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2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom is a pinnacle of luxury, powered by a 6.75-liter V12 engine producing 453 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, it delivers a smooth and powerful driving experience. Owners often praise the Phantom for its opulent interior, iconic styling, and serene ride quality. However, some common complaints include high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and occasional issues with the air suspension system. The Phantom aimed to provide an unmatched level of sophistication but even luxury vehicles face problems as they age.

Engine

6.75L V12

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the location of the leak and labor costs).
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, radiator, or water pump. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • VANOS Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids can cause rough idling, decreased performance, and engine error codes.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty VANOS solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The 8-speed automatic transmission can sometimes exhibit harsh or delayed shifting, especially when cold.
    • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush, or in severe cases, transmission repair or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $8000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can cause shuddering or vibrations, especially at lower speeds.
    • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system is prone to compressor failure. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, a malfunctioning suspension warning light, and a noisy compressor.
    • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Air Strut Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Air struts can develop leaks, leading to suspension sagging and a compromised ride quality.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking air struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $6000+ (per strut)

Electrical

  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can be caused by various electrical components not shutting down properly. This can lead to a dead battery, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the source of the drain and repairing or replacing the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the cause).
  • Infotainment System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
    • Solution: Software updates, component replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Central Locking System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in the central locking system can cause doors to not lock or unlock properly.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty door lock actuator or control module
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500

Exterior

  • Parking Sensor Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors can fail, resulting in false alarms or a complete lack of functionality.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty parking sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Interior

  • Power Window Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows can experience malfunctions, such as slow operation or complete failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the window regulator or motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+

Recalls:

  • NHTSA Recall Number: 13V224000
    • Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
    • Potential Number of Units Affected: 3575
    • Problem: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars (Rolls-Royce) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost vehicles manufactured January 19, 2010, through September 20, 2012 and 2003-2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom vehicles manufactured January 29, 2003 through September 20, 2012. Due to a software error, the electrical system could shut down, causing the engine to stall and increasing the risk of a crash.
    • Consequence: Electrical system shut down can cause the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
    • Remedy: Rolls-Royce will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in May 2013. Owners may contact Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735.

Summary

The 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom, while offering unparalleled luxury and performance, is not without its potential issues. Owners should be aware of potential problems with the air suspension, electrical components, and engine oil leaks. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. Potential buyers should factor in these potential expenses when considering the purchase of a used 2012 Phantom and should have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic with experience working on Rolls-Royce vehicles.

Rolls-Royce, Phantom
Rolls-Royce Phantom 2012
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