Bentley Azure problems
The Bentley Azure is a four-seater convertible grand tourer produced by British automobile manufacturer Bentley Motors. The first version debuted in 1995 on the Bentley Continental R platform and was made until 2003. After a three-year break, a completely new version debuted in 2006 and was produced until 2009. It was powered by a significantly updated engine and based on the newer Arnage platform.
First generation (1995–2003)
The name was taken from earlier Robert Jankel sportier 2-door conversions that evolved into the Continental R. The Azure debuted in March 1995 at the Geneva Motor Show on the platform of the Continental R model, which had been originally launched in 1991. Production only crept to a start, with a mere nine examples finished in the first year – in 1996, after full production had started, no less than 251 cars were finished. Pininfarina assisted in the two-year process of turning the Continental R into a full four-seater convertible, and also built the shell and soft-top at their factory in Italy, largely from parts sourced in the UK. Final assembly was then carried out at Crewe. A roll-bar was never considered, which necessitated extensive reinforcing of the chassis. At 210 in (5,340 mm) in length and 2,608 kg (5,750 lb) in weight, the Azure often surprised onlookers with its size and bulk, intended to both convey a sense of "presence" and allow for comfortable seating of four adult passengers.
Power came from the company's stalwart 6.75-litre V8, featuring a single, intercooled Garrett turbocharger and rated in the region of 365 PS (268 kW; 360 hp) – Rolls-Royce and Bentley did not yet give official power numbers at the time of the Azure's introduction. By the time production began in earnest, a new engine management system from Zytek meant a slight power increase to 390 PS (287 kW; 385 hp) at 4,000 rpm and 750 N⋅m (553 lb⋅ft) of torque at 2,000 rpm; power was routed to the rear wheels via a modified, General Motors sourced, four-speed 4L80-E automatic transmission. With a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 241 km/h (150 mph), the Azure was very fast for a car of its size, weight and poor aerodynamic profile.
Owing to the limited space and workforce at Bentley's Crewe factory, the Azure's electrically powered convertible top made from thick fabric was designed and manufactured by Pininfarina, which significantly added to the vehicle's cost. New in 1995, the Azure was priced at £215,167 – £22,590 more than the Continental R on which it was based.
From 1999 until the end of production, the Azure was also available in "Mulliner" trim, which added special bespoke trim and additional equipment and allowed the buyer the option for further customisation during the build-process; pricing varied by car, as equipment could be significantly different from one to the next depending on customer requests.
Just like its Rolls-Royce counterpart, towards the end of its production, it also had a final edition, called "Final series performance", created from 2002 to 2003, only 62 were made. The Last RHD sold being Chassis no. CH01228 while the very last Azure was retained at the Crewe plant.
*stated by Pininfarina production records **From 2 varying documents, newer data used
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Bentley Azure model years
Common Bentley Azure problems
Based on the complaints from Bentley Azure owners, here are some common problems with the Bentley Azure cars:
- Oil Leaks:
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- Problem: Bentley Azures are known for oil leaks, which can stem from various causes like worn gaskets or damaged seals.
- Details: Oil leaks can impact engine performance and require thorough diagnostics to identify and fix the source of the leak.
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- Power Steering Issues:
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- Problem: Power steering leaks, particularly in Bentley Continental Supersports 2017-2018 models, due to cooler pipe size issues.
- Details: Power steering leaks can lead to loss of control, posing a safety risk to the driver and other road users.
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- Air Suspension Problems:
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- Problem: Leaky suspension legs in Bentleys with air suspension systems, causing uneven vehicle height and potential damage to other components.
- Details: Issues with the air suspension can affect the vehicle's stability and comfort, requiring immediate attention to prevent further damage.
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- Gasket Leaks:
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- Problem: Gasket leaks, especially in the Continental Flying Spur model, can lead to engine issues.
- Details: Gasket leaks can impact engine performance and require thorough inspection to identify and address the source of the leak.
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- Electric Window Motor Failure:
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- Problem: Electric window motors in Bentleys may fail, indicated by a hissing sound before complete failure.
- Details: The complex lifting system in Bentley electric windows requires specialized repair to ensure proper functionality.
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These common problems with Bentley Azure cars highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of these luxury vehicles.
What is the common problem with Bentley?
Bentley Engine Problems
One of the significant Bentley flying spur problems is gasket leaks in the engine. It is an expensive fix and does require some meaningful work to replace. Other common Bentley engine problems are issues with the turbo oil pipe and vacuum, cooling fan issues and corrosion on the radiator.
Is a Bentley Azure a good investment?
Currently a grossly underrated open top icon, the Bentley Azure is an absolute bargain that will make you feel like royalty for less than what you would pay for an entry-level BMW 4 Series. With patience and care, it could also prove to be a great investment for the future.
Do Bentleys require a lot of maintenance?
Gasket leaks and issues with the turbo oil pipe, vacuum, and cooling fan are all common in Bentley cars. These can be expensive to fix and may require extensive work or replacement. Preventive Bentley maintenance is better than spending thousands on repairs or replacements.
Are Bentley engines reliable?
Like the majority of ultra-luxury brands, Bentleys are far from reliable. However, most people who can afford a Bentley can also afford its actual cost of ownership, including repairs and maintenance.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Bentley Azure years
We have researched Bentley problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Bentley Azure cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Bentley Azure model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Bentley Azure model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Bentley Azure years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Bentley Azure car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Bentley Azure , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Tires problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Bentley Azure vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Bentley Azure . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Bentley Azure vehicles.
List of Bentley Azure complaints
Bentley Azure 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-19
- Date Complaint: 2010-01-19
- Components: TIRES,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THIS IS A REQUEST IN ORDER FOR US DOT TO BEGIN CONTINUAL MANUFACTURING PLANT AND DEALERSHIP SAFETY INSPECTIONS, ANALYSIS FOR POTENTIAL DEFECTS AND RECALLS ON THE FOLLOWING MAKES: FERRARI, PORSCHE, BUGGATI, BENZ, BWM, ROLLS, BENTLEY, JAGUAR, LAMBROGHINI. PLEASE INSPECT ALL NEW EQUIPMENT. PLEASE INSPECT ALL TIRES. *TR
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