2008 maintenance schedule

2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Service Requirements & Maintenance Schedule

The 2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur is a high-performance luxury sedan, powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0L W12 engine.

Reviewed by

Rebecca Hale

Vehicle service editor and reviewer

Last updated

July 16, 2026

Reviewed for service schedule clarity.

The 2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur is a high-performance luxury sedan, powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0L W12 engine. Its 4-door coachwork and all-wheel-drive drivetrain provide supercar levels of performance with exceptional comfort. This guide outlines the factory-recommended service schedule, key fluid specifications, and essential ownership considerations for maintaining this vehicle's performance and value.

Key Takeaways

  • Primary Service Interval: Bentley requires service every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. The vehicle is equipped with a standard service interval warning system on the instrument cluster.
  • Engine & Performance: The 2008 Flying Spur is powered by a 6.0L twin-turbo W12 producing 552 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed ZF automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
  • Service Structure: Bentley follows a rotating schedule: 1st Annual (Minor), 2nd Annual (Intermediate), 3rd Annual (Minor), and 4th Annual (Major).
  • Factory Warranty: New vehicles came with a 3-year/unlimited mileage factory warranty and a 3-year/30,000-mile maintenance warranty.

Factory Recommended Service Schedule

Bentley's service structure for the 2008 Continental Flying Spur follows a clear rotation of service types, each building in complexity and cost as the vehicle accumulates mileage.

Service IntervalService TypeApproximate CostKey Operations
10,000 miles / 12 months1st Annual (Minor)£450.00 inc VATOil & filter change; comprehensive vehicle inspection
20,000 miles / 24 months2nd Annual (Intermediate)£625.00 inc VATAll minor service items plus additional system checks
30,000 miles / 36 months3rd Annual (Minor)£450.00 inc VATOil & filter change; comprehensive vehicle inspection
40,000 miles / 48 months4th Annual (Major)£1,195.00 inc VATComprehensive service including spark plugs, coolant flush, and full system inspection

This pattern repeats throughout the vehicle's life.

Annual / 10,000-Mile Service Contents

At each scheduled visit, the following baseline items are typically performed:

  • Engine Oil and Filter — Replaced with Bentley-specification fully synthetic oil
  • Tire Rotation and Inspection — All four tires rotated for even wear
  • Cabin Pollen Filter — Replaced
  • Windshield Wipers and Key Fob Battery — Replaced as needed
  • Brake System — Comprehensive inspection of brake pads, discs, and fluid condition
  • Fluid Levels — All vehicle systems checked and topped up
  • Leakage Inspection — Visual inspection for fluid leaks
  • Suspension and Steering — Comprehensive inspection of all components

Detailed Major Service Items

The 4th Annual (Major) service is significantly more comprehensive than the intervening years and includes critical high-mileage wear components:

Spark Plug Replacement

The 12-year service on a documented 2008 Flying Spur included replacement of the spark plugs, drive belt, tensioner, and idler pulley.

Drive Belt and Tensioner

Replacement of the drive belt and tensioner is a key component of the major service, ensuring proper engine accessory operation.

Suspension Components

Front suspension components such as air springs and upper control arms may require replacement as the vehicle ages. A documented example had front air springs and upper control arms replaced at 33,000 miles.

Fluid and Filter Changes

The major service includes comprehensive fluid and filter changes across all vehicle systems.

Engine Oil Specifications

SpecificationDetail
Engine CodeBWRA (for Speed variant)
Oil Capacity13.5 liters (basic fill)
Oil TypeFully synthetic 0W-40
ApprovalsVW 502.00, VW 505.00, MB-Approval 229.5
Change Interval10,000 miles / 12 months

The 6.0L W12 engine is a high-performance unit requiring precise lubrication. The correct oil specification is critical for the longevity of the engine's turbochargers and internal components.

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

The 2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur is a vehicle that rewards diligent and proactive maintenance. Key considerations for owners:

Specialist Care

Given the vehicle's complexity, service should be performed by certified Bentley technicians or independent specialists. These professionals have access to the latest software updates and Bentley-specific diagnostic equipment.

Service Documentation

Maintaining a comprehensive service history is critical for preserving the vehicle's resale value. A documented example with 33,000 miles had the 10 and 12-year services performed, including replacement of the drive belt and front suspension components.

Battery Maintenance

The Flying Spur's advanced electrical systems require proper battery maintenance; a trickle charger is recommended for vehicles not used regularly.

Tire Maintenance

With its power and all-wheel-drive configuration, proper tire pressure and condition are essential for safety and performance. The 2008 Flying Spur rides on 275/40R19 tires.

Factory Recommended Service

Regular consultation of the owner's manual is essential for understanding the vehicle's features and maintenance schedules. The owner's manual for the Continental Flying Spur (2006-2012) covers routine checks, recommended service intervals, and safety information.

Maintenance questions

2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur FAQs

How often does a 2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur need servicing?+

Bentley recommends service once a year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first.

What type of oil does the 2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur take?+

The 6.0L W12 engine requires fully synthetic 0W-40 oil meeting VW 502.00/505.00 specifications. The capacity is 13.5 liters.

What is the service schedule?+

Bentley follows a rotating schedule: Minor service at 10,000 miles, Intermediate service at 20,000 miles, Minor service at 30,000 miles, and Major service at 40,000 miles.

What is included in the major service?+

The major service at 40,000 miles includes all minor service items plus spark plug replacement, coolant flush, drive belt replacement, and comprehensive suspension inspection.

Is the 2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive?+

The 2008 Flying Spur features all-wheel drive as standard equipment.

What was the factory warranty on a 2008 Flying Spur?+

New 2008 Continental Flying Spur models came with a 3-year/unlimited mileage factory warranty and a 3-year/30,000-mile maintenance warranty.

What engine powers the 2008 Bentley Continental Flying Spur?+

It is powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 engine producing 552 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.