2021 Rolls-Royce Wraith
The 2021 Rolls-Royce Wraith is a luxury coupe renowned for its opulent interior, powerful engine, and smooth ride. It’s powered by a 6.6-liter twin-turbo V12 engine producing 624 horsepower and 605 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While owners rave about its comfortable ride, distinctive styling, and prestigious brand image, some common dislikes include its hefty price tag, large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and the potential for expensive repairs.
Engine
6.6L Twin-Turbo V12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the source of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can experience premature failure, resulting in reduced power, whistling noises, and potentially engine damage.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5000 - $10,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or jerky shifting, particularly at lower speeds. This can be caused by issues with the valve body, solenoids, or software calibration.
- Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body, replacing solenoids, or reflashing the transmission control module (TCM).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ depending on the issue and repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor can fail, leading to the vehicle sitting low, uneven ride height, or a warning light on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Strut Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The air struts can develop leaks, causing the vehicle to sag on one or more corners, resulting in a bumpy ride and potentially damaging the air suspension compressor.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+ per strut
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, and connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacing the infotainment unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
- Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic draw or replacing the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Automatic Door Closing System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The automatic door closing system, also known as “coach doors” or “suicide doors”, can sometimes malfunction, failing to close properly or becoming stuck.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the door closing mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $5000+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Power Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows may fail to operate, resulting in the window being stuck open or closed.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Motor Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The motors that control the seat adjustments can fail, preventing the seat from moving in certain directions.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2021 Rolls-Royce Wraith, while a symbol of luxury and performance, can be prone to certain issues. The most common problems relate to the engine (oil leaks, turbocharger failure), transmission (harsh shifting), suspension (air suspension failures), electrical systems (infotainment glitches, battery drain), and interior/exterior components. The severity and cost of these repairs can be significant, ranging from a few hundred dollars for minor electrical issues to several thousand dollars for engine or suspension overhauls. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential maintenance costs when considering a pre-owned Wraith.