Common Problems with the
2017–2024 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VIII)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2017–2024 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VIII). None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

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.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £500–£2,000Affects: 20172024Often appears around: Age and storage related

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Check battery health and manufacture date
  • Scan for stored voltage-related codes
  • Test power-closing door functionality repeatedly

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.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £2,000–£4,000Affects: 20172024Often appears around: 30k-60k miles

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Listen for suspension noise in "Comfort" mode
  • Check for any visible seepage from active roll bar actuators

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.

Most affected: All models with Starlight headliner

Estimated cost: £3,000–£8,000Affects: 20172024Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • 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

Buying Tips for the 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VIII)

  • Ensure all 4-wheel steering and active suspension systems operate without warning lights
  • Verify the "Gallery" (dashboard art) is free from dust or condensation behind the glass
  • Check the massive laser headlights for condensation; units are extremely expensive to replace
  • Confirm the car has been kept on a battery conditioner to prevent module "desync" errors

Browse 2017–2024 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VIII) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2017–2024 Rolls-Royce Phantom (VIII) vehicles.

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