IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2009 Rolls-Royce Ghost (Series I & II)

The Ghost launched as a more "usable" and driver-focused alternative to the Phantom, featuring a 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12. These early cars are the most affordable but carry the highest risk of turbo coolant line leaks and fuel injector failures. Battery voltage sensitivity is a significant concern.

What changed for 2009

  • •UK launch of Ghost
  • •6.6-litre twin-turbo V12
  • •More driver-focused than Phantom

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Turbo coolant line leaks
  • !Fuel injector failures
  • !Battery voltage-related electrical faults
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Turbo Coolant Line Leaks

SeriousCooling System

The rubber coolant lines feeding the twin turbochargers sit in the "V" of the engine and become brittle from heat.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,200–£2,000
Warning Signs:

Low coolant warning, Faint smell of antifreeze, Visible residue in the engine valley

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the valley of the engine with a torch
  • Check for recent hose/line replacements in history
  • Pressure test the cooling system
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Valve Cover Gasket and Oil Leak Issues

ModerateEngine

The N74 V12 engine's valve cover gaskets deteriorate with age, causing oil leaks that can drip onto the exhaust manifold and create a burning oil smell. In severe cases, oil can contaminate spark plugs causing misfires.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£3,000
Warning Signs:

Burning oil smell after driving, Oil visible on the sides of the engine, Misfires or rough idle, Oil dripping on the garage floor

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the sides of the V12 engine for oil residue
  • Check for burning oil smell when the engine is hot
  • Look for oil contamination around spark plug wells
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Soft-Close Door Motor Failure

MinorBodywork & Rust

The actuators for the soft-close feature can fail, meaning doors must be slammed manually or won't latch correctly.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£700 per door
Warning Signs:

Door doesn't pull itself shut, Clicking noise when closing, Door bounce

What to Inspect:
  • Test the soft-close function on all four doors multiple times
  • Listen for straining motors
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2009 Rolls-Royce Ghost (Series I & II)

  • ✓Check the cooling system expansion tank and turbo feed lines for leaks
  • ✓Verify the 8-speed ZF gearbox shifts imperceptibly
  • ✓Ensure the soft-close door mechanism works on every door
2010–2013
Check a 2009 Rolls-Royce Ghost (Series I & II) by Registration