YouTuber Tyler Hoover, the creator of Hoovies Garage, bought a 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost for just $39,000, then attempted to drive the aging luxury sedan nearly 1,000 miles from Detroit, Michigan, to his home in Kansas.
The car originally carried a sticker price of $299,130, meaning Hoover paid roughly 87% less than its original cost. However, the bargain came with nearly 120,000 miles, an illuminated check engine light, and a cooling-system problem.
The previous owner had reportedly spent approximately $30,000 on repairs and maintenance during two years of ownership, including extensive work on the vehicle’s expensive air suspension system.
Despite those warning signs, Hoover decided to take the Rolls-Royce on a lengthy interstate road trip. Along the way, he resorted to an unusual roadside repair involving a piece of discarded cardboard.
A $299,000 Bargain
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Hoover explained in his October 6 video that the car belonged to a Rolls-Royce collector who had purchased it as a winter vehicle. After using it relatively little, the owner contacted Hoover about selling it.
Although the Ghost had accumulated approximately 119,000 miles, its leather upholstery, wood trim, and luxury features remained in impressive condition. All four air suspension struts had already been replaced, eliminating one potentially expensive repair.
The car also featured a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, a night vision system, and upgraded Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Hoover later reviewed its original equipment list, which included $7,000 chrome wheels, a $9,950 driver assistance package, and $5,600 rear climate controls.
Even decorative features came at substantial cost. The original buyer paid $2,830 for seat piping, $1,100 for lambswool floor mats, and $750 for embroidered Rolls-Royce headrest monograms.
Roadside Cardboard Repair
The biggest mechanical concern emerged during the drive home, when Hoover discovered that the engine wasn’t reaching its normal operating temperature in cold weather.
A thermostat stuck in the open position allowed coolant to circulate continuously, preventing the V12 engine from warming properly. The problem also left the vehicle without adequate cabin heat.
After stopping overnight in Pontiac, Illinois, Hoover improvised a temporary solution using cardboard recovered from a discarded air-conditioning unit box.
Unable to reach the radiator directly, he positioned the cardboard behind the front grille to partially restrict airflow and help the engine retain heat.
The makeshift repair was a temporary workaround rather than a replacement for the defective thermostat. Restricting radiator airflow can also create an overheating risk if engine temperatures aren’t carefully monitored.
Nearly 1,000 Miles
Despite the thermostat problem, the Rolls-Royce completed the journey to Kansas without a major breakdown.
Hoover reported that the vehicle requested an additional quart of oil but otherwise performed exceptionally well. He praised its quiet V12 engine, comfortable suspension, and smooth highway driving experience.
The trip also gave him an opportunity to test the car’s advanced equipment, including its night vision camera, which remained functional despite the vehicle’s age and mileage.
Back at his garage, Hoover acknowledged that his growing collection of luxury sedans might require some downsizing.
For now, however, the 2011 Ghost had successfully completed its first major road trip under his ownership, with the thermostat still needing proper repair.