Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

2003 Lincoln AVIATOR: complaints, problems and recalls

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

111 owner complaints analyzed

1 distinct recall campaigns

64,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2003 model year. Data updated: . 91 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Power Train is the most frequently named component, appearing in 24 of 111 complaints (21.6%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Transmission and shifting3329.7%
Braking behavior1816.2%
Electrical and battery issues87.2%
Steering behavior87.2%
Engine operation32.7%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Power Train
24
Power Train:Automatic Transmission
16
Engine And Engine Cooling
12
Structure:Body
9
Electrical System
7
Vehicle Speed Control
6
Power Train:Driveline:Differential Unit
5
Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Lever And Linkage:Column Shift
4
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Power Train24
Power Train:Automatic Transmission16
Engine And Engine Cooling12
Structure:Body9
Electrical System7
Vehicle Speed Control6
Power Train:Driveline:Differential Unit5
Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Lever And Linkage:Column Shift4

Power Train: 24; Power Train:Automatic Transmission: 16; Engine And Engine Cooling: 12; Structure:Body: 9; Electrical System: 7; Vehicle Speed Control: 6; Power Train:Driveline:Differential Unit: 5; Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Lever And Linkage:Column Shift: 4

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
19
25,000 to 49,999
11
50,000 to 74,999
22
75,000 to 99,999
16
100,000 to 149,999
19
150,000 and above
4
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,00019
25,000 to 49,99911
50,000 to 74,99922
75,000 to 99,99916
100,000 to 149,99919
150,000 and above4

Under 25,000: 19; 25,000 to 49,999: 11; 50,000 to 74,999: 22; 75,000 to 99,999: 16; 100,000 to 149,999: 19; 150,000 and above: 4

50,000 to 74,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (22). 20 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2003
8
2004
12
2005
8
2006
5
2007
10
2008
8
2009
3
2010
11
2011
14
2012
6
2013
8
2014
1
2015
5
2016
2
2017
4
2018
1
2019
2
2020
2
2022
1
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
20038
200412
20058
20065
200710
20088
20093
201011
201114
20126
20138
20141
20155
20162
20174
20181
20192
20202
20221

2003: 8; 2004: 12; 2005: 8; 2006: 5; 2007: 10; 2008: 8; 2009: 3; 2010: 11; 2011: 14; 2012: 6; 2013: 8; 2014: 1; 2015: 5; 2016: 2; 2017: 4; 2018: 1; 2019: 2; 2020: 2; 2022: 1

Pattern summary

Power Train leads the component reports. Transmission and shifting appears in 33 complaint narratives. Braking behavior appears in 18 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 8 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Examples from the source records

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10014003 · 2003-04-05 (April 5, 2003)

DEFECTIVE AND POSSIBLY DEADLY 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR MADE BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY 1.CAR PURCHASED ON 2/15/03. PICKED UP SAME DAY ON 2/15/03. 2.GAS PEDAL SNAPS AND BREAKS ALMOST CAUSING A HIGH SPEED COLLISION! ON 03/30/03 - ON SUNDAY, 03/30/03 I AM TAKING MY DAUGHTER TO ICE SKATING PRACTICE WITH THIS CAR. I AM DRIVING DOWN THE LONG ISLAND EXPRESSWAY (I-495) IN THE LEFT LANE. MY EXIT IS COMING UP SO I HAVE TO GET OVER. IN ORDER TO DO SO I MUST SPEED UP QUICKLY TO GET AROUND ANOTHER CAR. I HIT THE GAS PEDAL. I AM STARTING TO SPEED UP WHEN …

Owner-reported narrative. 1,140 miles reported. Look up ODI 10014003 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10015253 · 2003-04-11 (April 11, 2003)

CHILD SAFETY SEAT QUESTIONNAIRE MODEL NUMBER : 22-625-MGN/OG2C. MR SCC *JB

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10015253 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10030289 · 2003-07-28 (July 28, 2003)

POWER STEERING RACK HAS FAILED AFTER ONLY 4,500 MILES, AC SEAT FAILED, DOOR JAM CLEARANCE BETWEEN DRIVER'S DOOR AND REAR DOOR, WHISTLING NOISE AT 60 MPH. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. 4,500 miles reported. Look up ODI 10030289 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10033373 · 2003-08-23 (August 23, 2003)

THERE IS A HIGH FREQUENCY SOUND EMANATING FROM ALL 4 SPEAKERS. THIS NOISE IS CONSTANT AND CAN BE OVERHEARD WITH THE VOLUME UP AND THE RADIO PLAYING. LEITH LINCOLN (RALEIGH,NC) DENIED THE PROBLEM. FORD DISPATCHED AN ENGINEER AND THEIR EAST COAST CUSTOMER SERVICE REP. ALL CLAIMED THEY COULD NOT "DUPLICATE" THE PROBLEM. I THEN CONFRONTED LEITH WITH A VIDEO TAPE OF THE NOISE AND GOT A CONFIRMATION THAT THE NOISE IS AT LEAST A NUISANCE. I'VE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH FORD AND THEY WILL NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. FINALLY I BROUGHT THE AVIATOR TO ANOTHER …

Owner-reported narrative. 850 miles reported. Look up ODI 10033373 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10041198 · 2003-10-03 (October 3, 2003)

REAR LIFTGATE WINDOW KEPT OPENING EVEN AFTER THREE REPAIRS BY GALPIN LINCOLN/FORD ON A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. IN ADDITION, OUTSIDE MIRRORS KEPT DROPPING WHILE DRIVING CAUSING DRIVERS TO GO BLIND. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS FOR THE FAILURE OF REAR LIFTGATE AND THE DROPPING OR MIRRORS, IN TRANSITION OF FILING CALIFORNIA LEMON LAW. *LA

Owner-reported narrative. 2,200 miles reported. Look up ODI 10041198 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10043477 · 2003-10-23 (October 23, 2003)

IN THE LINCOLN AVIATOR, A LOUD WHINING NOISE IS COMING FROM THE REAR END OF THE CAR. IT APPEARS TO BE A REAR DIFFERENTIAL PROBLEM. IN THE FRONT SEAT THE NOISE IS PRETTY LOUD BUT CAN BE OVERCOME BY TURNING THE RADIO UP REAL LOUD. IN THE REAR SEATS THE NOISE IS MORE INTENSE. I HAVE READ MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. A SIMPLE SEARCH ON EDMUNDS, GOOGLE, DEJA NEWS, ETC. SHOWS THAT THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN AROUND A WHILE AND FORD MOTOR COMPANY REFUSES TO CORRECT THE ISSUE. THE DEALERSHIP SAYS IT IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITHOUT A FIX AND THAT I SH…

Owner-reported narrative. 500 miles reported. Look up ODI 10043477 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10045568 · 2003-11-06 (November 6, 2003)

OUR 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR STARTED A REAR END WHINE OR DRONE WITHIN THE FIRST 1000 MILES. THE DEALER HAS TWICE PUT IN A NEW DIFFERENTIAL BUT THE NOISE IS BACK. THE DEALER NOW WILL NOT ATTEMPT ANOTHER REPAIR AND HAS PUT US OFF UNTIL 12/10/03. WE SEEM TO HAVE NO ONE TO VOICE A COMPLAINT TO. THE DEALER GETS ONE MORE CHANCE UNDER SC LEMON LAW AND IS STALLING. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN NOTICED IN FORD EXPLORERS AND LINCOLN MOUNTAINEERS TOO.*AK

Owner-reported narrative. 500 miles reported. Look up ODI 10045568 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10051074 · 2003-12-24 (December 24, 2003)

LOVE MY '03 LINCOLN AVIATOR EXCEPT FOR THE SAME ANNOYING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR END AS COMPLAINT NUMBER 10045568. CURRENTLY ON MY SECOND REAR AXLE ASSEMBLY. NOISE RETURNED AT 1200-1500 MILES, AND WAS SO LOUD MY 76 YEAR OLD MOTHER ASKED WHAT THE WHINING NOISE WAS. LINCOLN NEEDS TO CORRECT PROBLEM, AND THIS MACHINE WILL BE PERFECT. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10051074 at NHTSA ↗

Recall history

1 distinct campaigns affect this selection. Announcement dates below are different from vehicle model years. A campaign may cover multiple years.

02V313000 · Power Train:Automatic Transmission

Reported: 2002-11-21 (November 21, 2002)

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE CAN BECOME DISLODGED FROM THE SHIFT CABLE BRACKET.

Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT RESULTING IN INCORRECT GEAR INDICATION.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL ADD A STRAP TO THE SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTER TO PREVENT THE SHIFT CABLE FROM BECOMING DISLODGED. FORD HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

111 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-10-01.

