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: 2022
This vehicle has all the tech features you could want, making it a luxurious ride with plenty of room for any activity.
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Vehicle year: 2023
I've been driving the Plug-in EV Black Label 2022 for about a year now, and I must say, I'm very pleased with it. The car is perfect for city driving as I can get about 20-25 miles out of the charge. When I need to go long-distance and use the engine, I still get about 23mpg. The car has a lot of power, and if you have a charged battery, it will leverage both the engine and the battery, and you'll get going pretty darn quickly! It's not the most stylish car out there, but it's still a good looking vehicle. The interior is plush, and everyone who rides in it enjoys the experience. The 3rd row can actually fit two adults, although it's a bit tight. I usually leave the 3rd row down, and I have an abundance of trunk space. With all the rows down, you can even move some furniture! The car is spacious and comfortable. The tech is good, but nothing really that special. I mean, who needs a cellular hotspot in their car when everyone has cell phones? The only downside for me is that it doesn't have wireless Car Play. My BMW did, but in the Lincoln, you need to use a cable. If I had one other con, it would be the handling. It's not bad, but it's a little
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Vehicle year: 2005
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new Lincoln Aviator! It sounds like you made an excellent choice in upgrading to this SUV. The comfort and power of the V8 engine really make it stand out from other vehicles on the market. And the value is unbeatable! I completely agree with you and other reviewers that the Lincoln Aviator is the ultimate choice for anyone looking for a reliable, luxurious SUV. Thank you for sharing your positive experience!
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Vehicle year: 2022
I have been eyeing the Aviator for over a year and I was concerned about buying a first year car. However, I waited for the second model year and so far the car has been great. I feel that it is a fantastic American-made vehicle! Let's support American jobs, American companies, and the American economy!
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Vehicle year: 2004
This is such a nice highway cruiser! It also pulls a medium-sized RV nicely. Although there were a few petty problems, the dealer has done an excellent job handling them.
Are you having problems with your Lincoln Aviator?
Josue Deckow 2025-06-23
Vehicle year: 2022
I owned an Aviator Reserve for 18 months and absolutely loved it. The ride was smooth, the trim was luxurious, and the electronics were top-notch. However, I did encounter a major issue that ultimately led me to trade it in. The door opening mechanism on the inside of each door is electric, which can be problematic in the event of an electrical failure. Unfortunately, only the driver's door has a mechanical override release. This means that in the event of an accident where the electrical system is compromised and the driver is unable to open the door, passengers may have difficulty escaping. It's important to note that the release is located in the lower front corner of the driver's door, so passengers would need to move the driver to access it. This could be especially challenging for older individuals or those with mobility issues. I personally experienced this issue when the driver's door failed to open one morning. It took over five weeks for Lincoln to fix the problem, which made me realize that my son was right when he warned me that it could be a fire hazard. Despite this issue, I still gave the car two stars because it was an absolute joy to drive. If you do decide to purchase one, I would recommend keeping hammers in the car for emergency situations.
Nathan Monahan 2025-06-20
Vehicle year: 2020
Hello! I've been a Lincoln enthusiast for 40 years and I'm a proud Lincoln club member as well as the owner of a '64 Lincoln Convertible. However, after paying top dollar for a fully loaded Aviator, I've been experiencing some issues. The dealer was able to fix some problems, such as a paint scratch, rattles at the front and back passenger side, a rear red light lens that wasn't flush to the body, and a sunroof that wasn't working. Unfortunately, they couldn't fix a very annoying ticking sound that persists for about 45 minutes after starting the engine, despite taking the car to the dealer several times. The second time I turned it in, they said they fixed it, but it's been a year and the ticking persists. I'm surprised that no one has written about this issue. Has anyone else experienced this problem with their Aviator? Thank you for your help!
Cordelia Hamill 2025-06-14
Vehicle year: 2021
This car is beautiful! However, it has been in the shop more than in our garage. It is a constant different issue, from transmission, faulty computer system, now oil leak, hood never aligned proper, back row seats stopped working ECT.... I want a new car. Update: Got rid of the piece of junk! Best day ever!
Rudy Kerluke 2025-06-13
Vehicle year: 2003
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my Aviator. It's been with me since 2003 and has been a reliable companion for many years. Recently, I've had to take it in for some repairs, but I'm confident that it will be back on the road soon. Despite its current issues, I have many fond memories with this car and I'm not ready to part with it just yet. Thanks for listening!
Larue Bartoletti 2025-06-05
Vehicle year: 2022
About a year ago, I test drove my Aviator and thought it was amazing. I drove it for only three blocks and decided to buy it. The next day, I picked up my Aviator Reserve and drove off to pick up my three daughters. While on the highway, I looked over at my daughters and knew I had made the right decision. They felt comfortable and safe in the car. However, my happiness was short-lived. Three weeks later, while driving home from my son's house, the entire dash lit up with warning signs and failure signs. Everything changed - our seats were in different settings, the suspension ride was not smooth, and there were failure signs for my braking and AWD. The front end was shimming, and it felt like I was driving with my parking brake on. It was and still is very stressful. This was just the beginning of a year-long torture of being promised that everything would be okay. Lincoln offered me a 2022 Aviator after a year of being patient, but I would have to pay them another $20k. I'm not sure how or why this is happening to me, but I cannot give this vehicle any type of positive review. The attitude of the dealership and the manufacturer is disappointing. Instead of doing better for the consumer, they are taking the attitude of doing less and charging more. It is safe to say that I understand why the Lincoln brand is losing popularity. If only Henry and Wilfred were here to see such a disgrace. Shame on you.