2021 Lincoln Navigator Safety Report
2021 Lincoln Navigator: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Multiple Recalls and Engine/Transmission Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator
Reliability Score
The 2021 Lincoln Navigator receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Compartment Fire Risk A recall (22V346000) addresses an engine compartment fire risk while driving or parked, even with the ignition off. Several complaints mention this recall and the unavailability of parts. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Engine Stalling Due To Fuel Pump Failure A recall (23V598000) for the low-pressure fuel pump can cause engine stalling, increasing crash risk. Multiple complaints describe the vehicle stalling or losing power, sometimes in traffic. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Transmission Slipping/Failure Complaints describe the transmission slipping out of gear, losing power, or going into neutral at speed, leading to dangerous situations. One complaint mentions a complete transmission overhaul that did not resolve the issue. |
High | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Recalls (23V598000, 22V250000) address rearview camera issues, including blank images or loss of image, reducing rear visibility. Complaints also mention the camera not working in hot cabins. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Panoramic Sunroof Explosion/Leakage Complaints describe the panoramic sunroof exploding without impact or developing leaks, leading to glass falling into the cabin or electrical issues with rear lighting. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Windshield Wiper Arm Detachment/Failure A recall (22V250000) addresses windshield wiper arms detaching or becoming inoperative, reducing visibility. Complaints confirm wiper arms flying off or being loose. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Lincoln Navigator:
Multiple complaints (4 out of 26) and recalls (2) point to significant engine issues, including stalling, loss of power, and fire risk. This is a critical safety concern.
Complaints (2 out of 26) specifically mention transmission slipping, going into neutral, and overall power train malfunctions, indicating potential reliability and safety issues with the drivetrain.
Recalls (2) and complaints (2 out of 26) highlight issues with the rearview camera system, including blank images or delayed functionality, impacting rear visibility.
Complaints (2 out of 26) and recalls (2) indicate problems with windshield wipers detaching or becoming inoperative, and sunroof issues like explosions or leaks affecting visibility.
A recall (23V598000) and a complaint (1 out of 26) directly link to fuel pump issues causing engine stalls, a serious safety hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Lincoln Navigator
Is the 2021 Lincoln Navigator safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has a concerning number of recalls (9) addressing critical safety components like the engine, fuel system, and rearview camera, and 26 total complaints, including reports of engine stalling and transmission issues. While it performs well in crash tests, the high recall count and specific complaint patterns suggest potential reliability and safety risks that buyers should be aware of.
What are common problems with the 2021 Lincoln Navigator?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator, based on NHTSA complaints and recalls, include engine problems (4 complaints, 2 recalls) such as stalling and fire risk, power train/transmission issues (2 complaints) like slipping out of gear, and rearview camera malfunctions (2 complaints, 2 recalls). Other notable problems involve visibility components like windshield wipers and panoramic sunroofs.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator?
Yes, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator has 9 recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls address significant safety concerns including engine compartment fires, fuel pump failures leading to engine stalls, rearview camera malfunctions, moonroof wind deflector detachment, inoperative windshield wipers, and issues with airbag sensors and owner's manual information.
What should I know about the engine fire recall?
There is a significant recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V346000) for certain 2021 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles due to a risk of an engine compartment fire occurring while driving or parked, even with the ignition off. Several complaints indicate that owners have been notified but parts for the remedy have been unavailable, causing prolonged safety concerns.
How does the 2021 Lincoln Navigator perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Lincoln Navigator performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for both frontal and side impact protection, and a 4-star rating for rollover resistance.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2021 Lincoln Navigator's numerous recalls, particularly those concerning engine fires and stalling, and verify all recall remedies have been completed before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Lincoln Navigator
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator. The data includes 26 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 9 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Lincoln Navigator an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.