RoadVitals

2003 Lincoln Aviator Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
111
Latest Nov 18, 2022
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
18
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
5

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2003 Lincoln Aviator, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

33
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

A YEAR AGO NOTICED WHEN SHIFTING AND UP TO DATE MY SHIFTER GEAR INDICATOR NOT SHIFT TO CORRECT GEAR INDICATOR AND FAIL TO WORK PROPERLY, I BELIEVED THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE MAY BECOME DISLODGED FROM THE SHIFT CABLE BRACKET. I TAKE MY TRUCK TO AN TRANSMISSION SHOP AND THE TECHNICIAN RECOMMENDED THE SHIFT CABLE MUST BE ADJUSTED TO PREVENT THE PROBLEM CONTINUE.. I PAID $225 FOR THE DIAGNOSTIC INSPECTION AND IN ORDER THE PROBLEM WILL BE INCURRED MORE EXPENSE. I WOULD LIKE TO ASK WHAT NHTSA CAN DO TO SOLVE THE ISSUE. THANK YOU,

NHTSA ID 11337554 · filed Jul 5, 2020

I'M HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE FRONT IN THAT'S CONTROL ARM. THE TRANSFER CASE. *TR

NHTSA ID 11327576 · filed Jun 6, 2020
All 33 reports naming powertrain (other)

Transmission

Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.

23
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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

NHTSA ID 10437707 · filed Nov 29, 2011

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT WAS ATTEMPTING TO PARK THE VEHICLE WHEN THE GEAR SHIFTER BECAME STUCK IN DRIVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A CABLE HAD BECOME DISLODGED FROM THE SHIFT CABLE BRACKET. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 02V313000 (POWER TRAIN: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION) AND TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE DEALER ADDED A STRAP TO THE SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTER TO PREVENT THE SHIFT CABLE FROM BECOMING DISLODGED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000. UPDATED 08/15/11 *BF UPDATED 3/05/2012 *LN

NHTSA ID 10409345 · filed Jun 29, 2011
All 23 reports naming transmission

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

17
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SHAKE ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO INSPECTED THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THAT THE CYLINDER HEAD IN THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 92,000. UPDATED 8/23/12 *CN ALSO, THE IGNITION COILS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. UPDATED 09/05/12

NHTSA ID 10467818 · filed Jul 26, 2012

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH THE ILLUMINATION OF THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SPARK PLUGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

NHTSA ID 10461172 · filed Jun 11, 2012
All 17 reports naming engine

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

15
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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.

NHTSA ID 11010322 · filed Jul 24, 2017

THERE IS A CRACK BELOW MY BACK WINDOW THAT CAUSES LOTS OF AIR TO COME IN AND ALSO LOTS OF WATER LEAKS AND WHEN IT RAINS I HAVE SMALL CHILDREN AND THE DEALERSHIP IS UNABLE TO WORK WITH ME TO GET THIS REPAIRED IT GETS VERY COLD IN THERE WITH ALL THE COLD AIR THAT COMES IN WITH MY SMALL CHILDREN HOPEFULLY SOMETHING CAN BE DONE FOR THE AMOUNT THAT WE PAID ON THIS VEHICLE

NHTSA ID 10949957 · filed Feb 6, 2017
All 15 reports naming body & structure

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

11
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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'VE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE ONE HERE ONE TIME BEFORE AND NOTHING HAPPENED. THIS IS CRAZY. I COULD'VE BEEN IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT BEHIND THIS. *TR

NHTSA ID 10553042 · filed Nov 20, 2013

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 AT THE TIME. IT WAS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TO HAVE A CAR WHERE THE SHIFT ISN'T ENGAGED AT ALL. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN ALWAYS MAINTAINED BY THE LINCOLN DEALER, AND IT IS BEING TOWED TO THAT DEALERSHIP AT THIS TIME. IT'S TOO DANGEROUS TO DRIVE. *TR

