2004 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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Common 2004 Lincoln Aviator problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2004 Lincoln Aviator, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Shutting Off While Driving: A significant complaint among Lincoln Aviator owners is the engine shutting off unexpectedly while driving. This issue poses a serious safety concern and has been reported to occur around 130,000 miles.
- Faulty AC/Heating System: Owners have experienced problems with the AC and heating system in the 2004 Lincoln Aviator. The only solution to this issue is a costly replacement, averaging around $4,000, with a severity rating of 8.0.
- Valve Issues: Specifically, the number eight-valve in the engine has been prone to burning up at around 50,000 miles. Replacing a single valve can cost owners around $2,500, with a severity rating of 10.
- Transmission Problems: Some drivers have reported issues with the transmission slipping out of gear, causing the engine to race. Symptoms like rough idling, transmission noise, and failure have also been documented, indicating potential transmission issues.
- High Maintenance: Owners have faced instances where the 2004 Lincoln Aviator would suddenly shut down while being driven, requiring repairs. Although the average repair cost for this issue is minimal, it has been rated with a severity level of 9.5.
- Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): The 2004 Lincoln Aviator has been associated with 76 Technical Service Bulletins, which are official communications detailing common problems and their solutions. These TSBs cover issues like loud generator noise in cold temperatures and rear axle noise, among others.
These problems highlight the challenges faced by owners of the 2004 Lincoln Aviator, ranging from safety concerns like engine shutdowns to costly repairs for issues like the AC/heating system. Addressing these common problems is crucial for maintaining the performance and reliability of this luxury SUV.
What is the most common problems with Lincoln Aviator?
Screen glitches owners of the 2020 Aviator have complained that the infotainment. Screen is unable to adjust to the outside environment.
How many miles will a 2004 Lincoln Aviator last?
According to 2003-2005 Aviator owners on RepairPal.com, their SUVs lasted them at least 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance.
Is a Lincoln Aviator a reliable car?
Carparts.com indicates that the Lincoln Aviator is a fairly reliable midsize SUV on average, although of course your mileage may vary depending on the model year you purchase. Scores are usually 7 out of 10 or equivalent, depending on the review site you check.
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 most common problems with Lincoln Aviator?
Screen glitches owners of the 2020 Aviator have complained that the infotainment. Screen is unable to adjust to the outside environment.
How many miles will a 2004 Lincoln Aviator last?
According to 2003-2005 Aviator owners on RepairPal.com, their SUVs lasted them at least 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance.
Are Lincoln aviators reliable?
Carparts.com indicates that the Lincoln Aviator is a fairly reliable midsize SUV on average, although of course your mileage may vary depending on the model year you purchase. Scores are usually 7 out of 10 or equivalent, depending on the review site you check.
Why is my 2004 Lincoln Aviator running hot?
It is possible there is a restriction in the radiator, With the mileage on the engine I would probably start with a new thermostat and possibly a new radiator and fan clutch.
