Last updated: 2026-07-26

RELIABILITY SCORE: 73/100 (GOOD)

2021 Lincoln Nautilus Reliability Report

Name: 2021 Lincoln Nautilus
Brand: Lincoln

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus scores 73/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 18 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

7.4per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

N/A

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity68/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity81/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

POWER TRAIN (7)
STRUCTURE (3)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Refresh Year

2021 received a 2021 refresh update for the First generation (U540).

Changes: New interior similar to the Navigator; Larger 13.2-inch touchscreen; Updated front bumper.
Year 3 in this generation (2019–2023).
1st generation Nautilus (US).

What this means for buyers

Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.

2019: First generation (U540) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2021: This Model Year (Refresh)

2021 received a 2021 refresh update for the First generation (U540).

Should You Buy the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?

At 73/100, the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 received a 2021 refresh update for the First generation (U540).

Owners log 18 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (7). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2022 Lincoln Nautilus, which scored the same. See also the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Low recall count
+Below-average complaint rate for SUV

Cons

−POWER TRAIN issues reported (7 complaints)
−STRUCTURE: Front driver's side door (3 complaints)

Compare 2021 Lincoln Nautilus With

2021 Cadillac XT6

Reliability: 73/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

POWER TRAIN (7)
STRUCTURE (3)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

7.4

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 16.7

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2021 Lincoln Nautilus Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V3150002025-05-09

BACK OVER PREVENTION

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 vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to delay, freeze, or not display when the vehicle is in reverse.

Consequence

A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

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 and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on June 26, 2025. Additional letters will be mailed once the final remedy is available on each phase. Owner notification letters were sent on October 8, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S49.

24V6350002024-08-23

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.

Consequence

A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2021 Lincoln Nautilus? Check its history first

Every 2021 Lincoln Nautilus has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2021 Lincoln Nautilus NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 15.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Lincoln NautilusRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Lincoln Nautilus.

Test transmission for jerking or hesitation during acceleration
Inspect driver’s side door for cracking sounds or broken check arms
Check trunk operation for unexpected closures
Verify backup camera for real-time display accuracy
Ensure Powertrain Control Module (PCM) functions correctly
Confirm recall repairs are completed, especially for engine cooling issues

2021 Lincoln Nautilus Common Problems by Component

18 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

POWER TRAIN (7)STRUCTURE (3)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)BACK OVER PREVENTION (2)ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2)ENGINE (1)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)

POWER TRAIN

7 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus frequently report transmission issues, with symptoms such as jerking and hesitation during acceleration and deceleration. Some complaints describe the transmission failing entirely, often requiring replacement, with failure occurrences noted around 51,600 to 101,000 miles. Several owners also mention problems with the vehicle's acceleration, including slipping transmissions and increased RPMs without corresponding speed increases. Safety implications are evident as one owner reports a transmission failure while driving on the highway, although no crashes or injuries are mentioned. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly in vehicles with higher mileage.

7 complaints total

STRUCTURE

3 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus report issues with the door structure, particularly involving the front driver's side door. Complaints frequently mention cracking sounds and broken door check arms, with some owners noting that the metal is torn or that the door lacks a swing stop. These issues appear at varying mileages, with one report at 74,000 miles and another at less than 20,000 miles. There are no reported safety implications such as crashes or loss of control, but the structural failure of the doors could pose potential concerns for vehicle integrity. Buyers should be aware of these door-related issues when considering a used 2021 Lincoln Nautilus.

3 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus report recurring issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and trunk operation. One owner describes the vehicle failing to start multiple times, despite electronic components functioning, and notes repeated PCM replacements and a fuse replacement as attempted solutions. This issue has occurred four times for the current owner and previously for another owner, including a failure while driving on the highway. Another owner reports the trunk closing unexpectedly while accessing it, with the safety feature that should prevent closure when an obstruction is detected becoming disabled. This trunk issue has been observed multiple times since 2023, posing a potential safety risk. These complaints suggest potential reliability concerns for buyers considering a used 2021 Lincoln Nautilus.

2 complaints total

BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)

BACK OVER PREVENTION

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus report issues related to the back over prevention system, particularly involving the backup camera. One complaint describes a significant delay, approximately 9-10 seconds, between the real-time events and what is displayed on the camera, which nearly led to an accident. Another owner mentions difficulties with recall repairs, noting that their vehicle was initially associated with a recall campaign but later found not to be. These issues are reported at various stages of ownership, with one owner mentioning the need for a software reinstall that took several hours. Safety implications are evident as the delayed camera response could potentially lead to accidents. Used car buyers should be aware of these reported issues and may want to confirm that any necessary software updates or recall repairs have been completed.

2 complaints total

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus report receiving notifications about a recall concerning the engine and engine cooling system, specifically related to parts unavailability for the necessary repairs. Complaints frequently mention frustration over the extended wait times for parts needed to complete the recall service. No owners report experiencing any engine failures or symptoms related to this recall issue, and there are no mentions of safety hazards such as crashes, fires, or loss of control. This pattern suggests that while there is a recall, the lack of available parts is the primary concern, rather than any reported mechanical failures.

2 complaints total

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint

2024-10-01

Recall 24S55/24V635 was issued in October 2024, the issue with intake valves was discovered prior to October 2021. My car was manufactured in July 2021 within the time of inefficient intake valves. The problem continues to exist as there is no remedy. No remedy and no problem dealer won't look at the car, (even with a clicking noise) I don't drive it with concern my engine will quit in the middle of the road and I could be 500 miles from home. It actually has to stop dead in the middle of the road to be looked at. I can't trade it because it's under recall. It's a catch 22. Why can't these vehicles be taken in and tested to see if the intake valves will crack. Consumer safety should be all that is concerned with, not the bottom line. Shame on Ford/Lincoln for hesitation and NHTSA for allowing it.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaintSafety-related

2023-01-02Crash reported

The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Nautilus. The contact stated that while his wife was pulling into a parking space, the vehicle abruptly accelerated, crashing into the handicap pole sign. There were no injuries. No air bags were deployed. There was no police report filed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the contact was unaware of the diagnostic results, or the repairs performed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000. The VIN was not available.

When Do 2021 Lincoln Nautilus Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

51,000–101,000 milesTransmission failures

Best & Worst Lincoln Nautilus Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Lincoln Nautilus Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Lincoln Nautilus year is 2026 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2023 (73/100) and 2022 (73/100).

Top Pick

Excellent

Lincoln Nautilus Years to Avoid

The worst Lincoln Nautilus year is 2019 with a score of 62/100, primarily due to power train (25) issues.

Good

2019

8Recalls

96Complaints

See full Lincoln Nautilus years-to-avoid analysis

Lincoln Nautilus Reliability Score Trend

Lincoln Nautilus reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 72/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Lincoln Nautilus reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2019	62/100	Good
2020	69/100	Good
2021	73/100	Good
2022	73/100	Good
2023	73/100	Good
2024	71/100	Good
2025	72/100	Good
2026	82/100	Excellent

Lincoln Nautilus Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	82/100	+10	Excellent	0	7
2025	72/100	+1	Good	6	20
2024	71/100	-2	Good	7	19
2023	73/100	0	Good	3	6
2022	73/100	0	Good	2	8
2021(selected)	73/100	+4	Good	2	18
2020	69/100	+7	Good	5	32
2019	62/100	—	Good	8	96

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus reliable?

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 73/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 18 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus include: POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), STRUCTURE (3 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints), BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints), ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus have?

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus expensive to maintain?

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 73/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2021 Lincoln Nautilus without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

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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