Rolls-Royce Ghost (Mk2) Common Problems & Reliability
The second-generation Rolls-Royce Ghost, launched in autumn 2020, marked a complete departure from its BMW 7-Series-based predecessor by migrating to the marque's bespoke all-aluminium 'Architecture of Luxury' spaceframe platform shared with the Phantom VIII and Cullinan. Embracing a minimalist 'Post Opulent' design aesthetic, the second-generation Ghost introduced standard all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering, and the world-first 'Planar' suspension system, which incorporates a bespoke upper wishbone damper above the front suspension assemblies to eliminate high-frequency road vibrations. Power is supplied by a 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged N74 V12 producing 563bhp (592bhp in Black Badge specification) paired with an 8-speed satellite-aided ZF automatic transmission. In the UK, the Ghost Mk2 offers unrivaled acoustic isolation, whisper-quiet motorway cruising, and effortless dynamic composure. However, its immense electronic complexity, 48V active chassis actuators, and heavy mass require vigilant battery upkeep and strict adherence to specialist maintenance schedules. Multiple safety recalls covering the digital instrument cluster glass and connected services also require verification on used examples.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Rolls-Royce Ghost (Mk2) Faults & Repair Costs
Instrument Cluster Tempered Glass Shatter Safety Defect (DVSA Recall R/2023/275)
Ghost models manufactured between October 2019 and December 2022 were equipped with single-layer tempered glass protecting the digital instrument cluster. Crash testing revealed that under high-speed side impacts, this tempered glass could fracture into small, sharp fragments and propel into the passenger cabin. Official DVSA recall R/2023/275 was issued requiring dealers to apply an anti-shatter protective coating or film over the cluster glass free of charge.
Recall campaign notice R/2023/275 active on UK DVSA vehicle check, Single-layer tempered glass present over digital gauge cluster without safety coating, Shatter risk of instrument screen into sharp fragments under severe side impact, Outstanding safety campaign advisory noted during dealer servicing or MOT lookup
- Input the vehicle registration into the official GOV.UK / DVSA recall database to verify status
- Inspect the gauge display surface closely for dealer-applied protective anti-shatter film
- Check vehicle service documentation for stamped proof of recall R/2023/275 completion
- Verify whether the gauge cluster has been upgraded to later factory laminated safety glass
Planar Air Suspension Upper Wishbone Damper and Ride Height Sensor Wear
The Ghost Mk2 utilizes a world-first Planar suspension architecture incorporating an upper wishbone damper unit mounted directly above the front wishbones alongside three-chamber air springs and stereo road-reading cameras. Driven on potholed UK roads, the upper wishbone dampers and articulated ride height sensors experience heavy cyclic stress. Damper seal weeping or sensor linkage play causes ride height deviations, knocking noises, and suspension fault warnings.
Subtle knocking or tapping noise from front wheelarch when traversing low-speed potholes, Car sitting noticeably lower on one corner after being parked overnight, 'Chassis Function Restricted' or 'Suspension Fault' warning message on digital binnacle, Secondary ride harshness over coarse asphalt, diminishing the trademark magic carpet ride
- Listen for front suspension knocking on a test drive over uneven tarmac and speed humps
- Measure vehicle ride height at all four wheel arches after sitting switched off for 12 hours
- Inspect the upper wishbone damper assembly above the front suspension for hydraulic oil leaks
- Scan the active chassis control module for stored height sensor calibration or air leak codes
Emergency Call (eCall) Telematics Module Coding Error (DVSA Recall R/2022/247)
During production between March 2022 and June 2022, a factory coding error assigned an incorrect software option code to the telematics control module. This accidentally blocked cellular connected services, leaving the mandatory automated Emergency Call (eCall) system inoperative. The UK DVSA issued safety recall R/2022/247 requiring authorized dealers to install a fresh vehicle configuration order to unblock connected services and re-enable eCall functionality.
'Emergency Call System Malfunction' warning displayed on central touchscreen, Inability to connect to SOS emergency services or Rolls-Royce connected concierge, Connected services and live navigation traffic updates disabled in infotainment, Active DVSA safety recall R/2022/247 recorded on vehicle check
- Check the vehicle history against DVSA recall campaign R/2022/247 for completion status
- Confirm that the overhead SOS emergency call button shows a solid green status LED
- Test the connected navigation services to verify real-time data connectivity is active
- Scan the telematics control unit (TCU) for option code coding and communication errors
Buying a used Rolls-Royce Ghost (Mk2)? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.