U.S. public vehicle records

2021 Lincoln AVIATOR: complaints, problems and recalls

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

39 owner complaints analyzed

28 distinct recall campaigns

60,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2021 model year. Data updated: 2026-09-30 (September 30, 2026). 8 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Electrical System is the most frequently named component, appearing in 12 of 39 complaints (30.8%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
Topic	Matching reports	Share of complaints
Braking behavior	5	12.8%
Electrical and battery issues	5	12.8%
Steering behavior	3	7.7%
Engine operation	2	5.1%
Transmission and shifting	1	2.6%

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.

Electrical System

Engine

Unknown Or Other

Power Train

Visibility/Wiper

Fuel/Propulsion System

Seats

Service Brakes

Electrical System: 12; Engine: 6; Unknown Or Other: 6; Power Train: 4; Visibility/Wiper: 4; Fuel/Propulsion System: 3; Seats: 3; Service Brakes: 3

Reported problems by failure mileage

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

Under 25,000

25,000 to 49,999

50,000 to 74,999

75,000 to 99,999

100,000 to 149,999

150,000 and above

Under 25,000: 1; 25,000 to 49,999: 1; 50,000 to 74,999: 4; 75,000 to 99,999: 1; 100,000 to 149,999: 1; 150,000 and above: 0

50,000 to 74,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (4). 31 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.

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

2022: 4; 2023: 8; 2024: 3; 2025: 13; 2026: 11

Pattern summary

Electrical System leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 5 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 5 complaint narratives. Steering behavior appears in 3 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 11455395 · 2022-03-06 (March 6, 2022)

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

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11455395 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11457309 · 2022-03-18 (March 18, 2022)

In regards to my brand new 2021 Lincoln Aviator Reserve (4181 miles): 2.23.22- Driving home on a very narrow, winding road when my car unexpectedly started to vibrate/shake. There were no alerts and no warning lights that came on. Fortunately, I was coming up on one of the very few turnouts available. As I started to pull over the car completely shut off (completely died). Luckily, I made it off of the road or I would have been stuck in the middle of the road on a blind corner as the car would not restart. It just kept displaying "Full Access…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11457309 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11461050 · 2022-04-17 (April 17, 2022)

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…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11461050 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11494978 · 2022-11-26 (November 26, 2022)

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.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11494978 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11506325 · 2023-02-08 (February 8, 2023)

My vehicle has heated seats. This week, when I was using the heated seats, I noticed a burning sensation on my left buttocks. I later discovered a burn hole in my seat (bottom left) and a matching burn on the coat I was wearing (bottom left). I am reporting this incident I because I believe there is a defect of the heated sweats in my vehicle that could lead to severe burns to passengers.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11506325 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11506734 · 2023-02-11 (February 11, 2023)

Three times, battery was dead -- twice within 24 hours of bringing the car home from the dealer. We only drive the car home from the dealer, then the next day the battery is dead again. The dealer said they replaced the battery and fixed an electrical recall, and they said they checked for electrical draw, but the problem is still there. Yesterday, they said they contacted Lincoln corporate because they didn't know how to fix it. It is dead again this morning. We get messages on our phone app about the anti-lock bake system, hill start assi…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11506734 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11519252 · 2023-04-27 (April 27, 2023)

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…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11519252 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11524254 · 2023-05-28 (May 28, 2023)

It has been almost a half year and still no solution for backup camera that shows blue screen. It is happening more and more. It is a big vehicle (and expensive one) . When backing up, one is at a great disadvantage with just a blue screen. You cannot see people or other objects. Car dealership says they do not know when it will be rectified. I think Ford/Lincoln is dragging their feet, using COVID as an excuse.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11524254 at NHTSA ↗

Recall history

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

20V726000 · Steering

Reported: 2020-11-20 (November 20, 2020)

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The steering knuckles may have been manufactured improperly.

Consequence: The improperly manufactured knuckle may fracture, reducing steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front knuckle, and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 16, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S69.

Component	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024	2025	2026	2027
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.

Component	Mileage range (25th–75th percentile)	Median	Usable records	Examples
Electrical System	Too few reports for a range	60,000 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 11741858 · 60,000 mi The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that the vehicle did not start, the vehicle was , the hood was raised, the contact went back to the vehicle to try to start, the vehicle would not turn over with clicking in the engine. the vehicle began to smoke with very thick white smoke, the contact was unable to exit the vehicle of the drivers side front seat. The battery was disconnected and a manual latch was discovered on the drivers side door. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but had not been diagnosed or repaired. The … Look up ODI 11741858 at NHTSA ↗
Engine	Too few reports for a range	60,000 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 11741858 · 60,000 mi The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that the vehicle did not start, the vehicle was , the hood was raised, the contact went back to the vehicle to try to start, the vehicle would not turn over with clicking in the engine. the vehicle began to smoke with very thick white smoke, the contact was unable to exit the vehicle of the drivers side front seat. The battery was disconnected and a manual latch was discovered on the drivers side door. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but had not been diagnosed or repaired. The … Look up ODI 11741858 at NHTSA ↗
Unknown Or Other	Too few reports for a range	33,000 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 11549840 · 33,000 mi Hello. My name is [XXX] and I have a potentially serious issue with my car and Lincoln refuses to look into it. The short story : When you press the brakes moderately or harder (as if stopping for a yellow light) it sounds like you’ve run over a brick or hit a BIG pothole. It has been in 6 times and to 3 dealerships and they all say it is normal for Aviators and Explorers. I have owned an auto repair shop for 12 years and my guys fix 2000 cars per year. I am an ASE master certified mechanic and I can assure anyone that there is nothing normal … Look up ODI 11549840 at NHTSA ↗
Power Train	Too few reports for a range	98,000 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 11747408 · 98,000 mi The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that while the vehicle was unoccupied and parked on an incline, the vehicle rolled backwards several feet and then came to a complete stop. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V402000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000. Look up ODI 11747408 at NHTSA ↗

