Lincoln Navigator Complaints

83 consumer complaints on file.

#11720221February 24, 2026
SEATS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SEAT BELTS
On May 26, 2024, I entered into a lease agreement for a Lincoln Navigator vehicle manufactured and warranted by Lincoln Motor Company. This vehicle subsequently developed multiple serious and dangerous safety defects, including uncontrolled and spontaneous seat inflation, failure of seat pump systems, infotainment system failure including loss of backup camera and safety display systems, unexpected closure of side mirrors while driving, and continued seat movement and mechanical activation after the vehicle was powered off. These defects presented a direct and substantial risk to occupant safety. On multiple occasions, uncontrolled seat inflation physically restrained and trapped an occupant, including a minor child, by causing the seat structure to expand while the seatbelt locking mechanism engaged, restricting the occupant’s ability to exit the seat. These events occurred while the vehicle was in operation, including while traveling on a public freeway, creating an immediate and dangerous safety hazard. Lincoln Motor Company and Galpin Ford were repeatedly notified of these safety defects. On January 6, 2025, the vehicle was delivered to Galpin Lincoln, an authorized Lincoln Motor Company repair facility, for emergency repair due to these ongoing and escalating safety failures. Lincoln Motor Company retained possession of the vehicle for approximately eighty-three (83) days. During this time, Lincoln Motor Company admitted in writing that critical seat systems and associated pump mechanisms were not functioning as designed. Lincoln Motor Company further admitted that no repair remedy existed for certain infotainment and software-related system failures due to lack of available corrective software or engineering solution. Despite these admissions & despite exceeding statutory repair period thresholds, Lincoln Motor Company failed to repair myriad safety hazards on our Navigator leaving us with an inoperable vehicle.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718898February 18, 2026
AIR BAGS, AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION, STRUCTURE
See attached document for complaint.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11716941February 10, 2026
POWER TRAIN, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, ENGINE
While driving, the vehicle repeatedly hesitated during gear changes, lost power, and then abruptly jerked back into gear. This occurred intermittently for over a month without any warning messages, creating unpredictable and unsafe driving conditions. As the issue worsened, the vehicle began losing power more frequently. The most serious event occurred at highway speed, where the vehicle suddenly lost propulsion in the middle of active traffic, nearly causing a stall. This created an immediate safety hazard for myself and surrounding drivers. After several seconds, the vehicle violently re-engaged into gear and surged forward. Only at this point did the vehicle display a warning: “Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power.” I scanned the vehicle and retrieved DTC P0734 – Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio, a code associated with internal transmission faults. A dealership inspected the vehicle and reported that the CDF drum had failed. They stated they could not guarantee that replacing the drum would resolve all issues and provided two estimates: $5,600 for a partial internal repair/$8,700 for full transmission replacement. The 10R80 transmission has a documented history of failures, including harsh shifting, slipping, unexpected gear disengagement, and internal component defects. These issues are addressed in multiple Ford Technical Service Bulletins involving P0734, harsh/failed shifts, and failures related to the CDF clutch cylinder/drum. Many vehicles of the same make and model are covered under related recalls or service actions for similar problems; however, my VIN is not included, and Lincoln declined to honor the existing recall. This defect presents a serious safety risk due to: Sudden loss of power while driving, including at highway speeds, Unpredictable re-engagement and violent surging, Loss of propulsion without warning, leading to near-stall conditions. This powertrain malfunction is a known, unsafe, repeat issue among these vehicles equipped w/this transmission.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11716687February 9, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2024 Lincoln Navigator. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH on several occasions, the transmission independently shifted into neutral(N). The contact stated that during each failure, the drive(D) button was pressed without depressing the brake pedal first. The contact stated that an undisclosed message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer on three occasions; however, the dealers were unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,700.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11715174February 2, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SERVICE BRAKES, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
