2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost

The 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost is a luxury sedan renowned for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and powerful performance. The Ghost features a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 563 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque. All Ghosts are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Ghost for its comfortable and quiet cabin, luxurious features, and effortless acceleration. Common criticisms include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the vehicle’s large size, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

6.6L Twin-Turbo V12

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifolds, resulting in a burning smell. Visible oil accumulation around the valve cover gasket area.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points, including the water pump, hoses, or radiator. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant pooling under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Identify and replace the leaking component (water pump, hose, radiator, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or jerky shifts, particularly during acceleration or deceleration. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn valve bodies, or internal damage.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush. If the problem persists, the valve body or entire transmission may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 for fluid flush. $2,000-$5,000+ for valve body or full transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip, causing a delay in acceleration or a sudden loss of power. This can be a sign of worn clutch packs or other internal damage.
  • Solution: Requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor may fail, causing the vehicle to sag on one or more corners. This can also result in a “Suspension Fault” warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The air struts can develop leaks, leading to the vehicle sitting lower than normal or failing to maintain the correct ride height.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000-$4,000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery may drain quickly, especially when the car is not driven for extended periods. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from one or more electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw, which may involve replacing a faulty module or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1,000+ depending on the source of the draw.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or exhibit other malfunctions. This can be caused by software glitches or hardware failures.
  • Solution: Software update. If the problem persists, the infotainment system may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500 for software. $3,000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles, which are electronically operated, may fail to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door handle mechanism or module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$3,000+ per door handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may get stuck open or closed, or make unusual noises when operating.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, rails, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Navigation screen may fail or fade, causing the driver to be unable to see the navigation system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the screen
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost, while a symbol of luxury and performance, can present owners with a range of issues, particularly as the car ages. The most significant concerns revolve around the air suspension, engine oil leaks, and electrical system, with repair costs often exceeding several thousand dollars. While other problems such as the transmission issues and infotainment glitches may also happen, the other issues are more likely to occur, causing the cost of ownership of the vehicle to be high. Potential buyers should factor in these potential expenses when considering a pre-owned Ghost.