2004 Lincoln Aviator car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lincoln Aviator problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Lincoln Aviator vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Lincoln Aviator
The NHTSA has received 81 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Lincoln Aviator. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Lincoln Aviator vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-09
- VIN: 5LMEU68H74Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS,ENGINE
- Summary: MY SUV MISFIRES, SLIPS IN AND OUT OF GEARS, STALLS AT STOP SIGNS AND LIGHTS, ACCELERATES AT STOP LIGHTS. OCCASIONALLY WHEN THE AC IS TURNED ON, THERE IS A VERY LOUD CLUNK SOUND.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-31
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5LMEU88H34Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: HIT A GUARDRAIL ON THE PARKWAY AND ONLY THE PASSENGER AIRBAG DEPLOYED.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-18
- VIN: 5LMEU88H34Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BACKED UP VEHICLE STOPPED SHIFTED TRANSMISSION TO DRIVE PRESSED ACCELERATOR VEHICLE ROCKETED BACKWARD BECAUSE SHIFT CABLE DISLODGED FROM ATTACHMENT ON TRANSMISSION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-01
- VIN: 5LMEU88HO4Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY KEEPS GETTING DRAINED, I HAVE HAVE HAD SIX NEW BATTERY'S WITHIN TWO YEARS. ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-23
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SHIFTER DOES NOT COME OUT OF PARK WITHOUT TRYING MANY MANY TIMES BEFORE IT RELEASES.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 5LMEU88H54Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE DOWN SHIFT WHEN TURNING INTO THE FIRST AS IT GOES INTO SECOND MAKES IN AWFUL NOISE. WHEN I PARKED IT AND TRIED TO START IT AND IT WAS DEAD.THE MECHANIC FIGURE IT HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE STARTER HE GOT UNDER THE VEHICLE TO APPLIED STARTER TOLD ME TO START IT AND IT DID AND IT PINNED HIM UNDER THE VEHICLE.THEY LATER SAID THE BELT HAD POPPED. THE VEHICLE HAD BEN LEAKING A LITE FLUID THEY BELIEVED IT TO BE THE DIFFERENTIAL OIL. ITS A FOUR WHEEL DRIVE. I HAD IT TOWED TO BOHN FORD 6/5/17THEY ARE CHARGING 350.00 TO REPLACE THE BELT.CITY ST. LATER PARK IT AT WALMART PARKING LOT WHERE THE PEOPLE HELPED PUSH THE VEHICLE OFF THE MECHANIC.THE VEHICLE WOULD ROLL BACK WHEN PUT IN DRIVE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-01
- VIN: 5LMEU88H74Z
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 LINCOLN AVIATOR. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE, THE BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE WIRING FOR THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WAS FAULTY. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON FOUR SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WAS REPLACED AND THE FAILURE WAS REMEDIED.THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000. UPDATED 08/29/17*LJ *CN
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-13
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SHIFT GEARS, THE GEAR SHIFTER SEIZED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE KEY WAS STUCK IN THE IGNITION CYLINDER. THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-09
- VIN: 5LMEU68H34Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 LINCOLN AVIATOR. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY. THERE WAS NO CRASH INVOLVED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THEY DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A CRASH DETECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-01
