Are Bentleys expensive to maintain?
Bentleys are expensive to maintain, typically costing around $2,000 to $5,000 per year, though typical costs will go up significantly as the car ages. However, some Bentley dealerships offer one year of free maintenance, which should save you a couple of thousand dollars for the first year.
How Bentley compares to other automakers
Bentley's annual maintenance costs are comparable to other exotic automakers’ costs, though they have the potential to exceed their costs. Notably, Ferraris have lower maintenance costs than Bentleys for the first seven years of ownership since Ferrari offers seven years of free maintenance.
| Make | Annual maintenance cost estimate |
|---|---|
| Bentley | $2,000 to $5,000 |
| Ferrari | $0 for the first 7 years, then $1,500 to $3,000 |
| McLaren | $2,000 to $3,000 |
| Lamborghini | $1,000 to $2,000 |
| Aston Martin | $1,500 to $2,500 |
» MORE: Average car maintenance costs
Bentley maintenance costs and schedule
Bentleys have high maintenance costs, though they typically require service at least once a year, which is in line with the average vehicle maintenance schedule.
Bentley maintenance costs
Typical Bentley maintenance costs can vary depending on the model and other factors, such as trim level or labor costs.
| Service | Cost estimate |
|---|---|
| Oil change | $500 to $700 |
| Battery replacement | $500 to $1,000 |
| Tire alignment | $300 to $500 |
| Tire replacement | $1,000 to $1,500 per tire |
| Brake pad replacement | $1,000 to $2,500 |
| Brake rotor replacement | $3,000 to $5,000 |
Bentley maintenance schedule
Bentley’s routine maintenance schedule is fairly similar to other vehicle’s maintenance schedules.
| Service | Schedule |
|---|---|
| Oil and filter change | Every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first |
| Check fluid levels | Every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first |
| Rotate tires | Every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first |
| Multi-point inspection | Every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first |
Bentley repair costs
All new Bentleys come with a 3-year/unlimited-mile bumper-to-bumper factory warranty. So, if your Bentley has an issue due to a manufacturing defect during that timeframe, the repair should generally be covered under warranty.
After the factory warranty expires, it’s hard to estimate typical repair costs for Bentleys due to a lack of data. But Bentley repairs will cost significantly more than repairs for a mass-market vehicle like a BMW, Mercedes-Benz or Lexus.
| Service | Cost estimate |
|---|---|
| Suspension system repairs | $2,000 to $8,000 |
| Transmission service, inspection, updates and fluid replacement | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| Paint and bodywork touchup | $1,000 to $3,000 |
Other Bentley ownership costs to consider
While the major maintenance expenses are clear, there are several other costs that luxury vehicle owners should be aware of.
High-end detailing and paint protection
Luxury vehicles often require specialized detailing services to maintain their high-end finishes. Ceramic coatings or paint protection films can cost thousands of dollars, but they’re recommended to preserve the vehicle’s appearance.
Battery tenders and maintenance
Underdriving Bentleys — or failing to drive the vehicle at least twice a month — can lead to battery issues. Many owners purchase battery tenders to keep the battery charged since replacing a depleted battery can be costly.
Software updates and electronics
Luxury vehicles usually have cutting-edge technology that requires software updates or recalibration, especially after repairs. These services may not be included in standard maintenance packages.
Insurance premiums
Bentley insurance costs are substantially higher than standard vehicles, even when accounting for an excellent driving record or low annual mileage.
Luxury tax and registration fees
Depending on your location, luxury tax and higher registration fees can add thousands to your annual ownership costs.
Depreciation
Although not a direct out-of-pocket expense, luxury vehicles often experience steep depreciation, especially in the first few years of ownership. This hidden cost becomes apparent when it’s time to sell or trade it in.
» RELATED: Bentley certified pre-owned warranty
How can an extended warranty help?
If you plan to own your Bentley past the third year, getting an extended warranty might be a good idea. While extended warranties have pros and cons, they can help cover the rising cost of car repairs as your vehicle ages. They can also provide peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered should your car need an expensive repair.
An extended warranty can help cover expensive repairs as your car ages.
Bentley’s extended warranty program, called Bentley Extended Warranty, offers coverage for vehicles of up to 10 years old. Bentley’s extended warranty options vary depending on where you live, so it’s best to contact your local Bentley dealership to see what your options are. Still, plans typically include renewable one-year or two-year contracts and roadside assistance.
Note that third-party extended warranty companies usually don’t cover exotic cars like Bentleys, so you’ll generally be limited to Bentley’s extended warranty options if you’re looking for coverage.
FAQ
Why are Bentleys so expensive to maintain?
Bentleys are an ultra-luxury vehicle, so maintenance and repairs are generally very expensive, similar to other exotic automakers. Plus, if you don’t drive it regularly or stay on top of regular maintenance, this can lead to more expensive maintenance and repair costs down the line.
How much does a Bentley oil change cost?
A Bentley oil change typically costs around $500 to $700, according to Bentley Palm Beach, though costs will generally vary depending on the Bentley model and your location.
How many miles will a Bentley last?
Bentleys can typically last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance and treatment, though annual maintenance and repair costs can potentially exceed $10,000 as the vehicle ages.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Bentley Palm Beach, “Bentley Maintenance Cost Guide.” Accessed April 10, 2026.
- Bentley Dallas, “Bentley Service.” Accessed April 10, 2026.
