Last updated: 2026-04-20
Lincoln Navigator Reliability by Year
The Lincoln Navigator averages 61/100 across 8 model years, rated good.
Lincoln Navigator Reliability Overview
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. Recent data from 2026 suggests improvements, with a reliability score of 71/100, no complaints reported, and a reduced number of recalls.
Current generation: 5th gen (2025–2023).
Best & Worst Lincoln Navigator Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Lincoln Navigator Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Lincoln Navigator year is 2025 with a reliability score of 64/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (64/100) and 2023 (63/100).
Lincoln Navigator Years to Avoid
No Lincoln Navigator years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Lincoln Navigator maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Lincoln Navigator Reliability Score Trend
Lincoln Navigator reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 61/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 64/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2026 Lincoln Navigator
2 recalls · 0 complaints
The 2026 Lincoln Navigator has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 0 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Lincoln Navigator.
2025 Lincoln Navigator
6 recalls · 7 complaints
The 2025 Lincoln Navigator has good reliability. There are 6 recalls and 7 owner complaints on file for the 2025 Lincoln Navigator. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (2), Unknown Or Other (1), Lane Departure (1).
2024 Lincoln Navigator
7 recalls · 14 complaints
The 2024 Lincoln Navigator has good reliability. There are 7 recalls and 14 owner complaints on file for the 2024 Lincoln Navigator. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Suspension (5), Electrical System (1), Power Train (1).
2023 Lincoln Navigator
8 recalls · 5 complaints
The 2023 Lincoln Navigator has good reliability. There are 8 recalls and 5 owner complaints on file for the 2023 Lincoln Navigator. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (3), Exterior Lighting (1), Unknown Or Other (1).
2022 Lincoln Navigator
13 recalls · 16 complaints
The 2022 Lincoln Navigator has good reliability. There are 13 recalls and 16 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Lincoln Navigator. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (7), Unknown Or Other (3), Fuel System, Gasoline (1).
2021 Lincoln Navigator
10 recalls · 26 complaints
The 2021 Lincoln Navigator has good reliability. There are 10 recalls and 26 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (4), Unknown Or Other (4), Engine (4).
2020 Lincoln Navigator
11 recalls · 24 complaints
The 2020 Lincoln Navigator has good reliability. There are 11 recalls and 24 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Lincoln Navigator. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 2 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (13), Electrical System (4), Engine (3).
2019 Lincoln Navigator
4 recalls · 58 complaints
The 2019 Lincoln Navigator has mixed reliability. There are 4 recalls and 58 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Lincoln Navigator. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (14), Seat Belts (10), Electrical System (7).
2018 Lincoln Navigator
7 recalls · 45 complaints
The 2018 Lincoln Navigator has mixed reliability. There are 7 recalls and 45 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Lincoln Navigator. Severity signals include 3 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (14), Engine (6), Steering (5).
Found Your Lincoln Navigator? Check Its History
Every Lincoln Navigator 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 Navigator Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
2.5/5
Annual Repair Cost
$1089
Repair Frequency
0.4/yr
Major Repair Risk
18%
$38 below the luxury fullsize SUVs average of $1127/yr.
Ranked #5 of 19 among luxury fullsize SUVs.
Lincoln Navigator Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Lincoln Models
Compare all Lincoln models by reliability
Compare Lincoln Navigator With Similar SUVs
The Lincoln Navigator competes with other full-size suvs such as Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon, and Chevrolet Suburban.
Cadillac Escalade reliability
8 years tracked · 496 complaints
GMC Yukon reliability
9 years tracked · 1357 complaints
Chevrolet Suburban reliability
9 years tracked · 519 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Lincoln Navigator reliable?
- The Lincoln Navigator has good reliability with an average score of 61/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Lincoln Navigator?
- The best year for the Lincoln Navigator is 2025 with a reliability score of 64/100, rated good. It has 6 recalls and 7 owner complaints on record. See full 2025 Lincoln Navigatoranalysis →
- What are the Lincoln Navigator years to avoid?
- No Lincoln Navigator years in our database are statistical outliers — all tracked model years score consistently within the model average. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Lincoln Navigator?
- The Lincoln Navigator has an estimated annual repair cost of $1089, which is $38 below the luxury fullsize SUVs average of $1127. 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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