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NHTSA FEDERAL EVIDENCE AUDITAudited: 2026-08-25

2021 Lincoln Aviator Common Problems & Defect Telemetry

Authoritative defect intelligence synthesized from 38 verified NHTSA owner complaints, 28 federal safety recalls, and interquartile failure mileage telemetry.

Data Grade: MEDIUM•12 Odometer Verified EntriesMethodology
Executive AI Defect Summary

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator receives a 5/10 MazicBay Reliability Index based on 38 verified NHTSA federal complaints and 28 safety recalls. The primary reported failure mode is Electrical Parasitic Drain, Infotainment & Harness Reports with a median failure point at 23,000 miles (IQR: 17,000 – 29,000 mi). Out-of-warranty repairs benchmark at $280 – $850 .

2021 Lincoln AviatorLuxury2021
DLC Port: Driver lower kick panel near door release assembly

*Representative vehicle platform imagery. Body styling varies across generations.

MazicBay Reliability Index
5 / 10

17.3 complaints / 10k sold

NHTSA Owner Complaints
38

Verified US federal records

Safety Severity Grade
Critical Risk

Crash, fire & stall audit

Federal Safety Recalls
28

28 Active / Free Remedies

Switch Aviator Model Year (2014–2025)
Defect Clustering

Top Reported Problem Clusters (7)

Ranked by NHTSA Complaint Frequency
#1 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM & BATTERYCritical Severity81% Match Confidence

Electrical Parasitic Drain, Infotainment & Harness Reports

14
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):23,000 milesIQR: 17,000 – 29,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$280 – $850 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Unexplained battery drain after sitting overnight
  • Infotainment display / instrument cluster blackouts
  • Accessory malfunction / alternator fault warnings
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11751230 • Filed: 07/17/2026

“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 m...”

ODI #11746352 • Filed: 06/24/2026

“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 c...”

ODI #11741858 • Filed: 06/03/2026

“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...”

#2 ENGINE & COOLINGMedium Severity79% Match Confidence

Engine Stalling, Oil Consumption & Cooling Defect Reports

8
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):20,200 milesIQR: 5,095 – 46,101 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$950 – $3,200 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Engine sudden stall / hesitation while driving
  • Abnormal oil burning / consumption
  • Check Engine Light (MIL) flashing
  • Engine overheating / coolant loss
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11750650 • Filed: 07/15/2026

“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 li...”

ODI #11741858 • Filed: 06/03/2026

“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...”

ODI #11702357 • Filed: 12/01/2025

“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 fum...”

#3 TRANSMISSION & DRIVETRAINMedium Severity76% Match Confidence

Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifting & Slipping Reports

6
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):45,202 milesIQR: 28,101 – 62,302 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$1,400 – $3,800 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Hard gear shifts / delayed engagement into Drive/Reverse
  • Transmission shudder / jerking under acceleration
  • Transmission slipping between gears
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11747408 • Filed: 06/30/2026

“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 deale...”

ODI #11697630 • Filed: 11/05/2025

“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 ...”

ODI #11683805 • Filed: 08/28/2025Odometer: 11,000 mi

“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 vehic...”

#4 BRAKING SYSTEM & ABSMedium Severity71% Match Confidence

Service Brakes, ABS Actuator & Master Cylinder Reports

6
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):35,000 milesIQR: 23,000 – 57,202 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$350 – $1,100 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Spongy or hard brake pedal travel
  • ABS / Brake warning light illuminated
  • Extended stopping distance / pedal vibration
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11751230 • Filed: 07/17/2026

“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 m...”

ODI #11722796 • Filed: 03/08/2026

“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 s...”

ODI #11683805 • Filed: 08/28/2025Odometer: 11,000 mi

“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 vehic...”

#5 STEERING & SUSPENSIONMedium Severity65% Match Confidence

Electric Power Steering Assist & Suspension Noise Reports

5
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):35,000 milesIQR: 35,000 – 35,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$450 – $1,400 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Sudden loss of electric power steering assist
  • Steering wheel pull or highway wander
  • Clunking / knocking noise over bumps
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11716405 • Filed: 02/07/2026

“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 suspe...”

ODI #11702357 • Filed: 12/01/2025

“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 fum...”

ODI #11554066 • Filed: 11/07/2023Odometer: 35,000 mi

“UNKNOWN ON several occasions the vehicle would just shut off. Another occasion while getting on the freeway I pressed the accelerator pedal and the car pumped the brakes,there was no one in front of me or on side of me upon entering the freeway. Another incident I was in the f...”

