2021 Lincoln Corsair Safety Report

The 2021 Lincoln Corsair presents a mixed safety picture, achieving excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA but burdened by a high number of recalls and a pattern of recurring issues, particularly with its rearview camera system. With an overall 5-star safety rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts and 4 stars for rollover, the vehicle demonstrates strong performance in crash scenarios. However, the vehicle has been subject to a significant 22 recalls, indicating numerous design or manufacturing flaws requiring correction. The 28 total complaints, while not excessively high for a vehicle of its age, include 2 reported injuries and highlight several persistent problems. A dominant complaint pattern revolves around the 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' system, specifically the rearview camera. Multiple recalls (e.g., 25V048000, 23V342000, 20V819000) address issues like the image flipping, not appearing, displaying a blank or distorted image, or water entering connectors. Despite these recalls, several complaints explicitly state that the camera issues, such as turning blue or displaying a blank screen, persist even after recall repairs, suggesting an ongoing challenge for Ford/Lincoln to fully resolve. Other notable recall areas include 'ENGINE' (23V598000) for fire risk in HEV/PHEV models, 'VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER' (22V250000) for motor failure, and 'POWER TRAIN' (24V330000) for potential loss of drive power. Beyond the camera, other complaints point to issues with the 'POWER TRAIN' (2 complaints), including a catastrophic transmission failure reported at low mileage, and 'STRUCTURE' (2 complaints), with instances of panoramic moonroofs spontaneously shattering, leading to injuries. The high number of recalls, especially those related to critical safety systems like the rearview camera and engine fire risk, suggests that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, its real-world reliability and the effectiveness of recall remedies are areas of concern. The 2 reported injuries are linked to the shattering moonroof and an incident involving two key fobs, highlighting specific failure modes with direct safety implications.

Our recommendation: While the 2021 Lincoln Corsair boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of its extensive recall history and persistent issues, particularly with the rearview camera and isolated but severe problems like moonroof shattering. Thoroughly check if all 22 recalls have been addressed, and be prepared for potential recurring electronic or mechanical issues.