2018 Bentley Continental 6.0L Petrol · RK18 XTA

Tyre structural integrity is the dominant mechanical theme in this Continental's MOT history, with three dangerous failures recorded over the past four years, all attributed to bulges or lumps caused by separation or partial failure of tyre structure. The most recent test on 2026-07-08 recorded a pass with no defects, but this followed two consecutive dangerous tyre failures earlier the same year, one on the nearside front and one on the nearside rear. A further dangerous failure on the offside front tyre appeared in 2022, alongside advisories for both front tyres worn close to the legal limit on their edges. While the standard tests at 2022-02-11, 2023-03-27, and 2024-05-21 returned clean passes with no advisories or defects, the recurring dangerous tyre issues across multiple test cycles suggest either a pattern of marginal tyre replacement choices, susceptibility to kerbing damage, or prolonged standing periods allowing sidewall deterioration. The headlamp aim failure recorded on 2023-03-27 was a minor prs defect rather than a dangerous issue, but it adds to a picture where tyre condition has been the primary roadworthiness concern. The recorded mileage of 23,953 miles across eight years equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 2,994 miles, which is low for a vehicle of this age and substantially below typical usage for a Continental GT. Such low mileage can indicate a vehicle that has been used sparingly, but it also raises the likelihood of extended standing periods, during which tyre sidewalls can degrade, brake discs can corrode, and fluid systems can deteriorate. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing record visible between 2022 and 2026, suggesting the car has been presented for testing regularly even if driven infrequently. A buyer should be mindful that low recorded mileage on a high-performance, complex vehicle does not automatically equate to preserved mechanical condition; standing time places different stresses on components than regular driving does, particularly on adaptive air suspension, brake systems, and the W12 engine's ancillary systems. Given the pattern of dangerous tyre failures, a prospective buyer should pay close attention to the current set of tyres during inspection, checking the sidewalls carefully for any bulging, cracking, or uneven wear, and confirming that all replacements are of matching specification on both axles. On the road, listen for any knocking or harshness from the suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly from the front and rear air spring assemblies and associated linkages, as low-mileage vehicles with long standing periods can suffer from perished bushes and seized damper components. Test the brakes progressively from low to high speed, feeling for any judder through the pedal that might indicate corroded or glazed brake discs from infrequent use, and verify that the adaptive damping responds correctly through its drive select modes. The headlamp aim defect flagged in 2023, although minor, warrants a check of both headlamp alignment and the operation of the self-levelling system, which on this model can be affected by ride height sensor faults. Listen on startup for any hesitation, misfire, or excessive smoke from the exhaust, and monitor the engine bay for oil leaks around the W12's cam covers and front pulley area. Finally, given the standing time implied by the low mileage, check that all warning lamps extinguish promptly on startup, that the infotainment and driver assistance systems initialise correctly, and that the climate control operates through all zones, as electrical gremlins and compressor inactivity are common consequences of prolonged disuse on complex luxury vehicles.