2018 Bentley Continental GT Convertible Service Schedule & Maintenance Guide

The 2018 Bentley Continental GT Convertible (GTC) represents the second generation of Bentley's modern grand tourer, combining hand-crafted luxury with formidable performance from its twin-turbocharged V8 or W12 engine. As a sophisticated luxury vehicle with a complex power-folding soft top, adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is essential for preserving its performance, reliability, and substantial value.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the factory-recommended service schedule and key maintenance considerations for the 2018 Continental GT Convertible.

Key Takeaways

• Primary Service Interval: Bentley requires scheduled maintenance once a year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first . This applies to all 2018 Continental GT Convertible variants.
• Factory Warranty: The 2018 Continental GT Convertible came with a 3-year/unlimited mileage factory warranty covering basic, powertrain, corrosion, and roadside assistance, plus a 1-year/10,000-mile maintenance warranty .
• Service Indicator: The vehicle is equipped with a standard service interval warning system on the instrument cluster to notify the driver when maintenance is due .
• Convertible Top Care: The power-folding soft top's hydraulic system, tensioners, and headliner cords require specialist attention and proper operation to prevent damage and ensure reliability .
• Service Documentation: The official owner's manual (part number 390 012 740 AA) provides the definitive maintenance schedule for 2011-2018 Continental GT and GTC models .

Factory Recommended Service Schedule

Primary Service Interval

Bentley's official service guidelines are simple 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 .

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 .

Service Schedule Progression

Bentley service schedules follow a recurring pattern of service types that increase in scope as the vehicle accumulates mileage. For vehicles in the 37-48 month range, the service schedule typically includes :

For vehicles over 48 months old, the service plan typically alternates between Minor and Major services .

Engine Oil Change Guidance

The 2018 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

Warranty Coverage

New Vehicle Warranty

Every new 2018 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 .

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.

Top Tensioners and Straps

Over years of use, the soft top system's tensioners and elastic straps naturally weaken. This can lead to difficulties in opening or closing the roof, poor sealing, or unwanted noise at higher speeds . Replacement kits are available to restore the roof to its original condition without the need for a full top replacement.

Headliner Tension Cords

A known concern on the Continental GT Convertible 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 several components . Bentley has issued a Technical Product Information document (Transaction No. 2050102/1) to address this issue.

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

Common Convertible Top Issues

Based on owner experience and specialist guidance, common convertible top issues include :

• Gears skipping teeth, causing the top to stop halfway during operation
• Sensor failure requiring replacement or reprogramming
• Damaged tension cords and guide components (identified by Bentley TPI 2050102/1)
• C-pillar trim passing the wrong side of the flipper mechanism

The repair kit part number for addressing tension cord and guide issues is 3W7898025 .

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

The 2018 Bentley Continental GT Convertible rewards diligent and proactive maintenance. Key considerations for owners include:

• 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. Independent specialists can offer fixed-price servicing on all Bentley models .
• Service Documentation: Maintaining a comprehensive service history is critical for preserving the vehicle's resale value. The official owner's manual (part number 390 012 740 AA) provides the definitive maintenance schedule for 2011-2018 Continental GT and GTC models .
• Convertible Top Operation: Always operate the power-folding top in one continuous cycle. Releasing the switch mid-cycle can cause damage to tension cords, headliner components, and the flipper mechanism .
• Battery Maintenance: The Continental GT Convertible'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.