2017 Rolls-Royce Ghost

The 2017 Rolls-Royce Ghost is a luxury sedan renowned for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and powerful performance. It comes equipped with a 6.6-liter twin-turbo V12 engine producing 563 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While owners generally praise the Ghost for its unparalleled comfort, handcrafted details, and effortlessly refined driving experience, some common complaints arise. These include issues with the complex electronics, air suspension components, and some engine-related concerns, which are typical of high-end luxury vehicles with advanced systems. Despite the high price tag, some find the technology a bit dated compared to newer vehicles, and the running costs are significant.

Engine

6.6L Twin-Turbo V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are sometimes reported, often originating from valve cover gaskets or the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets or the entire oil filter housing assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, potentially stemming from radiator hoses, the water pump, or expansion tank. Symptoms include overheating, low coolant levels, and visible coolant puddles.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional rough or delayed shifting, especially during low-speed maneuvers or between certain gears.
  • Solution: A software update/reprogramming or a transmission fluid flush may resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body repair or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, while providing a cloud-like ride, is prone to issues. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, failing to raise or lower, or displaying error messages on the dashboard. Leaks in the air struts or compressor failure can be the root cause.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, while luxurious, is based on an older BMW iDrive system. Glitches include freezing, slow response times, and connectivity problems with smartphones.
  • Solution: A software update might solve the issue. If not, the control module may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive battery drain, especially if the car is not driven regularly. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or complete battery failure.
  • Solution: Inspect the battery for proper voltage, or any parasitic draw. Then either charge or replace the battery as necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The parking sensors, blind spot monitors, and other driver-assist systems can sometimes malfunction, giving false alerts or failing to work altogether.
  • Solution: Inspect the sensor for damage or blockage. Recalibration or replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof operation can sometimes be problematic, with reports of sticking, squeaking, or failing to open/close smoothly.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks. If the motor or mechanism is damaged, replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Older navigation software and maps can lead to inaccurate directions or outdated points of interest.
  • Solution: Update the navigation software and maps.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Rolls-Royce Ghost provides an unmatched luxury experience, but it’s important to be aware of the potential issues associated with its advanced systems. While some issues, such as infotainment glitches or sensor malfunctions, are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix, others like air suspension or engine oil leaks can be costly. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to significant repairs, and the cost of ownership should be carefully considered. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Rolls-Royce technician to identify and address any potential problems before making a purchase.