2010 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
Social links
Common 2010 Bentley Azure problems
The Bentley Azure, produced between 1995 and 2010, is known for its luxurious design and high-performance capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to certain problems and issues that have been reported by owners over the years. This article will explore some of the most common problems with the Bentley Azure, based on complaints from owners of this car.
- Suspension System Problems
Bentley Azures utilize a complex air suspension system that ensures a smooth ride, regardless of the surface. However, if the suspension system is worn, it can lead to significant issues. One of the signs of Bentley Flying Spur suspension problems is that one end of the car will be lower than the other, usually the front. If left untreated, this could lead to a destroyed compressor and an air suspension failure, which is an expensive fix and requires more than a few days in the shop.
- Brake Light Failure
One of the more common Bentley Continental GT problems is that the highest brake light on the vehicle burns out before the others. This issue is particularly common in the Continental GT, where the brake light is located just above the rear window at the center of the vehicle's rear. While it is a simple fix, it is an important safety feature, especially in dark conditions.
- Engine Problems
One of the significant Bentley flying spur problems is gasket leaks in the engine, which are expensive to fix and require significant work to replace. Other common Bentley engine problems include issues with the turbo oil pipe and vacuum, cooling fan issues, and corrosion on the radiator. Overall, Bentley engines are spectacular, but due to the car's high-performance nature, things can go wrong regularly if not maintained properly.
- Window Issues
Window issues are common in Bentley vehicles, affecting the entire Bentley line of vehicles. Unlike other cars, Bentley windows do not have a mechanism to provide a warning light or some additional warning when starting to fail. Instead, owners will notice a distinct and very audible hissing sound when the window is starting to fail.
- Convertible Roof Problem
The Bentley Azure Convertible is known to have issues with the top hydraulics, which can fail and shower the inside of the car with fluid, causing a significant amount of damage. This issue is well documented and can be a major problem for owners.
In conclusion, while the Bentley Azure is a luxurious and high-performance vehicle, it is not immune to certain problems and issues. Regular maintenance and care are essential to ensure that the vehicle can operate as a high-performance vehicle. Owners should be aware of the signs of suspension system problems, brake light failure, engine problems, window issues, and convertible roof problems to address them promptly and avoid expensive repairs.
Are Bentleys hard to fix?
The simple answer is, yes. But truthfully, it's more complicated than that. Here, our Bentley service specialists breakdown Bentley repairs, Bentley maintenance, and the general costs that are associated with owning this posh marque.
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.
How reliable are Bentley Continental?
On the whole, owners report that this solidly constructed car has a good reputation for reliability. The only reported problems lie in the actual cost of the parts, rather than the issue of breaking down.
What was the last year of the Bentley Azure?
2003
About Azure
Famous Italian company Pininfarina built the body of the 1995 to 2003 Bentley Azure. A power-operated soft top, leather sport seats and an interior employing real wood trim.
2010 Bentley Azure car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Bentley Azure problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2010 Bentley Azure vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2010 Bentley Azure complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2010 Bentley Azure.
TIRES,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2010 Bentley Azure problems:
Bentley Azure Convertible Top (Operation and Issues) | Rolls-Royce ...
Apr 18, 2017 ... I am looking at some Bentley Azure (95-2000) Convertibles and wanted to know from long time owners about their experience with the soft top. I' ...
Top 5 Common Bentley Repair Problems | Westminster Motors ...
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 ...
Bentley Azure Convertible Roof Problem | Rolls-Royce and Bentley ...
Jun 11, 2022 ... Advice... the top hydraulics are known to fail and shower the inside of car with fluid causing a huge amount of damage. This is well documented ...
Cost of owning a used Bentley continental? : r/Bentley
May 31, 2021 ... To semi-quote a Car & Driver article from 2008, the issues with buying an old Bentley at a massively depreciated price, is that it's still a $~ ...
Headlamp condensation - Bentley Brooklands Coupe 2010 | Rolls ...
Apr 12, 2019 ... When I took it to the dealer for a service I told them, and they laughed and said it was a common problem on Bentleys, and to switch on main ...
Other years of Bentley Azure
Are you having problems with your 2010 Bentley Azure?
Leave your review of 2010 Bentley Azure