82.0%Usable mileage91 / 111 records
97.3%Valid incident date108 / 111 records
100.0%Valid filing date111 / 111 records
97.3%Ordered incident and filing dates108 / 111 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component20202021202220232024202520262027
Electrical System
3936.1%
ODI 11281093 · 1,800 mi

I PURCHASED THE AUTO ON AUG 24, 2019. I HAVE ENCOUNTERED 5 ISSUES WITH THE VEHICLE SO FAR - 3 MECHANICAL AND 2, COSMETIC. I'LL FOCUS ON THE MECHANICAL. BESIDE THE PENDING RECALL, I AM EXPERIENCING THE FOLLOWING: 1) THE PASSENGER SEAT IN FRONT ROW LACKS THE MOTOR FOR THE MASSAGE FUNCTION. LINCOLN HAS NOW TAKEN OVER 2 MONTHS TO REPAIR DUE TO LACK OF PART. 2) THE ELECTRICAL PARKING BRAKE COMES ON WHILE DRIVING OCCASIONALLY. 3) THE VEHICLE CAMERA GETS DISTORTED WHEN SWITCHING CAR ON. HAPPENED TWICE, LAST TIME IT HAPPENED WAS A WEEK AGO 11/12.

Look up ODI 11281093 at NHTSA ↗

1230.8%
ODI 11494978

The backup camera and 360 degree camera periodically malfunction and display a blue image. The backup camera does not work again until I restart the vehicle. This has happened both on a roadway while parallel parking and in a parking garage.

Look up ODI 11494978 at NHTSA ↗

817.8%
ODI 11456567

Door ajar notification continues to illuminate when all doors are secure. First incident happened on 1/25/2022. Was sent in for repair and returned on 2/2/2022. Issue happened again while driving on the interstate on 3/10/2022, and is back in for repair. This notification causes domes lights to continue to illuminate which is a danger at night, and will not allow for doors to lock.

Look up ODI 11456567 at NHTSA ↗

729.2%
ODI 11508209

Manufacturer Recall Number23S02 NHTSA Recall Number23V022 Repair made on 02/20/2023. Camera continues to randomly pixelate and/or give black/blue screen. Failure can happen at any time and with out warning. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Camera system. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Yes Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Video has been taken and supplied as well. Has the vehicle or compon…

Look up ODI 11508209 at NHTSA ↗

228.6%
ODI 11585125

The vehicle was already in for service once for this issue and is going back a second time the rear camera when backing up randomly starts to flicker and go crazy, and sometimes blanking out. The first fix replaced the camera to no avail. It seems to happen randomly, but about 50% of the time. I have video of the rear backup camera going crazy.

Look up ODI 11585125 at NHTSA ↗

531.3%
ODI 11644862

We have been experiencing multiple electrical and mechanical issues with our brand new 2025 Lincoln Aviator since we bought it approximately 4 months ago. The car frequently fails to start, with at least ten or more instances of this problem. We have taken it to the dealership two or three times, but despite their claims that the issue has been fixed, the problem recurs within a week or two from picking the car up from the dealer. There was a time when the car has shut off while stopped at a traffic light, and when the light turns green, it wo…

Look up ODI 11644862 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Power Train
2220.4%
ODI 11331333 · 4,800 mi

MY VEHICLE HAS 4960 MILES AND THE TRANSMISSION STARTED TO SLOW DOWN AS IF I WAS DRIVING A STICK SHIFT CAR, THEN 2 OR 3 DAYS LATER BEGAN TO KICK AND LOSE POWER WHEN INCREASING SPEED AFTER A STOP SIGN. DEALER DIAGNOSED AN INTERNAL FAILURE ON THE TRANSMISSION AND IT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. A COUPLE OF TIMES IN THE MORNING AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, WHEN PUTTING THE REVERSE GEAR I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE BUT THE CAR STILL MOVED AND THE BRAKES WERE VERY STIFF, I HAD TO RELEASE THE BRAKE AND APPLY IT AGAIN IN ORDER TO STOP THE CAR FROM MOVING. TH…

Look up ODI 11331333 at NHTSA ↗

410.3%
ODI 11519252

Powertrain malfunctioning. The vehicle has had multiple neutral out (not reacting) when the accelerator is applied. Occurring in the middle of an intersection 3 times. Stuck in the middle of the intersection has resulted in two (2) cases of almost being hit by an oncoming vehicle. Pulling into traffic from a stop sign and losing the accelerator another time resulting in traffic breaking hard to avoid an accident. Recently while in cruise control on the highway driving 79 MPH, the vehicle suddenly shifted into what had to be the lowest gear lun…

Look up ODI 11519252 at NHTSA ↗

24.4%
ODI 11538932

When vehicle is put into park, you can hear the transmission slam into place as well as feel the car jolt. When vehicle is in park and moved to reverse, the car will delay and then throw into gear moving backwards causing a jolt and increased speed.

Look up ODI 11538932 at NHTSA ↗

14.2%
ODI 11728513

My 2023 Lincoln Aviator has a grinding noise when I back up. Also a rattle has begun at all speeds. I had vehicled check and the axles were found to be totally rusted. Prior to having it towed to the detail i did some research and found the following -- A 2023 Lincoln Aviator recall regarding a "rusted" or breaking axle generally refers to a serious issue where the rear axle bolt can fracture, causing the rear subframe to disconnect, potentially leading to a loss of control or rollaway . This issue often stems from stress corrosion, promptin…

Look up ODI 11728513 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

16.3%
ODI 11707901

I purchased a brand new 2025 Lincoln Aviator on 9/27/25, with 33 miles on it. I do not even make it home from the dealer before it started making a scrubbing/grinding noise, which subsequently led to the replacement of the transfer case and transmission on a vehicle with approx 180 miles on it. It calls into question the safety, reliability and quality of the vehicle

Look up ODI 11707901 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Structure:Body
54.6%
ODI 11519557

The sunroof exploded outward. We were on expressway @70 MPH and did not notice any road debris nor under any bridges at time. Dealer could not find any other damage to windshield or car body. Had 6 people in car at time. Collected all glass that fell in, but only about 1/3 of total glass area, so feel most went up and out. Dealer admits to 3 other cars in their shop with sunroof issues. Was like an explosion and we were already in right hand lane so safe to pull over and see what had happened. Other passengers felt calmness of driver pre…

Look up ODI 11519557 at NHTSA ↗

37.7%
ODI 11461050

Driving this vehicle in snow and ice collects in my wheel wells because of the material used in them. It is felt like heavily textured that the snow and ice sticks to like glue. So, in lots of snow and slush on the road it quickly collects to its limit of area between tire and wheel well and then makes turning or steering the car difficult. It does NOT slide off easily even when going to the car wash to try and clean it off. Or by letting it sit in the sun to melt does not help either for a very long amount of time. So, in other words……I l…

Look up ODI 11461050 at NHTSA ↗

511.1%
ODI 11528933

While driving down GA 140 near Waleska, GA, I hit a bump in the highway and the hood popped open. It stopped at first catch and I was able to stop before hood came all the way up. Was able to open hood completely and relatch successfully. No further incident's but it was very stressful to get the vehicle stopped and correct the problem before the hood opened beyond the first latch and would have come up and stopped my view of the highway which had a lot of traffic. This is only incident I have had with hood popping open by itself just by hittin…

Look up ODI 11528933 at NHTSA ↗

14.2%
ODI 11535005

Top handlebar on passengers side fell off completely causing my mother a great fall. Nearly died the way her head bounced off on gravel with handle in hand. The SUV was only a month old. I have other people on a fb page stating their handle came off completely too but no accident like my moms. This is definitely a safety concern that a Black Label Vehicle should have passed inspection before leaving manufacturing plant. Was reported to dealer and they directed us with Lincoln directly. Case was open and has been in General Council over 3…

Look up ODI 11535005 at NHTSA ↗

114.3%
ODI 11700095

In addition to the recall for the C-pillar appliques and window division bars (NHTSA ID Number: 25V407000), the chrome trim piece directly below the window also suffers from insufficient adhesive bonding. See the photo below. It came lose while driving at high speeds.

Look up ODI 11700095 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Unknown Or Other
2422.2%
ODI 11281093 · 1,800 mi

I PURCHASED THE AUTO ON AUG 24, 2019. I HAVE ENCOUNTERED 5 ISSUES WITH THE VEHICLE SO FAR - 3 MECHANICAL AND 2, COSMETIC. I'LL FOCUS ON THE MECHANICAL. BESIDE THE PENDING RECALL, I AM EXPERIENCING THE FOLLOWING: 1) THE PASSENGER SEAT IN FRONT ROW LACKS THE MOTOR FOR THE MASSAGE FUNCTION. LINCOLN HAS NOW TAKEN OVER 2 MONTHS TO REPAIR DUE TO LACK OF PART. 2) THE ELECTRICAL PARKING BRAKE COMES ON WHILE DRIVING OCCASIONALLY. 3) THE VEHICLE CAMERA GETS DISTORTED WHEN SWITCHING CAR ON. HAPPENED TWICE, LAST TIME IT HAPPENED WAS A WEEK AGO 11/12.

Look up ODI 11281093 at NHTSA ↗

615.4%
ODI 11494978

The backup camera and 360 degree camera periodically malfunction and display a blue image. The backup camera does not work again until I restart the vehicle. This has happened both on a roadway while parallel parking and in a parking garage.

