HOW TO GET ONE IN YOUR GARAGE

An expert’s view DANNY RILEY

“I’m the last former Rolls and Bentley Crewe-trained apprentice, now with my own specialist servicing business, so forgive me if I don’t get misty-eyed about the Arnage. To me, real Bentleys ended with the previous Sz-series cars. The Arnage feels a bit plasticky inside, for instance, and rather than operate silently, the indicator stalk ‘clunks’. They’re good value for money, though, and the Arnage T is quick. The trouble is, people may be able to afford an Arnage but most can’t afford to maintain it properly. Essential service jobs are ignored, while general garages lack the knowledge and tools to do little more than an oil change.”

Buyer beware… ENGINE

Oil changes with fully synthetic 5W-30 every 7500 miles or six months are essential. Early 2001-reg twin-turbo Arnages can suffer camshaft failure. Red Label cars from 2000 to 2002 experience head gasket failure from around 40k miles. The secondary air injection system’s pipework at the rear of the engine can leak and it requires the removal of the gearbox to fix it. The sump, head and rocker cover gaskets can weep oil if the securing nuts aren’t torqued at scheduled intervals. Hose leaks are common where clips aren’t checked and tightened. Brake pumps and air-ram pipes are located in the engine’s vee and often neglected.

STEERING, SUSPENSION AND BRAKES

An overly hard ride can point towards failed gas springs at the rear (or a failed battery). Wandering steering is a commonly missed item at the MOT test. Front lower wishbone bushes wear. Discs and pads take a hammering.

BATTERY

Electrical issues are almost always caused by having the wrong batteries. Check it’s a healthy Type 100 service battery and Type 75 starter battery.

BODY

Galvanic corrosion can be a problem around the door handles, locks and window frames. Check the condition of the inner wings, which can rot.

INTERIOR

Ensure the heater fan blower motor works on all speed settings. Window regulators are a weak spot, as is the indicator stalk.

Also worth knowing

The Rolls-royce and Bentley Specialists Association represents garages dedicated to upholding the high servicing and repair standards associated with the marques. It also represents companies that manufacture scarce parts to OE standards. Look for the RRBSA logo.

How much to spend £15,000-£19,995

Early Arnage twin-turbo 4.4s with 100k miles and the first 6.75 Red Labels.

£20,000-£24,995

Red Labels around 50k miles. Highermileage 2002-reg Arnage Ts from £21,950. Also, 4.4s up to £22k.

£25,000-£29,999

More 2002 to 2005 Rs and Ts ranging from 30k to 60k miles.

£30,000-£34,995

Plenty more 2002-onwards Rs and Ts with up to 60k miles.

£35,000-£44,950

Facelifted Rs and Ts (from 2005).

£45,000-£59,995

The best 2007-2008 Ts.

One we found BENTLEY ARNAGE 6.75 RED LABEL, 2001/51, 57K MILES, £21,890

Comes with full Bentley service history and a 12-month warranty. Just pips a 2003/03 Arnage T for £22,995 that has only “service history” but is still tempting because it’s a better colour and has a 12-month AA warranty.