What problems do Lincoln Aviator owners usually tackle? In this blog, we’ve outlined everything you need to watch out for when you’re looking for a Lincoln Aviator. First, let’s start with the short answer.
Most commonly, the 2020 Lincoln Aviators had problems with the rear camera not working, and 13,000 units that had to be recalled because they were in factory mode. Other issues include loss of power and an unsecured wire harness in the 2020-2021 model years. Fuel leaks were also found on the 2020-2022 models.
That’s the gist of it. Let’s move to a more comprehensive answer where you’ll find everything you need to know about each problem. From identifying it to fixing it to the cost of repairing it. Let’s get started.
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1. Electrical System Problems
The Aviator is a mid-size SUV packed with electronics and the latest tech, much like other SUVs on the market today. With all these electronics buzzing around, you’re bound to have electrical issues, and the Aviator has its fair share.
Rear View Camera and Feed
The rearview camera system is quickly awarded as the most commonly problematic system in the Aviator. We’ve encountered plenty of complaints concerning the rearview feed; most consumers complained about a blue image on the screen instead of the feed, while others witnessed flickering and disturbances in the feed. All of this hinders your rearward visibility increasing the risk of an accident.
Fortunately, Lincoln addressed the problem with two recalls, both issued in 2021, regarding the 2020 and 2021 models of the Aviator. The problem stemmed from the image processing module, which failed to provide a video feed to the display and affected over 34,000 vehicles in the first recall and increased to over 228,000 cars by the second recall. Both recalls require the dealers to update the Image Processing Module (IPMB) software to rectify the problem, free of charge.
The recalls are issued by Ford Motor Company with the following NHTSA campaign numbers:
Infotainment Screen
Another issue with the 2020 Aviator is the infotainment screen brightness. The screen brightness is invariable and does not change according to the surroundings; it sticks to a particularly bright setting which affects the driver’s visibility. Many owners complained that the bright screen forms a glare that hinders visibility. There’s no quick solution to this problem; you’ll have to get all of the latest software updates and hope one of them fixes the issue.
2. Loss Of Power
Another issue that we came across was a seemingly random loss of power. Some consumers complained that their relatively new Aviators gave out warning signs and stalled, losing engine power. It’s a troublesome issue and could put your life at risk if it occurs while you’re on the road. Lincoln again swoops in with recalls to fix the problem. There are two possible sources for this problem, and Lincoln addresses them in separate recalls.
Drive Shaft
The first recall was issued in November 2020 for the 2020 Lincoln Aviator and affected over 10,000 vehicles. This recall was about a potential driveshaft failure that could cause a loss of connection between the transfer case and the rear axle. This, in turn, would result in a loss of drive power and could even pose a rollaway risk if the vehicle was in park mode.
The drive shaft failure is usually caused by a fracture on the weld seam but can also be caused by the shaft deforming and separating from the driveline. In the second case, where the shaft bends, there’s also a fuel leak and fire risk as the deformed and separated shaft can come in contact with the fuel tank. As part of the recall, the dealers will inspect the drive shaft and replace it as necessary free of charge.
The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is: 20V693000
Motor Mount
The second recall was issued in December 2020 for the 2020 and 2021 Aviators and was on a much smaller scale as it only affected over 1000 vehicles. The motor mount fasteners had been incorrectly tightened and could loosen over time resulting in a loose motor mount. Vibrations from this loose mount can disconnect the axle from the engine, causing a loss of power.
As part of the recall, dealers will replace the right-hand motor mount fasteners free of charge.
The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is: 20V788000
3. Unsecured Wire Harness
Yet another recall was made by Lincoln to solve possible problems with the Aviator. This time it concerned the wire harness installed in the 2020 and 2021 Aviators with a 3.0L gasoline engine.
The unsecured wire harness can come in contact with the air conditioning compressor pulley and could eventually damage the wires or the AC compressor drive belt. A broken AC on your Aviator may be the product of this problem. The problem also creates a short circuit and fire risk due to damaged wires. It should be looked at and fixed as early as possible.
The recall was issued for over 33,000 vehicles and required dealers to inspect the harness and compressor belt, replace them as necessary, and install a tie strap to secure the wire harness. Of course, this is all done free of charge and should fix any AC problems caused by the damaged belt.
