2004 Rolls-Royce Phantom

The 2004 Rolls-Royce Phantom is a pinnacle of luxury, powered by a 6.75-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine producing 453 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque. It came exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Phantom for its smooth ride, opulent interior, and commanding presence. However, some common dislikes include its large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, high maintenance costs, and complex electronics that can be prone to failure.

Engine

6.75L V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets, including valve cover gaskets and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the affected seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from hoses, radiator, water pump, or expansion tank. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VANOS Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The variable valve timing system (VANOS) can experience issues with solenoids or seals, leading to rough idling, decreased performance, and fault codes.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the VANOS solenoids or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 6-speed automatic transmission may exhibit slipping between gears or harsh shifts.
  • Solution: Replacement or refurbishment of the transmission is required
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4000 - $8000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system is known to have issues with air struts leaking, the compressor failing, or ride height sensors malfunctioning. This results in the car sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, or suspension failure warnings.
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts, compressor, or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ per strut, $800 - $2000+ for compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to various electrical components not shutting down properly, leading to a dead battery, especially if the car is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty electrical component causing the drain. This can be a time consuming diagnostic process.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, screen failures, or navigation problems.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system may fail to lock or unlock doors.
  • Solution: Replace faulty actuators or repair wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Closing Assist Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power door closing system may fail to properly latch the doors, requiring manual closure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the door closing assist mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Parking Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors can become faulty, providing inaccurate readings or failing to operate.
  • Solution: Replace the malfunctioning parking sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, fail to open/close properly, or leak.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Navigation screen can suffer from dead pixels or just not working at all
  • Solution: Replacement of the unit is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Rolls-Royce Phantom, while offering unparalleled luxury, can be prone to several issues. Engine and suspension problems, such as oil leaks, coolant leaks, and air suspension malfunctions, tend to be the most expensive to repair. Electrical and interior issues can also add to the overall cost of ownership. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, resulting in repair costs spanning from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering a 2004 Phantom.