#6 FUEL SYSTEM & INJECTIONLow Severity84% Match Confidence

Fuel Pump Pressure Loss & Fuel Delivery Defect Reports

2
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):55,000 milesIQR: 35,000 – 75,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$650 – $1,250 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Sudden loss of propulsion power at highway speeds
  • Extended engine cranking / failure to restart
  • Fuel odor near fuel tank / engine bay
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (2)
ODI #11750650 • Filed: 07/15/2026

“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 li...”

ODI #11675141 • Filed: 07/21/2025

“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 restart...”

#7 AIRBAGS & SAFETY RESTRAINTSCritical Severity84% Match Confidence

Airbag Occupant Detection & Inflator Defect Reports

1
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):55,000 milesIQR: 35,000 – 75,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$400 – $1,200 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • SRS Airbag warning lamp illuminated
  • Passenger occupant classification sensor failure
  • Seat belt retractor lockup
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (1)
ODI #11737219 • Filed: 05/12/2026

“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.”

Safety Enforcement

Official NHTSA Safety Recalls (28)

100% Free Dealer Repair
NHTSA Campaign #21V870000Reported: 10/11/2021

SUSPENSION:REAR

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. Incorrect rear suspension module components may have been installed due to a labeling error.

Safety Consequence: A rear suspension module with incorrect components may affect vehicle handling, ride height, and braking characteristics, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear suspension module, and replace any incorrect parts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S47.
NHTSA Campaign #20V788000Reported: 17/12/2020

ENGINE

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The right hand motor mount fasteners may have been incorrectly tightened, and may loosen over time.

Safety Consequence: With a loose motor mount, motor vibration may cause the axle to disconnect from the engine and could result in loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove and replace the right hand motor mount fasteners, free of charge. The recall began February 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S72.
NHTSA Campaign #21V735000Reported: 22/09/2021

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Corsair, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 360-degree cameras. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

Safety Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the Image Processing Module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S44.
NHTSA Campaign #21V223000Reported: 30/03/2021

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The image processing module may be unable to provide video feed to the display, which could result in a loss of the backup camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Safety Consequence: A backup camera that displays a blank or distorted image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the image processing module software with the latest level, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C09.
NHTSA Campaign #20V726000Reported: 20/11/2020

STEERING

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

Safety Consequence: The improperly manufactured knuckle may fracture, reducing steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer 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.
NHTSA Campaign #21V652000Reported: 23/08/2021

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The side air bag attachment weld studs could detach during the deployment of the side air bag, resulting in an improper deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 214, "Side Impact Protection".

Safety Consequence: Improper deployment of a side air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will replace the side air bag assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 10, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C19.
NHTSA Campaign #21V534000Reported: 15/07/2021

VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:COMPRESSOR

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 3.0L gasoline engines. The wire harness may not be secured properly, possibly contacting the air conditioning (A/C) compressor pulley, and resulting in damage to electrical wires, or the A/C compressor drive belt.

Safety Consequence: Damaged electrical wires may short-circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will inspect the harness and A/C compressor belt for damage, replacing them as necessary, and install a tie strap to secure the wire harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 30, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S34.
NHTSA Campaign #22V953000Reported: 23/12/2022

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a Revel Audio System. When the driver's seat belt is not buckled and the vehicle is started, the seat belt warning system may activate the audible warning chime for an insufficient amount of time of less than 4 seconds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Safety Consequence: An audible warning chime that does not properly alert of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the audio control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 7, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22C35.
NHTSA Campaign #23V022000Reported: 23/01/2023

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

Safety Consequence: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.
NHTSA Campaign #23V342000Reported: 12/05/2023

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

Safety Consequence: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.
NHTSA Campaign #23V598000Reported: 25/08/2023

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator, 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, 2022-2023 Ford Transit, and 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles. The rearview camera, or 360-degree view camera if equipped, may not display a rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse.

Safety Consequence: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, and update the software and wiring as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 20, 2023 to Lincoln owners. Ford vehicle owners notification letters were mailed March 4, 2024. Ford remedy parts are anticipated 2nd Quarter 2024. Ford's number for this recall is 23S48.
NHTSA Campaign #23V626000Reported: 08/09/2023

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.

Safety Consequence: Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will perform a Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) diagnostic test and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 8, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford Motor Company's number for this recall is 23S53.
NHTSA Campaign #24V368000Reported: 24/05/2024

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The accessory protocol image module (APIM) can be affected by electromagnetic interference with a cell phone in the vehicle, causing the rearview camera image to flicker or become distorted.

