IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VIII)

The Phantom VIII launched as the flagship Rolls-Royce, featuring a 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 and a spaceframe construction. These early cars are the most affordable but carry the highest risk of electronic control module glitches from low battery voltage.

What changed for 2017

  • •UK launch of Phantom VIII
  • •6.75-litre twin-turbo V12
  • •Spaceframe construction

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Electronic control module glitches
  • !Battery voltage-related faults
  • !Rear-axle steering issues
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Electronic Control Module Glitches

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

With dozens of ECUs, the Phantom VIII is highly sensitive to voltage drops. Low battery health can cause false failures for the rear-axle steering or active anti-roll bars.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£2,000
Warning Signs:

Chassis control warnings, Infotainment lag, Soft-close or power-door inconsistency

What to Inspect:
  • Check battery health and manufacture date
  • Scan for stored voltage-related codes
  • Test power-closing door functionality repeatedly
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Air Strut and Active Roll Bar Noise

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The complex active chassis components can develop minor knocks or squeaks if the car is driven frequently on poor UK roads.

Est. Repair Cost: £2,000–£4,000
Warning Signs:

Faint knocking over speed bumps, Hydraulic noise from active roll bars, Ride height calibration messages

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for suspension noise in "Comfort" mode
  • Check for any visible seepage from active roll bar actuators
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Starlight Headliner Fiber Breakage

MinorInterior & Trim

The iconic Starlight headliner uses fibre-optic strands to create a starry sky effect. Over time, individual fibres can break or go dark, creating visible gaps in the star pattern. Complete headliner replacement is the only true fix.

Est. Repair Cost: £3,000–£8,000
Warning Signs:

Dark spots or gaps in the starlight pattern, Individual fibres no longer illuminating, Uneven star brightness across the headliner

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the headliner with the stars illuminated in a dark environment
  • Check for any visible fibre breakage or dark patches
  • Ask if any fibre repairs have been carried out
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VIII)

  • Keep the car on a battery conditioner to avoid electronic ghost errors
  • Check the rear-axle steering operation
  • Verify all interior electronics work correctly
2018–2019
Check a 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VIII) by Registration