Hi all,

I’m new here and seriously considering buying a 2004/5 Continental GT.

I’m trying to understand the major issues/what I should be checking for when buying a GT. My budget is £12-15K. As I see it, after a look around the internet/youtube etc, the check list is as follows.

1. Good visual inspection to ensure the original Bentley excellent paint work is still present.

2. No warning lights.

3. Coolant condition.

4. Super smooth idle after a minute of idling. No hissing from behind engine(turbo solenoid air pipe leaking)

5. Service history, especially plugs every 4 years.

6. Handbrake.

7. Air con, seat warmers/massagers

8. Damp/smell in front passenger compartment(electronics underneath) and under rear seats.

9. Roof liner.

10. All window should drop when closing the raise.

11. Air suspension no sagging when left for an hours.

12. Rear spoiler works.

13. High level rear brake light.(Is it really a rear window out job?)

14. Boot release works.

15. Gearbox not hanging in gears and no jolts/bangs.

16. Check windscreen. Is it really £2300?

Any additions/corrections will be greatly appreciated.

Other questions-

1. What other major servicing should be done and when, such as gearbox oil, timing chain/belt?

2. Can air suspension struts be repaired, if so how much. I see them new for £2500 on Eurocarparts!!

3. Am I right in saying the Ross Tech VCDS diagnostics is good enough and cost approx. £200 all in and can be loaded onto a standard modern laptop?

4. Spark plugs and coil packs(In let manifold out?) is a 3-4 hours job?

5. Are the front discs ceramic coated? Do they really last 100,000 miles?

Thanks in advance
GT Lad

 

On that year range - check that the Vacuum Lines which run over the gearbox have been changed from plastic to metal.

 

Thanks for that. I take it these are the pipes for the turbo control?

 

I am no expert, but I thought they are part of the braking system and others.

A