Generations
Silver Spirit — Silver Spirit (including Spur, Dawn, Mulsanne)
1980–1998
6.75L V8
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Rolls Royce Silver Spirit problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Wheel bearing excessive play
The wheel bearings support the considerable weight of this luxury saloon and are subject to high loads from the heavy body and suspension system. Age-related bearing wear is accelerated by the vehicle's weight and the hydraulic suspension loading patterns. Failed bearings create serious safety risks through wheel detachment or collapse. MOT data shows bearing failures at 41.3 times the national fleet average, indicating a significant design or loading issue specific to this model.
What happens if ignoredA completely failed bearing can cause wheel collapse and total loss of control. Even partial failure creates dangerous handling instability and increases stopping distances. The heavy weight of the Silver Spirit makes bearing failure particularly hazardous. Immediate replacement is essential once play is detected.
Independent garage
£300–£500
Specialist
£400–£700
Main dealer
£600–£1,000
Parts only
£100–£300
Dangerous
Brake system corrosion and failure
The brake system on these vehicles suffers from corrosion of steel brake pipes and reduced parking brake efficiency due to the car's age and complex hydraulic setup. The parking brake mechanism is integrated with the main brake system and subject to seizure from lack of use - these cars are often stored for long periods. 0 times the average, indicating systemic brake system deterioration.
What happens if ignoredBrake pipe failure causes complete loss of braking capability and is potentially fatal. Parking brake failure prevents secure parking on slopes and fails the MOT test. The heavy weight of the Silver Spirit makes effective braking systems critical for safety. Complete brake system restoration may be required on neglected examples.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Main dealer
£800–£1,600
Parts only
£150–£500
Major
Hydraulic system fluid leakage
The hydraulic system powers the self-levelling suspension, power steering, and ride height control through a network of high-pressure lines, pumps, and accumulators. The system operates at very high pressure and multiple seals, hoses, and connections are prone to failure with age. Leaks cause progressive loss of steering assistance, suspension drop, and environmental contamination. This is the most documented failure mode on Silver Spirit models, with MOT data showing failure rates 52.5 times higher than the national average.
What happens if ignoredComplete hydraulic failure results in very heavy steering and suspension collapse. The car becomes dangerous to drive and may strand the occupants. Hydraulic fluid is environmentally hazardous and expensive to replace. Total system rebuild can cost £3,000-£5,000 depending on component failures.
Specialist
£500–£2,500
Main dealer
£1,000–£4,000
Parts only
£200–£1,500
Major
Suspension component wear
The self-levelling hydraulic suspension system uses shock absorbers and suspension components that are subject to high loads from the vehicle's considerable weight and complex hydraulic operation. Age-related deterioration of seals and mounting components affects ride quality and handling safety. The hydraulic dampers are expensive and difficult to source. MOT data shows shock absorber failures at 2.7 times the fleet average and suspension component wear at 2.1 times average, indicating accelerated wear patterns specific to this suspension design.
What happens if ignoredFailed suspension components compromise handling safety and ride comfort. The heavy weight of the Silver Spirit makes effective damping critical for stability and braking performance. Hydraulic suspension components are expensive and increasingly difficult to source, making repairs costly.
Specialist
£800–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,200–£3,000
Parts only
£400–£1,200
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Rolls Royce Silver Spirit fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Fluid leak
Exhaust & Emissions · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 87x the fleet average
Sample: 140 tests
Power steering fault
Steering · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 53x the fleet average
Sample: 608 tests
Wheel bearings worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 41x the fleet average
Sample: 345 tests
Parking brake efficiency less than 50% of the r...
Brakes · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 31x the fleet average
Sample: 353 tests
Parking brake inoperative on one side
Brakes · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 18x the fleet average
Sample: 311 tests
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 8.6x the fleet average
Sample: 456 tests
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Related
- Rolls Royce Silver Spirit buyer's guide
- Rolls Royce Silver Spirit service history check
- Rolls Royce Silver Spirit service schedule & costs
- Rolls Royce Silver Spirit MOT failure rates
- Buying a car without service history
- Rolls Royce Silver Spirit car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
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Rolls Royce Silver Spirit reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Rolls Royce Silver Spirit?
The Rolls Royce Silver Spirit has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Wheel bearing excessive play, Brake system corrosion and failure.
Is the Rolls Royce Silver Spirit reliable?
The Rolls Royce Silver Spirit has 2 dangerous and 2 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Rolls Royce Silver Spirit problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Wheel bearing excessive play) costs £300–£500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.