Last updated: 2026-04-20
2019 Lincoln Navigator Reliability Report
The 2019 Lincoln Navigator scores 59/100 ("Mixed"). With 4 recalls and 58 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
4
Complaints
58
Complaint Rate
31.1per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$1089
Annual Fuel Cost
$3,150–$3,300
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (14)
- SEAT BELTS (10)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is year 2 of the Fourth generation (2018).
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- A refresh arrives in 2022.
- 4th generation Navigator (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2018 (redesign year) vs 2019+ pricing and recalls.
2018: Fourth generation (2018) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is year 2 of the Fourth generation (2018).
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2019 Lincoln Navigator?
A 59/100 score puts the 2019 Lincoln Navigator in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2019 is year 2 of the Fourth generation (2018).
Complaint volume sits above average at 58 owner complaints alongside 4 recalls. Issues in power train (14) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put power train (14) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2020 Lincoln Navigator, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2018 Lincoln Navigator for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +$38 cheaper to maintain than avg luxury fullsize SUVs
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (14 complaints)
Compare 2019 Lincoln Navigator With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (14)
- SEAT BELTS (10)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2019 Lincoln Navigator. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
31.1
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 22
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
0
Fires
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Lincoln Navigator Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Lincoln Navigator. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SEAT BELTS
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The seat belt pretensioner in the driver and/or front passenger seat may inadvertently lock the seat belt, which will not allow the belt to retract or extend.
Consequence
Seat belts that do not retract or extend can fail to restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the seat belt retractor date codes and replace the seat belt retractors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S31. Some vehicles in this recall that were previously inspected under recall 24V-099 and did not have parts replaced will need to have this new recall remedy completed.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator, 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, 2022-2023 Ford Transit, and 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles. The rearview camera, or 360-degree view camera if equipped, may not display a rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse.
Consequence
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the rearview camera, and update the software and wiring as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 20, 2023 to Lincoln owners. Ford vehicle owners notification letters were mailed March 4, 2024. Ford remedy parts are anticipated 2nd Quarter 2024. Ford's number for this recall is 23S48.
SUSPENSION
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The rear suspension toe link fasteners may not have been properly tightened to the frame, possibly allowing separation from the frame.
Consequence
A disconnected toe link can cause a sudden change to vehicle handling, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and tighten the rear toe link fasteners, check and adjust the rear toe alignment, and inspect the rear tires for abnormal tire wear, replacing them if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began November 14, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S36.
Buying a used 2019 Lincoln Navigator? Check its history first
Every 2019 Lincoln Navigator 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
2019 Lincoln Navigator NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 20.8%
Safety Technologies
Lincoln NavigatorRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2.5Maintenance rating: 2.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$1089
vs $1127 avg for luxury fullsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.4
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
18%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
18–19 MPG
Running cost: $4,250–$4,400/yr
Fuel + repair
16 city / 21–23 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Navigator 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 16 | 23 | 19 | $3,150 |
| Navigator 4WD 3.5L 6-cyl | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 16 | 21 | 18 | $3,300 |
| Navigator L 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 16 | 22 | 18 | $3,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Lincoln Navigator.
Test transmission for slipping or jerking during acceleration
Inspect seat belts for proper retraction and pretensioner function
Listen for engine rattling or ticking sounds during cold start
Check for any dashboard warning lights or error messages
Verify backup camera functionality and image display
Ensure steering feels responsive and connected
Inspect sunroof for any signs of damage or previous replacement
2019 Lincoln Navigator Common Problems by Component
58 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
14 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Lincoln Navigator frequently report issues with the 10-speed automatic transmission, including symptoms such as jerking into gear, slipping, stalling, and delayed acceleration. Complaints often mention the transmission getting stuck in high gears, causing hesitation during acceleration, and some owners describe the vehicle coasting in neutral unexpectedly. These issues are reported across a wide range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 20,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, as several owners describe near-miss accidents due to sudden power loss or failure to engage gears, particularly during highway driving or when attempting to pass other vehicles. Buyers considering a used 2019 Navigator should be aware of these recurring transmission issues and the potential for costly repairs.