This vehicle has been returned to service 5 times. It is currently in service for the same 4 issues that it was taken to service for the very first time on 12/10/2025. This includes inappropriate braking on the interstate, driver window malfunction, the key intermittently stops working, and the connectivity does not regularly work. In addition to these 4 issues, the main screen in the car stopped working and the rear Vox screen has stopped working. Based on state law, Lincoln should have bought the car back, as I have had it for just over 2 months. As of February 2nd, 2026 the car has been returned to service 5 times and has been back to the dealership for service for 37 days and still counting since the original pick up date of 11/21/2025. The dealership has not honored their commitments with black label service. I was upsold on the vehicle for this service. On multiple occasions I have not been provided the delivery that is included. I was told by the assistant manager that this service would include a Lincoln Navigator brought to my location. The GM informed myself and my husband that they do not have to honor that. They offered a car that did not legally fit my 4 children in the backseat. Eventually, after many phone calls, they offered a much smaller Aviator. The service manager stated they they attempted 3 different eyeballs. When questioned on dates that they provided to Lincoln, he became very defensive and hung up on me. My husband and I attempted to meet with him in person at the dealership. After being told that he would meet with us and then waiting 3 hours, we had to leave. The GM did not provide assistance with this, as he stated he was in a meeting. The GM and assistant manager have both stated that we have no legal recourse, as I signed an arbitration agreement.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11711484January 16, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2024 Lincoln Navigator. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle abruptly stopped in the middle of the roadway. During the failure, the message "Check Brake System" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate or identify the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V488000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 23,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710457January 12, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I am reporting a serious safety concern involving a 2021 Lincoln Navigator with factory equipment only. After snowfall, during factory remote start, the vehicle produced a hot/burning smell, and I observed visible melting and bubbling of multiple driver-side and passenger side exterior pillars. The vehicle has a factory sunroof and no aftermarket electronics or modifications. The melting appears on the exterior, indicating heat originating from inside the pillar cavities. Due to concern for electrical overheating and fire risk, I discontinued using my remote start. A Lincoln dealership dismissed the concern and incorrectly stated that there is no electrical wiring in the pillars. Lincoln Customer Care has verbally refused assistance solely due to lack of extended warranty and has declined escalation, despite the reported fire risk. I am concerned this involves water intrusion from the sunroof drainage system contacting powered body or airbag wiring, creating a risk of electrical fire. I am requesting NHTSA review this as a potential safety defect involving electrical overheating and fire risk.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11701625November 26, 2025
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
At about 2:30am after hearing some popping noises I went to the vehicle and saw that the engine under the bonnet was on fire. The fire was seeping out from the sides of the bonnet. The vehicle had been parked since 9:20pm the previous night. I called emergency services including the fire department and the police. It spread very quickly in the Garage where the car was parked and burnt out the garage and the Tesla Plaid parked in the same garage. Firefighters put out the fire with total disintegrated remains. It was just luck that I was awake to catch this at this stage otherwise it would have spread to the house. My 3 children and wife were sleeping. The fire started in the engine of the parked Lincoln Navigator. Visual confirmation of the event is evident.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11700366November 19, 2025
POWER TRAIN
Navigator transmission goes into neutral when accelerating at speeds of 50+. Trans completely overhauled. Still does it. Almost had 2 accidents when changing lanes on the freeway, trying to accelerate and instead slowing down with cars behind fast approaching . When trying to pass on a 2-lane hwy, this would be deadly.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11699550November 15, 2025
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, STEERING, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
Pre collision pedestrian/cyclist warning automatic braking not working. Dealership tried 2x did all upgrades, checked another vehicle same results. Ford said both to technician and myself. This is normal. So pre collision does not activate in city traffic when they advertise and charge for this feature. Open to accidents and I jury.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11695105October 22, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Navigator. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, several attempts were needed to start the vehicle. The contact also stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking abnormally. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11693861October 16, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2025 Lincoln Navigator. The contact stated that while driving between 20-70MPH, no precaution assist warning message illuminated. The vehicle will slow independently. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed; however the diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact mentions that the failure has occurred on several different occasions. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they informed her that they do not know why this was happening to her vehicle or alerting the driver. The approximate failure mileage was 38,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11692154October 8, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I am the owner of a 2021 Lincoln Navigator black label, currently subject to Safety Recall 25S75 concerning the low-pressure fuel pump that can cause engine stalling and increased crash risk. Ford’s recall filing and public reports make clear the hazard and that a remedy is still being developed. My vehicle has repeatedly exhibited hesitation and loss of acceleration consistent with the recall since I purchased the car in 2021. While driving on the highway with my 10 year old daughter and her friend home from soccer on 495 last Monday 9/29, I tried to pass a car by switching to the left lane and stepped on the accelerator. The car hesitated, and felt like it was going to cease altogether for a moment, however the accelerator did finally « catch » and I was able to pass the car. I have had this same sensation while pressing my foot on the accelerator though at low speeds on backroads. After the incident last Monday I had the car towed to the Lincoln dealer so they could assess the car. I have been told that the oil was very low. The oil light or check engine light was never on, and it has gone on previously when I’ve been due for an oil change. I’ve been told that the tires also need to be rotated. The dealer who serviced the car said that the car is driving great now and is safe to drive and can be delivered to me or I can pick up. I called Lincoln corporate Friday 10/3/25 and a case was opened and called back on Monday and spoke with a representative who said that there was nothing she could do if the dealer is saying that the car is safe to drive. I don’t feel safe driving the car with this open safety defect unrepaired. A loaner to use while the process for repurchase of the car would be appreciated, but is being denied while they continue the process of good faith eval /consideration of repurchase of the car.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11686153September 9, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
Car stalls often. Was not able to go through intersection. Held up traffic. Another incident was I was almost rear ended when car lost power. This is dangerous and not just an inconvenience.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11683719August 28, 2025
WHEELS, SUSPENSION
The vehicle vibrates, specially over 50MPH. Problem reported 3 times to Lincoln. Lincoln claims they know there is an issue with 2024 navigators drivability, but cannot offer a solution at this time.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11680394August 13, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The foot rails outside the vehicle either don't go up or don't go down. Also, there are several times that the foot rail goes down, and as I step on it, it closes with my foot still on it. Causing me to fall or get my foot stuck between the rail and the car. Fortunately, I didn't get hurt the 4 times that it happened. There is no consistency as to when it happens or any type of warning. The vehicle is scheduled to go in for additional service, but I wanted to file this complaint as it's an extremely dangerous hazard for occupants. Started around the end of June.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678988August 7, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2025 Lincoln Navigator. The contact stated that while driving in the driveway at approximately 2 - 3 MPH, several brake warning lights were illuminated, and the vehicle failed to respond immediately while depressing the brake pedal, which required the contact to exert an excessive amount of pressure on the brake pedal. The messages "Auto-Hold Disabled", "Brake Function Failure" were displayed, and unknown warning lights were temporarily illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by the dealer or an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and a case was filed. The manufacturer confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11673345July 14, 2025
SUSPENSION
Tires keep losing balance. From my initial test drive of this new 2024 Lincoln Navigator L, I have noticed a rough ride and vibrations, especially at highway speeds. Initially, 1 tire was identified as not being able to be road force balanced within spec as the cause of the vibration and that tire was replaced. Within a short period of time, the rough ride and vibration issues reoccurred, and the dealership stated that two additional tires were determined as no longer being able to be road force balanced within spec and needed to be replaced. It was then suggested that all 4 OEM Pirelli tires be replaced with a full new set of Michelin tires. Shortly thereafter, the rough ride and vibration issues cropped again and it was determined that all four Michelin tires would no longer road force balance within spec and they were replaced with an all new set of four Michelin tires. Those tires have now been road forced balanced twice more, with tires needing to be rebalanced. Even though the dealership service departments have tried, no underlying suspension issues have been identified as causing all these tires to need rebalancing. I have even taken my vehicle to an independent tire shop to assess if tires are out of balance, and they verified that they were and performed a road force balance on them, however within a matter of weeks the tires needed to be rebalanced again. In total, in the 4 months that I have had this vehicle, it has been at the dealership service department for more than 25% of the time with no determination as to what the underlying cause of why tires need to be rebalanced so frequently, or fail to the point that they no long rebalance and need to be replaced.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671782July 7, 2025
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
When driving with the Cruise control Activated, after the brake has been applied or the cruise control cancel button is pressed, the Forward collision warning and Automatic Emergency Braking system doesn't appear to be active. The sensors do not detect a car in front until either Cruise control is re-engaged, or the Cruise Control system is turned of completely. Dealer has verified that this behavior is similar to another car of same model and year. Dealer has inspected and said that it appears to be designed to work that way, but will talk to senior manufactures technical resources.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671037July 3, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
They recalled other models for back up camera navigation issues. My vehicle was having same issue and I paid for repair and update on this issue and mine isn’t part of this recall but should be
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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