2020 Lincoln Nautilus problems

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The Lincoln Nautilus is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV marketed and sold by the Lincoln brand of Ford Motor Company. The Nautilus was initially renamed from the MKX as part of a mid-cycle update in 2018 for the 2019 model year, as Lincoln phased out its use of "MK" model names. The name 'Nautilus' is derived from the ancient Greek word nautes, meaning "sailor," as in nautical or astronaut.

The first generation is based on the CD4 platform, and was manufactured at Oakville Assembly in Oakville, Ontario, Canada alongside the Ford Edge, Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKT and manufactured in Hangzhou Assembly in Zhejiang, China by joint venture Changan Ford from 2021 to 2023. The second generation is solely produced by Changan Ford in China, as Ford is retooling the Oakville Assembly plant to produce electric vehicles.

First generation (U540; 2019)

The Lincoln Nautilus was released as the mid-cycle revision of the second-generation MKX in November 2017 for the 2019 model year. Adopting the styling of the newly introduced Continental and Navigator, the Nautilus transitioned from the previous split-wing grille to a large rectangular grille with a large Lincoln star emblem.

The counterpart of the updated Ford Edge, the Nautilus is slotted between the Aviator and the MKC (which was replaced by Corsair for the 2020 model year) in Lincoln's lineup. A 245-horsepower (248 PS; 183 kW) 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four is the standard engine, with a 335-horsepower (340 PS; 250 kW) 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 carried over from the MKX as an option; both engines are fitted with start-stop capability. An 8-speed automatic transmission is paired to both engines (replacing the previous 6-speed).

For the 2021 model year, the Nautilus was once again refreshed with a new interior similar to the new Navigator, Aviator, and Corsair, featuring a larger 13.2" touchscreen and Ford's latest SYNC 4 system. Minor changes were also made to the front bumper.

2020 Lincoln Nautilus

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Common 2020 Lincoln Nautilus problems

The 2020 Lincoln Nautilus, a luxury crossover SUV, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These issues primarily revolve around the vehicle's engine, braking system, and transmission, as well as concerns about accident protection and backover prevention.

  • Loud and Rough Braking: Another common issue reported by 2020 Lincoln Nautilus owners is loud and rough braking. This problem can be caused by several factors, including worn-out brake pads, damaged brake rotors, or a malfunctioning brake system. Loud and rough braking can compromise the vehicle's safety and should be addressed promptly to prevent any potential accidents.
  • Perceived Lack of Accident Protection: Some 2020 Lincoln Nautilus owners have expressed concerns about the vehicle's accident protection. While the Nautilus comes with various safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning, some owners have reported feeling that the vehicle does not provide adequate protection during accidents. This perception may be due to the vehicle's design or the performance of its safety features.
  • Issues with Backover Prevention: The 2020 Lincoln Nautilus has been reported to have issues with backover prevention, which is a critical safety feature in any vehicle. Backover prevention is designed to alert the driver when an object or person is behind the vehicle, helping to prevent accidents. However, some 2020 Lincoln Nautilus owners have reported that this feature does not always work correctly, which can compromise the vehicle's safety.
  • Powertrain and Speed Control Issues: While not explicitly mentioned in the search results for the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus, powertrain and speed control issues are common complaints for the Lincoln Nautilus across various model years. These issues can manifest as jerky movements, unresponsive acceleration, and other transmission-related problems. These issues can significantly impact the vehicle's drivability and safety, making them critical areas of concern for 2020 Lincoln Nautilus owners.

In summary, the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus has several common problems that owners have reported, including engine noise, loud and rough braking, perceived lack of accident protection, issues with backover prevention, and powertrain and speed control issues. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to ensure the vehicle's safety and reliability.

2020 Lincoln Nautilus engine

What is the most common problem with Lincoln Nautilus?

The solution is adequate. If you decide to purchase a used 2020 Lincoln Nautilus. Keep an eye on the vehicle's history of recalls. And look for any frequently.

How reliable is a Lincoln Nautilus 2020?

How Reliable Is the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus? The 2020 Lincoln Nautilus has a predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Is there a recall on the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus?

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Edge, 2020 Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair and Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. An inadequate amount of lubricant in the rear drive unit may cause seizure of the rear drive axle.

Does Lincoln Nautilus hold its value?

Lincoln Nautilus Depreciation

A Lincoln Nautilus will depreciate in value by $24,836 after 5 years. Depreciation is difficult to avoid, but it can be managed.

What is the most common problem with the Lincoln Nautilus?

The solution is adequate. If you decide to purchase a used 2020 Lincoln Nautilus. Keep an eye on the vehicle's history of recalls. And look for any frequently.

How reliable is a Lincoln Nautilus 2020?

How Reliable Is the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus? The 2020 Lincoln Nautilus has a predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Are there any recalls on a 2020 Lincoln Nautilus?

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Edge, 2020 Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair and Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. An inadequate amount of lubricant in the rear drive unit may cause seizure of the rear drive axle.

Does the Lincoln Nautilus have transmission problems?

Faulty Transmission: The most common problem with the 2019 Nautilus was the transmission system. Owners reported issues with the 8-speed automatic transmission, including hard shifting and unresponsive acceleration. Infotainment System Issues: Another problematic area was the infotainment system.

2020 Lincoln Nautilus car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lincoln Nautilus problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Power train problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Engine problems
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Back over prevention problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Lincoln Nautilus vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2020 Lincoln Nautilus complaints

The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus.

2024-10-02

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8K95LB
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Lincoln Nautilus. The contact stated while driving downhill at 55 MPH with the cruise control activated, the vehicle failed to maintain the set speed and accelerated to 70-75 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the vehicle had standard cruise control; not adaptive cruise control that could automatically apply the brakes while driving and maintain the set speed. The vehicle was then taken to Ellsworth Ford, Inc. (424 Industrial Rd, Ellsworth, WI 54011), where an unknown repair was performed; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 24,000.
2024-07-13

WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-09
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8KP6LB
  • Components: WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: When I took the vehicle in for service, I had to replace all 20 lug nuts as the dealer service department reported they were "swollen" and they were unable to complete the tire rotation. This also poses a safety risk as if I had a flat tire, I could not get them off to change a tire. They could also break causing stress on others and cause a wheel to come off of the vehicle. I was advised that this is a common problem with Ford/Lincoln vehicles, however there didn't seem to be any warranty coverage or safety recalls. If this is a common problem or some type of defect, it seems that I should not have had to spend $240 to replace them.
2024-02-06

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-13
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8K95LB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: When taking off from stop light or stop sign between the speed of 35-45 the car feels like it’s seizing!
2023-12-25

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8KP8LB
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: High mount brake light failure (2nd occurrence) November 2023 at 13,400 miles. Vehicle was repaired under warranty. This occurrence appears to be a repeated faulty part. Failure of high mount brake light creates rear collision potential in low visibility scenarios. The part (13613A High Mount Stop Lamp Assembly) appears to be a known faulty part by manufacturer or vehicle design. There are no warning lamps or messages to warn driver that failure has occurred. Problem could go unnoticed for an extended time.
2023-11-20

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-15
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8K94LB
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Lincoln Nautilus. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the Hollywood Destination E Rack Bicycle Carrier had detached and fell onto the roadway. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 23E085000 (Equipment) as the cause for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,000. The contact requesting the complaint be closed with a satisfactory outcome.
2023-11-04

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-26
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8KP8LB
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: High mount brake light (or third brake light) failure occurred September 2022 at 8,000 miles. Vehicle was repaired under warranty. Failure of high mount brake light creates rear collision potential in low visibility scenarios. The part (13613A High Mount Stop Lamp Assembly) appears to be faulty by manufacturer or vehicle design. There are no warning lamps or messages to warn driver that failure has occurred. Problem could go unnoticed for an extended time.
2023-06-23

BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8K90LB
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Lincoln Nautilus. The contact stated that while his wife was reversing in the rain, the back-up camera image was distorted. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that the failure might be due to a leak. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 40,009.
2023-05-21

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-20
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8KP8LB
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: According to Lincoln, in their manual, the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus is designed such that it can be recreational towed behind a motorhome. My first experience towing this vehicle resulted in a violet "wobble" that shook a 43 foot motorhome when making a normal left hand turn. A second incident occurred when a dip in the road caused the wobble. In both incidents it was necessary to come to a complete stop and then proceed and the wobble disappeared. This problem has been discussed on RV Forums over the years but I'm not sure if it has been report. It was stated that in one incident the hitch of the RV snapped causing the towed vehicle to crash. I believe this is a potential danger on our roads.
2023-05-08

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-10-31
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8J94LB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: VEHICLE HAS AN ERRATIC TRANSMISSION ISSUE. DDOES NOT RESPOND AT TIMES WHEN IN TRAFFIC AT LOW SPEEDS. DO NOT FEEL SAFE IN TRAFFIC BECAUSE OF THIS. WORRIED IF IT WILL RESPOND WHEN ASKED TO DO SO. NO CODES OR OTHER WARNINGS ARE GIVING BY THE VEHICLE. BEEN TO THE DEALER AT LEAST 3X AND ONCE THE RESET THE COMPUTER BACK TO FACTORY SETTINGS ONLY TO HAVE IT MORPH BACK INTO ITS UNRELIABLE STATE AFTER 2K MILES WERE ADDED. THE DEALER ART HILL FORD CLAIMS THEY ARE BACKED UP WITH WORK AND DONT NOTICE ANYTHING WRONG WHEN DRIVING IT ON A FEW OCCASIONS. BUT ADMITTLEY STATE THAT THE 10 SPEED TRANSMISSIONS ARE A PROBLEM. THE MANUFACUTER LICOLN OFFERED A BUY BACK BUT CHANGED IT TO 10 FREE OIL CHANGES
2023-03-23

VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-19
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8KP0LB
  • Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: We were driving down the highway, when a huge explosion sound occurred. We pulled off at the next safe spot to look what happened. The sunroof had exploded and a huge hole was in the sunroof. Glass shards were everywhere. Thankfully the interior cover was shut. We might not be alive today if it would have been open. Glass in my eyes, crash into other vehicles, use your imagination on how bad this could have turned out. Looking online reveals this is happening a lot. Someone will eventually get killed.
2023-01-23

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-04-25
  • VIN: 2LMPJ6K96LB
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
  • Summary: My car won't start when I press the brake and hit the start button, which then flashes green instead of staying green. I have to go through the same steps several times before it will turn on. The menu goes through the entire functions of the engine. For me, I never know if the engine will start or I will be stranded. I thought after two visits to service, it was fixed. Today, it stalled at a green light, and when I powered off and powered back on, the start button started the flashing light, the function menu again. My car wouldn't start and there was a long line behind me. I bought my car in Feb 2021 and only have 17,500 miles because I'm afraid of being stranded. I paid $52,000 cash for this car and expect that when I turn it on, I'll be able to drive to my destination without problem. This will be the THIRD TIME MY CAR IS IN SERVICE. THE DEALERSHIP WON'T GIVE ME A LOANER BECAUSE OF COVID. I've never been so disappointed over something I've bought. The dealership is of very little help or empathy.
2022-09-13

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-03
  • VIN: 2LMPJ8KP5LB
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: When accelerating onto the interstate the traction control engages without a warning light. It occurs on dry pavement. The acceleration is not excessive and there is no loss of traction. The traction control disengages when the accelerator pedal is released.
2021-08-04

BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
  • VIN: 2LMPJ6K92LB
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Lincoln Nautilus. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 20V575000 (Visibility). The dealer was contacted on multiple occasions and informed him that the part was still unavailable. The contact also stated that soon after receiving the recall notice, the back over prevention camera failed to operate. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
2021-06-14

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-14
  • VIN: 2lmpj8k9xlb
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I’ve only had the car 2 weeks brought brand new from Crest Lincoln on May 28,2020. Every time I try to accelerate the car doesn’t want to move , it sounds like it’s trying to get power. It makes a humming noise then it slowly starts to move and the care jerks and pick up speed. I don’t like it, I’m afraid that when i come to a light and it doesn’t accelerate I might get hit from behind. I contacted the sales person Paul Smith (on vacation) then I spoke to the Sales Manager (Deno Martino) told him my story. He said he believes its the software. And that he will tell the Service Manager to reach out to me ( Bob Elliott) I honestly believe that the car shouldn’t been sold and the sales person and sales manager knew it. It was a sale for them and a bad experience for me. I didn’t test drive the car because I test drove the 2021 and it drove good so I didn’t even think about test driving the 2020. Lesson Learned.

2020 Lincoln Nautilus recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus.

2021-01-15
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Edge, 2020 Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair and Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. An inadequate amount of lubricant in the rear drive unit may cause seizure of the rear drive axle.
  • Consequence: If the rear drive unit seizes, there may be a loss of drive and/or a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the rear drive unit lubricant level. Axles found to have lubricant at the minimum level will be filled to the full level. Axles found to be below the minimum lubricant fill level will be replaced, free of charge. This recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S02.
2020-09-23
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Explorer, Mustang, Transit, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Edge, and Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair vehicles. Due to a poor electrical connection, the rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Remedy became available on February 1, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19.
2020-07-17
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company, Inc. (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX and 2019-2020 Nautilus vehicles equipped with 16-way electric tilt seats. The seat cushion frame edge may contact the wire harness when the seat occupant uses the tilt function of the seat, potentially damaging one or more wires within the harness, which can result in either inadvertent deployment of the air bag or nondeployment of the air bag in the event of a crash.
  • Consequence: An air bag that deploys inadvertently increases the risk of a crash. An air bag that does not deploy in the event of a crash increases the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install protective flocking tape onto the exposed edge of the 16-way seat cushion frames, and inspect the wire harness for damage, and repair or replace it as needed, free of charge. This recall began August 12, 2020. Owners may contact Ford/Lincoln customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S37.

Negative 2020 Lincoln Nautilus car reviews

  1. Tatum Vandervort 2024-09-23

    The audio system in the vehicle is not up to par. It lacks the ability to provide a surround sound experience and has limited tone adjustments, resulting in a tinny sound. As a result, I no longer enjoy listening to music in the car. The seats are not very adjustable and do not provide the level of comfort I was hoping for. However, the size of the vehicle is suitable for my needs and the interior looks appealing. The driver's seat and steering column adjustments make for easy entry and exit, and the car handles well on the road. While there are some issues with the audio, seats, and camera, I believe that with some tuning, these issues can be resolved. Overall, I am confident that the Nautilus has potential and can be improved with some adjustments.

  2. Jaquan Mitchell 2024-05-28

    The 2020 Nautilus 2.0T AWD Reserve does not come with adaptive suspension, despite the window sticker indicating that it is standard equipment. However, I can confirm that the 2019 model with identical equipment did have it.

Positive 2020 Lincoln Nautilus car reviews

  1. Terrence Stamm 2024-11-21

    I love my Nautilus. It's been great to me with zero mechanical issues. The ride is comfortable and it's fun to drive. The controls are conveniently situated so that you can adjust them without taking your eyes off the road. I haven't found any blind spots and it handles well in the rain. I highly recommend it!

  2. Oswald Ritchie 2024-09-19

    Beautify car and amazing drive

  3. Constantin Ziemann 2024-09-08

    If you don't stop driving that Hotrod Lincoln. What a pleasant surprise! Ingress and egress are problem-free, road noise is almost non-existent, and the paddle shifters are a fun toy. This combination of options and new tech, 8-speed transmission mated to the 335 hp twin-turbo V6, has made driving fun again. Fit and finish inside and out are world-class.

  4. Kamron Ebert 2024-08-18

    Get ready for some heavy negotiations! Although Lincoln isn't offering much, if you're a front-line worker or a veteran, you'll be eligible for additional discounts.

  5. Toney Koelpin 2024-08-18

    The v6 is really smooth and has effortless power to move the AWD version. It's a nice size for a 2 row suv and the initial quality is excellent.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2020 Lincoln Nautilus problems:

2020 Lincoln Nautilus Reliability - Consumer Reports
2020 Lincoln Nautilus Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/lincoln/nautilus/2020/reliability/

Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Exhaust · In-car Electronics · Drive System · Transmission Minor · Engine Major · Steering And Suspension · Fuel System/Emissions.

2020 Lincoln Nautilus Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2020 Lincoln Nautilus Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/lincoln/nautilus/2020/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...

The Lincoln Nautilus Years To Avoid - CoPilot
The Lincoln Nautilus Years To Avoid - CoPilot
https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/lincoln-nautilus-years-to-avoid/

Aug 10, 2023 ... According to reports by J.D. Power, the Lincoln Nautilus has consistently received high-reliability ratings, a testament to Lincoln's commitment ...

The Most Common 2020 Lincoln Nautilus Problems | GetJerry.com
The Most Common 2020 Lincoln Nautilus Problems | GetJerry.com
https://getjerry.com/car-insurance/2020-lincoln-nautilus-problems

Oct 26, 2022 ... Issues with backover prevention, powertrain, and speed control are the three complaints about the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus. Learn more here.

Any known common problems? : r/lincolnmotorco
Any known common problems? : r/lincolnmotorco
https://www.reddit.com/r/lincolnmotorco/comments/1ad2oou/any_known_common_problems/

Jan 28, 2024 ... My husband is currently thinking about purchasing a used 2020-2022 Aviator or Nautilus and we have been trying to research issues with not ...

Other years of Lincoln Nautilus

lincoln nautilus 2021 photo
Nautilus 2021
Lincoln

3

1

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lincoln nautilus 2023 photo
Nautilus 2023
Lincoln

3

2

15

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lincoln nautilus 2019 photo
Nautilus 2019
Lincoln

57

4

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
lincoln nautilus 2020 photo
Nautilus 2020
Lincoln

14

3

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2020 Lincoln Nautilus photo