Rolls Royce Dawn, Ghost, Wraith Automatic Transmission

For the Rolls-Royce Ghost, Wraith, and Dawn, the transmission is a masterclass in “effortless” engineering. All three models utilize the ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic gearbox, specifically the heavy-duty 8HP90 or 8HP95 variants designed to handle the massive torque of the 6.6L and 6.75L V12 engines.

1. Core Transmission Models

The specific variant of the ZF 8HP gearbox depends on the production year and the specific model (Standard vs. Black Badge).

2. Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT)

The defining feature of these gearboxes is Satellite Aided Transmission, which debuted in the Wraith.

• How it works: The gearbox is linked to a GPS receiver that “reads” the road terrain ahead.

• The Benefit: If the car detects a sharp curve, a junction, or a steep incline via GPS, it automatically pre-selects the optimal gear. This prevents unnecessary gear hunting and ensures the car is always “poised” for a smooth exit from a corner.

3. Performance & Torque Handling

The ZF 8HP is used because of its extreme durability and shift speed (approx. 200 milliseconds), though in a Rolls-Royce, it is calibrated for smoothness rather than aggression.

• Torque Capacity: The 8HP90/95 series can manage up to 900 Nm ($664\text{ lb-ft}$) of torque.

• Ratio Spread: With a spread of 7.05, the car can maintain very low RPMs at cruising speeds (approx. $1,200\text{ RPM}$ at $70\text{ mph}$), contributing to the silent cabin experience.

4. Maintenance & Service (2026 Advice)

Rolls-Royce officially labels the transmission fluid as “Lifetime Fill.” However, by 2026, most specialists recommend the following to preserve the “Magic Carpet Ride”:

• Fluid Change: Every 50,000 – 60,000 miles or 8 years.

• Filter: The filter is integrated into the plastic transmission oil pan (Part No. 24117604960); the entire pan must be replaced during service.

• Fluid Type: Use only ZF Lifeguard 8 (green) or the Rolls-Royce equivalent. Using generic Dexron VI or similar can cause “shuddering” during shifts.

5. Common Diagnostic Issues

• Mechatronics Failure: If the car refuses to shift out of “Park,” the internal Mechatronics unit (EGS) may have failed. In 2026, these are VIN-locked and require dealer-level ISTA/P programming to replace.

• Transmission Cooler Leaks: Located at the front of the engine, the transmission oil cooler lines can develop O-ring leaks over time, leading to low fluid levels and delayed engagement.