NHTSA ID 10535196 · filed Aug 13, 2013
All 11 reports naming driver assistance

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

9
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 VEHICLE SHOULD THE FOOT UNAVOIDABLY PRESS THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THE TWO PEDALS SHOULD BE INCREASED TO AVOID THE FOOT FROM SPANNING FROM THE BRAKE PEDAL TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. *TR

NHTSA ID 10424662 · filed Sep 11, 2011

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE CONTINUOUSLY BECOMES DISLODGED FROM THE SHIFT CABLE BRACKETS. WHILE DRIVING THE SHIFTER WOULD NOT GO INTO GEAR. HE WOULD HAVE TO GO UNDER THE VEHICLE AND SNAP THE CABLES BACK TOGETHER. THERE WAS A RECALL NHTSA#02V313000; COMPONENT: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. AFTER CONTACTING THE DEALER IN REGARDS TO THE FAILURE HE WAS TOLD HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ALSO INFORMED HIM HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL AND HE WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 52,000. UPDATED 12/30/10 *BF THE ABS LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER REPLACED THE BRAKE ACTIVATION SWITCH. THE POWER WINDOW MOTOR WAS REPLACED. UPDATED 01/07/11 UPDATED 04/07/11

NHTSA ID 10357001 · filed Sep 22, 2010
All 9 reports naming brakes

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

9
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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.

NHTSA ID 11010322 · filed Jul 24, 2017

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

NHTSA ID 10510573 · filed May 3, 2013
All 9 reports naming electrical

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

7
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING FROM THE DRIVEWAY, THE AIR BAGS INADVERTENTLY DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SUSTAINED NECK, LEFT HARM AND CHEST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 142,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

NHTSA ID 10808030 · filed Dec 2, 2015

I WAS LEAVING MY RESIDENCE ON A NEIGHBORHOOD STREET, WHEN I HEARD A LOUD NOISE WHICH SOUND LIKE A GUNSHOT. UPON RECOVERING FROM THE INITIAL SHOCK, I OBSERVED THE SIDE WINDOW/CURTAIN AIR BAGS HAD DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE HADN'T BEEN HIT OR INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. I HAD TO STOP THE VEHICLE TO CALM MY SON AND WE RETURNED TO THE HOUSE.

NHTSA ID 10758828 · filed Aug 24, 2015

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

7
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 IT STARTED UP AGAIN. WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT, THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT COMES ON WHICH MAKES MY INTERIOR LIGHTS FLASH QUICKLY AND MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO DRIVE BECAUSE OF THE GLARE OF THE INTERIOR LIGHTS BEING ON. THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT COMES ON ANYTIME DAY OR NIGHT, STATIONARY OR WHILE DRIVING. I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE NEW. IT ONLY HAS 67,000 MILES ON IT NOW, BUT OVER THE YEARS, I'VE HAD SERIOUS ISSUES WITH THE TRANSMISSION, HAD TO REPLACE 2 WHEEL BEARINGS, THERE'S A CRACK NEAR THE EMBLEM ON THE LIFTGATE, THE STEREO MAKES LOUD POPPING SOUNDS IN THE BACK WHICH SOUNDS LIKE A GUNSHOT, SOMETIMES CAN'T GET OUT OF PARK, THE GEAR SHIFT GETS STUCK! I'M SO FRUSTRATED WITH THIS VEHICLE. I COMPLAINED TO THE FORD COMPANY SEVERAL YEARS AGO WHEN THERE WERE ONLY 40,000 MILES ON THE VEHICLE AND THE TRANSMISSION WAS HAVING SERIOUS ISSUES, AND ALSO MY WATER PUMP WENT BAD. THEIR REPLY WAS: "WE'RE SORRY TO HEAR THAT, PLEASE TAKE YOUR VEHICLE TO ONE OF OUR DEALERS FOR GREAT SERVICE REPAIR". I THINK I BOUGHT A LEMON!! TOO MANY THINGS GOING WRONG WITH A VEHICLE THAT WAS PURCHASED NEW AND STILL HAVE LOW MILES!! MY WINDSHIELD SPRAYER CONTROL ON THE LEFT SIDE ON THE STEERING WHEEL ALSO STOPPED WORKING SUDDENLY ABOUT 5 YEARS AGO, I ALMOST FORGOT ABOUT THAT ISSUE.

