Lincoln Aviator problems
The Lincoln Aviator is a mid-size, three-row luxury SUV manufactured and marketed under the Lincoln brand of Ford Motor Company — and now in its second generation, with a hiatus from 2006 to 2020.
The first generation Aviator was manufactured for 2003–2005 model years as a rebadged variant of the third generation Ford Explorer — and assembled at the now-closed St. Louis Assembly in Hazelwood, Missouri, alongside the Explorer and Mountaineer.
For the 2020 model year, Lincoln reintroduced the Aviator as a badge engineered variant of the sixth generation Ford Explorer manufactured at Chicago Assembly and offered with a plug-in hybrid variant.
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Lincoln Aviator model years
Common Lincoln Aviator problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Lincoln Aviator, common problems with this car include:
- Mechanical Issues: Owners have experienced mechanical problems such as liftgate cracks, transmission slipping out of gear causing engine racing, rough idling, transmission noise, and failure.
- Recalls: The 2003 Lincoln Aviator, in particular, has faced recalls due to various issues, ranging from cosmetic flaws to severe mechanical problems.
- Instrument Cluster Malfunctions: Some owners have reported issues with the digital gauge cluster malfunctioning while driving, making it hard to read speedometer and tachometer readings.
- Emergency Brake Problems: Instances of the emergency brake unexpectedly engaging while driving have been reported by some owners, posing safety concerns.
- Computer Malfunctions: Complaints include computer malfunctions leading to issues like crash detection being triggered while driving, parking brake engaging while driving, and major transmission fault alarms.
- Seat Belt Malfunctions: Problems with seat belts not working properly have been highlighted by owners, impacting safety and functionality.
These issues highlight a range of concerns faced by Lincoln Aviator owners, from structural and mechanical problems to safety-related malfunctions. It's essential for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems to make informed decisions when considering purchasing a Lincoln Aviator.
Does the Lincoln Aviator have problems?
In a few instances. It led to a blue screen that obscured the driver's Vision Lincoln has issued two separate recalls to address the problem breaking system malfunction.
Does the Lincoln Aviator have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your Lincoln Aviator transmission will slip.
What is the average lifespan of a Lincoln Aviator?
The Lincoln Aviator can last around 200,000 miles with excellent care. High mileage for the Lincoln Aviator is closer to 150,000 miles or more, so we would place good mileage for the machine at 125,000 plus.
Is there a recall on Lincoln Aviator?
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lincoln Aviator years
We have researched Lincoln problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lincoln Aviator cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lincoln Aviator model years:
- Lincoln Aviator 2003
- Lincoln Aviator 2004
- Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Lincoln Aviator 2005
- Lincoln Aviator 2022
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lincoln Aviator model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lincoln Aviator years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lincoln Aviator car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lincoln Aviator , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lincoln Aviator vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Aviator model years
A total of 15 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Aviator model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Aviator model years
There were a total of 14 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 371 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lincoln Aviator . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lincoln Aviator vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC9LG
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a humming sound coming from the sunroof. Additionally, the contact noticed a fluttering sound coming from underneath the vehicle and the vehicle was shaking abnormally. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the sunroof assembly needed to be adjusted. In addition, the contact was informed that the undershields on the front under-carriage of the vehicle were warped due to fractured bolts. The contact was informed that the bolts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 59,928.
Lincoln Aviator 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 5LM5J6XC2MG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have been reporting an issue for over two years with multiple dealerships regarding a sulphur and other strong exhaust smell. This Sulphur smell is most problematic and occurs most often at least one per day. This issue started off intermittently but is now occurring as increase frequencies. The Lincoln dealerships tell me this is normal. I am not sure what system is exactly failing as no codes are being presented (so says the dealership. This smell is so strong and can be easily smelled in the car but even more once opening the doors or hatchback. I have children that breath this air as well as myself. Often children (my own as well as school friends for which we give rides to) complain about this smell and it is very noxious in nature. This issue has been reported to the dealership MULTIPLE times (Actually reported to two dealerships). Often, I am being told this is "normal" due to gas used. In beginning they would not even log my concern, but this past year I have been submitting online. Always no code so no issue. No other troubleshooting is done. I have even requested additional basic troubleshooting data and not received. This is not a normal smell, as the Lincoln dealership(s) suggest. This smell makes us feel unpleasant. This smell is strong and is hazardous to the health of my family and others. I need Ford to take this issue seriously. Symptoms experienced indicate there is likely a problem with the catalytic converter and they are not addressing.
