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The Lincoln Nautilus Years To Avoid


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Black Lincoln Nautilus in a neighborhood

Lincoln Nautilus by Kevauto - CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Lincoln Nautilus, a luxury crossover SUV, is no doubt a captivating vehicle that offers a blend of high-end features and a comfortable driving experience. However, like any car model, some years have presented more problems than others. So, as a potential buyer, understanding the Lincoln Nautilus years to avoid can give you a significant edge while hunting for used options.

The Lincoln Nautilus, introduced to the automotive world in 2019 as a rebranded Lincoln MKX, carries forward Lincoln’s legacy of producing luxurious and powerful vehicles. This article dives into the specific years that might give you more trouble and discusses the common problems faced by Nautilus owners, hence equipping you with valuable insights about what to anticipate.

Lincoln Nautilus Years To Avoid

If you’re considering purchasing a Lincoln Nautilus, it’s crucial to be aware of the model years that have been reported to have more issues than others.

  • 2016 Lincoln Nautilus
  • 2017 Lincoln Nautilus
  • 2018 Lincoln Nautilus

While these years have had more reported problems, it’s important to note that not every vehicle from these years will experience these issues. Many factors, including how the vehicle has been maintained and how it was driven, can impact the reliability of a used car. However, these are the Lincoln Nautilus model years that statistically are more prone to problems and should be approached with caution.


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What Was The Worst Year For The Lincoln Nautilus?

When it comes to pinpointing the worst year for the Lincoln Nautilus, motorandwheels.com lists the 2019 model year as being singled out by owners as the worst. Launched as a rebranded version of the Lincoln MKX, the 2019 Nautilus had a few teething issues that left some owners with a less-than-satisfactory experience.

  • Faulty Transmission: The most common problem with the 2019 Nautilus was the transmission system. Owners reported issues with the 8-speed automatic transmission, including hard shifting and unresponsive acceleration.
  • Infotainment System Issues: Another problematic area was the infotainment system. Glitches and freezing screens were not uncommon, which added to the frustration of the owners.

Best Lincoln Nautilus Years

Contrary to the problems of the 2019 model, the 2020 and 2021 Lincoln Nautilus years stand out as the most reliable in the model’s short history. The 2020 Nautilus resolved many of the 2019 model’s issues and offered refined performance and better reliability

  1. 2020 Lincoln Nautilus: The 2020 Nautilus saw improvements in the transmission, leading to smoother acceleration and overall better performance. The infotainment system also received updates that fixed the earlier glitches and freezes.
  2. 2021 Lincoln Nautilus: Following the positive response to the 2020 Nautilus, the 2021 model continued the upward trend. With fewer complaints lodged by owners and continued improvements in features and performance, the 2021 Nautilus is a solid choice for used car buyers.

Please remember that while these are general trends, individual car experiences can vary based on factors like maintenance and usage patterns. Always have a trusted mechanic inspect any used vehicle before purchase.


THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE LINCOLN NAUTILUS

This article delves into which years of the used Lincoln Nautilus are seen as the most reliable, based on data from various sources and user reports.


How Many Miles Does a Lincoln Nautilus Last?

The longevity of a Lincoln Nautilus greatly depends on factors like routine maintenance, driving habits, and the vehicle’s overall care. However, with proper maintenance and care, Lincoln Nautilus can easily exceed 200,000 miles, as is common with most Lincoln vehicles.

According to Consumer Reports, many Lincoln owners have reported their vehicles surpassing the 200,000-mile mark without significant issues. This is thanks to Lincoln’s robust engineering and dedication to quality in both mechanical and electronic components. The brand’s focus on crafting vehicles that stand the test of time is evident in the Nautilus.

It’s worth noting that regular service, timely oil changes, tire rotations, and addressing minor issues promptly are vital to achieving this mileage. Following the recommended service intervals in the owner’s manual can significantly contribute to the lifespan of your Lincoln Nautilus. Thus, investing in its care can lead to high mileage and many years of reliable service.


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Common Issues With the Lincoln Nautilus 

While the Lincoln Nautilus is generally reliable, it does come with some recurring issues across various model years. The 2019 model year, in particular, had its share of complaints. RepairPal reports the following as the most common:

  • Transmission Problems: The most common issue reported by 2019 Nautilus owners involves the vehicle’s transmission. Symptoms include jerky shifting, unexpected stalling, and, in severe cases, complete transmission failure.
  • Electronic Troubles: Some owners have noted problems with the Nautilus’s infotainment system, including lagging response times, system crashes, and difficulties with navigation features.
  • Interior Concerns: There have been occasional reports about the quality of the interior components. Some drivers have mentioned that certain interior parts appear less durable and show early signs of wear.

Lincoln has acknowledged these issues and, in many instances, issued recalls or offered solutions to mitigate these concerns. Despite these issues, many drivers appreciate the Nautilus’s overall performance and luxury features.


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How Reliable Is The Lincoln Nautilus

When it comes to reliability, the Lincoln Nautilus stands tall among its peers. According to reports by J.D. Power, the Lincoln Nautilus has consistently received high-reliability ratings, a testament to Lincoln’s commitment to quality and durability. 

Key aspects such as the vehicle’s performance, interior, and safety features have received positive reviews. However, it’s worth noting that like any vehicle, certain model years may have specific issues. Despite this, the Lincoln Nautilus continues to offer commendable reliability, making it a wise choice for those seeking a durable and luxurious midsize SUV.

Final Thoughts

The Lincoln Nautilus is a comfortable, well-performing luxury SUV with a reputation for reliability. While certain model years have faced issues, most notably the 2019 model with its transmission concerns, it’s essential to weigh these against the vehicle’s numerous strengths. When properly maintained, a Lincoln Nautilus can provide a long-lasting driving experience that combines luxury and performance. 

As with any used vehicle purchase, potential buyers should prioritize models with full-service histories and consider getting a pre-purchase inspection for peace of mind. The Lincoln Nautilus, when chosen wisely, can be a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.



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