2021 Rolls-Royce Phantom
The 2021 Rolls-Royce Phantom is the pinnacle of luxury, powered by a 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine producing 563 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. The engine is coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the Phantom for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and near-silent operation. Criticisms often center on its immense size, making it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, and its stratospheric price tag. Fuel economy is also a concern for some owners.
Engine
6.75L Twin-Turbo V12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, especially around the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket, leading to a burning oil smell and potential low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ depending on the location of the leak and labor rates.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Occasional rough or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. This is more noticeable during cold starts.
- Solution: Transmission software re-flash or replacement of valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on repair needed.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor fails, resulting in a saggy suspension, ride height issues, and the “Suspension Fault” warning light on the dashboard. The vehicle may ride harshly and unevenly.
- Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system (including navigation, audio, and climate controls) intermittently freezes, reboots, or becomes unresponsive.
- Solution: Software update or, in some cases, replacement of the infotainment system control unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially when the car is left parked for extended periods.
- Solution: Diagnosing parasitic draw and addressing the faulty component, or replacing the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Malfunctioning Power Door Closers
- Description/Symptoms: The power door closers fail to fully close the doors, requiring manual closing or repeated attempts.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty door closer mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof/Moonroof Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, doesn’t open or close properly, or makes excessive noise during operation.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor or related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2021 Rolls-Royce Phantom, while representing the pinnacle of automotive luxury, isn’t immune to issues. The most common complaints revolve around the electrical systems, air suspension, and engine oil leaks. While less frequent, transmission issues and problems with the power door closers and sunroof can also occur. The cost of repair for these high-end components can be substantial, reflecting the premium nature of the vehicle. While none of the issues present are severe, the cost to repair them can be.