Look up ODI 11494978 at NHTSA ↗

613.3%
ODI 11526116

The display on our 2022 Lincoln Aviator failed, again. It had been repaired by the dealer with a new rear camera. It failed to show the backup view, again, and also that display shows the controls for defrost and other safety features. It was a rainy day, so, we were without a display screen showing the backup camera AND could not turn on our defroster as it is located on that dark screen, also. Our windows fogged due to no defroster, and, we had no back up camera view to show traffic behind us. We called the dealer and, they said wait for a r…

Look up ODI 11526116 at NHTSA ↗

416.7%
ODI 11504040

Screen/image flickers intermittently when rare & front cameras are engaged. I am uncertain of the cause. It happens randomly & sometimes several times a day. Problem started right after I received the vehicle from the dealership. I have couple of videos of the issues & I can share if requested. I took the vehicle to the dealership & they updated software of the vehicle but it didn’t not resolve the problem. I believe malfunction of the cameras increases risk of crash.

Look up ODI 11504040 at NHTSA ↗

457.1%
ODI 11585125

The vehicle was already in for service once for this issue and is going back a second time the rear camera when backing up randomly starts to flicker and go crazy, and sometimes blanking out. The first fix replaced the camera to no avail. It seems to happen randomly, but about 50% of the time. I have video of the rear backup camera going crazy.

Look up ODI 11585125 at NHTSA ↗

16.3%
ODI 11764304

This has now occurred on 2021 Lincoln Aviator and then Mark McLarty Ford Lincoln tricked me into buying a second Lincoln 2025 Aviator claiming the problem was a one-off incident. Our 2021 was traded for new 2025 Aviator and both have the exact problem, and we have since learned this affects another Ford Lincoln Models including Ford Explorer 2024. Both our 2021 and 2025 Lincoln Aviators have extreme water leaking into the cabin and onto the electrical controls and displays. Issue stated by the Mark McLarty service tech stated on both cars KINK…

Look up ODI 11764304 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Engine
76.5%
ODI 11510578

My Aviator doesn't start the first time I push the start engine button anytime after I fill up the tank. It takes it about 5 times of me hitting the start engine button before it finally turns over. Before then, it just sounds like wants to start, but doesn't. I am once again taking it back to the dealership to have the back up camera looked at. Before it would work sporadically, now when I put the car in reverse, it just shows a solid blue screen. And I always get an error message about rear assist not working. I've tried troubleshooti…

Look up ODI 11510578 at NHTSA ↗

615.4%
ODI 11455395

Vehicle has 5400 miles and has catastrophic engine failure while driving. Vehicle towed to dealership and diagnosed engine seized needs complete engine replacement

Look up ODI 11455395 at NHTSA ↗

613.3%
ODI 11538932

When vehicle is put into park, you can hear the transmission slam into place as well as feel the car jolt. When vehicle is in park and moved to reverse, the car will delay and then throw into gear moving backwards causing a jolt and increased speed.

Look up ODI 11538932 at NHTSA ↗

416.7%
ODI 11679615

I did an inspection of my exhaust system and saw numerous carbon deposits along both pipes at different joints. I brought this to the attention of the dealer and they repaired only one (1) leaking joint at the tailpipe. They told me the other leaking joints are normal and are of no concern. I have a video, pictures and the dealer inspection/repair forms from two (2) different service dates.

Look up ODI 11679615 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

212.5%
ODI 11644862

We have been experiencing multiple electrical and mechanical issues with our brand new 2025 Lincoln Aviator since we bought it approximately 4 months ago. The car frequently fails to start, with at least ten or more instances of this problem. We have taken it to the dealership two or three times, but despite their claims that the issue has been fixed, the problem recurs within a week or two from picking the car up from the dealer. There was a time when the car has shut off while stopped at a traffic light, and when the light turns green, it wo…

Look up ODI 11644862 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Power Train:Automatic Transmission
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Engine And Engine Cooling
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

14.2%
ODI 11688868 · 20,990 mi

The contact owns a 2023 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle in the garage, the garage became extremely hot, and the fans underneath the vehicle activated. The contact opened the garage. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the “Service Engine Now” message was displayed. The powertrain control module had detected a fault with the high-voltage system, and a message was display…

Look up ODI 11688868 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Service Brakes
98.3%
ODI 11322349 · 11,000 mi

WITH MY CAR IN PARK, I HAVE SHIFTED TO DRIVE AND REVERSE, AND WHILE MAINTAINING MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AFTER TRANSFERRING TO DRIVE OR REVERSE THE CAR HAS MOVED BY ITSELF BY APPROXIMATELY 3 FEET BEFORE COMING TO A STOP. EACH TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED I WAS ON A LEVEL SURFACE. THE DEALERSHIP INSPECTED MY CAR BUT COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING THAT WOULD CAUSE THIS TO HAPPEN.

Look up ODI 11322349 at NHTSA ↗

37.7%
ODI 11683805

My 2021 Lincoln Aviator grand touring PHEV has on 3 separate occasions randomly gone into “brick” mode where power is to some components like the Sync screen, and some lights, but main dash won’t boot, the lock/unlock doesn’t work but lock icon flashes on door panel, the vehicle won’t start. This is after short trips out with my family for the evening. Not a fob issue. All 3 times the same. First occurrence at just over 11,000 miles, again in Sept 2023, and happening again June 2025. Roadside assistance dispatches tow trucks, the vehicle can ne…

Look up ODI 11683805 at NHTSA ↗

24.4%
ODI 11681596

Despite multiple backup camera recalls & fixes, the backup camera blurs visibility & engages the backup collision avoidance system when there’s a steady rain thereby preventing me from backing car up my DW & parking in garage. The vehicle repeatedly stops & engages the rear collision avoidance system so much so that I had to turn it off in settings to back my car in. Cleaning the backup camera lense did not improve this condition. It appears the system cannot differentiate between rain & an object.

Look up ODI 11681596 at NHTSA ↗

14.2%
ODI 11728513

My 2023 Lincoln Aviator has a grinding noise when I back up. Also a rattle has begun at all speeds. I had vehicled check and the axles were found to be totally rusted. Prior to having it towed to the detail i did some research and found the following -- A 2023 Lincoln Aviator recall regarding a "rusted" or breaking axle generally refers to a serious issue where the rear axle bolt can fracture, causing the rear subframe to disconnect, potentially leading to a loss of control or rollaway . This issue often stems from stress corrosion, promptin…

Look up ODI 11728513 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

318.8%
ODI 11677763

on 7/27/25 while driving on a residential street the car behaved extremely erratically and was attempting engage the brakes resulting in an uncontrollable driving condition. Brakes were engaging automatically and dashboard showed fault messages including "Antilock brake fault" and "pre-collision assist not available." Contacted Lincoln customer support and they arranged for a tow to the dealership and rental car. Dealership stated updates to system resolved the issue. Seems to be running fine now. If this incident had occurred on a hi…

Look up ODI 11677763 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

0Unavailable

No examples available for this selection.

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Power Train90,000–137,135 mi110,000 mi17
ODI 10403548 · 172,000 mi

TRANSMISSION SHIFTER BREAKS AND LOCKS IN PLACE. THE RESULT IS TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS STRANDED IN A DANGEROUS NEIGHBORHOOD WHERE THEIR PERSONAL SAFETY IS AT RISK. THE PROBLEM IS A BROKEN $5 PIECE OF PLASTIC CONTAINED WITHIN THE SHIFTER KNOB. HOWEVER, FORD REFUSES TO SUPPLY THE $5 PIECE AND INSTEAD REQUIRES THE VEHICLE OWNER TO PURCHASE THE ENTIRE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY (WHICH COSTS ALMOST $1000). BASED ON THE NUMBER OF BACKORDERS FOR THIS PIECE AT ANY ONE POINT IN TIME, IT IS APPARENT THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND IS NOT TAKING STEPS T…

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ODI 10437707 · 126,450 mi

SHIFTER KNOB ON 03 AVIATOR BROKE OFF. THE SHIFTER WAS LOCKED IN PLACE IN DRIVE AT A GREENLIGHT. IT SEEMS THAT A VERY CHEAP PLASTIC PIECE BROKE. THE DEALER QUOTED ME $1200 DOLLARS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY. I AM CHECKING OTHER OPTIONS BUT SEEING THE FURTHER I LOOK THE MORE COMMON THIS PROBLEM. I AM NOT SURE HOW MANY COMPLAINTS IT TAKES BUT THIS IS A HORRIBLE SAFETY ISSUE. *KB

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ODI 10478178 · 143,145 mi

THE SHIFTER KNOB ON MY 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR BROKE OFF. THE SHIFTER WAS LOCKED IN PLACE IN DRIVE AND YOU ARE UNABLE TO SHIFT INTO ANY OTHER GEAR EXCEPT THE GEAR YOU'RE IN. IT SEEMS THAT A VERY CHEAP PLASTIC PIECE BROKE UNDER THE SHIFTER KNOB AND THE DEALER QUOTED ME $1200 DOLLARS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY. I HAVE CHECKED ONLINE AND SEEN THAT THIS IS A VERY-VERY COMMON PROBLEM AMONG OWNERS. THERE IS NO RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE, BUT THIS IS SURELY A SEVERE SAFETY ISSUE. I AM NOT SURE HOW MANY COMPLAINTS IT TAKES BUT THIS IS A HORRIBLE SA…

