Bentley Continental GT - Self Servicing
Discussion
Evening all,
I have been hankering for one since their release, and even have the brochure I wrote for in 2004.
I have owned it for a week or so now, it’s a 2006 model, with Mulliner spec, and fire glow interior.
I have some small things to address, but so far mechanicals and electricals are fault free, apart from the multi-changer not reading. I also needed to download a Bluetooth app (Blue car tethering) for the Samsung phone to connect, and all seems fine (I can’t snyc the phone book though).
Maintenance so far been lubricating and cleaning, even round to using ACF 50 around the bonnet, boot hinges, and rear wing joints.
It’s due its 100k service in the next few thousand miles, and although I am keen to keep it in the Bentley dealer network as it’s so far complete, I was wondering if anyone does their own servicing?
Usual things like oils, filters etc.
I do immediately need wiper blades, after driving it in the wet for the first time today, so where would be the best place to purchase these?
Many thanks in advance.
I have been hankering for one since their release, and even have the brochure I wrote for in 2004.
I have owned it for a week or so now, it’s a 2006 model, with Mulliner spec, and fire glow interior.
I have some small things to address, but so far mechanicals and electricals are fault free, apart from the multi-changer not reading. I also needed to download a Bluetooth app (Blue car tethering) for the Samsung phone to connect, and all seems fine (I can’t snyc the phone book though).
Maintenance so far been lubricating and cleaning, even round to using ACF 50 around the bonnet, boot hinges, and rear wing joints.
It’s due its 100k service in the next few thousand miles, and although I am keen to keep it in the Bentley dealer network as it’s so far complete, I was wondering if anyone does their own servicing?
Usual things like oils, filters etc.
I do immediately need wiper blades, after driving it in the wet for the first time today, so where would be the best place to purchase these?
Many thanks in advance.
Good Morning - a note of caution!
The reason your car is in such excellent condition is probably because it has been serviced by a Bentley dealer. I have no axe to grind in this matter.
My understanding is that only Bentley main dealers have access to the factory computers that can tweak your software with upgrades and modifications. Sure, independent garages may have serious software, but it won't be from Bentley.
I stand ready to be corrected on this.
Finally, to get the most out of your car, join the Bentley Drivers Club and get involved with like minded people. You will learn a lot about what you can and can't do yourself.
The reason your car is in such excellent condition is probably because it has been serviced by a Bentley dealer. I have no axe to grind in this matter.
My understanding is that only Bentley main dealers have access to the factory computers that can tweak your software with upgrades and modifications. Sure, independent garages may have serious software, but it won't be from Bentley.
I stand ready to be corrected on this.
Finally, to get the most out of your car, join the Bentley Drivers Club and get involved with like minded people. You will learn a lot about what you can and can't do yourself.
I had epc warning light come on last week . The independent garage diagnosed the error code as a 02 sensor in the exhaust, i took it to Bentley Cambridge the next day and they diagnosed the fault as a duff brake pedal sensor, the brake sensor fault caused the 02 sensor fault code to spring up but that wasnt the root of the problem, so indys are great for the oils n small items and good on you for having a crack at the normal service items, but id leave the electrical, ecus and fault diagnosis to the main dealers.
Where are you based? If you wanted a really good independent I would suggest Starmans - I believe (but not 100%) the only independent with the entire official Bentley special tools for the GT - the £350,000 odd worth of tools all the main agents are obliged to buy.
The other advantage they have is being next door to Flying Spares - which is very handy for parts supply and resolving faults.
The other advantage they have is being next door to Flying Spares - which is very handy for parts supply and resolving faults.
Thanks for the replies all, I guess I should keep the service in the Bentley network, as it not only looks good in the books if we do come to depart company, but also as you say there may be software and firmware updates too.
I am besotted with this machine, it’s unlike anything I have driven, certainly a different form of motoring altogether. I am 45 now so I can drive it sensibly too, although that engine is phenomenal, I do like to “tootle” and have managed 25mpg on a recent run up to Northamptonshire. Occasionally the boy comes out in me and the stick is moved over into full manual mode, where downshifting reveals that lovely growl, it certainly sounds sporty, although not at all offensive.
I know I can set the audio alert, but am I right in guessing that the automatic spoiler can’t be adjusted to say 70MPH, as a visual speed warning?
Can I use newer Sat-Nav disk, than the 2006 version I guess I have now?
Again thanks for the response!
I am besotted with this machine, it’s unlike anything I have driven, certainly a different form of motoring altogether. I am 45 now so I can drive it sensibly too, although that engine is phenomenal, I do like to “tootle” and have managed 25mpg on a recent run up to Northamptonshire. Occasionally the boy comes out in me and the stick is moved over into full manual mode, where downshifting reveals that lovely growl, it certainly sounds sporty, although not at all offensive.
I know I can set the audio alert, but am I right in guessing that the automatic spoiler can’t be adjusted to say 70MPH, as a visual speed warning?
Can I use newer Sat-Nav disk, than the 2006 version I guess I have now?
Again thanks for the response!
matt5791 said:
Starmans - I believe (but not 100%) the only independent with the entire official Bentley special tools for the GT - the £350,000 odd worth of tools all the main agents are obliged to buy.
With respect, I would be very surprised if this was the case. I was stood in their workshop a short while ago and whilst good I doubt the whole building is worth £350,000 let alone the equipment in it, plus there are many much larger specialists who are as likely to have the relevant equipment, whether it's as up to date as a main agent is another question. Happy to be proved wrong though. [quote=buyer&seller]
With respect, I would be very surprised if this was the case. I was stood in their workshop a short while ago and whilst good I doubt the whole building is worth £350,000 let alone the equipment in it, plus there are many much larger specialists who are as likely to have the relevant equipment, whether it's as up to date as a main agent is another question. Happy to be proved wrong though.
[/quote]
They are one of the smaller independents, but it most definitely is the case. I've seen it all - and very impressive it is too. As a former engineers' merchant and specialist garage equipment supplier, it looked to me like £350k's worth too! some very specialised stuff.
Apparently a rare purchase from a main dealer who closed down.
With respect, I would be very surprised if this was the case. I was stood in their workshop a short while ago and whilst good I doubt the whole building is worth £350,000 let alone the equipment in it, plus there are many much larger specialists who are as likely to have the relevant equipment, whether it's as up to date as a main agent is another question. Happy to be proved wrong though.
[/quote]
They are one of the smaller independents, but it most definitely is the case. I've seen it all - and very impressive it is too. As a former engineers' merchant and specialist garage equipment supplier, it looked to me like £350k's worth too! some very specialised stuff.
Apparently a rare purchase from a main dealer who closed down.
lowest said:
Depending on where you are Phantom Motors are a very good indie in my opinion. They subscribe to the Bentley diagnostic software (which I believe anyone can do at a cost) and they know the cars inside out.
I'll second this mention for Phantom Motors, near Crondall. I dealt with them on my previous GT and found themto be an extremely helpful team who certainly know their stuff. Not had reason to call in there with my current
GT but will certainly recommend them to anybody. The Plume of Feathers pub a couple of doors along is a great place for lunch while you are there,too.
Don't be afraid to do your own servicing. These cars are not that hard to work on but you will need the correct software.
I've had mine 6 years and only when I either do not have time or its something major do I give it to Bentley. Like the EVAP pipes they did that as it's an engine out job.
There are good sources online now too to research issues and with an assist CD youll have the same info as Bentley for removal and installation procedures.
I was quoted crazy prices to do cam cover leaks and a few air leaks to front and top of the engine. I bought all genuine Bentley seals, silicon and pipes. Cost approx £100 and took me 4 hours including cleaning the engine bay after to make her all nice and shiny again.
I've had mine 6 years and only when I either do not have time or its something major do I give it to Bentley. Like the EVAP pipes they did that as it's an engine out job.
There are good sources online now too to research issues and with an assist CD youll have the same info as Bentley for removal and installation procedures.
I was quoted crazy prices to do cam cover leaks and a few air leaks to front and top of the engine. I bought all genuine Bentley seals, silicon and pipes. Cost approx £100 and took me 4 hours including cleaning the engine bay after to make her all nice and shiny again.
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