2013 Bentley Flying Spur

The 2013 Bentley Flying Spur represents a luxurious and powerful sedan, blending handcrafted elegance with exhilarating performance. The 2013 model featured a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine, producing 616 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 was not available until 2014. A prominent feature is the lavish interior and opulent materials used throughout. Potential owners often appreciate the car’s powerful performance and luxurious appointments, however, the high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs are common drawbacks.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo W12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, often detected by oil spots under the car or a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the location of the leak and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from hoses, the water pump, or the radiator. Overheating may occur if the leak is severe.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of power, or excessive smoke may indicate turbocharger failure.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+ per turbocharger (these cars have two).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• ZF 6HP28 6-Speed Automatic

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, transmission slipping, or failure to shift properly. These issues are often linked to the valve body of the transmission.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds, or a complete failure to engage.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sitting unevenly, a rough ride, or the air suspension compressor running constantly. Air struts or the compressor itself may be failing.
  • Solution: Replacing the failing air struts or the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per strut, $1,000 - $3,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ride Height Sensor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate ride height adjustments, leading to an uncomfortable or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery draining overnight or within a few days, often caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezing, glitching, or failing to power on.
  • Solution: Replacing the infotainment screen or the system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window falling into the door or failing to roll up or down
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight failing to turn on or flickering
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight ballast or the headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working, or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat heater element or the control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system not working correctly or at all, or the map not updating correctly.
  • Solution: Resetting the navigation system, updating the map, or replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Bentley Flying Spur, while offering unparalleled luxury and performance, is prone to a range of issues that can be costly to repair. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger issues for the W12, along with transmission problems, present significant financial concerns. Air suspension failures are also a common complaint. Electrical glitches and interior malfunctions contribute to the maintenance burden. Due to the cost and complexity of these repairs, potential buyers should factor in a substantial budget for ongoing maintenance and be prepared for potentially severe expenses.