Rolls-Royce Ghost in fire risk

ROLLS-ROYCE has issued separate recalls on both members of its Australian line-up, comprising the ‘entry-level’ Ghost and flagship Phantom, over potential turbocharger and brake faults.

The action was announced yesterday on the website of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, and affects almost all cars sold by the iconic car-maker over the past eight years.

The ACCC notice warns that the $645,000 Ghost is at risk of developing a crack that could leak coolant from the turbo pump, potentially causing a short circuit and engine fire, although the company says there have been no reported incidents of this occurring.

The Australian campaign affects all models sold between September 1, 2009 and June 30, 2011. The company sold a combined total of 36 vehicles in Australia over this period, the majority of which were Ghosts.

The bigger Phantom, meanwhile, is not at risk of fire, but has instead been recalled over possible faults with its power braking system.

The ACCC notice warns that oil could enter the brake booster, which may lead to reduced power assistance and stopping power in an emergency.

The manufacturer has said that the mechanical braking system is still available to slow and stop the vehicle should the assistance system shut down, and that there have been no reported incidents as a result of the issue.

The issue affects all versions of the car – encompassing the sedan, extended-wheelbase sedan, coupe and Drophead – built between January 1, 2003 and November 30, 2009.

The luxury car-maker sold 74 Phantoms in Australia during this period.

With a list price ranging from $1.07 million to $1.36 million, it is the most expensive car to be recalled in Australia.

The brake problem is seemingly identical to a recall conducted by Rolls’ parent company BMW in October 2010 affecting 5, 6 and 7 Series models.

The Phantom shares around 15 per cent of its components with the 7 Series limousine.