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Power Train:Automatic Transmission20,332–66,500 mi50,017 mi14
ODI 10112143 · 30,737 mi

MY 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR LOST POWER STEERING CAUSING ME TO LOOSE CONTROL OF THE CAR ON A COUNTY ROAD AND MISSING DEATH BY GOD'S LOVE LAST TUESDAY,2/22/05. I STRUGGLED AND MANAGED TO DRAG THE CAR OFF THE ROAD ONTO THE BUSH AND AVOIDED HEATING AN ONCOMING CAR AND BEING CRUSHED BY A SEMI-TRAILER THAT WAS BEHIND ME. THE CAR WAS TOWED(FLAT-BEDDED) TO THE LOCAL LINCOLN-MERCURY DEALERSHIP. THE HEAD MECHANIC TOLD ME LATER THAT MY CAR HAD SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC BIRTH DEFECT FROM THE FACTORY BECAUSE THE POWER STEERING HOSE WAS IMPROPERLY MOUNTED AT TH…

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ODI 10118883 · 13,450 mi

THE CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT A SUDDEN ACCELERATION PROBLEM. WHILE BACKING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SURGE FORWARD. THE CONSUMER SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES AND THE VEHICLE EVENTUALLY STOPPED. *AK RECALL CAMPAIGN# 02V313000. *SC *JB

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ODI 10121909 · 35,000 mi

I OWN A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR, STILL UNDER WARRANTY. SINCE AROUND NOVEMBER OF 2004 I HAVE BEEN HAVING TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. THE PROBLEM IS THE TRANSMISSION WILL SLIP OUT OF GEAR WHILE DRIVING AT A STEADY SPEED, ACCELERATING FROM A STOP OR SLOWING DOWN AND THEN ACCELERATING. THIS IS VERY HAZARDOUS WHEN TRYING TO MERGE ONTO A HIGHWAY OR TURN INTO TRAFFIC AND THE VEHICLE WILL NOT ACCELERATE. THE PROBLEM EXISTS IN ALL GEARS, HOWEVER, IT DOES NOT DO IT ALL THE TIME. IT HAS CONTINUED TO GET WORSE. EACH TIME THE DEALERSHIP HAS TOLD ME THAT T…

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Engine And Engine Cooling77,500–96,500 mi81,500 mi10
ODI 10173643 · 16,864 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SALES/SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE RIGHT REAR AXLE AND PINION WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE C B SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND GEAR AND PINION LOCKING PIN. THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME THE REAR END WAS REPLACED IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A TECHNICIAN WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.*AK THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT, THE DOOR LOCK SWITCH WAS INOPERATIVE, THE REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING OIL, THE E…

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ODI 10180825 · 81,000 mi

10/26/06 # 8 COIL FAILED 11/8/06 #6 COIL FAILED 12/15/06 # 7 COIL FAILED 1/24/07 CYLINDER HEAD CRACKED TOTAL COST $4,943.53 FOR REPAIRS. *NM

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ODI 10186203 · 92,000 mi

MY 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR HAD A ROUGH IDLE AND WAS A LITTLE SLUGGISH. WITH ONLY 92,000 MILES ON A $45,000 CAR, THIS SURPRISED ME. THIS IS A HIGH PERFORMANCE ENGINE. UPON ACCELERATING TO ENTER I-20 THE VEHICLE ALMOST DIED. LUCKILY ,THERE WERE NO VEHICLES COMING - HAD THIS BEEN DURING RUSH HOUR IT MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN SO LUCKY. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO CITY GARAGE TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT, AND WAS TOLD IT HAD A MAJOR ENGINE PROBLEM. THE #8 CYLINDER HAD ON 70 LBS OF PRESSURE, AND THE VEHICLE NEEDED A VALVE JOB. I CALLED LINCOLN CUSTOMER SERVICE A…

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Structure:Body56,052–92,500 mi75,000 mi7
ODI 10241056 · 100,000 mi

THE LIFTGATE CRACKED AT THE LINCOLN EMBLEM ON MY 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THIS CONDITIONS APPEARS TO BE SIMILAR TO THE SERVICE BULLETIN NHTSA #: 0485. *TR

Look up ODI 10241056 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10260953 · 50,000 mi

THE BACK LIFT COMPONENT HAS A CRACK ON EACH SIDE OF THE LINCOLN EMBLEM. THE BODY SHOP NEAR WHERE I WORK TOLD ME THAT THIS IS VERY COMMON WITH THE AVIATORS, AND THAT HE HAS REPLACED MANY OF THEM. IT IS A MANUFACTURING ERROR AND SHOULD BE REPLACED BY FORD/LINCOLN. I HAVE PURPOSELY LOOKED AT OTHER AVIATORS AND FOUND THAT THEY HAVE THE SAME CRACKS IN THE SAME PLACE BY THE EMBLEM. I WAS TOLD BY THE FORD DEALERSHIP HERE THAT THE COMPANY WOULD NOT FIX IT. MY VEHICLE IS NO LONGER IN WARRANTY. IT NOW HAS ABOUT 66,000 MILES, BUT I NOTICED THE CRACKS ABOU…

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ODI 10436722 · 62,104 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR HATCH NEAR THE EMBLEM WAS CRACKED. THE HATCH WAS NEVER USED AND THERE WAS NEVER A CRASH THAT OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THERE ARE NO RECALLS AND THE DEFECT WAS STRUCTURAL DAMAGE. THE REPAIR COST WILL BE AT THE OWNERS EXPENSE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,104.

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Electrical System31,398–141,500 mi83,500 mi6
ODI 10055552 · 10 mi

WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. DEALER REPLACED THE COMPUTER SYSTEM THREE TIMES, BUT THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. *AK

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ODI 10173643 · 16,864 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SALES/SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE RIGHT REAR AXLE AND PINION WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE C B SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND GEAR AND PINION LOCKING PIN. THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME THE REAR END WAS REPLACED IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A TECHNICIAN WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.*AK THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT, THE DOOR LOCK SWITCH WAS INOPERATIVE, THE REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING OIL, THE E…

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ODI 10403548 · 172,000 mi

TRANSMISSION SHIFTER BREAKS AND LOCKS IN PLACE. THE RESULT IS TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS STRANDED IN A DANGEROUS NEIGHBORHOOD WHERE THEIR PERSONAL SAFETY IS AT RISK. THE PROBLEM IS A BROKEN $5 PIECE OF PLASTIC CONTAINED WITHIN THE SHIFTER KNOB. HOWEVER, FORD REFUSES TO SUPPLY THE $5 PIECE AND INSTEAD REQUIRES THE VEHICLE OWNER TO PURCHASE THE ENTIRE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY (WHICH COSTS ALMOST $1000). BASED ON THE NUMBER OF BACKORDERS FOR THIS PIECE AT ANY ONE POINT IN TIME, IT IS APPARENT THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND IS NOT TAKING STEPS T…

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Vehicle Speed Control40,000–89,000 mi64,000 mi5
ODI 10166445 · 36,000 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55MPH ON THE HIGHWAY WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY LURCHED FORWARD ACROSS THE ROADWAY AND CAREENED OFF A ROADWAY BRIDGE. THE VEHICLE ROLLED FIVE TIMES AND CAME TO A FINAL STOP AGAINST AN EMBANKMENT. MINOR INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. DUE TO THE EXTENSIVE DAMAGE, THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. THE POLICE WERE ALERTED AND A REPORT WAS TAKEN. AFTERWARDS, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED FOR THE VEHICLE ACCELERATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT ALERTED.

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ODI 10226925 · 64,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. WHILE DRIVING 2 MPH AND BRAKING TO PARK, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SURGED FORWARD. THE VEHICLE STRUCK ANOTHER VEHICLE, AND NARROWLY MISSED STRIKING A SECOND PARKED VEHICLE BY INCHES. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY WITH THE DEALER AND HAS NOT YET BEEN DIAGNOSED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000.

