2021 Bentley Flying Spur

The 2021 Bentley Flying Spur is a luxury sedan that blends performance with opulence. The vehicle is known for its handcrafted interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine options. Engine choices included a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine producing 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine making 542 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant using a 2.9L V6 was later available. All engines are paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners often praise the Flying Spur’s lavish interior, comfortable ride, and powerful performance. Common complaints revolve around the high cost of ownership, complex electronics that can be prone to glitches, and the vehicle’s large size, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbocharged W12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various seals and gaskets on the engine, resulting in oil spots under the vehicle and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected seals and gaskets. Thorough inspection is needed to identify the exact source.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbochargers, loss of power, and potentially check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+ per turbocharger, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or abrupt gear changes, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM). If the problem persists, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for software updates; $3,000 - $8,000+ for valve body or transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower than normal, particularly on one side. “Suspension Fault” message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, unresponsive touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacing the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $500 for software updates; $2,000 - $8,000+ for unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially if left unused for a few days. Can cause issues starting the car.
  • Solution: Identify the parasitic draw causing the battery drain. Could be a faulty module or electrical component. Replacing the battery is sometimes needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for battery replacement, $200 - $1000+ for electrical diagnosis and repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings from parking sensors, false alarms, or complete sensor failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per sensor, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, excessive noise during operation, leaks.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Bentley Flying Spur offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of potential issues, particularly with the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, the potential costs for repair can be significant due to the car’s complexity and high-end components. Issues like oil leaks, turbocharger failures, and suspension problems can lead to costly repairs. Electrical glitches, particularly within the infotainment system, are also relatively common. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s history, consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, and factor in the potential for higher maintenance costs.