Lincoln Aviator 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC4MG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I am writing to express my frustration regarding the unresolved issue related to recall 24V368 concerning the rearview camera image. This has been an ongoing problem for several years, and despite receiving multiple safety recall notices and scheduling appointments with your service department, the issue remains unaddressed.
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC1LG
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The vehicle began making a low tapping noise in the front passenger side approximately 2 months ago, which has gradually become louder. It is much more apparent when driving at slower speeds. More recently the tapping noise has been accompanied by a squeaking noise when the wheel is turned, when driving over bumps, when removing the foot from the brake at a red light, when putting the vehicle into drive after being parked all day, as well as when anyone enters/exits the parked vehicle (leading me to believe it has something to do with the suspension). The front brakes were recently replaced and everything appeared normal when the wheel was removed by mechanic. Shields underneath the vehicle were also checked and are all appropriately tight, not loose anywhere. Exact problem remains unknown at this time, vehicle is scheduled for diagnostics at the dealership in just over a month from now.
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: 5LM5J9XC1LG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: While turning a corner or going up a slight incline I lose power and the pedal becomes unresponsive for a few seconds. Then the car jutts forward and clunks.
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-14
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC1LG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have taken my car into the dealer at least five times due to the blue backup camera issue, I have been told by the techs that the camera has been replaced however I am still having the issue on occasion. On the early morning of Feb 16, 2024 around 5:30am, As I was backing out of my driveway I actually backed into my husband and knocked him down, he was walking behind my car, Due to the blue backup camera I was unable to see him and none of the warning lamps or messages alerted me prior to impact.
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC7LG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Driving car on side street - going about 30 mph and car lost ALL power. Stopped completely in middle of road. No power - would not restart. NO FLASHERS. Since Aviator has "piano keys", the car would not go into Neutral and once we figured how to manually put car in neutral, we could not get the driver's door to close and latch. Car was placed on flatbed wrecker and driver had to tape the door shut for transportation. Luckily this happened during daylight hours and Sherriff's office sent a car to park behind us. Had this happened on my commute to office (at 0500) when it was DARK outside, it could have horrible - NO FLASHERS
Lincoln Aviator 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC6NG
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that after switching to the reverse position, the backup camera image failed to display, and while driving approximately five MPH in reverse the vehicle crashed into the front end of a second vehicle. During the crash, the occupant in the second vehicle sustained an unspecified injury that did not require immediate medical attention. No further information was available. A police report was taken at the scene and the vehicle was towed away. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not notified of the failure. The contact indicated that the backup camera was previously replaced due to inoperability. The failure mileage was 28,000.
Lincoln Aviator 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-05
- VIN: 5LM5J7WC3PG
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and attempting to press the button to raise the level of the third-row seats, the contact and her daughter were ejected from the seats. The contact stated that there were no injuries sustained. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that there resistance while attempting to raise the seats. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 18,000.
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC6LG
- Components: PARKING BRAKE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that after pulling into a parking space on a hill, the parking brake was engaged. and the vehicle was turned off. However, after exiting, the vehicle rolled back and crashed into two vehicles: an Audi A4 and a Kia Borrego. There were no warning lights illuminated. There were no reported injuries, fire, police report, or air bag deployment. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the brakes and transmission failed, which caused the vehicle to roll backward. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 47,375. The Lincoln app informed the contact via a notification that the power train malfunctioned and reduced power.
Lincoln Aviator 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-08
- VIN: 5LM5J6WC8PG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The backup camera glitches while backing up and turning the steering wheel causing issues with visibility. This is a safety issue because it affects your ability to see where you are going while in reverse. This is a brand new car and this issue should not be occurring.