Month	Complaints	Campaigns announced	Examples
2024-10	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2024-11	0	24V852000	No examples available for this selection.
2024-12	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-01	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-02	1	25V093000	ODI 11644108 Driving 75mph. Cruise set to 75mph. Vehicle randomly reset cruising speed to 85 and 105mph or two separate occasions over 4 days. I went through the settings and disabled intelligent cruise control and switched it to adaptive cruise control, which doesn't use radar and navigation data. Only tell will tell if that fixed it. I already had speed sign recognition disabled. Look up ODI 11644108 at NHTSA ↗
2025-03	0	25V159000	No examples available for this selection.
2025-04	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-05	0	25V338000, 25V349000	No examples available for this selection.
2025-06	2	25V393000, 25V407000, 25V442000	ODI 11666670 When pumping gas it always overflows. Tried several gas stations. Two different dealers have attempted to fix (they did confirm the issue). Each had had at least 3 attempts with no success. Lincoln seems disinterested in finding a remedy. This feels very unsafe to me in many ways. Look up ODI 11666670 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11669232 · 60,000 mi The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's side rear door trim detached and flew off the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that after it rained, water entered the interior of the vehicle through the sunroof. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a detached driver's rear door trim and clogged drain tubes in the sunroof assembly. The driver's side rear door trim was not replaced. The dealer repaired the clogged drain tubes in the sunroof assembl… Look up ODI 11669232 at NHTSA ↗
2025-07	2	25V455000	ODI 11673256 Trim piece on back drivers side window has fallen off while driving down the highway. Look up ODI 11673256 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11675141 · 130,000 mi The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that while 5 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. The message to “Shift to Park” was displayed. The contact pulled over to right side of the road, turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as intended. A dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed; however, the contact had scheduled an appointment for the vehicle t… Look up ODI 11675141 at NHTSA ↗
2025-08	2	None	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 ↗ ODI 11683995 My 2021 Lincoln Aviator PHEV lift gate safety stop does not function properly. It will come closing down extremely hard. This will happen when the button is pressed on the lift gate or the hands free feature is triggered. The lift gate will not safety stop and pop back open as it should unless a significant amount of force is used; this is usually 2 or more people trying with all their strength to stop it from closing on them. I have been hurt by this and so has my child. This is a serious safety issue. I have included screenshots from the vi… Look up ODI 11683995 at NHTSA ↗
2025-09	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-10	1	None	ODI 11690747 The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that the seat folding switch on the third-row seat failed to function as intended. The seat was stuck in the down position. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. Look up ODI 11690747 at NHTSA ↗
2025-11	3	None	ODI 11697487 The "auto" mode on my Sync screen on my 2021 Lincoln Aviator does not always automatically switch between day and night based on ambient light levels. This is a blinding experience at night when the screen doesn't switch to night mode and the brightness is intense. This blinding screen makes it hard to see outside when it is dark which could lead to an accident. My dealer says I have the most up to date version of Sync for my vehicle and there is no fix for this problem. Look up ODI 11697487 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11697630 For the first 39 months of my ownership my 2021 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring plug-in electric hybrid would not charge properly and resulted in thousands of charge station fault alerts. The dealership was dismissive of the issue for years because it seemed to work for the few minutes when they charged it on their high voltage charger even though I voiced concerns about the charger port being bad on the vehicle and it not working properly at home. My Aviator would not charge unless the plug was in the exact perfect spot and rarely would make i… Look up ODI 11697630 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11698036 My vehicle’s camera system, including the backup camera, is experiencing an issue where the passenger-side camera fails to display properly, showing only a blank black area. I have reported this issue to my dealership for future inspection. It is not yet clear whether the problem persists during daylight hours; however, it poses a significant safety risk at night when visibility is already limited. The loss of the passenger-side camera view creates a blind spot that could increase the likelihood of an accident or injury. Look up ODI 11698036 at NHTSA ↗
2025-12	2	None	ODI 11702357 1.) Exhaust System Failure (Flex Pipe / Catalytic Converter) The vehicle’s exhaust system, specifically the flex pipe connected to the catalytic converter, cracked and malfunctioned. This component is available for inspection upon request. As a result of the failure, exhaust fumes entered the cabin, creating a significant safety risk due to potential exposure to carbon monoxide. Prior to the failure, I noticed a persistent rattling noise at low speeds and while the vehicle was idling. The issue was inspected and confirmed by the dealership; howev… Look up ODI 11702357 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11705685 The driver-side front window regulator failed and was replaced on October 4, 2025. The passenger-side window regulator also failed and was removed and replaced on November 21, 2025. At the time each incident, the window would not raise using the car controls and remained stuck in the down position. Two window regulator failures on opposite sides of this vehicle just seven weeks and within roughly 2,400 miles apart does not indicate typical wear. It reflects a pattern failure consistent with a component defect. At the time of the October incide… Look up ODI 11705685 at NHTSA ↗
