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2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

6.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 6.7-liter V12 engine provides effortless power, paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission.
  • A single recall related to side curtain airbags requires verification of completion.
  • No owner complaints were filed, but this is likely due to the Phantom's low production volume.
  • Fuel economy is rated at a combined 14 MPG, leading to high fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom

The 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom offers an unparalleled experience in automotive luxury. Its 6.7-liter V12 engine delivers power smoothly through an 8-speed automatic transmission, driving the rear wheels. While official safety ratings are unavailable, the vehicle's primary concern is a recall for improperly manufactured side curtain airbags. Fuel economy is modest, with a combined rating of 14 MPG, reflecting its performance-oriented nature. This Phantom represents a significant investment, and its ownership experience hinges on meticulous pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall (15V787000) identified improperly manufactured side curtain airbags that may not deploy correctly in a side-impact collision. This poses a direct safety risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
14
MPG
City
11
MPG
Highway
19
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers seeking the pinnacle of automotive luxury and craftsmanship.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious shoppers concerned with routine maintenance costs.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
14

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See the full 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Side Curtain Airbag Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (6.7L V12 Synthetic) (Parts: 10W-60 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $400 - $700

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
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 14 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (6.7L V12 Synthetic) (Parts: 10W-60 Synthetic 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: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Side Curtain Airbags (estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 6.7.

What transmission does the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 Phantom require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

EPA combined estimate is 14 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

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

What body style is the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2016 Bentley Flying Spur.

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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