2021 Bentley Continental

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2021 Bentley Continental GT, organized by category and engine/transmission configuration. This information is based on available data from owner forums, technical service bulletins, and repair databases. The 2021 Bentley Continental GT is a luxury grand tourer renowned for its opulent interior, powerful engines, and smooth ride. However, like any vehicle, it’s not without its potential issues. The 2021 Continental GT offered several engine options: a 6.0L W12 producing 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque and a 4.0L twin-turbo 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 car’s exquisite craftsmanship, effortless power, and comfortable long-distance cruising capabilities. Common dislikes often revolve around high running costs, complex electronics, and occasional reliability concerns, especially with early production models.

Engine

6.0L W12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are occasionally reported, often from valve cover gaskets or around turbocharger fittings. Symptoms include oil spots on the garage floor, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or fittings. Thorough inspection of the turbocharger oil lines and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are reported from coolant hoses and water pumps. Symptoms include coolant spots on the garage floor and low coolant level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses and water pumps.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbos, reduced engine power, and potential for turbo failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger(s). Thorough inspection of the oil feed and drain lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch (Applies to both W12 and V8)

• Hesitation/Jerking during shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional hesitation or jerky shifts, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Software recalibration of the transmission control module (TCM) or, in more severe cases, clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $8,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower than normal, “Suspension Fault” warning on the dashboard, inability to raise or lower the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual loss of ride height on one or more corners of the vehicle, hissing sound from the air struts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors, and system reboots.
  • Solution: Software updates. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) - $5,000+ (if unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery is often dead in the morning, or after a long period of sitting in the garage.
  • Solution: Software updates, battery replacement, diagnosis of electrical system to find the cause of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions with parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, or tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per sensor, depending on the system and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: LED headlights can experience flickering, dimming, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+ per headlight assembly.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Trim Detachment
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that trim pieces, particularly on the dashboard or door panels, can become loose or detached.
  • Solution: Re-attaching or replacing the trim piece.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the piece and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of the seat adjustment motors.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty seat motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Bentley Continental GT offers unparalleled luxury and performance, but potential owners should be aware of certain recurring issues. Electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system, and air suspension malfunctions appear to be the most frequent complaints. While engine and transmission issues are less common, they can be expensive to repair. The cost of maintaining a Continental GT can be significant, and thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Bentley technician is highly recommended.