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.