2016 Rolls-Royce Dawn

The 2016 Rolls-Royce Dawn is a luxury convertible that blends opulent comfort with a powerful driving experience. It features a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 563 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and striking exterior design. Common dislikes often revolve around the vehicle’s considerable size, high running costs, and complex electronics which can sometimes be problematic.

Engine

6.6L Twin-Turbo V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines. These leaks can manifest as visible oil spots under the car, the smell of burning oil, and/or a low oil level warning.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. The turbocharger oil lines may require replacement if they are the source of the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the source and complexity of the repair.
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers, including whining noises, reduced boost pressure, and potential failure. These issues can result in decreased engine performance and potentially require turbocharger replacement.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and if one or both turbos need replacing.

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional rough or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed maneuvers. This may be due to software issues or internal transmission components.
  • Solution: A transmission software update can sometimes resolve the issue. In other cases, internal repairs or a transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 for a software update, $2,000 - $8,000+ for internal repairs or replacement.

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience malfunctions, leading to the car sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, or failure to adjust ride height. This can be caused by issues with the air struts, compressor, or control module.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty components, such as the air struts, compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+ depending on the failed component(s).

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, including freezing, slow response times, and software errors.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, the infotainment system may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for software updates, $3,000 - $8,000+ for system replacement.
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car can experience excessive battery drain, especially if left unused for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or complete battery failure.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the battery drain. This may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle, such as those related to the TPMS, parking sensors, and stability control, can malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800 per sensor replacement, depending on the sensor’s location and complexity.

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top mechanism can experience issues, including slow or incomplete opening/closing, leaks, and unusual noises. This can be caused by issues with the hydraulic system, sensors, or mechanical components.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the faulty components of the convertible top mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the complexity of the repair.

Interior

• Power Window Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows can occasionally malfunction, including slow operation, failure to open or close, or erratic movement.
  • Solution: Resetting the window motor, replacing the window motor, or repairing the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800

Recalls:

• NHTSA Recall Number: 17V-256
  • Component: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Potential Number of Units Affected: 143
  • Problem: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars (Rolls-Royce) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Dawn vehicles. The fuel delivery pipe in the engine compartment may not be properly sealed.
  • Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Rolls-Royce will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery pipe, free of charge. The recall began June 1, 2017. Owners may contact Rolls-Royce customer service at 1-877-877-3735.
• NHTSA Recall Number: 17V-334
  • Component: AIR BAGS
  • Potential Number of Units Affected: 10
  • Problem: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars (Rolls-Royce) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Dawn vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with incorrectly-oriented head protection air bags. As such, these vehicles do not conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, “Ejection Mitigation.”
  • Consequence: If the air bag is deployed in a crash, it may not provide the intended protection, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Rolls-Royce will notify owners, and dealers will replace the head protection air bags, free of charge. The recall began August 8, 2017. Owners may contact Rolls-Royce customer service at 1-877-877-3735.

In summary, the 2016 Rolls-Royce Dawn, while offering unparalleled luxury, can be susceptible to a range of issues. The severity of these issues ranges from minor electrical glitches to more significant mechanical problems with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The cost to repair these issues can vary widely, potentially reaching several thousand dollars for major components. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Rolls-Royce mechanic.