Bentley Brooklands Problems What To Know Before Buying

The Bentley Brooklands is a rare, handcrafted grand tourer that showcases British luxury and engineering excellence. Known for its powerful 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine and opulent interior, it delivers a refined yet commanding driving experience. However, as with any exclusive high-performance vehicle, there are certain Bentley Brooklands problems that owners and potential buyers should be aware of.

1. Air Suspension Wear and Leaks

The Brooklands features an advanced air suspension system designed for maximum comfort, but it is prone to age-related failures. Common issues include:

  • Sagging suspension after the vehicle sits
  • Inconsistent ride height
  • Dashboard suspension warning lights

Common causes include leaking air struts, worn compressors, and faulty control modules. These repairs are expensive and often require Bentley-trained technicians.


2. Electrical and Sensor Faults

With complex electronic systems and sensors throughout the vehicle, electrical faults are common. These may include:

  • Central locking issues
  • Malfunctioning power windows or mirrors
  • Warning lights from faulty sensors
  • Failing infotainment or navigation units

Many of these problems result from corroded wiring, failing modules, or relay issues and often need specialist diagnostic tools to resolve.


3. Brake System Wear

Given the car’s weight and performance, the brake system is under constant strain. Common problems include:

  • Premature wear of brake pads and rotors
  • Brake fade under high-performance driving
  • Expensive replacement parts

Bentley recommends OEM parts only, and ceramic options (where fitted) dramatically increase servicing costs.


4. Oil Leaks and Gasket Failures

Older or high-mileage Brooklands models can experience engine oil leaks due to worn gaskets or seals, including:

  • Valve cover gasket leaks
  • Rear main seal seepage
  • Oil pan gasket failures

These can lead to oil consumption or engine compartment smoke if left unresolved.


5. Transmission Issues

The Brooklands is equipped with a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission, which performs well when serviced regularly. However, common issues include:

  • Harsh gear shifts
  • Delayed engagement
  • Transmission warning lights

Transmission servicing should be completed every 40,000–60,000 miles, including fluid and filter changes.


6. Climate Control System Problems

HVAC faults are fairly common and can be expensive to fix due to the car’s integrated systems. Known issues:

  • Weak or uneven airflow
  • Inaccurate temperature regulation
  • Blower motor or compressor failures

Repairs often require disassembly of dashboard components and may involve rare or bespoke parts.


7. Interior Wear and Comfort Features

Although the Brooklands boasts a luxurious interior, owners may experience:

  • Cracked or faded leather (especially if untreated)
  • Electric seat adjustment failures
  • Malfunctioning memory seat settings

Interior upkeep is essential and requires high-quality care products and occasional mechanical maintenance.


8. Limited Parts Availability and Specialist Servicing

Due to limited production (just 550 units), replacement parts can be scarce or expensive. In particular:

  • Body panels
  • Trim pieces
  • Model-specific electronic modules

Always use a Bentley-certified technician or experienced luxury car specialist for service and diagnostics.


Is the Bentley Brooklands a Good Buy?

Yes — but only for buyers who understand the car’s needs. The Brooklands offers timeless style, immense torque, and unmatched craftsmanship, but:

  • Maintenance is costly
  • Repairs can be time-consuming
  • Ownership requires proactive servicing

If you’re considering buying one:

  • Verify complete Bentley service history
  • Inspect air suspension, electronics, and brakes
  • Review any prior repairs or accident damage
  • Get a specialist pre-purchase inspection

Book a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Before committing to a used Bentley Brooklands, invest in a professional inspection from CarExamer.com. They offer:

  • Over 300 mechanical and electrical checks
  • On-site inspections across the UK
  • Suspension, drivetrain, brake, and fluid analysis
  • Same-day digital reports

An inspection can save you from major repair bills and confirm whether the vehicle has been properly maintained.


Final Thoughts

The Bentley Brooklands is one of the most desirable modern British grand tourers, blending muscle and refinement. But with its exclusivity comes high running costs and maintenance complexity. Knowing the most common Bentley Brooklands problems helps buyers and owners alike stay prepared.

If buying used:

  • Don’t skip an inspection
  • Prioritise models with full service history
  • Budget for high-end maintenance and rare parts
  • Only trust Bentley-trained or specialist technicians

With proper care, the Brooklands offers a rewarding ownership experience few cars can match.

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