- VIN: 5LMEU88H24Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE BACK LIFT GATE WAS CRACK WITH OUT ACCIDENT, FORD SHOULD RECALL. *TR
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-20
- VIN: 5LMEU88H14Z
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING EAST ON THE 202 FWY IN PHOENIX AT A SPEED BETWEEN 65-68 MPH WHEN I HEARD A LOUD BANG AND BOTH SIDE AIR CURTAINS DEPLOYED. TIME: 9:30 P.M. FEB. 20, 2015. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-02
- VIN: 5LMEU88H44Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I TRIED TO PULL OFF AT A VERY BUSY INTERSECTION AND NOTHING. I CAME VERY CLOSE TO GETTING INTO A CRASH. I AM NOW TOLD FROM THE DEALERSHIP THAT I NEED A NEW TRANSMISSION AND TRANSFER CASE. I'VE TAKEN VERY GOOD CARE OF MY VEHICLE SINCE I PURCHASE MY 2004 LINCOLN AVIATOR LUX WITH 80,000 MILES ON IT AND ALWAYS HAD IT SERVICED AT THE DEALERSHIP. I THOUGHT I WAS MAKING A GOOD DECISION WHEN PURCHASING A LINCOLN. I'M A SINGLE PARENT AND WANTED A RELIABLE VEHICLE. WORST DECISION I EVER MADE!!! FIRST IT STARTED WITH THE GEAR SHIFT GETTING STUCK AND NEEDING REPLACED. THEN I HAD TO REPLACE ALL COIL PACKS. THE AIR CONDITION STARTED MAKING A FUNNY NOISE WHEN YOU TURN IT ON BUT HASN'T BEEN FIXED BECAUSE THE DEALERSHIP CAN NEVER GET IT TO DUPLICATE BUT HAPPENS TO ME ALL THE TIME! NEXT BOTH WHEEL HUBS. THE SECOND ONE BREAKING ON THE INTERSTATE WHILE IN THE MIDDLE OF NO WHERE PENNSYLVANIA. THANKFULLY I NOTICED A WEIRD NOISE AND PULLED OVER IMMEDIATELY BECAUSE THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER (I HAD TO WAIT ON FOR 2 HOURS) SAID HAD I EVEN DROVE 30 MORE FEET I WOULD HAVE BEEN IN A POSSIBLE FATAL ACCIDENT WITH BOTH OF MY CHILDREN IN THE CAR AT 70 MILES/HR. LAST WEEK BOTH CONTROL ARMS 3 DAYS LATER LEAVES ME STRANDED IN TRAFFIC AT A VERY BUSY INTERSECTION WITH THE CAR BEHIND ME ONLY COMING INCHES FROM HITTING ME AFTER I RELEASE THE BREAK AND PRESS THE GAS HEAR A LOUD NOISE AND NOTHING HAPPENS! DID I MENTION THIS HAPPENED ON MY WAY TO WORK! AGAIN WAITED FOR 45 MIN FOR A TOW TRUCK. NOW I HAVE A ESTIMATED OF $4850 TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION AND TRANSFER CASE. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN A NIGHTMARE!!!!!!! I THANKFULLY WASN'T IN ANY SERIOUS ACCIDENT BUT CAME VERY CLOSE TWICE. I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT I'M GOING TO DO NOW BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE THE $4850 AND IF I DID I THINK I WOULD RATHER SUE FORD! LAST BUT NOT LEAST I STILL OWE $6850 ON MY LOAN! THIS IS SO UNFAIR! *TR
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-08
- VIN: 5LMEU88H14Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SHIFTER WOULD NOT GO INTO PARK FROM REVERSE SOMETIMES WOULD NOT UNLOCK FROM PARK POSITION. SERIOUS PROBLEM WHEN YOUR SHIFTER SHOWS IN DRIVE AND YOU END UP STILL GOING IN REVERSE. READ OTHER COMPLAINTS FROM OWNERS SOUNDS LIKE A DEFECT WHICH COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. *JS
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-25
- VIN: 5LMEU68H74Z
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AS ALL OF THE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-19
- VIN: 5LMEU88HX4Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: AS I WAS EXITING A STORE AND WALKING TOWARD MY VEHICLE, I NOTICED WHAT LOOKED LIKE A BLACK STREAK ON THE BACK OF MY LIFTGATE. WHEN I WAS CLOSER, I SAW THAT IT WAS A CRACK IN THE BACK OF THE LIFT GATE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE EMBLEM OF THE VEHICLE FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE BACK WINDOW TO THE BOTTOM OF THE LIFT GATE. THIS CRACK WAS NOT THERE WHEN I PARKED THE VEHICLE TO ENTER THE GROCERY STORE BECAUSE I HAD TO WALK AROUND THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE TO MAKE MY WAY INTO THE STORE AND ALWAYS LOOK AT THE BACK END TO MAKE SURE THAT I HAD PULLED IN FAR ENOUGH FOR OTHERS TO PASS. AT FIRST, I THOUGHT THAT SOMEONE HAD BACKED INTO MY VEHICLE BUT THERE WERE NO OTHER MARKS, DENTS, SCUFFS, ETC. I WAS CURIOUS TO FIND OUT WHAT WOULD HAVE CAUSED THIS AND FOUND THAT THIS SAME CRACK HAS OCCURRED TO MANY OTHER OWNERS OF LINCOLN AVIATORS AND WELL AS FORD EXPLORERS AND MERCURY MOUNTAINEERS. FURTHER RESEARCH HAS INDICATED THAT THIS FRACTURE WAS, IN FACT, A DESIGN FLAW THAT WAS NOT ADDRESSED AT THE TIME OF MANUFACTURE. SO DISAPPOINTED. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-05
- VIN: 5LMEU68H64Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHY WASHING SUV NOTICED A STRESS CRACK ON MY REAR LIFT GATE. BELIEVE THIS TO BE A MANUFACTURER DEFECT. I NOTICED THIS CRACK ON OTHER LINCOLN/FORD SUV'S. *TR
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,ENGINE,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-23
- VIN: 5LMEU88H94Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,ENGINE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE AS A CERTIFIED USED VEHICLE. IT HAD AN EXTENDED WARRANTY. ONCE IT EXPIRED I'VE EXPERIENCED EVERY SINGLE COMPLAINT PEOPLE HAVE STATED ONLINE ABOUT THIS VEHICLE. AS OF TODAY (12/02/13) IT STILL HAS ONLY 74,000 MILES ON IT AND THE LATEST PROBLEM IS THE TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE REPLACED BUT THEY DON'T KNOW WHY. I AM A STAY AT HOME MOM AND WEAR-AND-TEAR ON IT IS VERY MINIMAL (GROCERY SHOPPING, TO AND FROM SCHOOL, ETC.). I HAVE NEVER HAD SO MANY PROBLEMS ON A "SO CALLED" LUXURY VEHICLE BEFORE! I'VE HAD BAD COILS IN CYLINDERS 3, 4, 5 (TWICE), AND 7 REPLACED UNDER LINCOLN'S RECALL. THE TAILGATE PANEL CRACKED (JUST LIKE ALL THE OTHER PEOPLE WHO OWN THIS VEHICLE AND THE MOUNTAINEERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT), BUT THEY WON'T FIX IT. IN ADDITION, A WHITE PLASTIC PIECE FELL OUT OF THE TOP HALF OF THE TAILGATE AND NOW IT WILL NOT CLOSE ANYMORE THEREFORE I CAN NO LONGER TAKE IT THROUGH CAR WASHES. THE BRACKET FOR THE SUN VISOR ON MY PASSENGER SIDE COMPLETELY DETERIORATED AND CAUSED THE VISOR TO SUDDENLY DANGLE FROM THE ROOF OF MY CAR WHILE DRIVING. NOW, I CANNOT FLIP IT UP AND IT CAUSES A BLIND SPOT. THERE IS ALSO SOMETHING FAULTY WITH THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WHICH DRAINS MY BATTERY ON A REGULAR BASIS AND I HAVE TO HAVE MY JUMPED. THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH HAS BEEN REPLACED 3 TIMES NOW BECAUSE IT IS HAS SHORTED OUT. TO COMPLICATE MATTERS, EVERY TIME I TAKE THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THESE REPAIRS, THEY INSIST ON DOING A "DIAGNOSTICS CHECK" AND EVERY TIME THEY WANT TO CHARGE A FEE FOR THIS SERVICE. EVERY TIME THE PRICE IS DIFFERENT...SOME TIMES ITS $50, SOMETIMES ITS $100. THIS VEHICLE IS A LEMON AND I WILL NEVER BUY A FORD/LINCOLN/MERCURY AGAIN. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-28
- VIN: 5LMEU68H84Z
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE CARS CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON IN 4-20-07 JUST OVER 50,000 MILES. WE WERE TOLD BY FORD TWO CYLINDER HEADS7 &8 HAD ISSUES AND WOULD REQUIRE A $5900.00 O.H. THEY DID OFFER US $1500.00 TOWARDS THE ENGINE. WE LEARNED LATTER, FORD HAD A INTER-OFFICE BULLETIN ABOUT THIS PROBLEM AS DID ALL-DATA. NOW AT 126,00 WE WILL HAVE TO HAVE THE ENGINE OVERHAULED. FORD SHOULD BE MANDATED TO COVER THE FULL COST OF THESE REPAIRS. THEY HAVE KNOWN ABOUT THIS ISSUE SINCE 2004. *TR
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-03
