leaks from the valve covers, oil pan, and rear main seal. Symptoms of an oil leak include a burning smell, blue smoke from the exhaust, and low oil levels. The oil leaks can be fixed by replacing the faulty gaskets or seals. The estimated cost to fix an oil leak is $500 - $2,000+.
- Timing chain failure: The timing chain on the 6.75-liter V8 engine can stretch or break over time, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms of a timing chain failure include a rattling noise from the engine, reduced engine power, and difficulty starting the engine. The timing chain can be replaced for $3,000 - $5,000+.
- Recalls:
- NHTSA Recall Number: 00V133000 - Power window switch fire hazard
- NHTSA Recall Number: 01V126000 - Airbag inflator explosion risk
Transmission
- Six-speed manual transmission
- Grinding gears: The six-speed manual transmission in the 1997 Bentley Continental can develop grinding gears, especially when shifting into second or third gear. The grinding gears can be caused by worn synchronizers or damaged gear teeth. The transmission can be repaired by replacing the faulty parts. The estimated cost to repair a grinding transmission is $1,500 - $3,000+.
- Four-speed automatic transmission
- Slipping gears: The four-speed automatic transmission in the 1997 Bentley Continental can develop slipping gears, which can cause the vehicle to hesitate or jerk when shifting. The slipping gears can be caused by worn clutch plates or a faulty torque converter. The transmission can be repaired by replacing the faulty parts. The estimated cost to repair a slipping transmission is $2,000 - $4,000+.
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Electrical system problems: The 1997 Bentley Continental can develop electrical system problems, such as flickering lights, dead batteries, and inoperative accessories. The electrical system problems can be caused by faulty wiring, a weak battery, or a malfunctioning alternator. The electrical system can be repaired by replacing the faulty components. The estimated cost to repair an electrical system problem is $500 - $2,000+.
Exterior
- Rust: The 1997 Bentley Continental can develop rust on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells and door sills. The rust can be caused by exposure to moisture and salt. The rust can be repaired by sanding the affected areas and applying new paint. The estimated cost to repair rust damage is $500 - $2,000+.
Interior
- Cracked dashboard: The dashboard on the 1997 Bentley Continental can crack over time, especially in hot climates. The cracked dashboard can be repaired by replacing the dashboard or by applying a dashboard cover. The estimated cost to repair a cracked dashboard is $500 - $1,500+.
- Faulty climate control system: The climate control system on the 1997 Bentley Continental can develop problems, such as inoperative fans, malfunctioning thermostats, and leaking coolant. The climate control system can be repaired by replacing the faulty components. The estimated cost to repair a faulty climate control system is $500 - $2,000+.
Summary
The 1997 Bentley Continental is a luxurious and powerful coupe that offers a unique driving experience. However, the vehicle is known to have some common issues, such as oil leaks, timing chain failure, grinding gears, electrical system problems, rust, and cracked dashboards. The severity of the issues can vary depending on the specific vehicle and its maintenance history. The cost to repair the issues can also vary depending on the severity of the problem and the location of the repair.