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Bentley Continental
Cabriolet · Hybrid · 41 versions · owner report
Ranked #5 of 6 luxury sports cars on owner data, price and power
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (285 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment is highly contextual, split between profound satisfaction with the vehicle's core attributes and significant apprehension regarding long-term ownership costs.
4 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentExtremely high maintenance and repair costs
Parts and labor are described as "insanity," with examples including $16,000 for an infotainment unit, $24,000 per fender, $8,000 for a bumper cover, $6,000+ for air suspension refurbishment, and $2,000-$3,000 for brake service every 30,000 miles.
- RecurrentAging component failures
Plastic hoses perishing and dumping fluids, failing headliners, and various electronic module failures in older models.
- RecurrentDepreciation
Described as severe, particularly on newer models like the Bentayga, making resale financially painful.
+ 1 more issueShow fewer
- IsolatedPotential powertrain concerns (early W12)
Isolated note that early W12 engines had issues largely addressed in the Series II (2012+) models.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific model year or trim (e.g., Speed, Supersports) as a consensus "best version." Owner discussions reference various generations (e.g., 2003-2009, Series II 2012-2018) without clear preference. The convertible (Continental GTC) and four-door (Flying Spur) variants are mentioned as alternatives for different use cases.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Porsche Panamera, Aston Martin DB9/DB12, Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class/SL-Class, BMW 8 Series/M8 and Ferrari 812 Superfast.
Is the Continental right for you?
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Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment is highly contextual, split between profound satisfaction with the vehicle's core attributes and significant apprehension regarding long-term ownership costs. The Continental GT is consistently praised as a supremely comfortable, powerful, and luxurious grand tourer that delivers a unique, commanding presence and a "feeling of supreme luxury." It is described as a "tank" with interiors that hold up very well over time, even in high-mileage examples. However, a very strong and recurrent theme is the extreme cost of maintenance, repairs, and parts, which is characterized as a major financial liability that can quickly eclipse the car's purchase price. The consensus indicates deep appreciation for the driving experience and build quality, but a clear warning that ownership is a serious financial commitment far beyond the initial acquisition.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as an ultra-luxury grand tourer emphasizing comfort, presence, and traditional luxury over outright sportiness. It is frequently compared to the Porsche Panamera, with which it shares a platform, but is seen as more luxurious. Compared to Aston Martin models, the Continental is viewed as a more substantial and comfort-oriented vehicle, whereas Astons are sometimes seen as more focused on style and sportiness, albeit with their own reliability concerns. It is considered a more exclusive and handcrafted alternative to German luxury flagships like the Mercedes S-Class coupe or BMW 8 Series, though those are noted for potentially better reliability and lower running costs. Against supercars like Ferraris or McLarens, the Continental is favored for its daily usability, cargo space, and ride comfort.
Recommended configurations
Specific configuration recommendations are sparse. One mention suggests the Series II (2012-2018) fixed many issues with the W12 engine compared to earlier models. There is an isolated suggestion to avoid black exterior paint if infrequent washing is planned. The strong, recurrent recommendation is to secure a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection from a specialist and to budget aggressively for maintenance regardless of configuration.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize unparalleled comfort, luxury, and presence and who have a significant, dedicated budget for upkeep. NOT recommended for owners on a tight budget, those unprepared for five-figure repair bills, or those seeking a low-maintenance vehicle. Essential to purchase only after a thorough inspection by a qualified Bentley specialist. Budget for major repairs from the outset, including air suspension refurbishment ($6,000+), brake jobs ($2,000-$3,000+), and potential engine or infotainment system work. Consider the significantly lower purchase price of older models (e.g., 2003-2008) as a down payment on future repairs. For high annual mileage (e.g., 60,000-100,000 km/year), a Range Rover may be a more cost-effective alternative offering a similar experience. Ownership is described as investing in a "heavy depreciating liability" rather than an asset.
Remarks
The owner experience is fundamentally defined by a trade-off between exceptional sensory appeal and punishing operational economics. The platform sharing with Volkswagen Group products (e.g., Porsche Panamera) is noted, with some owners observing common parts with brands like Volkswagen and Skoda, though this does not translate to lower repair costs at Bentley dealerships.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Continental GT IV2024–20261 complaints · 0 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): structure (1) · engine (1) · lane departure (1)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2024-2026 Continental is mixed and heavily design-focused.
10 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 7 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentFront headlight redesign criticized as losing Bentley's iconic quad-lamp identity and looking generic, Hyundai-like, or Audi-like
- RecurrentAsymmetric sensor/camera placement on one side of the grille
Described as visually bothersome and lacking a symmetrical faux counterpart.
- RecurrentBraking performance measured as weak for the car's price and power
With owners questioning why stronger brakes were not fitted.
