IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2005 Bentley Continental Flying Spur

The Flying Spur launched as Bentleys first four-door saloon in the modern era, sharing the Continental GTs W12 engine and platform. These early cars are now incredibly affordable but carry the highest maintenance risk, particularly regarding vacuum pipe failure and rear window regulator issues.

What changed for 2005

  • •UK launch of Flying Spur
  • •6.0 W12 twin-turbo engine
  • •Four-door body on Continental GT platform

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rear window regulator failure
  • !Vacuum pipe failure
  • !Air suspension strut leaks
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Compressor Burnout

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The heavy weight of the Flying Spur puts enormous strain on the air suspension compressor. When air struts develop slow leaks, the compressor runs continuously to maintain ride height, eventually overheating and burning out.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£3,000
Warning Signs:

Compressor runs constantly after parking, Car sags overnight, "Stop Car Too Low" warning, Grinding or buzzing from compressor area

What to Inspect:
  • Check ride height after the car has stood overnight
  • Listen for compressor activity when the car is stationary
  • Inspect all air struts for leaks before the compressor is blamed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure

ModerateEngine

The pumps for the emissions system can ingest moisture and fail, triggering a Check Engine Light.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Whining noise on cold start, CEL illuminated, Failed MOT on emissions

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for a high-pitched vacuum cleaner sound on a cold start
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Window Regulator Failure

MinorBodywork & Rust

The cables in the rear window lifting mechanism can snap, causing the glass to drop into the door.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£700 per side
Warning Signs:

Window won't move, Grinding noise from the door, Glass falls down

What to Inspect:
  • Operate all windows multiple times from both the driver's seat and the rear seats
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2005 Bentley Continental Flying Spur

  • ✓In Mk1 models, check the rear window regulators
  • ✓Inspect the rear air suspension struts as thoroughly as the fronts
  • ✓Verify the soft-close function on all four doors
2006–2009
Check a 2005 Bentley Continental Flying Spur by Registration