- VIN: 5LMEU88H04Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: 1 YEAR AFTER PURCHASE AT 52,000 -REPLACED COILS (RECALLED) , BRAKE SWITCH, COST JUST TO LEAD AND FIND ISSUES AFTER FULL SERVICE MAINTENANCE, $1500. 2 YRS IN, TRANSMISSION DUE TO THING THAT IS ATTACHED AND LOOKS LIKE A BRAIN PLATE TO THE TRANSMISSION, (SMS PACK)STILL OWING PLUS NOW, UPCOMING ON LATEST TRANSMISSION/COMPUTER/ AT 84,000 :( S CAR HAS TAKEN ME COMPLETELY UPSIDE DOWN AND IN THE HOLE OWING $12,000 + $3000 FOR NEWEST REPAIR. JUST GOT CAR BACK AND NOW IT FEELS LIKE THERE IS A POTENTIAL SMALL DELAY AND WANTS TO JUMP IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC WHICH I JUST EXPERIENCED YESTERDAY. WHY IS THIS CAR STILL ON THE ROAD AND NOT RECALLED. THE PROBLEMS GO ON AND ON AND ON. I EMAILED FORD AND WAS BASICALLY TOLD TO TAKE THE CAR INTO THEIR DEALERSHIP WHERE I CAN BE ROBBED EVEN FURTHER. SAD!! THESE ARE ONLY A SMALL FRACTION OF LINKS THAT ARE OUT THERE DUE TO LINCOLN HAVING KNOWN ISSUES. I SPOKE WITH A CAR SALESMAN THIS LAST WEEK AND HE HAS A 2005 AVIATOR AND JUST REPLACED THE WHOLE TRANSMISSION AT 92,000 MILES. HTTP://WWW.ARFC.ORG/COMPLAINTS/2004/LINCOLN/LS/POWER_TRAIN/PROBLEM.ASPX HTTP://WWW.AUTOMOTIVEFORUMS.COM/T936173-POSSIBLE_SOLUTION_FOR_THE_COMMON_LINCOLN_LS_TRANS_PROBLEMS.HTML HTTP://VIN.CENTRALCLEARINGHOUSE.COM/CENTRAL/VIN.NSF/0/22BFF5BE198030B78825777D002F814D HTTP://REPAIRPAL.COM/SHIFT-LEVER-STUCK-IN-DRIVE- *TR
STEERING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-25
- VIN: 5LMEU88H14Z
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAD JUST GOTTEN ONTO THE HIGHWAY,AT ABOUT 40 MPH THE REAR WHEELS STARTED TO SKIP AND JERK ALSO THERE WAS A LOUD CLUCK FROM UNDER THE FRONT....THE MECHANIC FOUND THE TRANSFER CASE WAS DAMAGED DUE TO CHEAP FORD PARTS..... *TR
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-02-01
- VIN: 5LMEU88H04Z
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY TRUCK USED IN DECEMBER 2011 AND IT HAS BEEN NOTHING BUT CONSTANT PROBLEMS. FIRST, THE DOOR LOCKS WOULD RANDOMLY ENGAGE/DISENGAGE ON THEIR OWN. OR IF BUTTON PUSHED NOTHING AT ALL WOULD HAPPEN. WHILE THE HEATER WORKS, IT EMITS A DEATH RATTLE BEFORE BLOWING AIR. MY AC DOESN'T WORK AT ALL AND WAS TOLD THAT I WOULD NEED TO REPLACE THE COMPRESSOR. THE MOST DANGEROUS AND EXPENSIVE REPAIR HAS BEEN REPLACING THE FRONT DIFFERENTIAL MOUNTING AND WHEEL BARING. I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS ONLY MOUNTED ON ONE SIDE AND WAS LEAKING AND THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL CAR. THE MECHANIC WAS ACTUALLY ABLE TO SHAKE MY WHEELS WITH HIS BARE HANDS. THE FRONT END STUFF ACTUALLY DROPPED FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE AS I AS DRIVING. LUCKILY I WAS ABLE TO SAFELY PULL OVER AND HAD TO BE TOWED ON A FLAT BED BECAUSE THE FRONT END WAS SO DAMAGED. REPAIR COSTS $1400. AND I WAS ADVISED THAT IT WOULD PROBABLY HAPPEN AGAIN! PRIOR TO THIS I ALSO HAD TO REPLACE THE WHEEL BEARING AND BALL JOINTS. FORD DOES NOT STAND BY THEIR PRODUCT! *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-04
- VIN: 5LMEU88HX4Z
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY LINCOLN AVIATOR STARTED MAKING A HORRIBLE NOISE IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE ON THE MORNING OF SEPTEMBER 4, 2011. MY WIFE TOOK THE AVIATOR TO THE AAA CAR CARE CENTER TO FIND AND REPAIR THE ISSUE. THE AAA CERTIFIED TECHNICIAN PLACED THE AVIATOR ON THE LIFT AND DISCOVERED THE ENTIRE DIFFERENTIAL UNIT WAS HANGING FREELY AND LITERALLY SWINGING UNDER THE VEHICLE. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION, THE WELDING THAT HOLDS THE MOUNT TO WHICH THE DIFFERENTIAL UNTIL IS BOLTED, BROKE FROM THE FRAME. THIS ISSUE OF A DIFFERENTIAL MOUNT WELD BREAKING FREE HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BY THE AAA CERTIFIED TECHNICIAN OR THE AAA SERVICE MANAGER WITH OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. FURTHERMORE, THE MOUNT WAS ONLY WELDED ON ONE SIDE (SIDE CLOSEST TO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE). I VISITED THE LOCAL LINCOLN DEALERSHIP AND EXPLAINED THE ISSUE WITH MY AVIATOR?S DIFFERENTIAL MOUNT ONLY BEING WELDED ON ONE SIDE AND ASKED TO SEE AN AVIATOR OR EXPLORER THAT WOULD HAVE THE SAME DIFFERENTIAL MOUNTING SYSTEM. THIS LINCOLN DEALERSHIP HAD AN EXPLORER UP ON THE LIFT AND SHOWED ME THAT THE DIFFERENTIAL MOUNT ON ALL AVIATORS AND EXPLORERS DO INDEED HAVE THE DIFFERENTIAL MOUNT WELDED ON BOTH SIDES TO THE FRAME. THE POTENTIAL DAMAGE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL UNIT FALLING OFF THE VEHICLE AND THE DRIVE SHAFT BECOMING DISLODGED IS EXCEEDINGLY HIGH AND COULD POSE A FATAL SCENARIO. I AM ASKING FOR LINCOLN TO INVESTIGATE THIS POTENTIALLY FATAL ERROR OF ONLY HAVING ONE WELD SEAM HOLDING THE DIFFERENTIAL UNIT MOUNT TO THE FRAME AND INSPECT FOR ANY FURTHER DAMAGES AS A RESULT, IN ADDITION TO INSPECTING FOR OTHER AREAS OF FAULTY CRAFTSMANSHIP. THIS MANUFACTURING DEFECT IS IN NO WAY THE ERROR OF THE CONSUMER OR DRIVING BEHAVIOR. THIS ISSUE POINTS DIRECTLY TO THE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND INTEGRITY OF THE WELD AND QUALITY CONTROL OF LINCOLN. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-01
- VIN: 5LMEU88H54Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFTER FAILED WHILE TRYING TO SHIFT INTO REVERSE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND TRIED TO CHANGE GEARS BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESPOND. SHE THEN ATTEMPTED TO REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION BUT THE KEY COULD NOT BE REMOVED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,291.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-05
- VIN: 5LMFU27R54L
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM DROPPED THE VEHICLE DOWN UPON STARTING. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE WOULD BOUNCE AND DRIVE LOW TO THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THE AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE LEVER (AN "L" SHAPED LEVER) ON THE MIDDLE SEAT IS DEFECTIVE. WHILE PRESSING DOWN ON THE LEVER, THE LEVER SWUNG OVER AND HIT MY THUMB WITH SUCH FORCE THAT IT FRACTURED MY THUMB. IT APPEARS THAT THE COIL/SPRING ACTION IN THE SEAT IS DEFECTIVE AND DANGEROUS. UPDATED 11/25/11 *BF UPDATED 11/30/11 *TR
Negative 2004 Lincoln Aviator car reviews
Positive 2004 Lincoln Aviator car reviews
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This car is truly amazing! It handles like a sports car even at 105 mph. I've pushed it to 125 mph and it still handles like a dream. The 0-60 is incredibly fast, thanks to its major torque. It's the perfect combination of performance and luxury, like a Mercedes S-Class. If you're looking for an SUV, this is the one. It's comparable to a Range Rover, but at a much more affordable price. And the best part? It never gives me any trouble!
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My wife is absolutely in love with the Aviator and can't understand why Lincoln hasn't done a better job marketing it. As an owner of an Explorer Ltd.V8, I can confidently say that this is no ordinary Explorer. The ride is incredibly smooth and tight, without any of the harshness that I've experienced with other SUVs. The engine is strong and runs smoothly, and the interior is simply stunning - it always turns heads at the car wash. Overall, our experience with the Aviator has been extremely positive, which is somewhat surprising since my wife picked it out. It's a shame that Lincoln hasn't done a better job marketing this amazing vehicle.
