Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013 Bentley Continental Flying Spur

The final year of the first-generation Flying Spur before the second-generation replacement. These last cars are the most refined and best-maintained, with all accumulated improvements applied.

What changed for 2013

  • Final production year for first-gen
  • All accumulated improvements applied
  • Limited availability of low-mileage examples

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Age-related air suspension leaks
  • !Brake disc scoring from light use
  • !Battery drain from electronics
2
Known Issues
1
Serious
0
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2013 period has 1 more issue than the Bentley Continental Flying Spur average across all year periods.

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.

Most affected: All variants

Estimated cost: £1,500–£3,000Affects: 20052024Often appears around: 60k–90k miles

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • 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

Rear Window Regulator Failure

MinorBodywork & Rust

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

Most affected: Mk1 models

Estimated cost: £400–£700 per sideAffects: 20052013Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Operate all windows multiple times from both the driver's seat and the rear seats

Buying Tips for the 2013 Bentley Continental Flying Spur

  • The 2013 models are the most desirable first-gen variants
  • Check for evidence of garage storage and low mileage
  • Verify all electrics work correctly

Browse 2013 Bentley Continental Flying Spur in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2013 Bentley Continental Flying Spur vehicles.

View 2013 Directory

Other Bentley Continental Flying Spur Year Periods

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