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ODI 10424662 · 40,000 mi

THE BRAKE PEDAL AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARE TOO CLOSE TOGETHER AND THERE IS A TENDENCY FOR THE FOOT TO SPAN THE DISTANCE BETWEEN BRAKE PEDAL AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SPEED UP WHEN PLACED IN GEAR FORWARD OR BACKWARDS, WHICH CAN RESULT IN UNAVOIDABLE ACCIDENTS WITH PERSONS, PROPERTY OR VEHICLES. THE AUTOMATIC ADJUSTER FOR BOTH PEDALS MOVES THEM IN UNISON AT THE SAME DISTANCE FROM EACH OTHER CAUSING ONE TO SPAN THE DISTANCE FROM ONE PEDAL TO THE OTHER. WITH THE AMOUNT OF TORQUE FROM THE ENGINE THE BRAKE PEDAL WILL NOT HOLD THE VE…

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Power Train:Driveline:Differential UnitToo few reports for a range3,000 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10045568 · 500 mi

OUR 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR STARTED A REAR END WHINE OR DRONE WITHIN THE FIRST 1000 MILES. THE DEALER HAS TWICE PUT IN A NEW DIFFERENTIAL BUT THE NOISE IS BACK. THE DEALER NOW WILL NOT ATTEMPT ANOTHER REPAIR AND HAS PUT US OFF UNTIL 12/10/03. WE SEEM TO HAVE NO ONE TO VOICE A COMPLAINT TO. THE DEALER GETS ONE MORE CHANCE UNDER SC LEMON LAW AND IS STALLING. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN NOTICED IN FORD EXPLORERS AND LINCOLN MOUNTAINEERS TOO.*AK

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ODI 10053337 · 67,000 mi

CONSUMER STATED REAR END DIFFERENTIAL PRODUCED A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. THE DEALERS WAS UNABLE TO REPAIR THE PART. *AK

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ODI 10056649 · 3,000 mi

2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR HAS A HOWLING REAR END NOISE THAT STARTS AT AROUND 30 M.P.H., LINCOLN SERVICE ADVISOR STATES THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND IT IS AN ENGINEERING DEFECT THAT THEY ARE WORKING ON RESOLVING. THE DEFECT IS THE ENGINEERING OF THE DIFFERENTIAL. IF THIS WAS TO FAIL COMPLETELY THE VEHICLE WOULD LOOSE CONTROL. WE CONTINUE TO CALL TO FIND OUT WHEN THEY WILL HAVE RESOLUTION AND ARE TOLD NO SOLUTION BUT THAT THE ENGINEERS ARE WORKING ON IT.*AK

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Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Lever And Linkage:Column ShiftToo few reports for a range126,959 mi4 (sparse)
ODI 10192579 · 30,686 mi

ON JUNE 07 AT 1100HRS THE GEARSHIFT KNOB AND GEARSHIFT BOOT DISENGAGED FROM THE CONSOLE OF MY 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR; THE GEARSHIFT AND THEREFORE TRANSMISSION WERE LOCKED IN THE D(RIVE) POSITION COULD NOT BE SHIFTED TO ANOTHER POSITION OR DISENGAGED. THE LINCOLN-MERCURY DEALER WAS A SHORT DISTANCE FROM THE GAS STATION WHERE I WAS SO I ELECTED TO DRIVE IT THERE UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES. ONCE AT THE LINCOLN-MERCURY DEALER A TECHNICIAN EXAMINED THE GEARSHIFT AND INDICATED THAT AN INCIDENT LIKE MINE "HAPPENS ALL THE TIME" ... "A SCREW COMES LOOSE". WA…

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ODI 10328233 · 127,467 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. WHILE SHIFTING INTO PARK, THE SHIFTER LEVER BROKE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT BUT THE CONTACT PLANNED TO HAVE IT TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALERSHIP. THE FAILURE AND MILEAGE WAS 127,467.

Look up ODI 10328233 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10336576 · 130,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 LINCOLN AVIATOR. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT A COMPLETE STOP, THE GEAR SHIFT CABLE BROKE. IN ADDITION, THERE WAS AN UNUSUAL NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE AND THE DRIVERS SIDE POWER WINDOW HAD FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HER RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THERE WAS AN OPEN RECALL ON THE VEHICLE BUT DID NOT PERTAIN TO THE FAILURE SHE WAS EXPERIENCING. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 130,000.

Look up ODI 10336576 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-112026-10

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-10 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 221 reports

2022: 21 complaints · 2023: 16 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2022101621
202371216
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
20224401
20232301

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentPower TrainPower Train:Automatic TransmissionEngine And Engine CoolingStructure:BodyElectrical SystemVehicle Speed ControlPower Train:Driveline:Differential UnitPower Train:Automatic Transmission:Lever And Linkage:Column Shift
Power Train—0
2
ODI 10094370

CONSUMER STATES THAT DEALER PUT AFTERMARKET RIMS TIRES ON VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FOLLOWING; DIFFICULTY TURNING THE VEHICLE, HEATER BUBBLING MAKING NOISES, DIFFICULTY STARTING THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING, NOISE IN THE HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PULSATING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION OF THE TIRES, THE TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM HAD TO BE CUT OFF RECONNECTED AND ADJUSTED, THE PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS RATTLED, MOTOR MADE LOUD NOISES WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, FRONT END NOISES, REAR HATCH RATTLED A…

Look up ODI 10094370 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10101993

MULTIPLE FAILURES IN 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. DIFFICULTY TURNING , STARTING, JERK IN STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION IN TIRES, GEAR CHANGER LOOSE AND ECT. *BF THE CONSUMER PURCHASED THE VEHICLE WITH 18 INCH RIMS BUT FORD REQUIRES 17 INCH RIMS TO BE LEGAL (OEM) EQUIPMENT. THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THIS WAS MALICIOUSLY DISHONEST SALE OF AN AUTOMOBILE. THE SIDE FENDER HAD A GAUGE ON THE INSIDE, THE REAR STORAGE SECTION LEATHER RIPPED, THE TIRE MONITOR SYSTEM KEPT COMING ON WITH A WARNING SIGN FROM THE COMPUTER OF A MECHANICAL DEFECT, DIFFICULTY STARTING…

Look up ODI 10101993 at NHTSA ↗

2
ODI 10826028 · 45,000 mi

ON MY 2003 AVIATOR THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT COMES ON AT VARIOUS TIMES DURING THE DAY AND NIGHT. MY INTERIOR LIGHTS FLASH AND MY CAR ALARM GOES OFF. IT'S BEEN DOING THIS FOR ABOUT TWO YEARS, BUT HAS GOTTEN WORSE THIS YEAR 2016. MY BATTERY HAS DIED TWICE IN TWO DAYS. SO FRUSTRATED WITH THIS VEHICLE. WAS SUMMONED OVER THE INTERCOM IN A DEPARTMENT STORE AND AT WORK SAYING THAT A LINCOLN SUV'S ALARM WAS GOING OFF AND THAT THE LIGHTS WERE FLASHING. I KNEW IT WAS MINE. I HIT THE ALARM BUTTON ON THE KEY FOB WHICH CUT OFF THE ALARM FOR ABOUT 30 SECONDS AND I…

Look up ODI 10826028 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10915223 · 107,231 mi

SHIFTER KNOB ON 03 AVIATOR BROKE OFF. THE SHIFTER WAS LOCKED IN DRIVE, HAD TO SHUT OFF VEHICLE AND BRACE THE TIRES FROM ROLLING ON AN INCLINE. WITH MY CHILD IN THE CAR WITH ME. SCARY!!!!!! THE PROBLEM IS A PLASTIC PIECE BROKE IN THE SHIFTER COLUMN. HAS YET TO BE FIXED. QUOTED $900 TO FIX. ALSO THE LIFTGATE CRACKED AT THE LINCOLN EMBLEM WITCH I WAS TOLD THAT IT HOLDS THE GLASS IN PLACE AND IT SOUND LIKE A GUNSHOT WHEN IT CRACKED, SHOOK ME UP. THIS IS A FORD/LINCOLN FAILURE ON A MANUFACTURER DEFECT. THE HATCH IS NOT BEING ABLE TO CLOSE COMPL…

Look up ODI 10915223 at NHTSA ↗

2
ODI 10403548 · 172,000 mi

TRANSMISSION SHIFTER BREAKS AND LOCKS IN PLACE. THE RESULT IS TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS STRANDED IN A DANGEROUS NEIGHBORHOOD WHERE THEIR PERSONAL SAFETY IS AT RISK. THE PROBLEM IS A BROKEN $5 PIECE OF PLASTIC CONTAINED WITHIN THE SHIFTER KNOB. HOWEVER, FORD REFUSES TO SUPPLY THE $5 PIECE AND INSTEAD REQUIRES THE VEHICLE OWNER TO PURCHASE THE ENTIRE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY (WHICH COSTS ALMOST $1000). BASED ON THE NUMBER OF BACKORDERS FOR THIS PIECE AT ANY ONE POINT IN TIME, IT IS APPARENT THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND IS NOT TAKING STEPS T…

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ODI 10510573 · 158,000 mi

I HAD JUST GOT HOME WITH MY VEHICLE FROM THE REPAIR SHOP, HAD A VACUUM HOSE REPLACED. I COULD NOT GET MY KEY OUT OF THE IGNITION. I KEPT TRYING & WAS FINALLY SUCCESSFUL AT REMOVING THE KEY. NOW THE GEAR SHIFTER IS STUCK IN PARK AND WILL NOT GO INTO ANY OTHER GEAR. I JUST GOT IT BACK FROM THE SHOP & STILL CAN'T DRIVE IT DUE TO GETTING IT IN GEAR. THIS REALLY DOES NEED TO BE LOOKED INTO & THEY NEED TO DO A RECALL. I HAVE SEEN A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE 2 MORE YEARS TO PAY IT OFF & THEN IT IS GONE. *TR