NHTSA ID 10826028 · filed Feb 14, 2016

2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. ATTORNEY WRITES ON BEHALF OF CLIENT IN REGARDS TO PROBLEMS WITH HIS VEHICLE SUCH AS GEAR SHIFT, CRUISE CONTROL AND REARVIEW MIRROR FUNCTIONS *TGW THE GEAR SHIFT WOULD NOT MOVE OUT OF PARK AT TIMES. THE ENTIRE SHIFTER MECHANISM, STOP/BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH, INTERLOCK SOLENOID MECHANISM, AND ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY WERE ALL REPLACED, BUT THE CONSUMER CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE PROBLEMS. *JB

NHTSA ID 10391931 · filed Mar 17, 2011

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2003 Lincoln Aviator equipped with Cooper Tires, Tire Line: Hercules HTS-Terra-Trac, Tire Size 245/65/R17, DOT Number: (N/A). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's side front tire sidewall separated in the center. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 02T003000 (Tires). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The tire and vehicle failure mileages were unknown.

NHTSA ID 11494063 · filed Nov 18, 2022

MY AVIATOR WAS SHIFTING ROUGH FOR LESS THAN 24 HOURS WHEN THE TRANSFER CASE WENT OUT. LUCKILY, I HAD ONLY PULLED OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY WHEN IT HAPPENED. THE VEHICLE MADE AN AWFUL WHINNING AND SCREECHING NOISE AND BECAME IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE FORWARD. I WAS ABLE TO WRESTLE IT INTO REVERSE TO GET IT IN MY DRIVEWAY. I LIVE ON A BUSY COUNTRY ROAD, THIS COULD HAVE BEEN DANGEROUS FOR ME AND MY 3 KIDS. I HAD IT TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY QUOTED ME NEAR $1000 WITH NO PROMISE THAT THE PROBLEM COULD BE FIXED. ADDITIONALLY, I CALLED A WEEK AFTER I PUT IT IN THE SHOP AND THERE IS A NATIONAL BACKORDER FOR THE PART THAT MAY OR MAY NOT FIX MY CAR. I WILL BE WITHOUT A CAR FOR OVER A MONTH, $1000 IN REPAIRS, AND THAT IS IF THIS WILL FIX THE TRANSFER CASE. IF I OPT TO DO A WHOLE NEW CASE, I AM LOOKING AT $3000. NOT HAPPY WILL NOT BUY LINCOLN AGAIN. *JS

NHTSA ID 10464079 · filed Jul 3, 2012

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Suspension

Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

LEFT FRONT AND LEFT REAR WHEEL BEARING FAILURE - 52,000 MILES - FORD LINCOLN AVIATOR 2003. *TR

NHTSA ID 10221358 · filed Mar 16, 2008

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 POWER STEERING HOSE WAS REPLACED, THERE WAS A TICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE TIMING CHAIN AND GASKET WERE REPLACED. THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT CAME ON AFTER ALL THE DOORS WERE CLOSED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE SHIFTING OF THE GEARS WERE HARSH, THE DEALER REPLACED VARIOUS COMPONETS IN THE TRANSMISSION. THE RIGHT REAR BRAKE LIGHT BULB WAS REPLACED, THE MASTER CYLINDER WAS REPLACED. THE FRONT SEAT CLIMATE CONTROL WAS NOT COOLING. THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE WAS STICKING. UPDATED 12/05/06. *JB

