At a Glance
The Bentley S1 has 0 identified common problems across 1 generation (1955–1959) and suspension the most common problem category. Based on 1K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Bentley S1 common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Bentley S1 generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Bentley S1 owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Bentley S1 owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Looking for a garage to repair your Bentley S1?
Search our directory of 12,000+ UK garages by service and postcode — every garage has verified Google reviews.
Browse Bentley S1 Generations
Select a generation to see its specific problems, MOT failures and advisories
Most Common Bentley S1 MOT Failures
Every reason Bentley S1 vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brake performance below minimum | 19.95% |
| 2 | Windscreen washer not working | 10.69% |
| 3 | Exhaust system fault | 7.60% |
| 4 | Indicator fault | 6.89% |
| 5 | Headlamp aim defect | 5.23% |
| 6 | Body corrosion or damage | 4.04% |
| 7 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 3.33% |
| 8 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 3.09% |
| 9 | Stop lamp not working | 2.85% |
| 10 | Chassis condition | 2.61% |
| 11 | Tyre condition | 2.61% |
| 12 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 2.61% |
| 13 | Front lamp not working | 2.38% |
| 14 | Horn not working | 2.14% |
| 15 | Number plate lamp not working | 2.14% |
| 16 | Brake wheel cylinder fault | 1.90% |
| 17 | Rear lamp not working | 1.90% |
| 18 | Position lamp not working | 1.43% |
| 19 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 1.19% |
| 20 | Suspension mounting corroded | 1.19% |
| 21 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 1.19% |
| 22 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.95% |
| 23 | Track rod end worn | 0.95% |
| 24 | Brake fluid leak | 0.71% |
| 25 | Drag link end worn | 0.71% |
| 26 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.71% |
| 27 | Headlamp fault | 0.71% |
| 28 | Seat belt condition | 0.71% |
| 29 | Spring mounting corroded | 0.71% |
| 30 | King pin or swivel pin worn | 0.71% |
| 31 | Brake pedal fault | 0.48% |
| 32 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.48% |
| 33 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.48% |
| 34 | Power steering ram fault | 0.48% |
| 35 | Steering arm worn | 0.48% |
| 36 | Steering free play excessive | 0.48% |
| 37 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.48% |
| 38 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.24% |
| 39 | Front suspension fault | 0.24% |
| 40 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.24% |
| 41 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.24% |
| 42 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.24% |
| 43 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.24% |
| 44 | Power steering pump fault | 0.24% |
| 45 | Steering drive system fault | 0.24% |
| 46 | Steering lock fault | 0.24% |
| 47 | Steering operation fault | 0.24% |
| 48 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.24% |
| 49 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.24% |
Showing all 49 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Bentley S1 MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Bentley S1, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
Join as a car owner — free
Get MOT reminders, a pre-MOT checklist, and tools to compare garages near you.
MOT Reminders
Free email alerts 28 and 7 days before your MOT expires.
44-Point MOT Checklist
Printable checklist to inspect your car before the test.
Save Favourite Garages
Save garages you trust and compare their ratings side by side.
Already a member? Sign in
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Bentley S1 problems?
Based on analysis of 1K Bentley S1 MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 0 identified common problems across 1 generation. Suspension is the most common problem category.
Which Bentley S1 generation has the most problems?
We haven't identified significant problem patterns specific to any single generation of the Bentley S1 yet — either this is a well-engineered model across all its generations, or the sample size per generation is still small. Check individual generation pages for MOT failure and advisory breakdowns.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Bentley S1?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Bentley S1 owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
Search Vehicles With Common Problems
Find common car problems, MOT failures, and advisories for any make and model



