Recall history

Bentley Continental recall history: what has been recalled and why

Bentley Continental recall history: which model years were affected, what was fixed, and how to check your own car.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 14,084 recorded MOT tests, 7.0% failed.

Bentley Continental
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

The Bentley Continental has experienced several recalls over the years, primarily due to issues related to safety and performance. Key recalls have addressed problems with the brakes, fuel system, and electrical components. Affected build years include models from 2003 to 2020, with the current status of these recalls varying by specific model and year.

Brake System Concerns

One of the most significant recalls for the Bentley Continental involved the brake system. Certain models were found to have a potential issue with the brake booster, which could lead to a loss of braking assistance. This could increase stopping distances and pose a safety risk.

The affected models primarily included the Continental GT and GTC produced between 2003 and 2011. Owners were notified through direct communication, and repairs were carried out at authorised dealerships at no cost.

Fuel System Issues

Another notable recall involved the fuel system, where it was discovered that certain Continental models had a risk of fuel leakage. This issue was particularly concerning as it posed a fire hazard. The recall affected vehicles manufactured between 2004 and 2010.

Bentley took prompt action by notifying owners and advising them to bring their vehicles in for inspection. The remedy involved checking the fuel lines and replacing any defective parts. This recall highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and vigilance regarding fuel system integrity.

Electrical Component Failures

Electrical issues have also led to recalls in the Bentley Continental lineup. Some vehicles were found to have problems with the battery management system, which could cause the battery to drain unexpectedly. This issue affected models produced from 2012 to 2018.

Owners were encouraged to visit their local dealerships for the necessary updates. This proactive approach helped to mitigate potential inconveniences for owners and ensured the reliability of the vehicles.

Airbag Deployment Problems

Airbag deployment issues have been a concern for various luxury vehicles, including the Bentley Continental. In certain models, a fault was identified in the airbag control unit, which could lead to airbags not deploying correctly in the event of a collision. This recall impacted models manufactured between 2015 and 2019.

Bentley responded by recalling the affected vehicles to inspect and, if needed, replace the airbag control units. Owners were informed through official channels, and the repairs were conducted free of charge. This recall underscored Bentley’s commitment to passenger safety.

Software Updates and Infotainment System

In recent years, software-related recalls have become more common in modern vehicles, including the Bentley Continental. Some models experienced issues with the infotainment system, where software glitches could lead to malfunctions in navigation and connectivity features. This affected vehicles produced from 2018 to 2020.

Bentley addressed these issues by issuing recalls to update the infotainment software. Owners were advised to visit their dealerships for the necessary updates, ensuring that their vehicles operated smoothly and efficiently. This focus on technology reflects the evolving nature of vehicle design and consumer expectations.

Current Status of Recalls

As of now, the status of recalls for the Bentley Continental varies by model and year. Many of the earlier recalls have been successfully resolved, with most affected vehicles having undergone necessary repairs. However, it is crucial for current owners or potential buyers to check the recall history of specific models.

The DVSA MOT data provides a full overview of recall statuses, and potential buyers should consider reviewing this information before making a purchase. Regular maintenance and attention to recall notices are essential for ensuring the safety and performance of the Bentley Continental.

Bentley Continental recall record

22 recalls have been issued for the Bentley Continental, between 1995 and 2026.

  1. RECALL CAMPAIGN – Bentley Continental GT Continental GT Convertible Flying Spur - Incorrect Front Driveshafts (RE26/14 RD93)

    R/2026/216

    Issued 3 June 2026

    On affected vehicles the front axles may have been assembled with an incorrect drive shaft which is shorter than intended. If an incorrect front driveshaft has been fitted it may result in the hub securing nut becoming loose over time.

    Remedy:Inspect the front driveshafts and replace them if required.

    Affects cars built Mar 2026 to Apr 2026

  2. When riveting the airbag deflector bracket to the seat frame a sharp edge on the rivet could be created. In the event of the seat airbags being deployed it is possible that the airbag material could become torn reducing the effectiveness of occupant protection.

    R/2023/064

    Issued 21 March 2023

    When riveting the airbag deflector bracket to the seat frame a sharp edge on the rivet could be created. In the event of the seat airbags being deployed it is possible that the airbag material could become torn reducing the effectiveness of occupant protection.

    Remedy:A check of each front seat and rework carried out where necessary.

    Affects cars built Mar 2019 to Jan 2021

  3. The water pump concept can create a vacuum within the electrical area of the pump. As a result liquid from the coolant system can permeate through the pump housing onto the electrical circuit board and connector.

    R/2023/037

    Issued 10 February 2023

    The water pump concept can create a vacuum within the electrical area of the pump. As a result liquid from the coolant system can permeate through the pump housing onto the electrical circuit board and connector.

    Remedy:A hardware change of the water pump

    Affects cars built Jun 2018 to Sept 2019

  4. INCORRECT FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES WITHOUT AN AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR FUNCTION (ALR) MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED

    R/2022/078

    Issued 31 March 2022

    Incorrect front passenger seat belt assemblies without an automatic locking retractor (ALR) function may have been installed.

    Remedy:Inspect the affected front seat belt assemblies and replace if necessary.

    Affects cars built Jun 2018 to Aug 2021

  5. THE FRONT SEAT SOFTWARE COULD RESULT IN TRAPPING OF A REAR OCCUPANT'S LEGS

    R/2021/276

    Issued 27 July 2021

    The front seat software could result in trapping of a rear occupant�s legs.

    Remedy:Update the software for the front seats.

    Affects cars built Feb 2018 to Jun 2021

  6. A MANUFACTURING ISSUE COULD PREVENT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FROM RETURNING TO ITS RESTING POSITION

    R/2021/221

    Issued 11 June 2021

    Inconsistent fitment of the fuse box and the electrical harness may prevent the accelerator pedal from returning to its resting position.

    Remedy:Check and if necessary rework the A-post lower trim ensuring correct clearance of the trim to the accelerator pedal.

    Affects cars built Jun 2018 to May 2021

  7. THE CONVERTIBLE ROOF CAN BE ACTIVATED USING THE KEY FOB AT DISTANCES EXCEEDING SIX METRES

    R/2020/373

    Issued 12 January 2021

    The convertible roof can be activated using the key fob at distances exceeding six metres which contravenes an internal safety guidance measure.

    Remedy:Update the software parameters within the Body Control Module 2 to disable the activation of the convertible roof via the key fob and update the Owner�s Handbook.

    Affects cars built Aug 2019 to Nov 2020

  8. THE ADHESIVE BOND BETWEEN THE SUNROOF AND THE VEHICLE BODY DOES NOT MEET SPECIFICATION

    R/2020/145

    Issued 2 June 2020

    A small number of vehicles may have an adhesive bond between the sunroof and the vehicle body which does not meet the specification.

    Remedy:The sunroof glass or sunroof assembly will be replaced.

    Affects cars built Jan 2020 to Jan 2020

  9. THE CONNECTING HOSE OF THE HYDRAULIC POWER ASSISTED STEERING SYSTEM MAY DETACH

    R/2019/405

    Issued 10 December 2019

    The power assisted steering pipes may detach from the cooler.

    Remedy:Replace the affected pipes with dimensionally correct components

    Affects cars built Oct 2016 to Jan 2018

  10. THE ELECTRICAL POWER STEERING WIRING HARNESS CAN BECOME TRAPPED AT THE FRONT AXLE ASSEMBLY

    R/2019/202

    Issued 2 July 2019

    The electrical power steering wiring may have been damaged during assembly.

    Remedy:Inspect and if damaged replace harness

    Affects cars built Jun 2018 to May 2019

  11. THE CENTRE CONSOLE SWITCHPACK COULD SUFFER LOSS OF SPECIFIC FUNCTIONS

    R/2019/170

    Issued 2 July 2019

    Hazard warning and vehicle demisters may become inoperable

    Remedy:Install a software update to the centre console switch pack

    Affects cars built Jan 2018 to Mar 2019

  12. IN SPECIFIC DRIVING CONDITIONS THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING CONTROL UNIT DISPLAYED AN ERROR

    R/2019/016

    Issued 28 January 2019

    Temporary loss of power assistance to the steering.

    Remedy:Reprogramme the electric power steering control unit on affected vehicles.

    Affects cars built Jan 2018 to Dec 2018

10 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Bentley Continental MOT record

From 14,084 recorded MOT tests, 7.0% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20224243.5%9,516 mi
20213993.5%14,121 mi
20206192.8%17,098 mi
20197942.8%19,628 mi
20185803.8%23,128 mi
20176364.7%28,873 mi
20168425.2%31,218 mi
20157844.1%33,388 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. A tyre seriously damaged35.6%
  2. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements19.9%
  3. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn19.8%
  4. Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured15.1%
  5. Engine MIL illuminated indicating a malfunction9.7%

Figures cover every Bentley Continental tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Frequently asked questions

What is the recall history of the Bentley Continental?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

How can I find out if a Bentley Continental has been recalled?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Are recalls common for luxury cars like the Bentley Continental?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

What should I do if my Bentley Continental is recalled?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Can I buy a used Bentley Continental with a recall history?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

How serious are the issues that lead to Bentley Continental recalls?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Is there a way to stay informed about future recalls for my Bentley Continental?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Do recalls affect the resale value of a Bentley Continental?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

Sources