Look up ODI 10510573 at NHTSA ↗

3
ODI 10094370

CONSUMER STATES THAT DEALER PUT AFTERMARKET RIMS TIRES ON VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FOLLOWING; DIFFICULTY TURNING THE VEHICLE, HEATER BUBBLING MAKING NOISES, DIFFICULTY STARTING THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING, NOISE IN THE HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PULSATING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION OF THE TIRES, THE TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM HAD TO BE CUT OFF RECONNECTED AND ADJUSTED, THE PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS RATTLED, MOTOR MADE LOUD NOISES WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, FRONT END NOISES, REAR HATCH RATTLED A…

Look up ODI 10094370 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10535196 · 130,000 mi

I WAS BACKING OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY INTO THE STREET. ONCE I WAS IN THE STREET, I PUT THE CAR INTO DRIVE AND STEPPED ON THE GAS. THE CAR WENT THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION- REVERSE. I DOUBLE CHECKED THE GEAR SHIFT ( IN THE CENTER OF THE VEHICLE), IT WAS "D" FOR DRIVE. I MADE SURE IT WAS IN THE D, AND STEPPED SLOWLY ON THE GAS, AND IT WENT INTO REVERSE. I TRIED TO APPLY THE BRAKES, BUT THEY DIDN'T ENGAGE. I QUICKLY STEPPED ON THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, AND THAT STOPPED THE CAR. FORTUNATELY, I WAS IN A CUL-DE-SAC WITH OUT OTHER PEDESTRIANS OR VEHICLES A…

Look up ODI 10535196 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10553042 · 89,000 mi

MY HUSBAND AND I WERE DRIVING OUR 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR WHEN IT BASICALLY STOPPED GOING AND WOULDN'T CHANGE GEAR OR SPEED UP. (THIS IS THE SECOND TIME IT'S GOTTEN STUCK IN GEAR, THE 1ST TIME WAS WHEN IT WAS PARKED AND WOULDN'T MOVE BUT THE GEAR SHIFT MOVED FREELY). WE GOT IT BACK HOME AND REALIZED AGAIN THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE HAD COME DISLODGED. LINCOLN HAD A RECALL ON 25 VEHICLE REGARDING THIS PROBLEM, WHEN I CALLED I WAS TOLD MY VEHICLE WASN'T ONE OF THEM AND WASN'T INCLUDED IN THE RECALL EVEN THOUGHT I'M HAVING THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. I…

Look up ODI 10553042 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 10437707 · 126,450 mi

SHIFTER KNOB ON 03 AVIATOR BROKE OFF. THE SHIFTER WAS LOCKED IN PLACE IN DRIVE AT A GREENLIGHT. IT SEEMS THAT A VERY CHEAP PLASTIC PIECE BROKE. THE DEALER QUOTED ME $1200 DOLLARS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY. I AM CHECKING OTHER OPTIONS BUT SEEING THE FURTHER I LOOK THE MORE COMMON THIS PROBLEM. I AM NOT SURE HOW MANY COMPLAINTS IT TAKES BUT THIS IS A HORRIBLE SAFETY ISSUE. *KB

Look up ODI 10437707 at NHTSA ↗

Power Train:Automatic Transmission0—
1
ODI 10173643 · 16,864 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SALES/SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE RIGHT REAR AXLE AND PINION WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE C B SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND GEAR AND PINION LOCKING PIN. THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME THE REAR END WAS REPLACED IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A TECHNICIAN WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.*AK THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT, THE DOOR LOCK SWITCH WAS INOPERATIVE, THE REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING OIL, THE E…

Look up ODI 10173643 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 10173643 · 16,864 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SALES/SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE RIGHT REAR AXLE AND PINION WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE C B SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND GEAR AND PINION LOCKING PIN. THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME THE REAR END WAS REPLACED IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A TECHNICIAN WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.*AK THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT, THE DOOR LOCK SWITCH WAS INOPERATIVE, THE REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING OIL, THE E…

Look up ODI 10173643 at NHTSA ↗

000
Engine And Engine Cooling
2
ODI 10094370

CONSUMER STATES THAT DEALER PUT AFTERMARKET RIMS TIRES ON VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FOLLOWING; DIFFICULTY TURNING THE VEHICLE, HEATER BUBBLING MAKING NOISES, DIFFICULTY STARTING THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING, NOISE IN THE HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PULSATING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION OF THE TIRES, THE TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM HAD TO BE CUT OFF RECONNECTED AND ADJUSTED, THE PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS RATTLED, MOTOR MADE LOUD NOISES WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, FRONT END NOISES, REAR HATCH RATTLED A…

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ODI 10101993

MULTIPLE FAILURES IN 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. DIFFICULTY TURNING , STARTING, JERK IN STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION IN TIRES, GEAR CHANGER LOOSE AND ECT. *BF THE CONSUMER PURCHASED THE VEHICLE WITH 18 INCH RIMS BUT FORD REQUIRES 17 INCH RIMS TO BE LEGAL (OEM) EQUIPMENT. THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THIS WAS MALICIOUSLY DISHONEST SALE OF AN AUTOMOBILE. THE SIDE FENDER HAD A GAUGE ON THE INSIDE, THE REAR STORAGE SECTION LEATHER RIPPED, THE TIRE MONITOR SYSTEM KEPT COMING ON WITH A WARNING SIGN FROM THE COMPUTER OF A MECHANICAL DEFECT, DIFFICULTY STARTING…

Look up ODI 10101993 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 10173643 · 16,864 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SALES/SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE RIGHT REAR AXLE AND PINION WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE C B SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND GEAR AND PINION LOCKING PIN. THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME THE REAR END WAS REPLACED IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A TECHNICIAN WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.*AK THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT, THE DOOR LOCK SWITCH WAS INOPERATIVE, THE REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING OIL, THE E…

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—0
1
ODI 10173643 · 16,864 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SALES/SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE RIGHT REAR AXLE AND PINION WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE C B SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND GEAR AND PINION LOCKING PIN. THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME THE REAR END WAS REPLACED IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A TECHNICIAN WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.*AK THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT, THE DOOR LOCK SWITCH WAS INOPERATIVE, THE REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING OIL, THE E…

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1
ODI 10094370

CONSUMER STATES THAT DEALER PUT AFTERMARKET RIMS TIRES ON VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FOLLOWING; DIFFICULTY TURNING THE VEHICLE, HEATER BUBBLING MAKING NOISES, DIFFICULTY STARTING THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING, NOISE IN THE HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PULSATING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION OF THE TIRES, THE TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM HAD TO BE CUT OFF RECONNECTED AND ADJUSTED, THE PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS RATTLED, MOTOR MADE LOUD NOISES WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, FRONT END NOISES, REAR HATCH RATTLED A…

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00
Structure:Body
2
ODI 10826028 · 45,000 mi

ON MY 2003 AVIATOR THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT COMES ON AT VARIOUS TIMES DURING THE DAY AND NIGHT. MY INTERIOR LIGHTS FLASH AND MY CAR ALARM GOES OFF. IT'S BEEN DOING THIS FOR ABOUT TWO YEARS, BUT HAS GOTTEN WORSE THIS YEAR 2016. MY BATTERY HAS DIED TWICE IN TWO DAYS. SO FRUSTRATED WITH THIS VEHICLE. WAS SUMMONED OVER THE INTERCOM IN A DEPARTMENT STORE AND AT WORK SAYING THAT A LINCOLN SUV'S ALARM WAS GOING OFF AND THAT THE LIGHTS WERE FLASHING. I KNEW IT WAS MINE. I HIT THE ALARM BUTTON ON THE KEY FOB WHICH CUT OFF THE ALARM FOR ABOUT 30 SECONDS AND I…

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ODI 10915223 · 107,231 mi

SHIFTER KNOB ON 03 AVIATOR BROKE OFF. THE SHIFTER WAS LOCKED IN DRIVE, HAD TO SHUT OFF VEHICLE AND BRACE THE TIRES FROM ROLLING ON AN INCLINE. WITH MY CHILD IN THE CAR WITH ME. SCARY!!!!!! THE PROBLEM IS A PLASTIC PIECE BROKE IN THE SHIFTER COLUMN. HAS YET TO BE FIXED. QUOTED $900 TO FIX. ALSO THE LIFTGATE CRACKED AT THE LINCOLN EMBLEM WITCH I WAS TOLD THAT IT HOLDS THE GLASS IN PLACE AND IT SOUND LIKE A GUNSHOT WHEN IT CRACKED, SHOOK ME UP. THIS IS A FORD/LINCOLN FAILURE ON A MANUFACTURER DEFECT. THE HATCH IS NOT BEING ABLE TO CLOSE COMPL…

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00—
1
ODI 11010322 · 75,000 mi

THERE HAS BEEN A UNPROVOKED CRACK IN THE LIFT GATE PANEL FOR A COUPLE YEARS NOW (WHICH SEEMS TO BE A VERY COMMON PROBLEM IN THIS MODEL), WE HAVE NOT HAD ISSUES UNTIL THE REAR WINDOW STARTED FLYING OPEN WHILE DRIVING AT AROUND 30MPH. THE LATCH HAS MALFUNCTIONED DUE TO WATER SEEPING INTO CRACK.

