Bentley GT GTC Shock Absorber Axle Control Arm Steering Gear

To maintain the world-class handling and ride comfort of the Bentley Continental GT or GTC, using precise OEM-specification components is essential. These parts are often shared with the Volkswagen Phaeton (Generation 1 & 2) or the Porsche Panamera (Generation 3), though they are tuned specifically for Bentley’s heavier chassis.

Suspension & Steering Component Guide

1. Shock Absorber (Air Suspension Struts)

The Continental GT/GTC uses an adaptive air suspension system with Continuous Damping Control (CDC).

• Front Struts (Gen 1 & 2): Common part numbers include 3W0616039C (Left) and 3W0616040C (Right). These units combine the air spring bellows and the hydraulic damper into one assembly.

• Front Struts (Gen 3, 2018+): Transitioned to the 971 or 4G series, often listed as 971616039.

• Rear Struts: For earlier models, look for 3W0616001 (Left) and 3W0616002 (Right).

2. Axle Control Arms (Wishbones)

The front suspension is a complex multi-link setup. It is highly recommended to replace these in pairs to ensure even tire wear and alignment stability.

• Upper Control Arms: Often called “Link Arms.” Common parts are 3W0407505 (Left Front) and 3W0407506 (Right Front).

• Lower Control Arms: The “Track Control Arm” (3W0407151) is the heavy-duty aluminum arm that bears the most load.

• Hardware: Bentley specifies that the mounting bolts for these aluminum arms are one-time use stretch bolts. Always use new hardware to avoid the bolts backing out or snapping under torque.

3. Steering Gear (Rack and Pinion)

The steering rack is a precision-engineered hydraulic or electric unit depending on the model year.

• 2011–2018 Models: Frequently uses part 3W1422061D or 3W2422061D.

• Important: If you are replacing an older “A” or “B” suffix rack with a newer revision, you may also need to update the Steering Control Module (3W0907307L) to ensure compatibility with the vehicle’s Servotronic software.

Common Service Specs

Signs of Failure

• Struts: The car “hisses” when parked or one corner sits lower than the others after overnight parking.

• Control Arms: A distinct “clunking” or “knocking” sound when driving over speed bumps or when braking sharply at low speeds.

• Steering Gear: Heavy steering, fluid leaks on the driveway (Hydraulic), or a “Power Steering Defective” warning on the infotainment screen.

Professional Tip: After replacing any of these components, a Four-Wheel Laser Alignment and a Suspension “Basic Setting” calibration via a diagnostic tool (like ODIS) are mandatory to recalibrate the ride height sensors.