2021 Lincoln Nautilus Safety Report

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus presents a generally strong safety profile based on NHTSA crash test ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star overall rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover. However, an analysis of 15 NHTSA complaints reveals several concerning patterns, particularly related to the powertrain and structural integrity. Four complaints specifically mention POWER TRAIN issues, with one owner reporting a complete transmission failure at 51,600 miles and another experiencing significant hesitation and jerking when shifting into reverse, along with transmission slipping and increased RPMs while driving. These issues directly impact vehicle control and increase crash risk, as evidenced by one reported crash related to unintended acceleration. Beyond the powertrain, structural problems are also notable, with three complaints detailing issues like a cracking sound from the driver's door, broken door check arm stop brackets, and failed spot welds on the door, even at low mileage (under 20,000 miles). These structural failures compromise the vehicle's integrity and could affect occupant protection in a crash. Additionally, two recalls have been issued for the vehicle. One recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V315000) addresses a 'BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE' issue where a frozen or missing rearview camera image can increase crash risk, directly correlating with a complaint about a 9-10 second delay in the backup camera feed. The second recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V635000) pertains to 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL' for 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engines, where a loss of drive power increases crash risk. Several complaints indicate owners are experiencing delays in getting these recall repairs completed due to parts unavailability. While the crash test ratings are excellent, the recurring complaints about powertrain failures, structural integrity, and the unaddressed recall issues suggest potential long-term reliability and safety concerns that are not fully captured by initial crash tests. The 15 total complaints, including 1 crash, highlight real-world operational problems. The combination of high crash test scores with specific, recurring mechanical and software issues, some of which are subject to recalls with delayed remedies, paints a mixed safety picture. Prospective buyers should be aware of these specific mechanical vulnerabilities despite the strong crash performance.

Our recommendation: Despite excellent crash test ratings, be aware of recurring powertrain and structural issues, and confirm all two open recalls (rearview camera and engine loss of power) have been properly addressed with available parts before purchasing.