2015-2023 Bentley Bentayga W12 recalled due to fire risk

Volkswagen-owned British brand Bentley has recalled 158 examples of its 2015–2023 Bentley Bentayga W12 sold in Australia, citing an electrical fault that could spark a fire near the petrol tank.

The 158 vehicles represent approximately half of all Bentley Bentayga SUVs sold locally over the same period. Twin-turbo V8 and hybrid V6 models are for now unaffected.

Affected Bentley Bentayga W12 SUVs were sold locally between 2015 and the present date in 2023.

The recall notice lodged with the Department of Infrastructure says:

"Due to a design defect, the wiring harness within the fuel tank may overheat and melt the fuel inlet flange material. If this occurs fuel may leak, and if exposed to an external ignition source result in a vehicle fire.

"A vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users or bystanders and/or damage to property.

"Owners should contact their nearest official retailer as soon as possible to have the vehicle inspected and the work carried out, free of charge."

It is unclear if any Bentley Bentayga W12 vehicles have caught fire in Australia due to the fault.

However, the recall notice advises drivers should not ignore any warning symbols in the instrument cluster.

"If the relevant warning lamp illuminates in the instrument cluster ,or the smell of fuel is noticed around the vehicle (e.g. after filing the fuel tank with petrol), owners should contact their local Bentley dealer immediately," the recall notice says.