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedConcern that the many moving parts and screens will break within a few years
- IsolatedInterior wood trim replaced by a dashboard-matching panel, seen as a downgrade
- IsolatedRear light design criticized as a step backward
- IsolatedSoft-top design on the GTC criticized as unattractive when closed
- IsolatedMusic volume automatically lowering in reverse cannot be disabled
- IsolatedDepreciation described as extremely rapid
- IsolatedHybrid powertrain seen as making the car less special than the W12
Is a 2024–2026 Continental right for you?
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Continental GT III2018–202422 complaints · 4 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): seats (8) · electrical system (5) · wheels (5)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2018-2024 Continental is positive but heavily focused on design debate rather than mechanical ownership experience.
8 problems reported (8 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- IsolatedConvertible top faults, including window function faults during open and close cycles
- IsolatedTop replacement cost cited at $60,000 at a dealer
- IsolatedWheel damage from potholes, cited as a fast way to lose $5,000
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedInfotainment and software complaints, including one owner wishing the tech were on par with BMW
- IsolatedBraking performance criticized as atrocious relative to competitors
With one owner questioning why stronger brakes were not fitted to a car at this price.
- IsolatedOne owner stated the car "still just a Continental with lots of issues" without specifying
- IsolatedOne owner noted the chrome hardware is made of plastic
- IsolatedOne owner reported no issues at all over long-distance ownership
Is a 2018–2024 Continental right for you?
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Continental GT II2011–20189 complaints · 1 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): wheels (9) · vehicle speed control (4)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2011-2018 Continental generally regard it as a desirable and well-built car with a near-bulletproof engine and transmission, but they consistently warn that running costs and repair bills are the real barrier to ownership.
9 problems reported (1 recurrent, 8 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentExpensive repair costs generally described as scary
- IsolatedFront suspension wear
Including clunking over potholes and nose dive under braking, attributed to the heavy W12 sitting over the front axle.
- IsolatedAir suspension deflation in cold temperatures, described as normal behavior for air suspension
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedAir struts and brakes needing replacement at higher mileage
- IsolatedEngine replacement needed at around 50k miles on a 2013 GT Speed, possibly linked to E85 fuel use
- IsolatedGas tank replacement needed on a 2013 GT Speed
- IsolatedTurbo failure due to an oil strainer issue
- IsolatedVacuum line cracking
Raised as a question about whether the second generation still suffers the first generation's problem.
- IsolatedCheck engine light from a loose gas cap triggering a vacuum-related fault
Is a 2011–2018 Continental right for you?
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Continental GTC2006–20106 complaints · 5 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): structure (1) · engine and engine cooling (1) · fuel/propulsion system (1)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2006-2010 Continental are sharply divided: a vocal group of long-term owners describe the car as reliable, joyful, and worth the cost, while a similarly large group warns that maintenance and repair bills can be severe and unpredictable.
16 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 12 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentVacuum line failure requiring engine removal to access
- Very frequentAir suspension/air strut failure and leaks
- RecurrentConvertible top motor and roof replacement costs
+ 13 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentHeadliner sagging or falling
- IsolatedWater pump failure
- IsolatedCamshaft sensors and boost sensors requiring engine-out labor
- IsolatedO2 sensor failure
- IsolatedRear high-mount brake light failure
- IsolatedWheel bearing replacement
- IsolatedWindow motor and window regulator failure
- IsolatedParking sensor failure
- IsolatedRadiator leak
- IsolatedSteering issues
- IsolatedElectrical gremlins and switch/button failures
- IsolatedCoolant leak traced to water pump
- IsolatedConvertible top sagging requiring replacement
Is a 2006–2010 Continental right for you?
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Continental Flying Spur2005–20137 complaints · 6 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): structure (1) · engine and engine cooling (1) · fuel/propulsion system (1)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for this generation is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and prior maintenance.
21 problems reported (4 very frequent, 9 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentVacuum line failure requiring engine removal to access
Owners describe this as an almost guaranteed failure on early cars, with one owner bypassing the system with inexpensive tubing and clamps instead of paying for the engine-out repair.
- Very frequentAir suspension failure and leaking struts
Reported across multiple cars, with costs cited from roughly $12k per axle up to $15-20k, and cold-weather sagging described as normal behavior for the air system.
- Very frequentEngine-out service requirement for otherwise minor repairs
Owners repeatedly note that many small components require separating the engine from the car, making labor the dominant cost.
+ 18 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentHigh annual maintenance and repair costs
Figures cited range from $2,500-$3,000 per year on the low end to $7,000-$8,000 per year on average, with individual years exceeding $10k.
- RecurrentHeadliner and ceiling leather sagging
Reported by several owners, with aftermarket upholstery recommended over dealer replacement.
