In a very unusual move, Bentley Motors has recalled about 600 of its ultra-luxury cars in the U.S. because of a potential pedestrian problem. It seems that the “Flying B” symbolic ornament on a Bentley’s bonnet could impale a pedestrian if it does not retract on impact like it’s supposed to.
A dealer in Britain brought the problem to the company’s attention, and even though Bentley says they are not aware of any complaints or accidents involving this situation, they will fix the problem for free.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in their recall notice that it is possible for corrosion to prevent the “B” from immediately retracting if it hits an unwary pedestrian, and add insult to injury, so to speak.
Some of the cars being recalled are in the £190,000 price range, and the models are the Arnage R, Arnage T, Arnage RL, Brooklands and Azure from the years 2007 through 2009. Since Bentley is one of the world’s most prestigious automakers, they do have a reputation to uphold. They have said that though this is only a ‘precautionary move’, the company wants to take care of any potential problem as soon as possible.
About 1400 vehicles from the top-end models are being recalled globally, and Bentley has offered to resolve the problem at dealerships, starting this month. Owners of the cars in question may be a bit embarrassed at such a mundane affair, but better a little embarrassment than an impaled pedestrian.
