2017 Bentley Continental GT Convertible Complete Service & Maintenance Schedule

Key Takeaways

• Primary service interval: Bentley requires scheduled maintenance every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first . This applies to all 2017 Continental GT Convertible (GTC) variants.
• Factory warranty: New 2017 models came with a 3-year/unlimited mileage basic and powertrain warranty, plus a 1-year/10,000-mile maintenance warranty covering the first scheduled service .
• Service structure: The schedule follows a rotating progression: 1st Annual (Minor), 2nd Annual (Intermediate), 3rd Annual (Minor), and 4th Annual (Major) services, with the cycle repeating throughout the vehicle's life .
• Convertible top: The power-folding soft top's hydraulic system, tensioners, and headliner cords require specialist attention, with Bentley guidance recommending the hood be closed in one continuous operation to prevent damage .
• Service indicator: The vehicle is equipped with a standard service interval warning system on the instrument cluster .
• Service documentation: The official owner's manual (part number 390 012 777 AC) provides the definitive maintenance schedule for 2011-2018 Continental GT and GTC models .

Introduction

The 2017 Bentley Continental GT Convertible (GTC) represents the pinnacle of open-air grand touring, combining hand-crafted luxury with formidable performance from its twin-turbocharged V8 or W12 engine. As a sophisticated motorcar with a complex power-folding soft top, adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is essential for preserving performance, reliability, and substantial value.

This guide compiles factory-recommended service requirements and practical maintenance considerations for the 2017 Continental GT Convertible.

Factory Recommended Service Schedule

Primary Service Interval

Bentley's official service guidelines are clear and consistent: once a year, or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first . The first year of Bentley service is complimentary for the original owner, with a 1-year/10,000-mile maintenance warranty covering the initial scheduled service .

Service Structure Progression

Bentley service schedules follow a recurring cycle of service types that increase in scope as the vehicle accumulates mileage . The typical progression for the 2017 Continental GT Convertible is :

This 4-year pattern repeats throughout the vehicle's life . The 40,000-mile service is the most comprehensive and can be a significant expense .

Annual / 10,000-Mile Service Contents

At each scheduled visit, the following baseline items are recommended :

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

Following the vehicle inspection, owners are informed of any components not meeting specification, at which point they can approve any necessary repairs .

20,000-Mile / 24-Month Service Additions

At the 24-month or 20,000-mile mark, additional service items are recommended :

• Brake Fluid: Changed
• Engine Air Filter: Replaced
• Tire Sealant: Checked
• Fuel Additive: Added (V8 models)

30,000-Mile / 36-Month Service Additions

At the 30,000-mile or 36-month mark :

• Spark Plugs: Replaced (full set)
• Pollen Filter: Replaced

40,000-Mile / 48-Month Major Service

The comprehensive major service includes :

• All annual service items
• Air Filters: Replaced
• Brake Fluid: Changed
• Tire Sealant: Checked
• Fuel Additive: Added (V8 models)

Factory Warranty and Maintenance Plans

New Vehicle Warranty

Every new 2017 Bentley Continental GT Convertible came with comprehensive warranty coverage :

Extended Warranty

Original owners have the option to extend the factory warranty by two additional years. This extension is transferable to a private buyer and features unlimited mileage, unlimited claims value, Bentley roadside assistance, and is honored at any Bentley dealership .

Engine Oil Change Guidance

Oil Specifications

The 2017 Continental GT Convertible's high-performance engine requires high-quality fully synthetic oil that meets Bentley's factory standards . Regular oil and filter changes are the single most important maintenance item for preserving engine life.

Oil Change Interval

• Factory recommendation: Every 12 months or 10,000 miles
• Conservative owner guidance: Never exceed 12 months for an oil change, even if the mileage is low, as synthetic oil can degrade over time. For vehicles driven primarily in extreme climates or for short urban journeys, many specialists recommend more frequent changes.

Oil Change Cost

Oil and filter changes are included in the service plan costs. Based on Bentley service pricing, a minor service (10,000 miles) is approximately £395, an intermediate service (20,000 miles) approximately £545, and a major service (40,000 miles) approximately £1,095 .

Spark Plug Timing

Replacement Interval

Spark plugs are a significant service item on the Continental GT Convertible. They are replaced as part of the 30,000-mile / 36-month service .

The V8 engine uses a set of 8 spark plugs. Given the high-performance nature of the engine, adherence to the factory-recommended replacement schedule is essential for maintaining optimal ignition performance, fuel efficiency, and engine health.

Brake Fluid Recommendations

Fluid Specifications and Service Interval

The 2017 Continental GT Convertible uses DOT-4 brake fluid.

• Inspection: Brake fluid level and condition should be inspected at every scheduled service.
• Replacement: Brake fluid is typically changed during the 20,000-mile / 24-month service and again at the 40,000-mile major service .

Brake fluid is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture over time, which can degrade braking performance. Adherence to the replacement schedule is essential for safety.

Convertible Top Maintenance

The power-folding soft top on the Continental GT Convertible is a sophisticated mechanical and hydraulic system that requires specific attention beyond the standard service schedule .

Common Convertible Top Issues

Based on specialist guidance, common convertible top issues include :

• Top Tensioners and Straps: Over years of use, the soft top system's tensioners and elastic straps naturally weaken, potentially leading to difficulties in opening or closing the roof, poor sealing, or unwanted noise at higher speeds.
• Headliner Tension Cords: A known concern is the relaxation of tension across the headliner during a pause in the close cycle. This can result in the C-pillar lower trim passing the wrong side of the flipper, causing hood operation failure and damage to components.

Important operational guidance :

• The convertible hood should be closed in one continuous operation
• Releasing the switch before the close cycle is complete should be avoided
• If the close cycle is interrupted, the hood cycle should be reversed (lowered back into the stowed position) before attempting the full close cycle again

Hydraulic System

The power-folding mechanism relies on hydraulic fluid, hoses, and seals, which should be inspected for leaks during routine service .

Service and Care

• Cleaning: The convertible top fabric should be cleaned regularly with a suitable cleaner to prevent staining and deterioration.
• Protectant: After cleaning, apply a suitable protectant to guard against environmental damage.
• Lubrication: Moving parts, such as hinges and latches, require periodic lubrication to ensure smooth and reliable operation.

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

The 2017 Bentley Continental GT Convertible rewards diligent and proactive maintenance. Key considerations for owners include:

Service Documentation

Maintaining a comprehensive service history is critical for preserving the vehicle's resale value . The official owner's manual (part number 390 012 777 AC) provides the definitive maintenance schedule for 2011-2018 Continental GT and GTC models .

Specialist Care

Given the complexity of the vehicle's systems—especially the convertible top mechanism—service should be performed by certified Bentley technicians or independent specialists with the right equipment and genuine parts . It is no longer compulsory to service a Bentley at a main dealer to maintain the manufacturer's warranty, provided the specialist follows the manufacturer's schedule and uses genuine OEM parts .

Driving Habits

The 2017 Continental GT Convertible benefits from regular use. Vehicles not used regularly should be kept on a trickle charger to maintain the advanced electrical systems. Low-mileage examples should be approached with caution—many specialists note that infrequently used examples are often more prone to issues than those driven and serviced regularly.

Tire Maintenance

With its power and all-wheel-drive configuration, proper tire pressure and condition are essential for safety and performance. Tire rotation is a standard part of the annual service.