- RecurrentConvertible top failure and replacement cost
Owners cite roughly $10k for replacement, with one report of a top motor failure requiring a new top at a far higher cost.
- RecurrentCoolant leak from the water pump
Described as a common failure requiring front-end disassembly.
- RecurrentBrake and rotor replacement cost
Figures cited include $6k for pads and up to $28k for a full brake and rotor job on certain versions.
- RecurrentTurbo failure
Cited as a known issue with costs around $15k, with one owner raising a possible oil strainer cause and asking whether a recall was ever issued.
- RecurrentOxygen sensor failure
Mentioned by multiple owners as an expected wear item.
- RecurrentWheel bearing failure
Reported at low mileage by more than one owner.
- RecurrentSteering system issues
Reported as leaking vacuum lines in the steering rack area and as general steering problems.
- RecurrentWindow regulator and window motor failure
One owner cites a $3,000 repair for a window motor.
- IsolatedParking sensor failure
One owner cites a $3,000 repair.
- IsolatedRear high-mount brake light failure
One owner lists it among expected items to budget for.
- IsolatedGas tank replacement
One owner reports a $15k quoted cost.
- IsolatedEngine replacement at low mileage
One owner reports a new engine at 50k miles, possibly related to E85 use.
- IsolatedRadiator leak
One owner reports a leaking radiator.
- IsolatedElectrical gremlins and sensor faults
Reported by one owner alongside emissions-related sensor replacement.
- IsolatedEmissions test failure requiring sensor replacement
One owner cites a $1,800 repair.
- IsolatedCramped engine bay making even minor repairs labor-intensive
One owner describes restoration as an absolute nightmare with $40k spent and the car still not in proper working order.
Is a 2005–2013 Continental right for you?
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Continental GT2003–20107 complaints · 6 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): structure (1) · engine and engine cooling (1) · fuel/propulsion system (1)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2003-2010 Continental is sharply divided.
23 problems reported (3 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 18 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentVacuum line failure requiring engine removal for access
- Very frequentAir suspension/air strut failure and leaks
- Very frequentHigh maintenance and repair costs generally, including five-figure single repairs
+ 20 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentConvertible top and top motor failure
With replacement costs reported around 10,000 dollars and one report of a 35,000 dollar repair.
- RecurrentHeadliner sagging or falling
- IsolatedWater pump failure with coolant loss
- IsolatedSteering rack removal needed to replace leaking vacuum lines
- IsolatedTurbo failure
- IsolatedCamshaft sensor and boost sensor failure
- IsolatedOxygen sensor replacement
- IsolatedWheel bearing replacement
- IsolatedRear high-mount brake light failure
- IsolatedWindow motor and window regulator failure
- IsolatedParking sensor failure
- IsolatedLeaking radiator
- IsolatedCeiling leather falling down
- IsolatedSteering issues
- IsolatedBattery drain requiring a trickle charger
- IsolatedConvertible top sagging requiring replacement
- IsolatedBrake and rotor replacement costs, including ceramic brake service quoted above 20,000 dollars
- IsolatedInterior trim adhesive failure, including door card and dash leather
- IsolatedEmissions sensor failure preventing passing a state emissions test
- IsolatedKey and battery service costs at the dealer
Is a 2003–2010 Continental right for you?
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Continental T2000–20076 complaints · 5 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine and engine cooling (1) · fuel/propulsion system (1) · air bags (1)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for this generation is sharply divided and dominated by cost-of-ownership warnings rather than driving impressions.
18 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 14 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentVacuum lines failing and requiring engine removal or steering rack removal to access
- RecurrentAir suspension/struts failing and being expensive to replace
- RecurrentConvertible top motor and roof replacement costs, including sagging or leaking roofs
+ 15 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentHeadliner/ceiling leather sagging or falling down
- IsolatedWater pump failure
- IsolatedO2 sensor failure
- IsolatedCamshaft sensors and boost sensors failing
- IsolatedRear high-mount brake light failure
- IsolatedWindow motor/regulator failure
- IsolatedParking sensor failure
- IsolatedSteering issues
- IsolatedLeaking radiator
- IsolatedWheel bearings needing replacement at low mileage
- IsolatedConvertible top replacement piece for a known top issue
- IsolatedTurbo failure
- IsolatedBrake and rotor costs, including ceramic brake jobs
- IsolatedElectrical gremlins
- IsolatedSoft top replacement cost around 10k
Is a 2000–2007 Continental right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Continental R1991–20076 complaints · 5 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine and engine cooling (1) · fuel/propulsion system (1) · air bags (1)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for this generation is sharply divided and heavily dependent on whether the car has been maintained.
