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2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The electric auxiliary water pump recall (18V248000) is a critical concern due to potential overheating and fire risk. Verification of its completion is paramount.
  • Despite a significant recall, the vehicle has no reported consumer complaints, suggesting other systems are holding up well.
  • Fuel economy is modest, with a combined 15 MPG, leading to higher running costs.
  • The Ghost is equipped with a 12-cylinder, 6.6-liter engine running on premium fuel.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost

The 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost offers a blend of opulent comfort and potent performance, powered by a 6.6-liter V12 engine. Its rear-wheel-drive platform and smooth S8 automatic transmission deliver a refined driving experience. While its EPA-estimated 15 MPG combined suggests higher fuel costs, the Ghost remains a statement of automotive luxury. Prospective buyers should be aware of its recall history, particularly the significant issue involving the electric auxiliary water pump.

Critical Failure Risk

The electric auxiliary water pump can fail, leading to overheating of its circuit board and a potential fire hazard. This issue affects multiple BMW Group vehicles sharing components with the Ghost.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 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
15
MPG
City
13
MPG
Highway
20
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

4.8/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers seeking unparalleled luxury and a commanding presence.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious shoppers; the Ghost's running costs and potential repairs are substantial.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
15

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electric Auxiliary Water Pump Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cooling System Inspection

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 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 15 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 490 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost is 6.1/10. Overall score is 6.1/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.4/10. Practicality 4.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cooling System Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Electric Auxiliary Water Pump (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 6.6.

What transmission does the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 Ghost require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

EPA combined estimate is 15 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom.

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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