IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VII)

The final year of Phantom VII production before the VIII replacement. These last cars are the most refined and best-maintained, with all accumulated improvements applied.

What changed for 2016

  • •Final production year
  • •All accumulated improvements applied
  • •Limited availability of low-mileage examples

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Age-related air suspension leaks
  • !Brake disc corrosion from low mileage
  • !Battery drain from electronics
2
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£2,500 per corner
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Check ride height after the car has sat overnight
  • Listen for a noisy or vibrating compressor
  • Look for perished rubber on the air struts
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

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

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:
  • Test the soft-close function on every door multiple times
  • Check for any warning messages related to doors
  • Listen for straining or clicking motors
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VII)

  • ✓The 2016 models are the most desirable Phantom VII variants
  • ✓Check for evidence of garage storage and low mileage
  • ✓Verify all electrics work correctly
2013–20152017
Check a 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VII) by Registration