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2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

5.8/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Ghost is equipped with a potent 6.7L V12 engine and all-wheel drive, delivering a smooth and powerful driving experience.
  • Four recalls were issued for this model year, with a significant focus on the passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) system.
  • No consumer complaints were logged, suggesting a generally robust build quality for the limited data available.
  • Fuel economy is modest, with a combined EPA rating of 14 MPG, leading to potentially high fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost

The 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost presents a pinnacle of automotive luxury, powered by a formidable 6.7L V12 engine. This all-wheel-drive sedan prioritizes comfort and refinement, though its substantial size and weight contribute to a thirst for premium fuel, yielding 14 MPG combined. While the absence of consumer complaints is a positive sign, four recalls were issued, including critical ones for the seat belt system and instrument cluster glass. These recalls, particularly the seat belt issue affecting occupant restraint, necessitate verification of completion before purchase.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate potential issues with the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) deactivation in seat belts, which could compromise restraint effectiveness in a crash.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$600 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
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
19
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

2.9/ 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.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious shoppers; this vehicle carries significant running and potential repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 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
Drivetrain
RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
14

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See the full 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Seat Belt Retractor Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Instrument Cluster Glass Fragmentation

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Rolls-Royce Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake 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 (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost 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 Ghost?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost is 5.8/10. Overall score is 5.8/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 6.9/10. Practicality 2.9/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Rolls-Royce Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $2,000. Repair prediction highlight: Seat Belt Retractor (typical at 25,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $600).

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

Base MSRP is $311,900.

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

Engine specs list 12 • 6.7.

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

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 Ghost require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

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

EPA combined estimate is 14 MPG.

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

8 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 Ghost?▾

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

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

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

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

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost, drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

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

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

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

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Bentley Flying Spur and 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

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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