Safety Consequence: A flickering or distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Owners are advised not to use their cell phones while reversing until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install shielding on the accessory protocol image module (APIM), free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 23, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S35.
NHTSA Campaign #24V635000Reported: 23/08/2024

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.

Safety Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
NHTSA Campaign #24V852000Reported: 08/11/2024

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Safety Consequence: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
NHTSA Campaign #25V093000Reported: 14/02/2025

SEAT BELTS

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. The seat belt buckle anchor bolts at one or more seating positions may be improperly secured. Additionally, vehicles may have an improperly secured seat belt retractor anchor bolt and/or seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped.

Safety Consequence: A loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will inspect seat belt buckle anchor bolts in all seating positions. Additionally, dealers will inspect the seat belt retractor anchor bolt and seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped. If loose anchor bolts are found, the affected seat components will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S09.
NHTSA Campaign #25V159000Reported: 14/03/2025

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

Safety Consequence: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.
NHTSA Campaign #25V338000Reported: 23/05/2025

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator and Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a Revel Audio System that were repaired incorrectly under recall 22V-953. When the driver's seat belt is not buckled and the vehicle is started, the seat belt warning system may activate the audible warning chime for an insufficient amount of time of less than 4 seconds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Safety Consequence: An audible warning chime that does not properly alert of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the audio control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C18.
NHTSA Campaign #25V349000Reported: 23/05/2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines that were repaired incorrectly under recall 23V626. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.

Safety Consequence: Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the Battery Energy Control Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 26, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S58.
NHTSA Campaign #25V393000Reported: 13/06/2025

SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.

Safety Consequence: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.
NHTSA Campaign #25V407000Reported: 13/06/2025

STRUCTURE:BODY

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator vehicles. The rear door window bars and C-pillar trim may have insufficient adhesive bonding, which can allow the trim to detach from the vehicle.

Safety Consequence: Detached trim may cause a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will repair or replace C-pillar appliques and window division bars, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 29, 2025. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S66.
NHTSA Campaign #25V442000Reported: 27/06/2025

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.

Safety Consequence: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
NHTSA Campaign #25V455000Reported: 07/07/2025

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.

Safety Consequence: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.
NHTSA Campaign #26V117000Reported: 03/03/2026

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly.

Safety Consequence: Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in October 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.
NHTSA Campaign #26V123000Reported: 03/03/2026

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Safety Consequence: An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
NHTSA Campaign #26V159000Reported: 17/03/2026

SEAT BELTS

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.

Safety Consequence: A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
NHTSA Campaign #26V402000Reported: 24/06/2026

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.

Safety Consequence: Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 26, 2026.
NHTSA Campaign #26V451000Reported: 14/07/2026

SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly.

Safety Consequence: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters explaining the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 27, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist for 2021 Lincoln Aviator

Before purchasing a used 2021 Lincoln Aviator, perform the following targeted inspections based on reported federal defect patterns:

1. Cold Start & Idle Diagnostics

Scan the OBD-II port under the dash for pending freeze-frame codes (e.g. P0300 misfires, P0087 fuel rail pressure, P0420 catalytic efficiency).

2. Transmission Shift Quality Audit

Test vehicle at low-speed stop-and-go and highway merges. Check for delayed reverse engagement or gear shift shudder between 2nd and 3rd gears.

3. Federal Recall Completion Check

Verify that all 28 NHTSA safety recall campaigns have been performed by an authorized dealership using the VIN.

4. Electrical & Infotainment Drain Check

Ensure the instrument cluster, center screen, and auxiliary charging ports operate with stable 12.0V–14.4V alternator voltage.

Frequently Answered Questions

Defect & Reliability Q&A: 2021 Lincoln Aviator

Is the 2021 Lincoln Aviator a reliable used car?

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator earns a 5/10 MazicBay Reliability Index based on 38 federal owner reports. Vehicles maintained under factory service schedules exhibit strong longevity past 150,000 miles.

What is the most frequent defect reported on the 2021 Lincoln Aviator?

The leading complaint category is Electrical Parasitic Drain, Infotainment & Harness Reports, with a median failure point around 23,000 miles (IQR: 17,000 – 29,000 mi).

Are there free recall repairs available for the 2021 Lincoln Aviator?

Yes, the NHTSA records 28 safety recall campaign(s) for this model year. All safety recalls are performed 100% free of charge by authorized franchise dealerships regardless of vehicle warranty status.