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-06
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Pre collision assist warning, service advance track, 4 wheel drive fault all these codes showed up at the same time. Also the cheap fabric liners in the wheel wells are tearing under normal driving conditions
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-02
- VIN: 5LMYJ9YY3LG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Unsure what component failed specifically, has been inspected by dealer multiple times. This randomly occurs while driving. It disables a number of safety features such a collision assist and traction control as well as several driving modes until the car is fully powered off and restarted. There are multiple reports of this occurring frequently in online groups. No warnings prior to the failure but multiple warnings when it fails. This can occur daily, even multiple times a day during normal driving. Dealer has tried replacing multiple modules and sensors but problem persists.
Lincoln Aviator 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-02
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC3LG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Driving down the road and all of a sudden multiple warnings come on the dash. They include : Service AvanceTrac, pre collision assist not available, 4WD fault service required, and Hill start assist not available. These warning all clear upon restart but will come back at random times. I joined a forum for this vehicle and a lot of owners are reporting this issue.
Lincoln Aviator 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-20
- VIN: 5LM5J7XC0PG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 360 degree camera glitch is not resolved despite replacement of cameras & image processing module based on recent recall. This continues to be a safety issues & Lincoln needs to find a permanent fix.
Latest 5 recalls Lincoln Aviator
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 48 recalls for different components of the Lincoln Aviator.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lincoln Aviator 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 17, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
- Model: Lincoln Aviator 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 17, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
- Model: Lincoln Aviator 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-24
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The accessory protocol image module (APIM) can be affected by electromagnetic interference with a cell phone in the vehicle, causing the rearview camera image to flicker or become distorted.
- Consequence: A flickering or distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use their cell phones while reversing until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install shielding on the accessory protocol image module (APIM), free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 23, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S35.
- Model: Lincoln Aviator 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-24
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The accessory protocol image module (APIM) can be affected by electromagnetic interference with a cell phone in the vehicle, causing the rearview camera image to flicker or become distorted.
- Consequence: A flickering or distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use their cell phones while reversing until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install shielding on the accessory protocol image module (APIM), free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 23, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S35.
- Model: Lincoln Aviator 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-24
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The accessory protocol image module (APIM) can be affected by electromagnetic interference with a cell phone in the vehicle, causing the rearview camera image to flicker or become distorted.
- Consequence: A flickering or distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to use their cell phones while reversing until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install shielding on the accessory protocol image module (APIM), free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 23, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S35.
Latest negative Lincoln Aviator car reviews
Latest positive Lincoln Aviator car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2023
Air suspension provides an excellent city and highway ride. The well thought out interior places all controls within easy reach. The high-end finishes throughout are impressive. The massaging driver and front passenger seats are fantastic. I am looking forward to a longer-term experience.
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Vehicle year: 2022
Air suspension provides an excellent city and highway ride. The well thought out interior places all controls in easy reach, and the high-end finishes throughout are impressive. The massaging driver and front passenger seats are fantastic! I'm looking forward to a longer-term experience.
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Vehicle year: 2023
What a lovely car, both inside and out! The ride is so smooth and quiet, and there are so many luxurious features inside.
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Vehicle year: 2020
As a new buyer of the aviator, I must say that it is a stunning vehicle both on the outside and inside. The attention to detail is impressive, and it's evident the moment you step inside. The cockpit-like design and great ergonomics make it feel like a luxury vehicle. I opted for the upgraded sound system, and it was totally worth it. It's the best sound system I've ever heard in a car. I was initially worried about the computer interface, but it turned out to be very straightforward and intuitive. The drive is fantastic, and the excite mode is a thrilling experience that throws you back into your seat. The cabin is also nice and quiet, making for a comfortable ride. The only minor issues I have are that the local mpg could be better (although the highway mpg is good), and the third row is a bit smallish (but the extra storage space in the back makes up for it). Overall, I have no regrets with this purchase. It's a beautiful vehicle!