NHTSA ID 10173643 · filed Nov 16, 2006

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 POWER STEERING HOSE WAS REPLACED, THERE WAS A TICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE TIMING CHAIN AND GASKET WERE REPLACED. THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT CAME ON AFTER ALL THE DOORS WERE CLOSED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE SHIFTING OF THE GEARS WERE HARSH, THE DEALER REPLACED VARIOUS COMPONETS IN THE TRANSMISSION. THE RIGHT REAR BRAKE LIGHT BULB WAS REPLACED, THE MASTER CYLINDER WAS REPLACED. THE FRONT SEAT CLIMATE CONTROL WAS NOT COOLING. THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE WAS STICKING. UPDATED 12/05/06. *JB

NHTSA ID 10173643 · filed Nov 16, 2006

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 THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS WERE RATTLING, THERE WAS MOTOR NOISE UPON ACCELERATION, FRONT END NOISE, REAR HATCH RATTLED AND WAS SHAKING, THE WHEELS SQUEALED AND RUBBED, THE DOORS DID NOT AUTOMATTICALLY LOCK WHEN THE VEHCILE WAS ENGAGED INTO DRIVE, AND THE ENGINE KNOCK AS IF IT WERE RUNNING ROUGH. WHEN THE SERVICE TECH TRIED TO SHIFT THE GEAR LEVER OUT OF PARK, THE ENTIRE GEAR LEVER HAD COME APART IN PIECES. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS WORSE THAN EVER. CURRENTLY WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED THE STEERING WOULD GO OUT OF CONTROL, JERK LEFT AND RIGHT, SHAKED OUT OF CONTROL AND UNABLE TO STEER. *SC

NHTSA ID 10101993 · filed Nov 30, 2004

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Interior & seats

Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 POWER STEERING HOSE WAS REPLACED, THERE WAS A TICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE TIMING CHAIN AND GASKET WERE REPLACED. THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT CAME ON AFTER ALL THE DOORS WERE CLOSED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE SHIFTING OF THE GEARS WERE HARSH, THE DEALER REPLACED VARIOUS COMPONETS IN THE TRANSMISSION. THE RIGHT REAR BRAKE LIGHT BULB WAS REPLACED, THE MASTER CYLINDER WAS REPLACED. THE FRONT SEAT CLIMATE CONTROL WAS NOT COOLING. THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE WAS STICKING. UPDATED 12/05/06. *JB

NHTSA ID 10173643 · filed Nov 16, 2006

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

NHTSA ID 10041198 · filed Oct 3, 2003

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Other / unspecified

Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I'M HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE FRONT IN THAT'S CONTROL ARM. THE TRANSFER CASE. *TR

NHTSA ID 11327576 · filed Jun 6, 2020

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 THE VEHICLE, JERKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOISE IN HEATING/VENT BUBBLING, PASSENGER FRONT WINDOWS WERE RATTLING, THERE WAS MOTOR NOISE UPON ACCELERATION, FRONT END NOISE, REAR HATCH RATTLED AND WAS SHAKING, THE WHEELS SQUEALED AND RUBBED, THE DOORS DID NOT AUTOMATTICALLY LOCK WHEN THE VEHCILE WAS ENGAGED INTO DRIVE, AND THE ENGINE KNOCK AS IF IT WERE RUNNING ROUGH. WHEN THE SERVICE TECH TRIED TO SHIFT THE GEAR LEVER OUT OF PARK, THE ENTIRE GEAR LEVER HAD COME APART IN PIECES. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS WORSE THAN EVER. CURRENTLY WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED THE STEERING WOULD GO OUT OF CONTROL, JERK LEFT AND RIGHT, SHAKED OUT OF CONTROL AND UNABLE TO STEER. *SC