The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is: 21V534000
4. Fuel Leak
The 2020 and 2022 Aviators also have a fuel leak risk. This, again, has been covered by two recalls from Lincoln. Fuel leaks are dangerous and greatly increase the fire risk, so it’s best to check your vehicle for these recalls as soon as possible.
The recall for the 2020 model was relatively small, affecting just over 3,000 vehicles. The protective sleeve of the vapor fuel line could chafe through the plastic liquid fuel line causing a leak. According to the recall, a longer protective sleeve will be installed on the liquid fuel line free of charge.
The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is: 19V859000
The recall for the 2022 model was on a larger scale affecting over 18,000 vehicles. In the affected models, the fuel filler tube was at risk of detaching, resulting in a fuel leak and all the risks associated with such a leak. The recall required dealers to install a fuel vapor line locking clip, free of charge, to prevent detachment and safeguard against fuel leaks.
The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is: 22V088000
Also read: Types Of Gas A Lincoln Aviator Takes (Explained)
5. Factory Mode
Several owners complained that their information cluster lacked vital details, such as the selected gear. This puzzling problem has a simple explanation: the Aviator is in factory mode. Lincoln issued a recall for over 13,800 2020 Lincoln Aviators that were still in factory mode. In these vehicles, along with the aforementioned problem, the manual park release cover may not have been installed. Because of being in factory mode, their warning alerts were also disabled.
The fix was simple. Dealers would install an MPR (manual park release) cover if required and ensure the instrument cluster is no longer in factory mode. All done free of charge.
The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is: 19V575000
Although Lincoln has been quite responsive with recalls to solve its problems, there have been 13 recalls on the 2020 model alone, which makes it quite puzzling for owners. They’re puzzled whether they should be thankful for Lincoln’s swift response and recalls or frustrated and angry about why there were so many problems in the first place and how they’ll have to take time out for the many dealership visits.
6. Soy-Coated Wiring
Soy-Coated wiring has become a common issue for most brands, including Lincoln. Most automakers switched to soy-based coating for their wiring because it was more biodegradable and eco-friendly. Although it’s better for the environment, it’s also better for the automaker as these soy-based coatings are cheaper than their plastic counterparts.
The problem with these soy-based coatings is that they attract rodents, who then like to chew on them and use them as nesting material. This could cause an array of problems, any system that utilizes wires accessible to these rodents is at risk of failing. This has become quite the problem since there is no easy solution, and it’s a problem found in most vehicles by most automakers.
There are some simple steps to include in your routine to try and catch these rodents before they cause an expensive problem. This includes regularly opening the hood and looking for signs of rodent activity, looking for shredded pieces of wire where you park your cars, and cleaning out all the food in your car.
What’s The Worst Year Of The Lincoln Aviator
The Lincoln Aviator is expected to be a reliable car that should last you around 200,000 miles. Of course, it’s given that you carry out proper maintenance and have conservative driving habits.
The worst model year of the Lincoln Aviator has to be 2020. The Aviator was reintroduced after 15 years and came with quite a few problems. To rectify those problems, Ford motor company issued 13 different recalls. It was the model year with the most complaints, too; Lincoln was still figuring the Aviator out with this model.
The 2021 and 2022 model years are better options if you’re in the market for an Aviator. The number of complaints fell considerably for these two model years, and they also had fewer problems and recalls. Fewer recalls generally mean fewer visits to the dealership and less headache on your part after purchasing the vehicle.
Closing Thoughts
Alright, we’ve delved deep into the most common issues you might face with a Lincoln Aviator. From loss of power and an unsecured wire harness to fuel leaks, we’ve got you covered on what to look out for.
Now, if you’re a Lincoln enthusiast or you’re not sure which model you should commit to, then don’t forget to check our other articles on Lincoln models and their common problems, like the Lincoln MKC, and many more.
In conclusion, while Lincoln Aviator has its fair share of problems, being informed and proactive can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Happy driving!
His interests in cars, motorcycles, and machines led him to the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore where he is currently a mechanical engineering sophomore.
His future aims include the development of an energy-efficient prototype vehicle for the Shell Eco-Marathon competition and getting a Master’s Degree in Automotive Engineering from Germany.