2017 Bentley Flying Spur
The 2017 Bentley Flying Spur is a luxury sedan that combines opulent features with impressive performance. The standard engine is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 500 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. Other available engine options include a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 producing 616-626 horsepower and 590-605 lb-ft of torque, depending on the specific version. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Flying Spur for its handcrafted interior, smooth ride, and powerful engines, while common dislikes include the high cost of maintenance and potential for complex electronic issues.
Engine
4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are reported from various engine seals and gaskets. Symptoms include oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the affected seals and gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.0L Twin-Turbocharged W12
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are observed from the coolant hoses and connections. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and a sweet smell coming from the engine bay.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses and connections.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning turbochargers can cause a loss of power, increased exhaust smoke, and unusual noises from the engine.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the faulty turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed driving.
- Solution: Fluid replacement, valve body repair, or transmission replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slippage
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of acceleration while the engine revs higher.
- Solution: Transmission replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience leaks or compressor failures, leading to ride height issues, a saggy appearance, and warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the air struts, compressor, or repairing air lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience glitches, frozen screens, Bluetooth connectivity problems, or navigation malfunctions.
- Solution: Software updates, component replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can result in difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery. This can be due to parasitic draws from various electronic components.
- Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic draw, replacing the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sensor Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The parking sensors or other exterior sensors may malfunction, giving false readings or failing to operate altogether.
- Solution: Replacing faulty sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Electrical Seat Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The power seats can become stuck, fail to adjust properly, or experience issues with the heating/cooling functions.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the seat motors, switches, or control modules.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Trim Pieces Detaching
- Description/Symptoms: Some interior trim pieces, such as dashboard or door panel inserts, may become loose or detach over time.
- Solution: Reattaching or replacing the affected trim pieces.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2017 Bentley Flying Spur, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, can experience several issues. The most common problems relate to the engine (oil/coolant leaks, turbocharger issues), transmission (harsh shifting), suspension (air suspension failure), and electrical systems (infotainment glitches, battery drain). The cost of repairs can be significant, reflecting the complexity and high-end nature of the vehicle. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic specializing in Bentley vehicles.