Head-to-head reliability
Lincoln Navigator vs Lincoln Aviator
How the Lincoln Navigator and Lincoln Aviator compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
Lincoln Navigator vs Lincoln Aviator: The Navigator has 284 complaints (28.4/year) and 89 recalls, while the Aviator has 486 complaints (48.6/year) and 125 recalls. Both report power train and electrical issues, but the Aviator also has structural complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Lincoln Navigator or Lincoln Aviator more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Lincoln Navigator
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV with 284 complaints over 10 years, averaging 28.4 per year. Power train issues, especially transmission problems like sudden neutral-out and violent downshifts, are the most common complaint. Electrical system and engine failures also appear, with some owners reporting catastrophic engine failure around 78,000 to 93,000 miles. With 89 recalls and 17 crash-related complaints, it requires diligent maintenance and recall checks.
Lincoln Aviator
The Lincoln Aviator is a mid-size luxury SUV with 486 complaints over 10 years, averaging 48.6 per year. Power train complaints are highest, including grinding noises, rusted axles, and overheating fans. Electrical issues such as frequent no-starts and module failures are also common, along with structural problems like handles falling off. It has 125 recalls and 18 crash-related complaints, indicating a higher rate of reported issues than the Navigator.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Lincoln Navigator | Lincoln Aviator |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 284 Better | 486 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 89 Better | 125 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 17 Better | 18 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 28.4 Better | 48.6 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 20 | 17 Better |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
Lincoln Navigator
- 01POWER TRAIN72
- 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM49
- 03ENGINE39
- 04UNKNOWN OR OTHER33
- 05SEAT BELTS29
Owners report the transmission unexpectedly disengaging at highway speeds, causing complete loss of propulsion, and violent downshifts. This is a serious safety concern that can leave you stranded or cause a crash.
Complaints include modules that control screens, massage seats, running boards, and music failing repeatedly. These failures can disable multiple features and require costly dealer visits.
Some owners experienced catastrophic engine failure with no warning, often due to oil contamination, piston ring failure, or cam phaser issues. These failures typically occur after 78,000 miles and can cost thousands to repair.
Seat belt complaints are among the top five components, though specific failure details are not provided in the sample. Buyers should ensure all seat belts retract and latch properly.
“Category: Power Train -> Automatic Transmission Subject: 2020 Lincoln Navigator – Repeated Missed Warranty Repairs – Transmission Neutral-Out & Violent Downshift at Highway Speed Description: On [XXX], while traveling at approximately 70 mph on [XXX], my 2020…”
“On August 20, 2026, while traveling about 45 MPH, I accelerated to merge onto a highway while passing a slow-moving semi, with traffic approaching from behind. The transmission unexpectedly disengaged and the vehicle completely lost propulsion. The gear indic…”
Lincoln Aviator
- 01POWER TRAIN119
- 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM90
- 03STRUCTURE81
- 04UNKNOWN OR OTHER54
- 05ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING34
Owners report grinding noises when backing up, rattles at all speeds, and rusted axles. In one case, the vehicle became extremely hot and fans activated after parking, leading to a tow.
Multiple electrical and mechanical issues include frequent failures to start, with some owners experiencing ten or more instances. Problems persisted across model years, even after trading in for a new vehicle.
A passenger-side top handlebar fell off completely, causing a serious fall and injury. This indicates potential structural integrity issues that could pose a safety risk.
While specific complaints are not detailed in the sample, this component is among the top five. Buyers should watch for overheating, coolant leaks, or unusual noises.
“My 2023 Lincoln Aviator has a grinding noise when I back up. Also a rattle has begun at all speeds. I had vehicled check and the axles were found to be totally rusted. Prior to having it towed to the detail i did some research and found the following -- A 202…”
“The contact owns a 2023 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle in the garage, the garage became extremely hot, and the fans underneath the vehicle activated. The contact opened the garage. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer,…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
Lincoln Navigator — 89 recalls
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The front axle pinion may not have been heat-treated, which can cause it to fracture.
The risk: A fractured pinion can result in a loss of 4-wheel drive and may cause the front wheels to lock up, increasng the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the front axle pinion gear set. If there is a broken front axle pinion, the entire axle assembly will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 21, 2023. Owners…
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Navigator and Expedition vehicles. The front brake lines may contact the engine air cleaner outlet pipe and become damaged, possibly resulting in a brake fluid leak and reduced brake function.
The risk: A loss of brake function increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect the front brake line and replace the brake line or air cleaner outlet pipe, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 29, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.…
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024 Navigator, and 2023-2024 Corsair vehicl…
The risk: A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model an…
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement…
The risk: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
The fix: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
Lincoln Aviator — 125 recalls
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The rearview camera image may fail when the vehicle speed reaches 10 MPH or greater. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Vis…
The risk: The loss of the rearview camera image while in reverse can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service…
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement…
The risk: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
The fix: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The transmission may be improperly secured due to loose cross member bolts.
The risk: An improperly secured transmission can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission cross member bolts as necessary, free of charge. If the cross member bolts are missing, dealers will replace the cross member and install new bolts, free of charge. Owner notification lette…
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, Bronco, 2024 Ranger, 2025 Mustang, Explorer, and Aviator vehicles. The transmission valve body may have been machined incorrectly, which can cause reverse gear failure, or unexpected forward movement in reverse or neutral gear.
The risk: Unexpected vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the transmission main control valve body, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S19.
Buyer analysis
Lincoln Navigator or Lincoln Aviator: which should you buy?
The Lincoln Navigator has fewer complaints per year (28.4) compared to the Lincoln Aviator (48.6), suggesting the Aviator may have more frequent issues. However, both have serious reported problems, so the difference means the Navigator might require less frequent repair visits, but neither is trouble-free.
Key differences
- The Aviator has 486 complaints over 10 years versus 284 for the Navigator, indicating more reported issues overall.
- Navigator owners frequently report transmission neutral-out and violent downshifts, while Aviator owners report grinding noises and rusted axles.
- Electrical problems are common in both, but Aviator complaints include frequent no-starts and module failures, while Navigator complaints mention screen and feature control failures.
- The Aviator has a notable structural complaint about a handlebar falling off, which is not seen in the Navigator sample.
- Test the transmission at highway speeds for any hesitation, slipping, or unexpected downshifts; listen for unusual noises.
- Check for signs of engine oil contamination or misfires, especially on higher-mileage models; ask for maintenance records.
- Inspect the axles for rust and listen for grinding noises when backing up or rattles at all speeds.
- Test all electrical functions, including starting, screens, and modules; check for any warning lights or intermittent failures.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and check for open recalls using the VIN.
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the transmission, engine, and electrical systems for both models.
- For the Navigator, specifically test the transmission under highway driving conditions and check for engine noises.
- For the Aviator, inspect the undercarriage for rust, test all electronics, and check the structural integrity of handles and trim.
- Ask the seller for all maintenance records and confirm that recall repairs have been completed.
Year by year
Which model years to avoid
Complaints per model year for both vehicles — lower is better. The spikes are the years to scrutinize.
| Year | Lincoln Navigator | Lincoln Aviator |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 4 |
| 2025 | 12 | 16 |
| 2024 | 16 | 7 |
| 2023 | 7 | 24 |
| 2022 | 21 | 45 |
| 2021 | 33 | 39 |
| 2020 | 32 | 108 |
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific Lincoln Navigator or Lincoln Aviator in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Lincoln Navigator vs Lincoln Aviator
- Lincoln Navigator total complaints
- 284
- Lincoln Aviator total complaints
- 486
- Lincoln Navigator total recalls
- 89
- Lincoln Aviator total recalls
- 125
- Lincoln Navigator avg complaints/year
- 28.4
- Lincoln Aviator avg complaints/year
- 48.6
- More reliable overall
- Lincoln Navigator
- Lincoln Navigator top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN
- Lincoln Aviator top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN