2013-2019 Bentley Flying Spur Front Headrest: A Guide to Comfort, Mulliner, and RSE Options

Variant Differences: The Key to Compatibility

Before purchasing a replacement headrest for a 2013-2019 Bentley Flying Spur, you must first identify which seat package is in your vehicle. The headrests are not interchangeable between major types due to differences in wiring, mounting, and physical shape. Using the wrong headrest can result in non-functional features or an improper fit.

Standard Seats (Manual Headrest)

The base configuration features a manual headrest. Height is adjusted by pressing a small button on the plastic collar where one of the metal posts enters the seatback and lifting or lowering the headrest. These are the simplest version, with no electrical wiring.

Front Seat Comfort Specification (Powered Headrest)

This popular optional upgrade adds significant functionality, including a power-adjustable headrest. Instead of a manual release button, the headrest height is controlled by a switch on the main seat control panel, located on the side of the seat base. These headrests contain an electric motor and a wiring harness that connects inside the seatback. They are physically incompatible with standard seats because they lack the manual adjustment mechanism and require power to function.

Mulliner Driving Specification

The Mulliner Driving Specification is primarily an aesthetic and materials upgrade. Headrests in a Mulliner-equipped car are distinguished by diamond-quilted leather and often feature an embroidered Bentley emblem stitched into the leather. Crucially, the Mulliner package could be applied to vehicles with either standard seats or the Front Seat Comfort Specification. Therefore, a 'Mulliner headrest' can be either manual or powered. It is essential to verify the adjustment type in addition to the Mulliner aesthetics.

Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) Specification

Vehicles equipped with the optional Rear Seat Entertainment system have a completely different front headrest. The back of these headrests is much larger and incorporates a mounting point and wiring for a 10-inch LCD screen for the rear passengers. These are incompatible with all other seat types due to their unique shape, wiring, and mounting points within the seat frame.

Symptoms of a Failing or Damaged Headrest

Headrest failures can be cosmetic, mechanical, or electrical.

• Cosmetic Damage: This is the most common issue. Look for rips, scuffs, or tears in the leather, particularly on the side bolsters. The foam cushioning can also collapse or become hard over time, reducing comfort. Sunlight can cause the leather color to fade, making it difficult to match with the rest of the interior.
🎬 Watch: How to prevent leather fading and cracks
• Mechanical Failure (Manual Headrests): The height adjustment mechanism can fail. The release button may break or become stuck, preventing the headrest from moving. The detents on the metal posts can wear down, causing the headrest to slip from its set position.
• Electrical Failure (Powered Headrests): For headrests with the Comfort Specification, the internal motor can fail. Symptoms include a grinding noise with no movement, or the headrest being completely unresponsive to the control switch. Forum discussions on similar models mention headrest motors failing to retract, which can be a symptom of a failed motor or a control module issue.
• Rattling Noises: A loose headrest can rattle or squeak. This is usually caused by worn plastic guides where the metal posts enter the seat, or a problem with the internal mechanism.

Buying a Used 2013-2019 Flying Spur Headrest

Due to the extremely high cost of new OEM parts and the lack of aftermarket alternatives, a used OEM headrest is the most practical solution for most owners. However, careful verification is required.

Step 1: Positively Identify Your Vehicle's Specification

Use the guide above to determine if you need a Manual, Powered, or RSE headrest. This is the single most important step. Do not purchase a headrest until you are certain of the type you need.

Step 2: Match Color, Stitching, and Trim

Bentley offered a vast range of interior colors, piping, and contrast stitching options. A headrest from a 'Beluga' (black) interior will not match one from a 'Linen' (cream) interior. Ask the seller for high-quality photos in good lighting to verify the color. Pay close attention to the color of the stitching. If you have the Mulliner specification, ensure the replacement has the correct embroidered Bentley emblem.

Step 3: Physical Inspection Checklist

• Leather Condition: Check for hardening, cracks, or deep scratches. Minor scuffs may be repairable by a leather specialist, but major damage is permanent.
🎬 See how to repair damaged and cracked leather
• Foam Integrity: Press firmly on the cushion. It should feel firm and spring back evenly. Avoid headrests with lumpy or collapsed foam.
• Posts and Guides: Inspect the chrome posts for pitting, rust, or damage. Ensure the plastic guides at the base are intact and not cracked.
• Functionality (Powered): If buying a powered headrest, ask the seller if they can confirm it was tested and working before being removed from the donor vehicle.

Cost Comparison

Replacement Overview

Replacing a headrest is generally straightforward, but the difficulty depends on the type.

• Difficulty (Manual): 1/5. This is a very simple DIY task.
• Difficulty (Powered/RSE): 2.5/5. This requires accessing and disconnecting a wiring harness inside the seatback.

Tools Needed:

• None for most manual headrests
• Trim removal tool (for powered/RSE versions)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. For Manual Headrests: Locate the small release button on the plastic trim collar of one of the headrest posts. Press and hold this button while pulling the headrest straight up and out of the seat.
2. For Powered or RSE Headrests: The process starts the same way, but the headrest will not come out completely because it is attached to a wire. To disconnect it, you must gain access to the inside of the seatback. This typically involves carefully unclipping the lower edge of the rear seat cover and peeling it upwards to expose the connector. Disconnect the wiring harness, then fully remove the headrest.
3. Installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. For powered/RSE headrests, ensure you reconnect the wiring harness securely before re-attaching the seatback cover.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)