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2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller

Overall Score

6.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary ownership concern is a recall for the passenger seat belt retractor, which may deactivate early. Confirm this recall has been completed.
  • No consumer complaints were logged, suggesting a robust build quality outside of the seat belt issue.
  • The 6.7L V12 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission are the core of its performance, requiring diligent maintenance.
  • Expect high fuel costs due to the vehicle's size and engine, with a combined EPA rating of 14 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan

The 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan offers unparalleled luxury and presence, but as a used purchase, its mechanicals and potential issues warrant careful consideration. While consumer complaints are absent, three recalls, primarily concerning the passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR), highlight a specific component concern. This defect could compromise occupant restraint in certain scenarios. Beyond this, the 12-cylinder, 6.7-liter engine and its automatic transmission are expected to perform reliably, provided the vehicle has been maintained to Rolls-Royce standards. Fuel economy is predictably low, with a combined rating of 14 MPG.

Critical Failure Risk

The passenger seat belt's Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) may deactivate prematurely, failing to provide proper restraint in certain situations. This is a safety-critical component.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$700 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
14
MPG
City
12
MPG
Highway
20
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.6/ 10

Practicality

2.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing ultimate luxury and brand prestige over practicality.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious shoppers or those concerned with high running costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
14

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Most Common Issues

1. Passenger Seat Belt Retractor Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Premium Synthetic) (Parts: Premium Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $300 - $500

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (3 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 2.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 14 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan is 6.1/10. Overall score is 6.1/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 2.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Premium Synthetic) (Parts: Premium Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Passenger Seat Belt Retractor (estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

Base MSRP is $330,000.

What engine is in the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 6.7.

What transmission does the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 Cullinan require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

EPA combined estimate is 14 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

10 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2021 Bentley Bentayga.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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