Last updated: 2026-07-25
Lincoln Aviator Reliability by Year
The Lincoln Aviator averages 64/100 across 6 model years, rated good.
Lincoln Aviator Reliability Overview
The Lincoln Aviator, spanning the 2020 to 2025 model years, holds an average reliability score of 64/100, placing it in the "Good" category according to Auto Reliability Index standards. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system malfunctions, particularly with the electronic shifter and camera systems, as well as power train and engine problems, which have been addressed through numerous recalls. With an estimated annual repair cost of $807 and a medium reliability rating of 3.5/5, the Aviator is best suited for buyers who prioritize luxury features but are prepared for potential maintenance needs.
Current generation: 2nd gen (2020–2023), facelifted 2025.
Best & Worst Lincoln Aviator Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Lincoln Aviator Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Lincoln Aviator year is 2024 with a reliability score of 70/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (68/100) and 2023 (66/100).
Lincoln Aviator Years to Avoid
The worst Lincoln Aviator year is 2020 with a score of 57/100, primarily due to electrical system (29) issues.
Lincoln Aviator Reliability Score Trend
Lincoln Aviator reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 68/100 compared to 61/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 57/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 68/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2025 Lincoln Aviator
14 recalls · 13 complaints
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator has good reliability. There are 14 recalls and 13 owner complaints on file for the 2025 Lincoln Aviator. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (3), Service Brakes (2), Seats (2).
2024 Lincoln Aviator
8 recalls · 5 complaints
The 2024 Lincoln Aviator has good reliability. There are 8 recalls and 5 owner complaints on file for the 2024 Lincoln Aviator. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (2), Electrical System (2), Structure (1).
2023 Lincoln Aviator
16 recalls · 21 complaints
The 2023 Lincoln Aviator has good reliability. There are 16 recalls and 21 owner complaints on file for the 2023 Lincoln Aviator. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (5), Engine (3), Back Over Prevention (3).
2022 Lincoln Aviator
21 recalls · 43 complaints
The 2022 Lincoln Aviator has good reliability. There are 21 recalls and 43 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Lincoln Aviator. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Structure (6), Electrical System (6), Unknown Or Other (5).
2021 Lincoln Aviator
28 recalls · 38 complaints
The 2021 Lincoln Aviator has good reliability. There are 28 recalls and 38 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Lincoln Aviator. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (9), Power Train (4), Engine (4).
2020 Lincoln Aviator
29 recalls · 99 complaints
The 2020 Lincoln Aviator has mixed reliability. There are 29 recalls and 99 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Lincoln Aviator. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (29), Unknown Or Other (16), Power Train (15).
Found Your Lincoln Aviator? Check Its History
Every Lincoln Aviator has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Lincoln Aviator Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
3.5/5
Annual Repair Cost
$807
Repair Frequency
0.6/yr
Lincoln Aviator Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Lincoln Models
Compare all Lincoln models by reliability
Compare Lincoln Aviator With Similar SUVs
The Lincoln Aviator competes with other midsize suvs such as Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Audi Q7.
Acura MDX reliability
8 years tracked · 692 complaints
BMW X5 reliability
9 years tracked · 647 complaints
Audi Q7 reliability
9 years tracked · 314 complaints
Lexus RX reliability
9 years tracked · 729 complaints
Volvo XC90 reliability
9 years tracked · 229 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Lincoln Aviator reliable?
- The Lincoln Aviator has good reliability with an average score of 64/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Lincoln Aviator?
- The best year for the Lincoln Aviator is 2024 with a reliability score of 70/100, rated good. It has 8 recalls and 5 owner complaints on record. See full 2024 Lincoln Aviatoranalysis →
- What are the Lincoln Aviator years to avoid?
- The Lincoln Aviator years to avoid include 2020 (57/100). These model years score significantly below the model average due to higher recall and complaint volumes. See the full years-to-avoid analysis for details. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Lincoln Aviator?
- The Lincoln Aviator has an estimated annual repair cost of $807. This includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs based on independent repair data.
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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