2018 Bentley Flying Spur Preventive Maintenance & Service Schedule

The 2018 Bentley Flying Spur represents the pinnacle of luxury sedan engineering, powered by a formidable 6.0L W12 or a 4.0L V8 engine. As a hand-built motorcar of exceptional complexity, adhering to the manufacturer's preventive maintenance schedule is essential for preserving its performance, refinement, and substantial investment value. This guide compiles the factory-recommended service requirements and practical maintenance considerations for the 2018 Flying Spur.

Key Takeaways

• Primary service interval: Bentley requires scheduled maintenance every 12 months or 16,000 km (approximately 10,000 miles), whichever comes first .
• Factory warranty: The 2018 Flying Spur came with a comprehensive 3-year/unlimited mileage warranty covering basic, powertrain, corrosion, and roadside assistance .
• Maintenance coverage: The vehicle included free scheduled maintenance for 36 months or 30,000 miles from the original purchase date .
• Service structure: Specialist providers typically offer three service levels: Interim, Annual, and Major services, with the Major being the most comprehensive .

Factory Recommended Service Schedule

Primary Service Interval

Bentley's official service schedule for the 2018 Flying Spur is clear and consistent: maintenance is required once a year, or every 10,000 miles (approximately 16,000 km), whichever comes first . This foundational requirement applies to all 2018 Flying Spur variants, including the V8 and W12 models.

The first year of Bentley service is complimentary for the original owner. Following the vehicle check, owners are informed of any components not meeting specification, at which time they can approve any necessary repairs .

Service Structure Progression

Independent Bentley specialists typically offer three service levels for the Flying Spur, each increasing in scope :

Annual Service Contents

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

• Engine Oil & Filter: Replaced with Bentley-specification 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 .

Engine Oil Change Guidance

Oil Specifications

The 2018 Flying Spur's high-performance engines require high-quality synthetic oil. Modern engines using synthetic oil are engineered to go between 7,500 and 15,000 miles between oil changes, making the 16,000 km interval appropriate for standard driving conditions .

Oil Change Interval

• Factory recommendation: Every 12 months or 16,000 km (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, some specialists recommend more frequent changes .

Spark Plug Timing

Replacement Interval and Part Specifications

The 2018 Flying Spur uses a full set of spark plugs. For the V8 engine (2018-2023 models), the correct spark plug part number is 0P2905601-A .

A major service kit for the 2018-on GT, GTC, and Flying Spur V8 includes 8 spark plugs, oil filter, air filter, sump plug, and sump plug seal . Spark plug replacement is typically part of the Annual or Major service, depending on mileage.

Brake Fluid Service

Fluid Type and Service Interval

The 2018 Flying Spur uses DOT-4 brake fluid .

• Inspection: Brake fluid level and condition should be inspected at every scheduled service .
• Replacement: A conservative approach is to flush and replace brake fluid every 2 years, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture over time, degrading braking performance. Specialist interim and annual services include brake fluid testing and topping up .

Coolant Service Timing

Coolant Type

The 2018 Flying Spur uses a glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water . Pure antifreeze has approximately 35% less heat transfer capability than a 50/50 mix and is more corrosive to the radiator .

Service Interval

• Inspection: Coolant condition should be inspected at every scheduled service. Specialist services include antifreeze testing and topping up .
• Replacement: General industry guidance suggests conventional coolant may require replacement at 45,000 miles for the first change and then every 2 years and 30,000 miles after that . Newer extended-life coolants may last longer. The owner's manual provides the most specific information for your vehicle.

Coolant Condition Check

At each service, the coolant should be visually inspected for:

• Color: Should appear clear and bright
• Clarity: Cloudy, muddy, or brown coolant indicates rust and contamination, requiring immediate flushing
• pH: Should be between 8.5 and 10

Fuel Filter Service

Replacement Interval

Changing the fuel filter is part of the repair and maintenance schedule for the 2018 Flying Spur . Many car companies recommend changing the fuel filter every 5 years or 50,000 miles, though this may vary based on driving habits and local fuel quality . Specialist services include fuel filter replacement if required during Annual service and as part of Major service .

Transmission Service

Service Considerations

The question of how often to change transmission fluid depends on a variety of factors. Some vehicles may never have their transmission fluid changed unless there is a leak or another problem, while others have a regular maintenance interval. It is important to follow Bentley guidelines on transmission maintenance.

Warning Signs

If shifting becomes rough, delayed, or is accompanied by unusual noises or lurching, have the transmission inspected immediately by a Bentley service center.

Extended Warranty and Maintenance Plans

New Vehicle Warranty

Every new 2018 Bentley Flying Spur came with comprehensive warranty coverage :

Extended Warranty

Original owners could 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 .

Bentley also offers a Certified Pre-Owned warranty program following a 180-point inspection, providing coverage for a minimum of one year with no mileage restrictions .

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

Service Documentation

Maintaining a comprehensive service history is critical for preserving the vehicle's resale value. Service records should document all work performed, including oil changes, brake fluid services, and major service items.

Specialist Care

Given the vehicle's complexity, service should be performed by certified Bentley technicians or independent specialists with the right equipment and genuine parts. Specialist service centers with Bentley diagnostic software can perform manufacturer-based servicing that follows Bentley's maintenance schedules, preserving the vehicle's warranty .

Driving Habits and Storage

The Flying Spur benefits from regular use. For vehicles not used regularly, a trickle charger is recommended to maintain the advanced electrical systems. The manufacturer's recommended service schedule is the best way to prevent significant issues and expensive repairs.

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.