2017 Lincoln Navigator Safety Report

The 2017 Lincoln Navigator presents a mixed safety profile. While it achieved excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, including 5 stars overall, 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover, its complaint and recall history reveal several significant safety concerns. With 29 total complaints, including 2 crashes, 1 fire, and 1 injury, there are clear patterns of issues that could compromise vehicle safety. A major concern revolves around the braking system, with 'SERVICE BRAKES' and 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' being the top complaint categories, accounting for 8 complaints. This is directly supported by two recalls related to the master cylinder and power assist, which could lead to reduced brake function and increased stopping distances, as evidenced by complaints describing brake fluid leaks and complete brake failure leading to a crash. Another prominent issue is the 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' system, specifically the rearview camera, which garnered 3 complaints. This aligns with a recall for rearview cameras displaying inverted, distorted, or blank images, increasing crash risk. Several complaints explicitly mention the camera failing or displaying distorted images, with owners noting that their 2017 model was not included in recalls for similar issues in other model years. Furthermore, 'VISIBILITY' issues, including exterior mirror LED logo lights and blower motor failures, are linked to two recalls, with one recall specifically addressing an electrical short in the exterior mirror that increases fire risk, and another for blower motor failure also increasing fire risk. One complaint directly describes a driver-side mirror catching fire twice. Beyond the recalled items, other complaints highlight potential engine and powertrain issues, such as gasoline leaking into the oil pan, throttle body failure leading to stalling, and transmission problems like sudden downshifting. While these are fewer in number, they point to broader reliability concerns. The high number of recalls (5) for a single model year, many addressing critical safety components like brakes and rearview cameras, suggests that despite strong crash test performance, there were notable design or manufacturing flaws that required corrective action. The overall picture indicates that while the vehicle offers robust crash protection, owners have faced significant operational safety challenges, particularly with braking and visibility systems.

Our recommendation: Given the strong crash test performance but numerous safety recalls and complaints regarding critical components like brakes and rearview cameras, ensure all recalls are addressed and thoroughly inspect these systems before purchasing a 2017 Lincoln Navigator.