2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Engine and Transmission

The 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom features a powertrain designed for “effortless” performance. Unlike a Ferrari V12 that screams, the Rolls-Royce V12 is engineered for silent, massive low-end torque. In 2026, these engines are becoming more common in the high-end luxury salvage market, but their complexity makes them a daunting (and expensive) undertaking.

1. Technical Profile: The “Silent” V12

The engine is a BMW-derived (N73 based) but heavily customized unit, unique to the Phantom VII.

Listing Details

• 6.75-Liter BMW N73B68 V12
• ZF Six-Speed Automatic Gearbox
• Removed From a 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom
• Double-VANOS Variable Valve Timing
• Valvetronic Variable Valve Lift System
• Direct Port Fuel Injection
• Bosche DME & Wiring Engine Harness
• Cooling System
• Ancillary Equipment

2. 2026 Market Valuation (Estimated USD)

Because the Phantom is a pinnacle luxury vehicle, engine and transmission components carry “prestige” pricing.

3. Critical “2026 Status” Maintenance

If you are maintaining or purchasing a 2009 Phantom drivetrain today, there are three “Rolls-specific” issues to be aware of:

• Direct Injection Carbon Buildup: As an early large-displacement direct-injection engine, the N73-based V12 is prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves. By 2026, most Phantoms require a “walnut blasting” service every 40k–60k miles to maintain that signature smooth idle.

• Air Suspension/Engine Interface: The engine management system is deeply integrated with the vehicle’s air suspension and active leveling. If you are swapping this engine into another chassis, the electronics are notoriously difficult to “bypass.”

• The “Mechatronics” Unit: The ZF 6HP32 transmission is very robust, but the internal “Mechatronics” (the electronic brain inside the transmission) can fail due to heat. In 2026, it is common practice to replace the transmission bridge seal and sleeves whenever the fluid is changed to prevent electronic glitches.

4. “The Magic Carpet” Experience

The 2009 Phantom transmission was tuned specifically for “waftability.”

• GPS-Aided Shifting: While later models (2013+) had satellite-aided shifting, the 2009 unit uses sophisticated incline and load sensors to ensure you never feel a gear change.

• The “Power Reserve” Dial: Instead of a tachometer, the Phantom has a “Power Reserve” gauge. At idle, the engine is so silent and vibration-free that Rolls-Royce included an anti-restart system to prevent drivers from trying to start an already-running engine.