POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
2021 Lincoln Navigator
Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data
Data refreshed
NHTSA has issued a “park outside” advisory affecting this model year.
Campaign 22V346000. Confirm whether your specific vehicle is covered using its VIN before acting on this.
Check your VIN on NHTSA.govOverview
Our database contains 31 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator, most frequently naming the fuel system, engine and powertrain (other) categories. 12 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 145 manufacturer communications are on file.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Complaint activity over time
When owners filed reports about this model year
View as table
| Month | Complaints filed | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Jul 2021 | 1 | 1 |
| Jun 2022 | 4 | 5 |
| Aug 2022 | 1 | 6 |
| Oct 2022 | 1 | 7 |
| Dec 2022 | 1 | 8 |
| Mar 2023 | 1 | 9 |
| Apr 2023 | 1 | 10 |
| May 2023 | 1 | 11 |
| Oct 2023 | 1 | 12 |
| Jan 2024 | 1 | 13 |
| Jun 2024 | 2 | 15 |
| Sep 2024 | 1 | 16 |
| Dec 2024 | 1 | 17 |
| Apr 2025 | 1 | 18 |
| Jul 2025 | 1 | 19 |
| Sep 2025 | 1 | 20 |
| Oct 2025 | 2 | 22 |
| Nov 2025 | 1 | 23 |
| Jan 2026 | 1 | 24 |
| Feb 2026 | 1 | 25 |
| Mar 2026 | 1 | 26 |
| Jun 2026 | 1 | 27 |
| Jul 2026 | 3 | 30 |
| Aug 2026 | 1 | 31 |
What owners report
Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded
- Fuel system719.4%
- Engine719.4%
- Powertrain (other)513.9%
- Driver assistance411.1%
- Visibility411.1%
- Electrical38.3%
- Steering38.3%
- Exterior lighting12.8%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Safety recalls
12 campaigns cover this model year
Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.
Check a VIN on NHTSA.govSEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
Recent owner complaints
Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words
My screen intermittently goes black, I have had it repaired/ updated once prior and it still does this..as a result I backed into a mailbox. It was very dark and I couldn’t see out of my windows.
- NHTSA ID
- 11754317
- Incident
- Jul 22, 2026
I purchased this 2021 Lincoln Navigator L Black Label used on March 22, 2024 with approximately 42,726mi. Beginning around Sept. 2025 (approximately 70,000-75,000 miles), the vehicle developed intermittent transmission failures that have progressively worsened. This is our primary family vehicle and routinely transports our three young children. The transmission hesitates, slips, skips gears, bangs into gear, and frequently delays engagement before suddenly surging forward. Engine RPM increases without corresponding acceleration. Occupants are abruptly thrown forward and backward during normal driving. Several times each month, a yellow wrench/powertrain warning appears instructing the driver to see the owner’s manual. When this occurs, the vehicle loses normal acceleration and throttle response becomes significantly delayed. The defect is intermittent and unpredictable. The condition creates dangerous situations when merging, entering intersections, accelerating from traffic lights, and in stop-and-go traffic. On one occasion, after stopping on an incline, the vehicle would not accelerate and effectively became disabled in traffic. We activated our hazard flashers while vehicles drove around us. The hesitation followed by sudden engagement also creates a rear-end collision risk. I first brought the vehicle to an independent repair shop, but the concern was dismissed. On 6/22/2026, Herb Chambers Lincoln of Norwood road tested the vehicle, confirmed the complaint, and documented that the “transmission is skipping and banging into gears” and recommended complete transmission replacement. The estimated repair cost was approximately $12,560. The vehicle remains unsafe to drive due to repeated loss of propulsion, delayed acceleration, violent shifting, and dealer-confirmed transmission failure. I respectfully request NHTSA investigate whether this represents a broader safety defect affecting Ford/Lincoln vehicles equipped with the 10-speed automatic transmission.
- NHTSA ID
- 11749445
- Incident
- Sep 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Navigator. The contact received notification of NTHSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The dealer confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that vehicle failed to accelerate as needed due to a lack of fuel going to the engine. The contact stated that that the engine seized with the check engine warning light illuminated. The failure mileage was approximately 70,300.
- NHTSA ID
- 11747916
- Incident
- Mar 25, 2025
- Mileage
- 70,300 mi
The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Navigator. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- NHTSA ID
- 11747606
- Incident
- Jul 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Navigator. 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 dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the recall was initiated for more than a year; however, the part to do the recall repair was still unavailable. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- NHTSA ID
- 11747413
- Incident
- Jun 30, 2026
THE REAR LIGHT BAR DEVELOPS LEAKS AND CAN MAKE THE REAR LIGHING GO OUT. DEALER WAS MADE AWARE AND STATES IT'S NO LONGER A COVERED ITEM.
- NHTSA ID
- 11724076
- Incident
- Nov 25, 2025
While driving, the vehicle repeatedly hesitated during gear changes, lost power, and then abruptly jerked back into gear. This occurred intermittently for over a month without any warning messages, creating unpredictable and unsafe driving conditions. As the issue worsened, the vehicle began losing power more frequently. The most serious event occurred at highway speed, where the vehicle suddenly lost propulsion in the middle of active traffic, nearly causing a stall. This created an immediate safety hazard for myself and surrounding drivers. After several seconds, the vehicle violently re-engaged into gear and surged forward. Only at this point did the vehicle display a warning: “Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power.” I scanned the vehicle and retrieved DTC P0734 – Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio, a code associated with internal transmission faults. A dealership inspected the vehicle and reported that the CDF drum had failed. They stated they could not guarantee that replacing the drum would resolve all issues and provided two estimates: $5,600 for a partial internal repair/$8,700 for full transmission replacement. The 10R80 transmission has a documented history of failures, including harsh shifting, slipping, unexpected gear disengagement, and internal component defects. These issues are addressed in multiple Ford Technical Service Bulletins involving P0734, harsh/failed shifts, and failures related to the CDF clutch cylinder/drum. Many vehicles of the same make and model are covered under related recalls or service actions for similar problems; however, my VIN is not included, and Lincoln declined to honor the existing recall. This defect presents a serious safety risk due to: Sudden loss of power while driving, including at highway speeds, Unpredictable re-engagement and violent surging, Loss of propulsion without warning, leading to near-stall conditions. This powertrain malfunction is a known, unsafe, repeat issue among these vehicles equipped w/this transmission.
