Bentley Flying Spur V8 Problems: The Lim: Worth It? Real Maintenance Costs
Engine
7/10
Gearbox
7/10
Electric
6/10
Total Risk
4/10
Direct Answer
Expect significant running costs. Manageable if preventative maintenance is done.
Verdict
Buy with Caution
Risk Level
Medium
Annual Cost
$3,000 - $5,000
Worst-Case
$10,000+
Reliability Verdict
The Flying Spur carries more weight than the GT, which means suspension components wear out 30% faster. The complex rear seat entertainment system (removable tablet) is prone to damage by passengers. Water leaks from the panoramic roof are a known kill-joy.
📋 In This Guide
Bentley Flying Spur V8 Problems: The Limo Tax
The Flying Spur is the sedan version of the Continental GT. Longer wheelbase. Rear seat focus. Heavier. The V8 makes it a “driver’s limo,” but the weight penalty is real.
1. Suspension Wear (The Weight Penalty)
The Flying Spur weighs 5,300 lbs.
- Control Arms: The upper control arm bushings tear prematurely.
- Symptom: A “clunk” or “rattle” when going over speed bumps or driveways.
- Fix: Replace the entire arm (aluminum).
- Cost: $1,200 per arm (there are 4 uppers). Total front refresh: $4,000.
- Tires: Expect to replace tires every 15,000 miles. It eats the shoulders of the front tires.
2. Rear Seat Entertainment (TSR)
The Touch Screen Remote (TSR) is a removable tablet in the rear console.
- Failure: Passengers drop it. Connectivity issues with the car’s Wi-Fi. Battery fails (it has its own internal battery).
- Replacement: $2,000 for the tablet.
- Annoyance: If it breaks, rear passengers lose control of HVAC, massage, and blinds.
3. Sunroof Drains (The Water Warning)
The panoramic sunroof is huge.
- Issue: The drain tubes accumulate pollen and dirt.
- Result: Water backs up and flows down the A-pillar into the footwell.
- Damage: It soaks the BCM (Body Control Module) located under the carpet.
- Catastrophe: If the BCM gets wet, the car bricks. $5,000+ repair.
- Prevention: Clear the drains every year with compressed air.
4. Electronics
- Rear Blinds: The motors burn out if kids hold them while moving. $1,500 per blind.
- Mood Lighting: LED strips in the door panels can fail partially (dark spots). Requires door panel replacement.
5. Maintenance Costs
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Service | $2,500 |
| Brakes (Iron) | $4,000 |
| Suspension Arms | $4,000 (Every 30k) |
| Tires (21/22 inch) | $2,500 |
Expect higher tire and suspension costs than the GT Coupe.
6. Buying Guide
- Chauffeur Driven vs Owner Driven: Chauffeur cars have high idle hours. Check the “Engine Hours” in the dash menu, not just the mileage.
- Rear Seat Condition: Check the reclining mechanism. It is complex and heavy. If it grinds, the motor is failing.
- V8 vs W12: Again, the V8 is better. 400 lbs lighter on the nose makes the car handle.
7. Conclusion
The Flying Spur is the best luxury sedan in the world (sorry, S-Class). But it requires “heavy maintenance.” Suspension arms and tires are consumables. Treat them like oil changes. If you accept that, the V8 is a tank.
Keep Reading
Executive Buying Advice
Check the rear carpets for dampness (sunroof leak). Test the removable rear touchscreen - ensure it docks and charges. Listen for suspension clunks at low speed.
