2016 Bentley Continental
Introduction
The 2016 Bentley Continental, a pinnacle of automotive luxury, is powered by a potent 6.0L W12 engine producing 582 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, it offers a 4.0L V8 engine with 500 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission seamlessly transfers power to all four wheels. Despite its impressive performance, the Continental has garnered both praise for its opulence and criticism for its hefty price tag.
Engine
6.0L W12
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling or grinding noises upon engine start-up, reduced engine power
- Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Valve Carbon Buildup:
- Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency
- Solution: Cleaning or replacing intake valves
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
4.0L V8
- Turbocharger Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or rattling noises from engine
- Solution: Replace turbocharger
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
- Hesitation or Shifting Delay:
- Description/Symptoms: Delay or hesitation while shifting gears
- Solution: Software update or transmission fluid replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, loss of suspension functionality
- Solution: Replace air suspension compressor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Strut Mount Wear:
- Description/Symptoms: Clicking or rattling noises when driving over uneven surfaces
- Solution: Replace strut mount
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery discharge while parked
- Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty electrical component
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Electrical Control Module Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning gauges, electrical system issues
- Solution: Replace electrical control module
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation:
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside headlights
- Solution: Replace headlights
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Touchscreen Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Unresponsive or intermittent touchscreen
- Solution: Replace touchscreen
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Climate Control Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Incorrect temperature or fan speed
- Solution: Replace climate control module
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
Despite its luxurious appeal, the 2016 Bentley Continental is not without its issues. Engine issues, such as timing chain tensioner failure and intake valve carbon buildup, can be costly to repair. Transmission hesitations, suspension component wear, and electrical glitches further contribute to the potential for expensive repairs. While interior issues are generally minor, they still add to the overall cost of ownership. Owners should be prepared for higher maintenance and repair expenses than they would for a more common luxury vehicle.