2008 maintenance schedule
2008 Bentley Arnage RL Service Schedule & Maintenance Guide
The 2008 Bentley Arnage RL represents the ultimate evolution of the hand-built luxury sedan, offering extended rear passenger space (Long Wheelbase)...
Last updated
July 16, 2026
Reviewed for service schedule clarity.
Key Takeaways
- Factory Maintenance: Requires service every 12 months or 16,000 km (approximately 10,000 miles), whichever comes first .
- Engine & Drivetrain: Powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.75L V8 producing 450 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive .
- Warranty Coverage: Came with a 36-month/unlimited mileage warranty that included free scheduled maintenance for the first 36 months or 30,000 miles .
- RL Model Specifics: The long-wheelbase (LWB) model features an extended wheelbase and weighs approximately 5,854 lbs .
- Specialist Care: Given its age and complexity, service should be performed by a qualified Bentley specialist to address potential issues like engine misfires and air spring faults .
Introduction
The 2008 Bentley Arnage RL represents the ultimate evolution of the hand-built luxury sedan, offering extended rear passenger space (Long Wheelbase) and the legendary twin-turbocharged 6.75L V8 engine. As the final iteration of the Arnage line before the introduction of the Mulsanne, it is a rare and significant motorcar with a high level of mechanical and electrical complexity.
As this vehicle is now over 15 years old, proper and proactive maintenance is essential to preserve its performance, reliability, and value. This guide compiles the official service schedule, warranty details, and known technical considerations for the 2008 Arnage RL.
Official Factory Service Schedule
Service Intervals
The 2008 Bentley Arnage RL follows a structured service schedule based on time or mileage, whichever occurs first.
- Primary Interval: Every 12 months or 16,000 km (approximately 10,000 miles) .
- Complimentary Service: The vehicle included free scheduled maintenance for the first 36 months or 30,000 miles from the original purchase date .
The vehicle is equipped with a standard service interval warning system on the instrument cluster to alert the driver when a service is due .
Service Schedule Progression
Based on established Arnage service patterns from this era, maintenance services are typically categorized by "Type," with more comprehensive services performed at higher mileage intervals.
| Mileage / Time | Service Type | Typical Key Operations |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 miles / 1 year | Type A (Minor) | Engine oil & filter change, tire rotation, cabin filter replacement, comprehensive vehicle inspection . |
| 20,000 miles / 2 years | Type B (Intermediate) | All Type A items plus brake fluid replacement and detailed undercarriage inspection. |
| 30,000 miles / 3 years | Type C | All Type A items plus replacement of spark plugs, engine coolant, and transmission oil strainer. |
| 60,000 miles / 6 years | Major Service | A combination of Types A, B, C, and E, encompassing a full suite of inspections and fluid replacements. |
Engine & Transmission
Engine: The heart of the Arnage RL is the twin-turbocharged 6.75L V8 engine (6.8L V-8) . This powerplant produces 450 horsepower at 4,100 rpm and a substantial 645 lb-ft of torque at 1,800 rpm, driving the rear wheels .
Transmission: Power is sent to the rear axle via a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and sequential shift control . The drivetrain features a 2.69 axle ratio .
Brakes & Suspension: The vehicle is equipped with 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS and a double-wishbone suspension system with automatic 4-corner level control .
Critical Service Items & Known Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
Due to the vehicle's age, several areas require particular attention. Documented Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) highlight common issues that should be inspected during routine service .
| System | Known Issue / Inspection | TSB Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Poor running complaints, engine misfires on petrol engines | 2051187.1 / 2051187.3 |
| Brakes | Brake noise identification | 2052785.3 |
| Suspension | Air spring fault finding | 20302174 |
| Battery | 12V battery condition checks | 2051562.4 |
| Miscellaneous | Accessory valve caps difficult to remove | 2033864-5 |
Maintenance questions
2008 Bentley Arnage RL FAQs
What is the recommended service interval for a 2008 Bentley Arnage RL?+
Bentley recommends servicing the vehicle every 12 months or 16,000 km (approximately 10,000 miles) .
What type of engine does the 2008 Arnage RL have?+
It is powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.75L V8 engine that produces 450 horsepower .
Is the 2008 Bentley Arnage RL front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive?+
The 2008 Arnage RL is a rear-wheel-drive vehicle .
What was the original warranty coverage for this vehicle?+
It came with a 36-month/unlimited mileage warranty, which included free scheduled maintenance for the first 36 months or 30,000 miles .
Are there any common engine problems with this model?+
Yes, documented service bulletins exist for poor engine running and misfires. It is advisable to have these areas inspected by a specialist during routine service .
What is the axle ratio on the 2008 Arnage RL?+
The vehicle is equipped with a 2.69 axle ratio as part of its rear-wheel-drive setup .