16 problems reported (2 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentVacuum line failure requiring engine removal to access
- Very frequentAir suspension/strut failure
- RecurrentConvertible top motor and roof replacement costs
+ 13 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentHeadliner/ceiling leather sagging
- RecurrentWater pump failure
- RecurrentO2 sensor failure
- RecurrentBrake light failure
- RecurrentSteering-related issues
- IsolatedCamshaft and boost sensor failures
- IsolatedLeaking radiator
- IsolatedWindow motor/regulator failure
- IsolatedParking sensor failure
- IsolatedWheel bearing replacement
- IsolatedAirbag leakage when parked
- IsolatedCoolant leak traced to water pump
- IsolatedElectrical gremlins
Is a 1991–2007 Continental right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2021. Years to avoid: 2021Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Bentley Continental years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 1 | 0 | structure |
| 2023 | 5 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 12 | 3 | seats |
| 2018 | 5 | 1 | wheels |
| 2015 | 4 | 0 | vehicle speed control |
| 2009 | 1 | 1 | structure |
| 2007 | 2 | 2 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2006 | 3 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2005 | 1 | 1 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices10 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2021 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 21V975000
Bentley Motors, Inc. (Bentley) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bentayga, Continental GT, Flying Spur, and Continental GT Convertible vehicles. The owner's manual incorrectly states that the air bag system will not deploy when the "Passenger Airbag On" symbol is illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2021 · seats:front assembly:power adjustcampaign 21V550000
Bentley Motors, Inc. (Bentley) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Continental GT/GT Convertible vehicles. During some automated front seat movements, the front seat may trap a rear passenger's legs.
2021 · seat belts:front:retractorcampaign 22V177000
Bentley Motors, Inc. (Bentley) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Continental GT Convertible, Continental GT, and 2021-2022 Flying Spur vehicles. The front seat belt assemblies may have been incorrectly installed, resulting in the front passenger seat missing the automatic locking retractor (ALR). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2018 · steering:hydraulic power assist:hose, piping, and connectionscampaign 19V863000
Bentley Motors, Inc. (Bentley) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Continental Supersports vehicles. The Power Assisted Steering (PAS) cooler pipe may be the incorrect size, allowing the cooler hose to detach and leak power steering fluid.
2009 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:rotorcampaign 13V484000
Bentley Motors, Inc. (Bentley) is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur vehicles, manufactured from July 2006 through June 2010 and equipped with carbon ceramic brake discs. In the affected vehicles, the stainless steel screws that secure the brake rotors may fail after being exposed to salty conditions.
2007 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:rotorcampaign 13V484000
Bentley Motors, Inc. (Bentley) is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur vehicles, manufactured from July 2006 through June 2010 and equipped with carbon ceramic brake discs. In the affected vehicles, the stainless steel screws that secure the brake rotors may fail after being exposed to salty conditions.
2007 · fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection systemcampaign 08V217000
BENTLEY IS RECALLING 13,420 MY 2004-2008 CONTINENTAL GT, CONTINENTAL GT SPEED, CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR, AND CONTINENTAL GTC VEHICLES. THERE IS THE POTENTIAL FOR ROAD SALT TO CORRODE THE OUTER SURFACE OF THE FUEL FILTER. THIS COULD LEAD TO THE FILTER HOUSING BECOMING POROUS WITH A CORRESPONDING FUEL LEAK.
2006 · air bagscampaign 08V072000
BENTLEY IS RECALLING 4 MY 2004 AND 2006 CONTINENTAL GT AND CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR VEHICLES. THE REPLACEMENT AIR BAG TRIMMED COVERS HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED WITH TETHERS OF AN INCORRECT LENGTH.
2006 · fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection systemcampaign 08V217000
BENTLEY IS RECALLING 13,420 MY 2004-2008 CONTINENTAL GT, CONTINENTAL GT SPEED, CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR, AND CONTINENTAL GTC VEHICLES. THERE IS THE POTENTIAL FOR ROAD SALT TO CORRODE THE OUTER SURFACE OF THE FUEL FILTER. THIS COULD LEAD TO THE FILTER HOUSING BECOMING POROUS WITH A CORRESPONDING FUEL LEAK.
2005 · fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection systemcampaign 08V217000
BENTLEY IS RECALLING 13,420 MY 2004-2008 CONTINENTAL GT, CONTINENTAL GT SPEED, CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR, AND CONTINENTAL GTC VEHICLES. THERE IS THE POTENTIAL FOR ROAD SALT TO CORRODE THE OUTER SURFACE OF THE FUEL FILTER. THIS COULD LEAD TO THE FILTER HOUSING BECOMING POROUS WITH A CORRESPONDING FUEL LEAK.
Specifications
4.0 V8 TFSi Ultra Performance Hybrid
Plug-in hybrid · 782 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026