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: 2003
This SUV is amazing! The luxury and capability are awesome. It drives like a sports car and handles so smoothly and luxuriously. I don't even want to complain about the gas mileage. It's definitely not a commuter car. We just bought it and have been fighting over who gets to drive it every day since. With 50k miles, it drives better than the new Caddy DTS! Love it!
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Vehicle year: 2022
The Grand Touring is an excellent car that is also fuel-efficient. When I ordered it, the salesperson was surprised because gas was only $2 a gallon and the upgrade cost $5000. However, when I received the car five months later, gas prices had risen to over $4 a gallon. Fortunately, I later found out about the $6500 Government rebate, which made it a win-win situation. The car comes with a 110v or 220v charging unit. Initially, I charged it with a 110v outlet, but it took overnight to charge. I upgraded to a 220v outlet, and now it charges in just a few hours. I have driven 14,000 miles and my average MPG is 39.3. The engine is powerful and peppy, and I love the center console with buttons that can be felt without having to look. The safety features are excellent, and the pedestrian sensors really work. The car has all the driving features, including adaptive cruise, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. The second row has plenty of room, and the third row is usable for short trips. The push-button up and down feature for the back seats is great. The only downside is that the seats are not very comfortable on long trips. After a few hours, they tend to be hard, even with the full massage function. Fortunately, I haven't had to travel more than four hours at a time.
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Vehicle year: 2020
You made an excellent choice with your vehicle purchase! It's wonderful to hear that you're enjoying all of the luxurious features, especially the phone as a key which is a market leader. The 4 seat rear configuration with walk through is perfect for families with two or three kids in car seats or boosters, and the car offers more space than any other car in its class. Even with the 3rd row deployed, you can still fit a double stroller in the trunk. The only downside is the fuel economy, which could be better. A full tank of $70cad only lasts for 200 KMs of city driving.
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Vehicle year: 2004
Runs excellent, quick, and mechanically outstanding. It has had only two owners and looks beautiful.
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Vehicle year: 2022
I love this ride! I've had this car since April 2021 and, although there have been a few issues such as paint flaws, door dings, and satellite radio problems, the dealer has taken care of everything. They did an amazing job fixing the defects and the warranty I purchased was well worth it. The hybrid option is fantastic and I've gotten up to 24 miles per charge. The HUD is awesome and the driver and passenger seats with massage are so comfortable. We've taken this car on long trips and it's such a powerful and comfortable ride. Thank you for making such an amazing vehicle and providing excellent service at your dealership. - Mark Ficken/Felix Sabates Lincoln
Are you having problems with your Lincoln Aviator?
Dangelo Reilly 2025-10-17
Vehicle year: 2022
I recently purchased a 2021 Aviator on February 18, 2021, and have driven approximately 8900 miles since then. Unfortunately, on February 5, 2022, while driving on the freeway at 70 mph, I experienced a sudden issue with the engine. Despite the scary situation, I was able to safely coast to a speed of 60 mph before the car suddenly shifted into first gear, causing me to lose control. Thankfully, I was able to safely pull over and have the car towed to the dealer. The dealer informed me that the transmission had completely failed, which was a catastrophic failure. I am now waiting for a replacement transmission from Lincoln, which may take several weeks. Although this has been a frustrating experience, I am grateful that I was driving the car and not my wife. I am also hopeful that I will be able to secure a same-size loaner while my Aviator is being repaired. Prior to this incident, I was extremely happy with my Aviator, having sold my Escalade to purchase it.
Abdullah Conn 2025-10-12
Vehicle year: 2004
I purchased a 2004 Lincoln Aviator in June, but unfortunately, the front differential broke in September. Although it was repaired in November for $1800.00, I experienced further issues with the car. Despite returning it to the shop multiple times, the car continued to break down, which was concerning and unsafe for me and my small children. I am grateful that we were able to stay safe during these incidents. Currently, the car is still in the shop and I am unsure of what to do next. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Arnaldo Eichmann 2025-10-10
Vehicle year: 2021
The car has a beautiful design and a smooth driving experience. However, I have experienced some issues with the navigation screen and radio presets. Additionally, I have had trouble with the phone as a key feature. Unfortunately, my experience with customer service at my local Lincoln dealership has not been satisfactory. Despite trying to contact them through their text-in feature, I have not received a response.
Cale Kirlin 2025-10-04
Vehicle year: 2003
Despite having purchased five new Lincoln products in the past ten years, I am extremely disappointed with my latest purchase. The car has only 12,000 miles on it and yet I have already had to replace the rear differential, deal with a persistent unpleasant smell from the air conditioning, and endure the car shaking at stop lights. Despite speaking with two different dealers, both of whom were service managers and brothers, I was told three times that this shaking was normal. Unfortunately, this experience has left me with a negative impression of American cars and Lincoln products in particular. I hope that Lincoln customer service will take my concerns seriously and work to improve the quality of their vehicles.
Milton Wehner 2025-10-01
Vehicle year: 2003
This car has some great features like a comfortable and luxurious ride, but unfortunately, it has been quite unreliable. Despite being under warranty, it has had numerous issues with the transmission, heated seats, fog lights, torque converter, and remote starter. The electronics have also been problematic, with fuses and modules needing to be replaced frequently. While American car makers have made strides in creating nice options, there is still room for improvement in terms of reliability. However, I am confident that I can sell this car while it is still under warranty.