NHTSA ID 10101993 · filed Nov 30, 2004

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

DT: ON MAY 15 2005 THE SEAT BELT PROBLEM WAS NOTICED. THE SEAT BELT WAS TWISTED AND WOULDN'T RETRACT. A NEW SEAT BELT WAS ORDERED, AND THEY ACTUALLY ORDERED THE WRONG SEAT BELT, THEN OWNER GOT A LOANER. THE VEHICLE WAS PICKED UP JULY 1. UPON PUTTING THE SEAT BELT BACK ON THE DRIVER NOTICED THAT THE CLIPS BROKE. DEALER SAID THAT THEY HAVE OTHER SEAT BELT CLIPS, AND THAT THEY WILL REPAIR THE SEAT BELT THE REST OF THE WAY ON MONDAY, JULY 18. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN DRIVEN FOR 2 OR 3 WEEKS WITH A FAULTY SEAT BELT.*AK THE A/C WAS BLOWING OUT WARM AIR. *NM

NHTSA ID 10128786 · filed Aug 12, 2005

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

NHTSA ID 10015253 · filed Apr 11, 2003

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 SAFETY ISSUE. ALSO, THIS VEHICLE HAS A WHOLE ARRAY OF FRONT AND REAR DIFFERENTIAL ISSUES ALONG WITH A SEVERE CLUNKING NOISE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS 1ST PUT INTO REVERSE, DRIVE OR DOWNSHIFTS AFTER ACCELERATION. *TR

NHTSA ID 10478178 · filed Oct 1, 2012

THE GAS PEDAL ON MY 03 LINCOLN AVIATOR COMES LOOSE. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED MY GAS PEDAL GOT STUCK AND I HAD TO SWITCH INTO NEUTRAL AND PHYSICALLY LIFT IT. I HAD THE PROBLEM FIX BUT IT HAS COME LOOSE AGAIN. THE MECHANIC SAID THAT LINCOLN DOESN'T HAVE THE PART AND THAT THIS HAPPENS ALL THE TIME. *TR

NHTSA ID 10352918 · filed Aug 31, 2010

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Heating & air conditioning

Reports naming the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

DT: ON MAY 15 2005 THE SEAT BELT PROBLEM WAS NOTICED. THE SEAT BELT WAS TWISTED AND WOULDN'T RETRACT. A NEW SEAT BELT WAS ORDERED, AND THEY ACTUALLY ORDERED THE WRONG SEAT BELT, THEN OWNER GOT A LOANER. THE VEHICLE WAS PICKED UP JULY 1. UPON PUTTING THE SEAT BELT BACK ON THE DRIVER NOTICED THAT THE CLIPS BROKE. DEALER SAID THAT THEY HAVE OTHER SEAT BELT CLIPS, AND THAT THEY WILL REPAIR THE SEAT BELT THE REST OF THE WAY ON MONDAY, JULY 18. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN DRIVEN FOR 2 OR 3 WEEKS WITH A FAULTY SEAT BELT.*AK THE A/C WAS BLOWING OUT WARM AIR. *NM

NHTSA ID 10128786 · filed Aug 12, 2005

MOLDY ODOR COMING FROM A/C UNIT. *BF THE CONSUMER STATED MOLD SPOTS WERE GROWING ON THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE ROOF PANEL. *JB

NHTSA ID 10109304 · filed Dec 10, 2004

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

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 POWER STEERING HOSE WAS REPLACED, THERE WAS A TICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE TIMING CHAIN AND GASKET WERE REPLACED. THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT CAME ON AFTER ALL THE DOORS WERE CLOSED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE SHIFTING OF THE GEARS WERE HARSH, THE DEALER REPLACED VARIOUS COMPONETS IN THE TRANSMISSION. THE RIGHT REAR BRAKE LIGHT BULB WAS REPLACED, THE MASTER CYLINDER WAS REPLACED. THE FRONT SEAT CLIMATE CONTROL WAS NOT COOLING. THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE WAS STICKING. UPDATED 12/05/06. *JB

NHTSA ID 10173643 · filed Nov 16, 2006

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .