Last updated: 2026-04-20
Lincoln Reliability Ratings — Every Model Ranked
Lincoln presents a mixed reliability picture. Some models perform well while others have notable issues. Buyers should research specific model years carefully before purchasing.
Lincoln Best Year Score Comparison
Best-year reliability score for the Lincoln Navigator. Each score represents the single highest-scoring model year.
Lincoln Navigator Overview
Scores below are averaged across all tracked model years. The “Best Year” column shows which year scored highest.
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lincoln Navigator | 2026 | 62/100 | Good | 68 | 13.7 | 2.5 | $1089/yr |
Lincoln Navigator
Lincoln Navigator
5th gen (2025–2023)
The Lincoln Navigator, covering model years 2018 to 2026, shows a mixed reliability record with an average score of 62/100, indicating common issues primarily with the power train and electrical systems. Owners frequently report transmission problems, particularly in earlier years, and electrical issues are noted across several model years, with repair costs averaging $1089 annually, slightly below the luxury fullsize SUV average.
Common Lincoln Problems
Top complaint categories across all Lincoln models, based on owner-reported issues to NHTSA.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are Lincoln Navigator vehicles reliable?
- Lincoln vehicles have an average reliability score of 62/100 ("Good") across 1 model and 9 years in our database. Lincoln presents a mixed reliability picture.
- What is the most reliable Lincoln Navigator?
- Based on our data, the highest-scoring Lincoln model-year is the 2026 Lincoln Navigator at 71/100. Scores can change as new recalls and complaints are filed. See our full Lincoln reliability rankings for the latest data.
- How much does it cost to maintain a Lincoln?
- Annual repair costs for the Lincoln Navigator are estimated at $1089/year based on independent reliability data.
- Which Lincoln years should I avoid?
- All Lincoln years in our database score consistently within their model averages. However, some years are stronger than others.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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