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2018 Bentley Continental Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

5.7/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • The power steering system is a critical area to inspect due to a recall for a potential fluid leak. Ensure the remedy has been properly applied.
  • While overall complaints are low, a single logged issue regarding the wheel tool kit highlights a practical inconvenience for roadside emergencies.
  • The V12 engine and complex systems demand specialized knowledge for maintenance and repair, which can translate to higher service costs.
  • Fuel economy is modest, with a combined rating of 14 MPG, contributing to high fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Bentley Continental

The 2018 Bentley Continental presents a formidable statement in the luxury grand tourer segment. Its V12 engine delivers ample power, and the all-wheel-drive system provides confidence in various conditions. However, as a used luxury vehicle, ownership requires a clear understanding of its potential mechanical frailties and associated costs. While its public reliability is rated 'Good,' the LLM assessment points to 'Average' due to specific concerns.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall (19V863000) addresses a potential power steering fluid leak caused by an incorrectly sized power steering cooler pipe. This can lead to hose detachment and loss of power steering assist.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

1
Wheels1
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
14
MPG
City
12
MPG
Highway
20
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

2.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a powerful and luxurious grand tourer with significant road presence.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who expect low maintenance costs.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Bentley Continental Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Bentley Continental.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
14

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. WHEELS

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $300 - $500

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Bentley Continental reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Bentley Continental is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 1.

How practical is the 2018 Bentley Continental for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 2.5/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 14 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Bentley Continental is 5.7/10. Overall score is 5.7/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 6.9/10. Practicality 2.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Power Steering System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

Base MSRP is $236,100.

What engine is in the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 6.0.

What transmission does the 2018 Bentley Continental use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Bentley Continental, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 Continental require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

EPA combined estimate is 14 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

10 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Bentley Continental, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Bentley Continental, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Bentley Continental use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Bentley Continental, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the most common wheels problems on the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

Top complaint category: wheels (1 reports, 100% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Bentley Continental?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Aston Martin DB11 and 2018 Rolls-Royce Wraith.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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