2023 Bentley Continental

Here is a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2023 Bentley Continental, organized by category and engine/transmission configuration.

The 2023 Bentley Continental is a luxury grand tourer known for its opulent interior, powerful engines, and smooth ride. Available in coupe and convertible body styles, it offers a blend of performance and comfort. Engine choices include a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 542 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 delivering 650 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Continental for its luxurious interior, powerful engines, and distinctive styling. Common criticisms include high running costs, complex electronics that can be problematic, and considerable depreciation.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are reported, often stemming from the valve cover gaskets or oil cooler lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets or lines. Proper torqueing of bolts during installation is critical.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Twin-Turbo W12

No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh shifts, jerking, or hesitation during gear changes, particularly at lower speeds. This may be due to the transmission control module (TCM) needing a software update or valve body issues.
  • Solution: A software reflash of the TCM can sometimes resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (reflash) - $3,000+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Continental uses an air suspension system for a smooth ride. Issues can arise with the air struts, compressor, or air lines. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, a rough ride, or a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air strut(s), compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ (depending on the component and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, controlling navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions, can be prone to glitches, freezing, or slow response times.
  • Solution: A software update is usually the first step. If the problem persists, the head unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) - $3,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report issues with the car’s battery draining quickly, especially if the car is not driven regularly. This can be caused by parasitic draws from various electronic components.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve replacing a faulty module or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors and other driver-assistance sensors can sometimes malfunction, providing false readings or failing to work altogether.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Trim Pieces Loosening/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Over time, some interior trim pieces may loosen or develop rattles, detracting from the luxurious feel of the car.
  • Solution: Reattaching or replacing the loose trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the piece and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Bentley Continental offers a luxurious and high-performing driving experience, but potential owners should be aware of some common issues. The most frequently reported problems involve electrical glitches and suspension issues. Engine problems are relatively less common, though oil leaks can occur on the V8 variant. Transmission problems are the least common. The severity of the issues can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs, particularly with the air suspension and infotainment system.