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This SUV is a great value. I love the comfortable seats and the amazing ride. The powerful engine and Soundmark sound system are fantastic features. The black clear coat is a nice touch, and the heated and cooled seats are a great addition. Great job, Lincoln! It's a shame they ceased production on these fantastic vehicles. Also, I have never had a problem with this truck yet.
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I drove an Expedition and my wife drove a BMW X5. We always wanted the best of both worlds in one car, and we got it in our Aviator. It combines the toughness of a truck with the luxury of a Lincoln. Thanks!
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I have never been as satisfied with any vehicle I have purchased as I am with the Aviator! I own a 2003 AWD fully loaded edition (no other options available) and I must say, I cannot think of anything else this SUV should or can have. The cooled seats are an option that even other SUVs in the higher price range do not have. Its power is very difficult to compete with, not to mention its towing capacity! This SUV has amazing handling and cornering. The GPS is easy to work with, and the DVD entertainment system is self-explanatory. All in all, this is the best 'pound per pound' SUV out there!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Lincoln Aviator problems:
Common 2004 Lincoln Aviator Problems - Expert Q&A
Feb 11, 2014 ... The only real common problem they had was an electrical gremlin that makes multiple items act weird. The wires mostly ground breaks inside of ...
Engine problems with 2004 Lincoln Aviator — Car Forums at ...
Jul 6, 2010 ... If it is under warranty, it is a free engine rebuild, otherwise it is on your nickle. Push them for the fact that this is a known problem. The ...
2004 Lincoln Aviator Problems and Complaints - 18 Issues
Top 2004 Lincoln Aviator Problems · A Cosmetic Crack May Develop on the Liftgate · Shift lever stuck, not moving · Check Engine Light Due to PCV Grommet Vacuum ...
Q&A: 2004 Lincoln Aviator AWD Lock - Problems & Meaning
Mar 13, 2013 ... My 2004 Lincoln Aviator has "AWD Locked" warning light on. It probably came on when wife was at a nursery on wet - Answered by a verified ...
Help with a couple of issues with my 2004 - Lincoln Aviator Forum ...
Jul 18, 2023 ... akirby ... You need to hold the button until it starts flashing rapidly THEN press the remote. Edited July 18, 2023 by akirby.
Ellsworth Gerlach 2024-09-19
The front seats could be more comfortable, perhaps by taking inspiration from the Navigator's seat design. Additionally, the rear cargo area is not completely flat when the third seat is laid down. However, it's worth noting that the fuel economy could be improved.
Lionel Wisozk 2024-07-05
Although I had high hopes for my 2004 Lincoln Aviator, I have unfortunately encountered a burnt valve inside the head, which has been estimated to cost $3,000 to repair. Despite my previous positive experiences with luxury cars, this issue has left me feeling disappointed and hesitant to consider another Lincoln in the future. In contrast, I have had no issues with my foreign cars, such as my 1995 Nissan Maxima with 160,000 miles and my Honda with 200,000 miles. Moving forward, I may consider sticking with foreign cars.
Otto Marks 2024-06-22
I purchased this Aviator 6 months ago, however, I have been unable to find a comfortable position in the driver or front passenger seats due to the wedging effect of the seat bottom. Despite seeking assistance from the Dealer Service Manager and Lincoln Service, I have not received any helpful solutions.
Darryl Wintheiser 2024-06-11
We purchased this beautiful SUV because of its mid-size and appeal. However, after it hit 75K miles, the engine froze up and had to be replaced. Unfortunately, FORD was not willing to talk to us and was very rude. Additionally, the AC hardly blows cool air and the radiator cracked. As a result, it is constantly in and out of the repair shop. We were disappointed with FORD's lack of interest in customer service. We hope to find a better product in the future.
Ross Howell 2024-02-01
We purchased this vehicle about a year and a half ago. Although it wasn't our first choice, it was within our budget and had all the amenities we needed. Previously, we owned a Chevy Tahoe, but it didn't have a third row seat, which was a requirement for us. While there are a few things we find challenging about this car, such as the window controls being in the center console and the seat controls on the door, we're still getting used to them after owning the vehicle for over a year. Additionally, we wish that all the doors would automatically unlock when the car is turned off, but we're learning to adjust. Overall, we're grateful for this car and the convenience it provides us.