Bentley Bentayga symbolizes luxury, elegance, and quality. However, even this vehicle sometimes faces hidden problems beneath its glamorous surface.
According to Jadeh Makhsoos Information Base, many buyers expect a trouble-free experience when they pay over $200,000 for a car. This assumption seems logical but does not always hold true. A new NHTSA recall for several Bentayga Hybrid models highlights that even top automakers can encounter defects requiring immediate action, leading to a significant Bentley battery recall.
The defect emerged from the battery. An official report states that some 18 kWh batteries, manufactured by Samsung SDI, may overheat during charging. This issue, in the worst case, could lead to a fire. Bentley has not reported any incidents or injuries so far. However, the company confirmed the potential for fire and decided to act quickly.
Recall documents explain two main factors can cause this temperature increase. First, contaminated particles exist in the cell production process. Second, the internal battery separator sustains damage. Both factors increase the likelihood of a short circuit, which can lead to thermal runaway, exposing the battery to a severe temperature rise.
Jadeh Makhsoos reports, the recall affects a total of 130 Bentayga Hybrid units produced between September 13 and 28, 2023. Fortunately, Bentley believes only a small fraction of these vehicles will actually require battery replacement.
Bentley’s solution involves a smart software check. Instead of widespread battery replacement, Bentley decided to first update the battery management system. This new software can identify the smallest signs of abnormal battery discharge. It also determines which module or battery pack requires replacement following the Bentley battery recall.
Bentley predicts less than one percent of recalled vehicles will likely need new batteries. Most will emerge healthy after the software screening.
Why did the recall happen now? The story began in October 2023. Bentley learned about a similar defect in another Volkswagen Group brand. Since no field reports of a similar problem existed in the Bentayga Hybrid, they did not decide on a recall.
However, as reports increased from other group models, Bentley’s product safety committee decided to re-examine the issue. This review resulted in the current recall. It represents a preventive measure to resolve the problem before an incident occurs.
Paying $200,000 creates an expectation of a flawless product. However, the automotive industry shows that even top brands are not immune to manufacturing defects. The Bentayga Hybrid recall is more a precautionary measure than a reaction to an incident. This proactive Bentley battery recall aims to ensure owners of this luxury SUV can continue to drive with peace of mind.