SEAT BELTS
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2019 Lincoln Navigator frequently experiences seat belt malfunctions, particularly with the seat belt pretensioners and retractors. Complaints frequently mention seat belts seizing, failing to retract, or deploying unexpectedly, sometimes accompanied by loud noises and smoke-like smells. These issues are often reported at mileages ranging from approximately 46,000 to 110,000 miles. Safety implications include one reported crash and two injuries due to seat belt pretensioner explosions, with some owners expressing difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, as parts for repairs are often unavailable, leading to delays in addressing these safety concerns.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
7 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Lincoln Navigator frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the electronic dashboard and camera functions. Multiple complaints describe the electronic dashboard going blank, leaving drivers without critical information such as speed and fuel levels; this issue appears to occur intermittently and can resolve itself without intervention. Additionally, several owners mention problems with the backup camera not displaying images consistently, even after recall-related repairs. Other reported electrical issues include malfunctioning vehicle emblem lighting, brake lights, and heated seats. These problems arise at various points of ownership, with some occurring shortly after purchase. While no crashes or injuries are directly reported, the inability to access essential vehicle information may pose safety concerns.
ENGINE (7 complaints)
ENGINE
7 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the cam phasers in the 2019 Lincoln Navigator, often leading to engine rattling and ticking sounds, particularly during cold starts. Complaints commonly describe the vehicle shaking and failing to shift gears properly, with some engines eventually failing entirely. These issues are noted at mileages ranging from approximately 75,000 to 83,000 miles. Several owners mention that their vehicles are not covered under existing recalls or customer satisfaction programs, despite experiencing similar symptoms. No crashes or fires are reported, but the drivability concerns and engine failures could impact vehicle safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Lincoln Navigator report issues with windows opening unexpectedly, with some complaints indicating that all windows open without prompting and others specifically mentioning the driver-side second-row window descending on its own. Additionally, complaints frequently mention hard shifting and forceful lunging of the vehicle, which can result in the vehicle slowing down unexpectedly and creating potential safety risks. Some owners also express concerns about carbon monoxide entering the passenger compartment when the rear trunk gate is open while the vehicle is running. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, and multiple owners describe difficulties in obtaining timely recall service for rear camera issues from dealerships. Safety implications include potential loss of vehicle control and exposure to carbon monoxide, especially when children are present in the vehicle.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Lincoln Navigator report experiencing a complete loss of steering control, with descriptions indicating the steering wheel feels disconnected from the vehicle's wheel control. Another complaint describes a series of issues culminating in a loss of steering control, accompanied by a loud noise, smoke, and a burning rubber smell. This incident reportedly caused the vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic, highlighting significant safety implications. Complaints do not provide consistent mileage data but mention issues occurring soon after vehicle acquisition. These patterns suggest potential safety risks related to steering, which prospective buyers should consider.
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Lincoln Navigator report issues with the sunroof shattering unexpectedly. Complaints frequently mention a loud explosion sound followed by discovering shattered sunroof glass, often without any apparent external cause. These incidents typically occur while driving, with one report noting the issue at approximately 45,000 miles. Safety implications include potential distractions from the noise and the risk of shattered glass entering the vehicle if the sunroof cover is open. Used car buyers should be aware of these visibility-related concerns, as they could impact safety and require attention from a dealer.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Lincoln Navigator report issues related to the availability of parts necessary for a recall repair concerning back over prevention. Complaints frequently mention that the recall repair parts are unavailable, leading to delays in addressing the issue. Despite the recall notification, no owners have reported experiencing any failures or symptoms related to back over prevention at the time of the complaints. The timeline for resolving these issues is not specified, as the parts are still pending distribution. Buyers should be aware of potential delays in completing recall repairs due to parts distribution challenges.
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)
AIR BAGS
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Lincoln Navigator report issues with the airbag system, specifically noting airbag non-deployment during a collision and a persistent restraint system warning light. In one instance, a crash occurred at approximately 5,000 miles where the airbags did not deploy, resulting in three injuries due to seatbelt-related bruising. Another complaint describes a warning light that activates whenever a passenger is seated and buckled, which remains unresolved despite dealer intervention. These issues highlight potential safety implications, particularly concerning airbag functionality in accidents.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaintwhile driving in raid the wipers slowed drastically, like it wasn't connected well to the motor, then ultimately stopped. This made it difficult to see while driving and we can no longer drive in the rain until we can get it repaired. Dealer was unwilling to come remotely to inspect and repair.
When Do 2019 Lincoln Navigator Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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. Current year highlighted.
| 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 |
Lincoln Navigator Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Lincoln Navigator reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Lincoln Navigator?
How many recalls does the 2019 Lincoln Navigator have?
Is the 2019 Lincoln Navigator expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Lincoln Navigator without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Lincoln Navigator.
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