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000
Electrical System
2
ODI 10403548 · 172,000 mi

TRANSMISSION SHIFTER BREAKS AND LOCKS IN PLACE. THE RESULT IS TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS STRANDED IN A DANGEROUS NEIGHBORHOOD WHERE THEIR PERSONAL SAFETY IS AT RISK. THE PROBLEM IS A BROKEN $5 PIECE OF PLASTIC CONTAINED WITHIN THE SHIFTER KNOB. HOWEVER, FORD REFUSES TO SUPPLY THE $5 PIECE AND INSTEAD REQUIRES THE VEHICLE OWNER TO PURCHASE THE ENTIRE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY (WHICH COSTS ALMOST $1000). BASED ON THE NUMBER OF BACKORDERS FOR THIS PIECE AT ANY ONE POINT IN TIME, IT IS APPARENT THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND IS NOT TAKING STEPS T…

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ODI 10510573 · 158,000 mi

I HAD JUST GOT HOME WITH MY VEHICLE FROM THE REPAIR SHOP, HAD A VACUUM HOSE REPLACED. I COULD NOT GET MY KEY OUT OF THE IGNITION. I KEPT TRYING & WAS FINALLY SUCCESSFUL AT REMOVING THE KEY. NOW THE GEAR SHIFTER IS STUCK IN PARK AND WILL NOT GO INTO ANY OTHER GEAR. I JUST GOT IT BACK FROM THE SHOP & STILL CAN'T DRIVE IT DUE TO GETTING IT IN GEAR. THIS REALLY DOES NEED TO BE LOOKED INTO & THEY NEED TO DO A RECALL. I HAVE SEEN A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE 2 MORE YEARS TO PAY IT OFF & THEN IT IS GONE. *TR

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1
ODI 10173643 · 16,864 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SALES/SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE RIGHT REAR AXLE AND PINION WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE C B SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND GEAR AND PINION LOCKING PIN. THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME THE REAR END WAS REPLACED IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A TECHNICIAN WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.*AK THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT, THE DOOR LOCK SWITCH WAS INOPERATIVE, THE REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING OIL, THE E…

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1
ODI 10173643 · 16,864 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SALES/SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE RIGHT REAR AXLE AND PINION WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE C B SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND GEAR AND PINION LOCKING PIN. THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME THE REAR END WAS REPLACED IN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A TECHNICIAN WAS SENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.*AK THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT, THE DOOR LOCK SWITCH WAS INOPERATIVE, THE REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING OIL, THE E…

Look up ODI 10173643 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 11010322 · 75,000 mi

THERE HAS BEEN A UNPROVOKED CRACK IN THE LIFT GATE PANEL FOR A COUPLE YEARS NOW (WHICH SEEMS TO BE A VERY COMMON PROBLEM IN THIS MODEL), WE HAVE NOT HAD ISSUES UNTIL THE REAR WINDOW STARTED FLYING OPEN WHILE DRIVING AT AROUND 30MPH. THE LATCH HAS MALFUNCTIONED DUE TO WATER SEEPING INTO CRACK.

Look up ODI 11010322 at NHTSA ↗

—000
Vehicle Speed Control
3
ODI 10094370

CONSUMER STATES THAT DEALER PUT AFTERMARKET RIMS TIRES ON VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FOLLOWING; DIFFICULTY TURNING THE VEHICLE, HEATER BUBBLING MAKING NOISES, DIFFICULTY STARTING THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING, NOISE IN THE HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PULSATING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION OF THE TIRES, THE TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM HAD TO BE CUT OFF RECONNECTED AND ADJUSTED, THE PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS RATTLED, MOTOR MADE LOUD NOISES WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, FRONT END NOISES, REAR HATCH RATTLED A…

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ODI 10535196 · 130,000 mi

I WAS BACKING OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY INTO THE STREET. ONCE I WAS IN THE STREET, I PUT THE CAR INTO DRIVE AND STEPPED ON THE GAS. THE CAR WENT THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION- REVERSE. I DOUBLE CHECKED THE GEAR SHIFT ( IN THE CENTER OF THE VEHICLE), IT WAS "D" FOR DRIVE. I MADE SURE IT WAS IN THE D, AND STEPPED SLOWLY ON THE GAS, AND IT WENT INTO REVERSE. I TRIED TO APPLY THE BRAKES, BUT THEY DIDN'T ENGAGE. I QUICKLY STEPPED ON THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, AND THAT STOPPED THE CAR. FORTUNATELY, I WAS IN A CUL-DE-SAC WITH OUT OTHER PEDESTRIANS OR VEHICLES A…

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ODI 10553042 · 89,000 mi

MY HUSBAND AND I WERE DRIVING OUR 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR WHEN IT BASICALLY STOPPED GOING AND WOULDN'T CHANGE GEAR OR SPEED UP. (THIS IS THE SECOND TIME IT'S GOTTEN STUCK IN GEAR, THE 1ST TIME WAS WHEN IT WAS PARKED AND WOULDN'T MOVE BUT THE GEAR SHIFT MOVED FREELY). WE GOT IT BACK HOME AND REALIZED AGAIN THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE HAD COME DISLODGED. LINCOLN HAD A RECALL ON 25 VEHICLE REGARDING THIS PROBLEM, WHEN I CALLED I WAS TOLD MY VEHICLE WASN'T ONE OF THEM AND WASN'T INCLUDED IN THE RECALL EVEN THOUGHT I'M HAVING THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. I…

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0
1
ODI 10094370

CONSUMER STATES THAT DEALER PUT AFTERMARKET RIMS TIRES ON VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FOLLOWING; DIFFICULTY TURNING THE VEHICLE, HEATER BUBBLING MAKING NOISES, DIFFICULTY STARTING THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING, NOISE IN THE HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PULSATING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION OF THE TIRES, THE TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM HAD TO BE CUT OFF RECONNECTED AND ADJUSTED, THE PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS RATTLED, MOTOR MADE LOUD NOISES WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, FRONT END NOISES, REAR HATCH RATTLED A…

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00—00
Power Train:Driveline:Differential Unit000000—0
Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Lever And Linkage:Column Shift
1
ODI 10437707 · 126,450 mi

SHIFTER KNOB ON 03 AVIATOR BROKE OFF. THE SHIFTER WAS LOCKED IN PLACE IN DRIVE AT A GREENLIGHT. IT SEEMS THAT A VERY CHEAP PLASTIC PIECE BROKE. THE DEALER QUOTED ME $1200 DOLLARS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY. I AM CHECKING OTHER OPTIONS BUT SEEING THE FURTHER I LOOK THE MORE COMMON THIS PROBLEM. I AM NOT SURE HOW MANY COMPLAINTS IT TAKES BUT THIS IS A HORRIBLE SAFETY ISSUE. *KB

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000000—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

6 patterns with matching reports.

Hard or delayed shifting

6 mentions · 5.4% of complaints

Median mileage: 36,000 mi (3 usable records).

ODI 10094370

CONSUMER STATES THAT DEALER PUT AFTERMARKET RIMS TIRES ON VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FOLLOWING; DIFFICULTY TURNING THE VEHICLE, HEATER BUBBLING MAKING NOISES, DIFFICULTY STARTING THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING, NOISE IN THE HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PULSATING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION OF THE TIRES, THE TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM HAD TO BE CUT OFF RECONNECTED AND ADJUSTED, THE PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS RATTLED, MOTOR MADE LOUD NOISES WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, FRONT END NOISES, REAR HATCH RATTLED A…

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ODI 10101993

MULTIPLE FAILURES IN 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. DIFFICULTY TURNING , STARTING, JERK IN STEERING WHEEL, VIBRATION IN TIRES, GEAR CHANGER LOOSE AND ECT. *BF THE CONSUMER PURCHASED THE VEHICLE WITH 18 INCH RIMS BUT FORD REQUIRES 17 INCH RIMS TO BE LEGAL (OEM) EQUIPMENT. THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THIS WAS MALICIOUSLY DISHONEST SALE OF AN AUTOMOBILE. THE SIDE FENDER HAD A GAUGE ON THE INSIDE, THE REAR STORAGE SECTION LEATHER RIPPED, THE TIRE MONITOR SYSTEM KEPT COMING ON WITH A WARNING SIGN FROM THE COMPUTER OF A MECHANICAL DEFECT, DIFFICULTY STARTING…

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ODI 10166445 · 36,000 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55MPH ON THE HIGHWAY WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY LURCHED FORWARD ACROSS THE ROADWAY AND CAREENED OFF A ROADWAY BRIDGE. THE VEHICLE ROLLED FIVE TIMES AND CAME TO A FINAL STOP AGAINST AN EMBANKMENT. MINOR INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. DUE TO THE EXTENSIVE DAMAGE, THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. THE POLICE WERE ALERTED AND A REPORT WAS TAKEN. AFTERWARDS, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED FOR THE VEHICLE ACCELERATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT ALERTED.

