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 starting 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 | Typical maintenance and repair cost |
|---|---|
| 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 cost 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
The table below shows some typical costs for select Bentley maintenance items. However, costs may 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
The table below shows selected maintenance items from Bentley Dallas’ recommended maintenance schedule.
| 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 generally hard to estimate typical repair costs for Bentleys due to a general lack of data. But it’s safe to say that Bentley repairs will cost significantly more than they would on a comparable mass-market vehicle like a BMW, Mercedes-Benz or Lexus.
The table below shows some typical quotes for service at a Bentley dealership.
| 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 are recommended to preserve the vehicle’s appearance.
Battery tenders and maintenance
Underdriving Bentleys can lead to battery issues. Many owners purchase battery tenders to keep the battery charged, and replacing a depleted battery can be costly.
Software updates and electronics
Luxury vehicles are packed with cutting-edge technology that often requires software updates or recalibration, especially after repairs. These services may not be included in standard maintenance packages.
Insurance premiums
The cost to insure a Bentley is substantially higher than standard vehicles, even when accounting for excellent driving records and 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 financial hit becomes apparent when it’s time to sell or trade in the vehicle.
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.
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 typically don’t cover anything as exotic or expensive as 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, underdriving can lead to costly battery and software issues, along with 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 will 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 Jan. 15, 2026.
- Bentley Dallas, “Bentley Service.” Accessed Jan. 15, 2026.
