Post
Research the Car Logo

2013 Bentley Continental

Posted
By Research the Car 5 min read

Here is a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2013 Bentley Continental, categorized by major components and engine/transmission options.

The 2013 Bentley Continental is a luxury grand tourer known for its opulent interior, powerful engine options, and sophisticated styling. Buyers often appreciate the car’s comfortable ride, handcrafted details, and exclusivity. However, common dislikes include high running costs, potential for expensive repairs, and the sheer size of the vehicle which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces. The engine options for the 2013 Continental include a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine producing 567 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, or a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 500 hp and 487 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbocharged W12

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and turbocharger lines. Symptoms include oil spots under the car, low oil level warnings, and a burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the affected gaskets, seals, or lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the severity and location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coil Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires can occur due to faulty coil packs, leading to rough running, reduced power, and check engine light illumination.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty coil pack(s). It’s often recommended to replace all coil packs simultaneously to ensure even performance.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8

  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbochargers, loss of power, and check engine light illumination. Turbocharger failure can be caused by oil starvation, excessive heat, or component wear.
    • Solution: Inspect the turbochargers for damage. If damaged, replace the affected turbocharger(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Separator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust, and rough idling.
    • Solution: Replace the oil separator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and transmission slipping. Can be caused by wear or contamination in the valve body.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter may alleviate the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. The transmission may also slip or fail to engage gears properly.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sit unevenly, sag to one side, or fail to raise or lower. A “Suspension Fault” warning may appear on the dashboard. Compressor failure can be caused by moisture damage, leaks in the air lines, or component wear.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor. Address any leaks in the air lines or struts to prevent future failures.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Strut Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to compressor failure, but the problem is specifically traced to leaking air struts. Hissing sounds may be audible near the affected strut.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ per strut
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is parked for extended periods. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the parasitic draw and repair or replace the faulty component. This may involve testing individual circuits and modules.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or display error messages. Bluetooth connectivity issues and navigation problems are also common.
    • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced or repaired.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Headlights may flicker, fail to illuminate properly, or display error messages on the dashboard. This can be caused by faulty ballasts, bulbs, or wiring issues.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty ballast, bulb, or repair the wiring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Convertible Top Malfunctions (Convertible Models)
    • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top may fail to open or close properly, operate slowly, or stop mid-cycle. This can be caused by hydraulic issues, sensor problems, or mechanical obstructions.
    • Solution: Inspect the hydraulic system, sensors, and mechanical components for damage or obstructions. Repair or replace the faulty parts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Electrical Window Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Windows may fail to open or close properly, operate slowly, or stop mid-cycle. This can be caused by motor issues, sensor problems, or mechanical obstructions.
    • Solution: Inspect the motor system, sensors, and mechanical components for damage or obstructions. Repair or replace the faulty parts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $750+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Bentley Continental offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential owners should be aware of the common issues that can arise. Engine problems, particularly oil leaks and turbocharger failures, can be costly to repair. Suspension issues, especially with the air suspension system, are also common and can lead to significant expenses. Electrical issues and interior faults can further contribute to the overall cost of ownership. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely, but it’s essential to have a thorough inspection performed before purchasing a used 2013 Bentley Continental to identify any potential problems and plan accordingly.

Bentley, Continental
Bentley Continental 2013
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.