UK Buyer Reliability Guide3 Known Faults Documented

Bentley Continental GT (Mk2) Common Problems & Reliability

A significant refinement of the original GT, introducing the V8 engine option. While generally more reliable, it still shares the heavy-wear characteristics of its predecessor.

6
Generation Periods
3
Known Issues
1
Critical Faults
2
Moderate Issues

Select a Model Year Period

Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.

Most Common Bentley Continental GT (Mk2) Faults & Repair Costs

Moderate Risk

Infotainment System Failure

Est. Cost£1,000–£2,500

The main head unit can suffer from hard drive failure or touchscreen desensitisation.

Warning Signs:

Screen freezes, Navigation maps won't load, Bluetooth won't connect

What to Check Before Buying:
  • Test all infotainment functions thoroughly
  • Check for the latest software updates in the service history
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Moderate Risk

Lower Control Arm Bush Wear

Est. Cost£600–£1,200

The massive weight of the GT leads to premature wear of the front suspension bushes, affecting handling and tyre wear.

Warning Signs:

Clunking over speed bumps, Vague steering feel, Uneven front tyre wear

What to Check Before Buying:
  • Visually inspect bushes for perishing
  • Listen for noises during a low-speed test drive over uneven surfaces
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High Risk

Turbo Oil Strainer Failure

Est. Cost£8,000–£15,000

The twin-turbo W12 models can suffer from clogged oil strainers feeding the turbochargers, leading to oil starvation and turbo failure. This is a particularly expensive repair as both turbos may need replacement.

Warning Signs:

Turbo whine or smoke from exhaust, Loss of boost pressure, Oil pressure warning light, Blue smoke on acceleration

What to Check Before Buying:
  • Check oil pressure readings at idle
  • Ask if turbos have been replaced or oil strainers serviced
  • Inspect for oil residue around turbo housings
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team
Essential Pre-Purchase Step

Buying a used Bentley Continental GT (Mk2)? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.

Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.

Inspection Checklist for Bentley Continental GT (Mk2) Buyers

V8 models are generally easier to maintain but still require specialist care.
Check the infotainment screen for "ghost touches" or dead pixels.
Inspect the front suspension bushes for cracking; the weight of the car punishes them on UK roads.
Verify the rear LED light clusters are fully functional; individual LEDs often fail and require a full unit replacement.