2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost
The 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost is a luxury sedan that offers a smooth ride, opulent interior, and powerful performance. It was initially offered with a single engine option: a 6.6-liter twin-turbo V12 engine producing 563 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the car’s effortless power, serene driving experience, and handcrafted interior. Criticisms often revolve around its considerable size, high running costs, and the potential for expensive repairs.
Engine
6.6L Twin-Turbo V12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Retorquing bolts may solve minor leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbochargers, loss of power, check engine light illuminated. Possible oil leaks in the turbocharger system.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbocharger. Inspection of associated lines and components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+ (for a pair of new turbos)
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, the water pump, or the radiator. Symptoms include a sweet smell, visible coolant leaks under the car, and overheating.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ (depending on the source of the leak)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP90)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during gear changes, rough or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Can be more pronounced when cold.
- Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush, or valve body replacement. In severe cases, transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $6,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, particularly under light acceleration. Stalling or difficulty engaging gears.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The car sits unevenly or too low. “Suspension Fault” warnings on the dashboard. The air suspension compressor may be excessively noisy or not run at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor. Inspect air lines for leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Spring Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits low or uneven. Hissing sounds from the suspension. Suspension warnings on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking air spring(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per air spring
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently drains, especially if the car is left unused for extended periods. Difficulty starting the car.
- Solution: Identifying and repairing parasitic drains. Battery replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (battery replacement) - $1,000+ (diagnosing and repairing electrical faults)
- Recalls: None Found
- Infotainment System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or unresponsive infotainment system. Navigation errors. Bluetooth connectivity problems.
- Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the infotainment system components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $5,000+ (system replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures (e.g., TPMS, Parking Sensors)
- Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard. Inaccurate tire pressure readings. Parking sensors not functioning correctly.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Self-Closing Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not closing fully or latching properly, requiring multiple attempts. The door closing mechanism may be noisy or malfunction.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the door latch mechanism and/or actuators.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Power Seat Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Power seats not adjusting correctly or at all. Motors may be noisy or fail to operate.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motors, switches, or wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ per seat
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly. Leaks around the sunroof seal. Noisy operation.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost, while a pinnacle of luxury and performance, can present owners with a range of potential issues. The most concerning are the engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems, which can be quite expensive to address. Suspension and electrical faults also occur frequently and can lead to costly repairs. While some issues can be resolved with relatively inexpensive fixes, others can quickly escalate into major expenses. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls and factor them into their ownership expectations.