2026-01	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-02	1	None	ODI 11716405 My car start making a very loud squeaking noise when I turn or hit any small bumb in the road. So I took it to the shop and was told both front lower ball joint boots are broken the exact same way. Now what bother me is what the mechanic said next. I quote " some type of suspension problem always happens on these cars. So my question is were there any recall about suspension on these cars? Online says yes. While my vin doesn't show one Look up ODI 11716405 at NHTSA ↗
2026-03	2	26V117000, 26V123000, 26V159000	ODI 11722796 The vehicle is intermittently braking on its own while driving. The issue has become significantly worse over the course of a month. The dashboard message reads, “brake applied, power reduced”. This is a danger to both myself and other drivers as we are unable to control the speed of the vehicle. Look up ODI 11722796 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11724850 Interior front reading lights turn on and off randomly when driving and when not driving. This is incredibly distracting especially at night. Look up ODI 11724850 at NHTSA ↗
2026-04	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-05	1	None	ODI 11737219 I was completely stopped in traffic a car failed to reduce speed and slammed into the back of my car. My neck whipped forward no air bags deployed. Look up ODI 11737219 at NHTSA ↗
2026-06	3	26V402000	ODI 11741858 · 60,000 mi The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that the vehicle did not start, the vehicle was , the hood was raised, the contact went back to the vehicle to try to start, the vehicle would not turn over with clicking in the engine. the vehicle began to smoke with very thick white smoke, the contact was unable to exit the vehicle of the drivers side front seat. The battery was disconnected and a manual latch was discovered on the drivers side door. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but had not been diagnosed or repaired. The … Look up ODI 11741858 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11746352 My vehicle is a hybrid and repeatedly gets high voltage battery warnings when the electric battery shows zero miles when idling. Four times it has shown pull over safely messages and high voltage battery warnings and then it is only in auxiliary mode. By the time a tow truck comes it is able to start again and Ford has been unable to find the issue after 4 visits Look up ODI 11746352 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11747408 · 98,000 mi The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact stated that while the vehicle was unoccupied and parked on an incline, the vehicle rolled backwards several feet and then came to a complete stop. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V402000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000. Look up ODI 11747408 at NHTSA ↗
2026-07	3	26V451000	ODI 11750524 The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V117000 (Visibility); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that parts would be available at the end of June 2026. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure. Look up ODI 11750524 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11750650 · 67,000 mi The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Aviator. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving 70-75 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to a friend's residence, where it failed to restart. The dealer was contacted and informed that the vehicle would be repaired at the owner's expense because the recall remedy was unavailable. The contact was i… Look up ODI 11750650 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11751230 I have been having issues with my breaks sticking when applied. To the point that it’s completely stopping my car and i need to use my foot to release the brake from behind. I have had the dealership look at this issue and they can’t seem to find the problem. They also broke my car and claimed they did not feel the sticking. I’ve had the dealership look at my vehicle twice for this issue. It is a safety risk with children in my vehicle. Also everyone i lock my vehicle. My alarm is going off saying someone is opening the door on my Lincoln app. … Look up ODI 11751230 at NHTSA ↗
2026-08	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-09 (partial)	1	None	ODI 11764001 The Driver Seat Module (DSM) is known to develop software glitches across the 2020–2024 Aviator/Corsair/Explorer platform, causing the seat to not move to the correct programmed memory position . Lincoln’s fix (per Special Service Message 51406, issued for Corsair but describing the same shared module) is a dealer reprogram of the DSM software. However, this did nothing to improve the problem. •Symptoms include complete loss of seat adjustment where switches do nothing and the seat is stuck in place, memory functions failing to recall saved po… Look up ODI 11764001 at NHTSA ↗

2021 Lincoln AVIATOR: complaints, problems and recalls

Key facts

Most common problems

Component breakdown

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaints over time

Pattern summary

Examples from the source records

Recall history

Vehicle analysis explorer

Data completeness

Problems by model year

Failure mileage by component

Complaint and recall timeline

Emerging complaint spikes

Equal-age model-year comparison

Components reported together

Recurring narrative patterns

Battery drain and no-start mentions

Stalling or loss of power

Warning lights and dashboard alerts