The Lincoln Aviator Years To Avoid
Lincoln Aviator by mr.Choppers - CC-BY-SA-4.0
The Lincoln Aviator is a midsize luxury SUV that is part of Lincoln’s illustrious lineup of vehicles. It will be your go-to option if you’re looking for a lightweight version of the popular Lincoln Navigator.
Feature-wise, the SUV has a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine that delivers impressive power. Plus, the interior is plush and spacious, with available Perfect Position seats that offer a high level of adjustability for personalized comfort. The Aviator also boasts a suite of driver-assist technologies, including Lincoln Co-Pilot360, which enhances safety on the road.
The Aviator fits Lincoln’s lineup as a midsize option, sitting between the smaller Lincoln Corsair and the larger Lincoln Navigator. It competes with the likes of the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
But is it a reliable SUV when buying used? Today, we highlight the Lincoln Aviator years to avoid and explain why they’re not a good pick for used car buyers. Let’s take a look.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE LINCOLN AVIATOR
After over a decade, it came back for a relaunch starting in 2020, leading many used car shoppers to wonder what the most reliable Lincoln Aviator year is and how they can get it.
Which Lincoln Aviator Years To Avoid?
Below are the worst Aviator years to steer clear of if you’re a used car buyer due to potential reliability issues and the high number of complaints:
- 2003 Lincoln Aviator
- 2004 Lincoln Aviator
- 2005 Lincoln Aviator
2003 Lincoln Navigator
We always advise our readers to avoid debut models since they tend to have “teething problems” as brands work out the kinks in their design and production processes. In addition, debut model years are more likely to be subjected to recalls due to unforeseen issues that might arise after launch. While recalls ensure these problems get fixed, they can be a hassle for the owner.
This sage advice applies to the 2003 Aviator since it’s the most troublesome year of the luxury SUV, as per CarComplaints.com. On a related note, the website logged 211 complaints and one recall for the 2003 Navigator – its top issues range from cosmetic flaws to severe mechanical woes.
Our research pointed us to the following mechanical issues of the 2003 Aviator, as outlined by MyCarSpecs:
- Liftgate Crack: A service procedure is available to replace the liftgate applique that may develop a cosmetic crack without damaging the glass.
- Shift Lever Issues: A frozen shift lever can be due to a bad brake switch or a broken gear lever mechanism requiring replacement.
- Engine Light due to PCV Vacuum Leaks: The Check Engine Light may illuminate due to a vacuum leak from the PCV grommet, which may require a replacement of the damaged PCV hose.
- Temperature Blend Door Problems: Incorrect cabin temperature can be due to a broken temperature blend door, requiring replacement of the entire heater case.
- Overheating due to Impeller Damage: Erratic engine coolant temperature or intermittent overheating can be due to corrosion inside the water pump, which may result in a replacement.
- EGR System Issues in Dusty Areas: In high dust areas, the EGR system may malfunction due to a clogged filter, causing the engine to stall.
These are just a few of the common issues. As always, we recommend having a trusted mechanic inspect any used vehicle before purchase.
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2004 Lincoln Aviator
The 2004 Lincoln Navigator demonstrated better reliability than the debut model. However, many reported issues are severe in nature, making it hard for us to recommend this model year.
CarComplaints registered 165 complaints, and zero recalls for the 2004 Aviator. This SUV’s number one trouble spot, as indicated by owner complaints, is body structure – particularly with the dreaded crack in the rear panel. Apparently, the Aviator’s back panel was prone to crack, suggesting a potential design or manufacturing flaw specific to this model year. It also had the potential to expand, which may hurt the vehicle’s value more.
On the other hand, this model year also grappled with serious engine issues. For example, the engine misfire issue due to cylinder leakage is a significant problem, resulting in symptoms like poor performance, noise, gas smell, and more. There are also reports of the vehicle suddenly shutting down while driving.
As if that wasn’t enough, this model year also had a problematic transmission. Some owners reported that the gear shift selector broke, preventing them from shifting gears. Meanwhile, some drivers weren’t thrilled with the transmission’s tendency to slip out of gear, causing the engine to race. Symptoms like rough idling, transmission noise, and failure were also documented.
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2005 Lincoln Aviator
To its credit, the 2005 Lincoln Aviator is a lot more reliable than the two previous years. However, its body integrity and drivetrain problems may cause you to think twice before buying.
The 2005 Lincoln Aviator received 91 complaints, as registered by CarComplaints. Once again, this model’s manufacturing flaw concerning the cracked rear panels has persisted. The exact cause of the cracking is not specified, but some owners suggest it could be a manufacturing defect. Moreover, some owners noticed the crack after using the rear lift window, suggesting a possible link between the two. This is more than just a cosmetic flaw because many drivers claimed the damage worsened over time.
Like the previous year, this SUV also had trouble with a broken gear shift selector. Once the gear shift selector breaks, you’ll lose the ability to shift the vehicle. Reports of the left-side rear axle starting to come out of the car while moving is also worth noting.
When considering a 2005 Lincoln Aviator, a pre-purchase inspection can go a long way in ensuring your investment.
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