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Matching rule\b(hard shift\w*|rough shift\w*|delay\w* shift\w*|shift\w* hard|jerk\w*|lurch\w*)\b

Stalling or loss of power

6 mentions · 5.4% of complaints

Median mileage: 22,869 mi (6 usable records).

ODI 10045568 · 500 mi

OUR 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR STARTED A REAR END WHINE OR DRONE WITHIN THE FIRST 1000 MILES. THE DEALER HAS TWICE PUT IN A NEW DIFFERENTIAL BUT THE NOISE IS BACK. THE DEALER NOW WILL NOT ATTEMPT ANOTHER REPAIR AND HAS PUT US OFF UNTIL 12/10/03. WE SEEM TO HAVE NO ONE TO VOICE A COMPLAINT TO. THE DEALER GETS ONE MORE CHANCE UNDER SC LEMON LAW AND IS STALLING. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN NOTICED IN FORD EXPLORERS AND LINCOLN MOUNTAINEERS TOO.*AK

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ODI 10055552 · 10 mi

WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. DEALER REPLACED THE COMPUTER SYSTEM THREE TIMES, BUT THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. *AK

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ODI 10112143 · 30,737 mi

MY 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR LOST POWER STEERING CAUSING ME TO LOOSE CONTROL OF THE CAR ON A COUNTY ROAD AND MISSING DEATH BY GOD'S LOVE LAST TUESDAY,2/22/05. I STRUGGLED AND MANAGED TO DRAG THE CAR OFF THE ROAD ONTO THE BUSH AND AVOIDED HEATING AN ONCOMING CAR AND BEING CRUSHED BY A SEMI-TRAILER THAT WAS BEHIND ME. THE CAR WAS TOWED(FLAT-BEDDED) TO THE LOCAL LINCOLN-MERCURY DEALERSHIP. THE HEAD MECHANIC TOLD ME LATER THAT MY CAR HAD SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC BIRTH DEFECT FROM THE FACTORY BECAUSE THE POWER STEERING HOSE WAS IMPROPERLY MOUNTED AT TH…

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Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

6 mentions · 5.4% of complaints

Median mileage: 72,000 mi (5 usable records).

ODI 10069649 · 7,000 mi

1. I WAS SITTING AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT FIRST THING IN THE MORNING WHEN ALL MY WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASH CAME ON AND MY CAR DIED. IT SAID LOW OIL PRESSURE. I WAS ABLE TO GET THE CAR RESTARTED, AND HAVE NOT EXPERIENCED THE PROBLEM AGAIN. DEALER INDICATED THEY COULD DETECT NO PROBLEM. 2. PAINT IN DOOR JAMBS DIFFERENT COLOR THAN REST OF VEHICLE. DEALER INDICATED IN SMALL CRASH, PROBABLY AT TIME OF UNLOADING VEHICLE...DAMAGE REPAIRED AND REPAINTED. I HAD THEM REPAINT TO MAKE CAR SAME COLOR. 3. OTHER - THIS IS MY MOST FRUSTRATING PROBLEM. WHE…

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ODI 10180853 · 72,000 mi

2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR WARNING LIGHT "EMISSION". FOUND OUT IT IS A DESIGN FLAW WITH THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. WE CONTACTED NHTSA AND FOUND OUT THERE IS A RECALL. OUR VIN # IS NOT IN THIS RECALL. FORD/LINCOLN WILL ONLY GIVE US $850.00 OFF ON A $3000.00. THIS CAR HAS 72,000 MILES ON IT. FOUND OUT THIS IS WHEN THESE TRANSMISSIONS GO. WHEN WE TOOK IT TO THE DEALER THERE WAS ANOTHER THERE WITH 45,000 MILES SAME PROBLEM. THE WARRANTY ON THE 2003 IS 4 YEARS 50,000 MILES. THE DIAGNOSE IS GEAR 2 RATIO, GEAR 5 RATIO AND SOLENOID B. *NM

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ODI 10404265 · 79,000 mi

I OWN A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR WITH 85,000 MILES ON IT . IT IS A 48,000 DOLLAR VEHICLE AND I AM LESS THAN SATISFIED WITH THE WAY ITS HELD UP . THE VEHICLE SEES SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGES EVERY 3,000 MILES . AT AROUND 79,000 THE ENGINE DIED ON WHILE DRIVING ON A HILLY COUNTRY ROAD WITH MY FAMILY IN THE CAR . I WAS ABLE TO MUSCLE THE CAR OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH NO POWER STEERING AND LIMITED BRAKES WE ENDED UP IN A CORN FIELD , HOWEVER THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE THERE WAS A VERRY UNHAPPY FARMER . THE VEHICLE THEN STARTED UP AND RAN BUT …

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Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Steering assistance concerns

5 mentions · 4.5% of complaints

Median mileage: 23,801 mi (4 usable records).

ODI 10030289 · 4,500 mi

POWER STEERING RACK HAS FAILED AFTER ONLY 4,500 MILES, AC SEAT FAILED, DOOR JAM CLEARANCE BETWEEN DRIVER'S DOOR AND REAR DOOR, WHISTLING NOISE AT 60 MPH. *AK

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ODI 10097687

EXPERIENCED CONTINUOUS MALFUNCTIONING WHILE DRIVING, COMPLETE POWER OUTAGES CAUSING POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKE & OTHER FAILURE. *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM THAT HAS PROVEN TO BE UNDETECTABLE THROUGH CUSTOMARY SERVICE TEST.*JB

Look up ODI 10097687 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10112143 · 30,737 mi

MY 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR LOST POWER STEERING CAUSING ME TO LOOSE CONTROL OF THE CAR ON A COUNTY ROAD AND MISSING DEATH BY GOD'S LOVE LAST TUESDAY,2/22/05. I STRUGGLED AND MANAGED TO DRAG THE CAR OFF THE ROAD ONTO THE BUSH AND AVOIDED HEATING AN ONCOMING CAR AND BEING CRUSHED BY A SEMI-TRAILER THAT WAS BEHIND ME. THE CAR WAS TOWED(FLAT-BEDDED) TO THE LOCAL LINCOLN-MERCURY DEALERSHIP. THE HEAD MECHANIC TOLD ME LATER THAT MY CAR HAD SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC BIRTH DEFECT FROM THE FACTORY BECAUSE THE POWER STEERING HOSE WAS IMPROPERLY MOUNTED AT TH…

Look up ODI 10112143 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(power steer\w*|steering assist\w*|steering lock\w*|steering wheel lock\w*)\b

Battery drain and no-start mentions

1 mentions · 0.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 102,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10376998 · 102,000 mi

2003 AVIATOR 4.6 V8 WITH 102,000 MILES. MAINTAINED MAINTENANCE WHICH I HAVE HAD VEHICLE FOR ABOUT A YEAR. CAR RAN FINE. ALL OF A SUDDEN VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. HAD TO HAVE TRANSMISSION SHIFTER CABLE REPLACE. RAN OKAY FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS THAN STARTED HEARING KNOCKING SOUND FROM ENGINE. TOOK TO FORD CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHICH THEY PULLED ENGINE APART AND COULD NOT DETERMINE PROBLEM. THEY STATED THAT THEY WERE NOT SURE AND CONTACTED FORD. DROVE FOR ABOUT 3 WEEKS OF WHICH LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT CAME ON AND VEHICLE SHUT DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF H…

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Matching rule\b(parasitic drain|battery drain\w*|dead battery|won.t start|would not start|no.start)\b

Brake response concerns

1 mentions · 0.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 40,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10424662 · 40,000 mi

THE BRAKE PEDAL AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARE TOO CLOSE TOGETHER AND THERE IS A TENDENCY FOR THE FOOT TO SPAN THE DISTANCE BETWEEN BRAKE PEDAL AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SPEED UP WHEN PLACED IN GEAR FORWARD OR BACKWARDS, WHICH CAN RESULT IN UNAVOIDABLE ACCIDENTS WITH PERSONS, PROPERTY OR VEHICLES. THE AUTOMATIC ADJUSTER FOR BOTH PEDALS MOVES THEM IN UNISON AT THE SAME DISTANCE FROM EACH OTHER CAUSING ONE TO SPAN THE DISTANCE FROM ONE PEDAL TO THE OTHER. WITH THE AMOUNT OF TORQUE FROM THE ENGINE THE BRAKE PEDAL WILL NOT HOLD THE VE…

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Matching rule\b(brake fail\w*|brakes fail\w*|brake pedal|braking distance|unintended braking|phantom braking)\b