2018 Bentley Bentayga 6.0L Petrol · 33 NTD

The most recent MOT in November 2025 at 70,883 miles shows a stable but concerning trend—no major failures, yet the tester flagged split rear-facing bushes on both front upper suspension arms, indicating wear beyond standard tolerances. This is the first time such issues have appeared, suggesting either deferred maintenance or accelerated component fatigue. While the vehicle passed, the suspension defects now require immediate attention, as split bushes risk premature ball joint failure or uneven tyre wear. The absence of defects in the prior three tests (2024, 2023, 2022) implies these issues developed rapidly between 55,408 and 70,883 miles, a span of just 18 months. Without intervention, this could escalate into alignment problems or even steering instability. The mileage accumulation—roughly 8,860 miles annually—aligns with typical low-to-moderate usage for a luxury vehicle of this age, though the lack of defects in three consecutive tests (2022–2024) contrasts sharply with the sudden suspension faults in 2025. This inconsistency raises questions about whether the vehicle was driven less rigorously in earlier years or if critical checks were overlooked. The 2023 test did note tyre wear close to the legal limit and a nail puncture, hinting at either aggressive cornering or a history of neglected consumables. Given the Bentley’s weight and power, even minor suspension wear can accelerate tyre degradation, so the current mileage may not fully reflect the cumulative stress on components. For a buyer, the front suspension arms must be the top priority—inspect for any clunks over bumps, uneven tyre tread, or excessive play in the steering. The split bushes suggest the arms may need full replacement, not just bush renewal, to ensure structural integrity. Check for any signs of corrosion or fluid leaks around the steering rack, as luxury vehicles like this often combine suspension and steering systems. While the brakes and exhaust emissions have not been flagged, the 2023 tyre issues imply a pattern of deferred maintenance, so verify all four tyres for even wear and check the spare. Finally, given the Bentley’s high service intervals, confirm whether the previous owner adhered to manufacturer recommendations—suspension defects this severe at this mileage often point to skipped inspections.