2019 Bentley Continental
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2019 Bentley Continental GT, categorized by component.
The 2019 Bentley Continental GT is a luxurious grand tourer available with two engine options: a 6.0-liter W12 producing 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque and a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 generating 542 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners generally praise the Continental GT for its exquisite interior craftsmanship, powerful engine options, comfortable ride, and striking design. Common dislikes include the high price point, complicated infotainment system, and potential for expensive repairs.
Engine
6.0L W12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from various seals and gaskets on the W12 engine, leading to visible oil puddles under the car or a burning oil smell.
- Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets and seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can develop from hoses, radiator, or other components within the cooling system, resulting in low coolant levels and potential overheating.
- Solution: Identify and repair or replace the leaking component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
4.0L Twin-Turbo V8
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure can manifest as a loss of power, unusual noises (whining or hissing), or excessive smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the affected turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Separator Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning oil separators can cause excessive oil consumption and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replacing the oil separator and related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (Both Engines)
- Hesitation/Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hesitation during gear changes or rough shifting, particularly at lower speeds.
- Solution: Software recalibration or transmission fluid flush might resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or complete transmission overhaul.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (flush/recalibration) - $8,000+ (overhaul)
- Recalls: None Found
- Mechatronic Unit Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the mechatronic unit (the transmission’s control unit) can lead to erratic shifting, limp mode, or complete transmission failure.
- Solution: Replacing the mechatronic unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, or sensor malfunctions, leading to uneven ride height, a sagging vehicle, or error messages.
- Solution: Replacing the affected air struts, compressor, or sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+ (depending on the component)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can be prone to glitches, including screen freezes, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation errors.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit may need replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (software update) - $5,000+ (unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive battery drain, particularly when the vehicle is left unused for extended periods.
- Solution: Identifying and addressing the parasitic draw (e.g., faulty module or accessory) or replacing the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (battery replacement) - $1,000+ (parasitic draw diagnosis and repair)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle (e.g., parking sensors, tire pressure sensors, etc.) can malfunction, triggering warning lights or affecting system performance.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000 per sensor, depending on location and type.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Issues
- Description/Symptoms: LED headlight failure, flickering, or condensation inside the headlight housing.
- Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Motor Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning seat motors can cause seats to become stuck in one position or fail to adjust properly.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per seat
- Recalls: None Found
- Trim and Finish Looseness
- Description/Symptoms: Certain interior trim pieces or panels may become loose or detached over time.
- Solution: Reattaching or replacing the affected trim pieces.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the extent of the damage and trim piece involved.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Bentley Continental GT, while a marvel of engineering and luxury, can be prone to certain issues. Engine oil/coolant leaks, turbocharger problems, and transmission glitches can occur. Air suspension woes and electrical gremlins can also surface. Repairs, given the car’s high-end nature, tend to be costly. Potential buyers should factor these expenses into their ownership expectations and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Bentley mechanic.