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2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2018 Phantom has a single documented recall for the back-up camera system; verify this repair is completed.
  • No consumer complaints have been logged, suggesting a robust initial ownership experience.
  • The 12-cylinder, 6.7-liter engine provides immense power, but expect high fuel costs with a combined 14 MPG.
  • While reliability is rated as good, the complexity of a Rolls-Royce means potential for significant repair expenses.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom

The 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom represents the pinnacle of automotive luxury, offering an unparalleled driving experience. For the used car shopper, this Phantom presents a compelling, albeit high-stakes, proposition. Its V12 engine and sophisticated engineering deliver smooth, effortless power. While generally reliable, the Phantom is not immune to the complexities of modern luxury vehicles. A single recall concerning the rear-view camera system has been documented, and it's crucial to ensure this has been addressed. Given its exclusive nature, maintenance and repair costs can be substantial, demanding careful consideration of long-term ownership.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall addressed a software defect where the rear-view camera image could become non-visible, failing FMVSS 111 compliance. While the recall remedy is a software update, persistent issues may indicate hardware problems with the camera or display.

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
12
MPG
Highway
19
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

4.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers seeking the ultimate in automotive luxury and presence.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers expecting typical used car running costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom.

  • 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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Most Common Issues

1. Rear-View Camera System Malfunction

Most reported

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 - 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
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 14 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 4.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

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 - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1000. Repair prediction highlight: Rear-View Camera System (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

Base MSRP is $494,925.

What engine is in the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

Engine specs list 12 • 6.7.

What transmission does the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 Phantom require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

EPA combined estimate is 14 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

8 standard and 6 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom, drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2018 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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