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Vehicle year: 2020
When we started our vehicle search, we had our sights set on luxury brands like Lexus, Mercedes, and BMW. We tested several models of each, as well as Audi, Volvo, Land Rover, and others. To be fair, each vehicle was really nice and we didn't have any major complaints about any of them. They each had their pros and cons, and unique selling propositions or features that maybe the others didn't have. However, the Aviator stood out very early on. Even after renting Land Rovers, MBs, and BMWs on various trips over the last 12 months, the Aviator kept coming back ahead of the others. We ultimately decided on the Aviator Reserve AWD with all options except the rear entertainment. It has features like Dynamic Handling, Luxury Package, Convenience Package, and front and rear heated and cooled seats, a 28-speaker sound system, heads-up display, dynamic handling with rising and lowering of the vehicle on entry and speed dependent, etc. If we were to get all these features in the MB GLS or BMW X5 or X7, it would cost at least 25K to 30K more. While those vehicles are really nice, it just came down to whether we would pay another 25K essentially to have a BMW or MB. For us, we decided the extra money was not worth having a more trendy or prestigious brand. If the price was equal between the three, it would be hard to say whether we would have selected the Aviator. My wife personally did not like the drive of the MB or BMW and prefers the Lincoln more because it feels more luxurious and drives a bit softer. Personally, I probably would have gone with the GLS 8cyl if the prices were the same, but now having driven the Aviator quite a bit, I admit it would be very tough with a slight edge to the GLS based on performance. However, the features of the Aviator are better. The HUD is the best I have ever seen, and the SYNC software is far superior to the MB or BMW UI and features.I often get asked why we chose the loaded Reserve AWD over the Black Label. Firstly, the Reserve offers similar features at a more affordable price point, saving us around 10K. Secondly, the limited color options for the Black Label did not appeal to us. It seems counterintuitive that a more expensive option would offer fewer choices. Lastly, the additional service features of the Black Label did not seem worth the extra cost. With the Reserve, we receive full concierge services, pick up and drop off of the vehicle for all services, and a prepaid routine and scheduled maintenance package for the life of the lease.
Are you having problems with your Lincoln Aviator?
Wilmer Glover 2025-04-17
Vehicle year: 2020
The car experienced some issues right off the showroom floor, and unfortunately, the salesperson was not available to assist once the purchase was finalized. Despite having to visit the dealer four times for rear camera issues, the problem persisted and the dealer was unable to replicate the error. Additionally, iPhone integration was spotty and caused some frustration. However, after the sixth visit, the issues were finally resolved. Although there were still some glitches with the iPhone integration and SiriusXM station tuning was frustratingly slow, the overall ride quality was decent. The air suspension was constantly adjusting at traffic lights, but the engine had decent performance. While the car did not meet all expectations for an $80k car, it still had some positive qualities.
Terrill Kuphal 2025-04-06
Vehicle year: 2003
Although I had a negative experience with my previous truck, I have decided to switch to a Toyota. I found that my previous Ford truck had some issues that were difficult to resolve, and I was disappointed with the level of support I received from Ford. I have always been a loyal Ford customer, but I have decided to explore other options. I am confident that my new Toyota truck will meet my needs and exceed my expectations.
Stone Koelpin 2025-04-04
Vehicle year: 2005
In the three months that I have owned this vehicle, it has been in the shop for a total of 25 days. During this time, it has had multiple repairs, including the replacement of the drive shaft and return hose to the power steering, as well as balancing of the tires. Despite these efforts, the vehicle still experiences shimmying and shaking, poor brakes, and the steering wheel turns to the left when braking normally. Additionally, there is a shuttering noise when turning the wheel and starting the vehicle. Despite filing arbitration paperwork, the Lincoln representative did not believe there was anything else wrong with the vehicle. However, the dealership advised that it still needed new tires, which the Lincoln representative denied. Based on my expertise and experience, I am confident that further repairs are necessary to address these issues.
Rogers Schowalter 2025-04-03
Vehicle year: 2003
My 03 Aviator had a vibration throughout the vehicle with only 2250 miles on it, and it went into the shop the day after delivery. Despite being in the shop for 20 out of the last 35 days and having many drivetrain parts and tires replaced, the dealer claims that all Aviators have this issue according to Ford engineers. However, I am confident that this issue can be resolved with further investigation and solutions.
Robin Powlowski 2025-04-01
Vehicle year: 2003
Before buying, I recommend testing it for at least a day. Based on my experience, I think you might prefer another vehicle. I sure wish I had done so myself!