Common Problems with the
2013–2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VII)

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2013–2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VII). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

Known Issues

Serious

Moderate

Minor

The 2013–2017 period has an average number of reported issues compared to other Rolls-Royce Phantom (VII) year periods.

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The bags and compressors struggle with the car's 2.5-tonne weight and eventually leak or fail.

Most affected: Standard Wheelbase, Extended Wheelbase

Estimated cost: £1,500–£2,500 per cornerAffects: 2003–2017Often appears around: 60k-100k miles

Typical symptoms

•Car sits low after being parked
•Harsh ride
•Compressor runs continuously

What to inspect before you buy

✓Check ride height after the car has sat overnight
✓Listen for a noisy or vibrating compressor
✓Look for perished rubber on the air struts

Soft-Close Door and Coach Door Motor Failures

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The Phantom's signature rear coach doors and soft-close mechanisms rely on complex electric motors that can fail, causing doors to not latch or require manual slamming. The power-closing feature on all doors is a common failure point.

Most affected: Standard Wheelbase, Extended Wheelbase, Drophead Coupé, Coupé

Estimated cost: £500–£1,000 per doorAffects: 2003–2017Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

•Door doesn't pull itself shut
•Clicking or grinding noise when closing
•Door warning light on dashboard
•Door bounces back when closing

What to inspect before you buy

✓Test the soft-close function on every door multiple times
✓Check for any warning messages related to doors
✓Listen for straining or clicking motors

Buying Tips for the 2013 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VII)

✓Inspect the Michelin PAX or Goodyear EMT tyres; replacements are rare and extremely expensive
✓Check for corrosion around the door handles and wheel arches on pre-2008 cars
✓Ask for proof of high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) replacement on the V12 engine
✓Verify all rear theatre and seat adjustment functions operate silently

2003–2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VII)