- NHTSA ID
- 11716941
- Incident
- Feb 2, 2026
I am reporting a serious safety concern involving a 2021 Lincoln Navigator with factory equipment only. After snowfall, during factory remote start, the vehicle produced a hot/burning smell, and I observed visible melting and bubbling of multiple driver-side and passenger side exterior pillars. The vehicle has a factory sunroof and no aftermarket electronics or modifications. The melting appears on the exterior, indicating heat originating from inside the pillar cavities. Due to concern for electrical overheating and fire risk, I discontinued using my remote start. A Lincoln dealership dismissed the concern and incorrectly stated that there is no electrical wiring in the pillars. Lincoln Customer Care has verbally refused assistance solely due to lack of extended warranty and has declined escalation, despite the reported fire risk. I am concerned this involves water intrusion from the sunroof drainage system contacting powered body or airbag wiring, creating a risk of electrical fire. I am requesting NHTSA review this as a potential safety defect involving electrical overheating and fire risk.
- NHTSA ID
- 11710457
- Incident
- Dec 14, 2025
Manufacturer communications
A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; SEATS
Some 2018-2024 Expedition and 2018-2027 Navigator vehicles equipped with a rear seat entertainment system/Lincoln Play may experience various system concerns. Rear seat entertainment systems are not on a controller area network (CAN) and are not supported by the Ford Diagnostic and Repair System (FDRS). Certain system concerns may be resolved through software updates which will automatically download once each individual monitor is connected to Wi-Fi. Diagnostic support for rear seat entertainment systems is provided by VOXX electronics. If necessary, contact the VOXX Customer Service Department at 1-866-869-7888. If possible, record the device serial number by selecting the gear/Setup icon > Settings > Device and Software > About. If the unit will not power up, the serial number is on a label on the back of the monitor. It is helpful to know the date the issue occurred, how long the monitors were on prior to the issue, what app/input/media was being used, and if the system software was recently updated prior to the concern starting. For claiming, refer to the Warranty and Policy manual for
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Some 2021-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an "Updating SYNC" message on the vehicle center display screen after an over the air (OTA) update. The message can be cleared from the center display screen and SYNC can be used normally, but it will re-appear at every subsequent ignition cycle. Inform customers that engineering is currently working on a software update solution for this condition to be delivered OTA expected in late Q3 2026. Software will update automatically if vehicle connectivity is enabled in the vehicles settings. Monitor Professional Technician System (PTS) for additional information.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
NEW VEHICLE DELIVERY HOLD - Emissions Recall 26E04 Certain 2021-2025 Model Year F-150, Maverick, Mustang, Ranger, Expedition, Bronco Sport, Explorer, Bronco, Navigator, and Aviator Vehicles Powertrain Control Module Software Update
POWER TRAIN
For 20212026 vehicles equipped with the 10R80 transmission, a new Transmission Clutch Circuit Leak Test has been introduced in the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS). This test utilizes the pressure and vacuum transducer (PVT) when available. When referred to a specific clutch (A-F) test by a pinpoint test in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 307-01 > Diagnosis and Testing, the Clutch Assembly tests have been updated with a hyperlink to the new Transmission Line Pressure Test - Pressure Vacuum Transducer (PVT) Is Available procedure in WSM, Section 307-01 > General Procedures. This procedure provides instructions to perform the FDRS Transmission Clutch Circuit Leak Test when applicable. The new test improves the accuracy of detecting leaks within transmission fluid circuits and replaces the previous air check method. The previous air check procedure has been shown to produce a high rate of false positives, which may lead to unnecessary repairs when no actual leak is present. Accordingly, the air check procedure is not to be used for diagnosing internal transmission hydraulic leaks or as justification
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Some 2019-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC3 may experience various connectivity concerns with The Ford App Lincoln App including but not limited to: missing activation prompt pop-upon the vehicle's center display screen when attempting to activate vehicle through The Ford App Lincoln App, incorrect location global positioning system GPS reported through The Ford App Lincoln App, problems with remote commands being performed through The Ford App Lincoln App and or incorrect data information reported on The Ford App Lincoln App. These symptoms will be accompanied by diagnostic trouble code DTC B156D 89 in the TCU. This may be due to the accessory protocol interface module APIM software. To correct the condition, update the APIM software.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; STRUCTURE:BODY
Some 2020-2022-Corsair, 2021-2023 Nautilus, 2020-2024 Navigator/Aviator, and 2021-2024 Mustang Mach-E vehicles equipped with phone-as-a-key may exhibit various phone-as-a-key concerns with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) U200D:15, U200E:15, U200F:15, B1589:31/49 through B1598:31/49, B1A56:31/49, B1D55:31/49, and/or B15A5:56 stored in the remote function actuator (RFA) module. If any of these DTCs are detected during diagnostics, clear the DTCs, reprogram the RFA to the latest software level and start a new Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) session. Verify that DTCs are no longer present. If only the B1589:31/49 through B1598:31/49, B1A56:31/49, B1D55:31/49, and/or B15A5:56 DTCs return in the RFA after a self-test, follow normal Workshop Manual (WSM) diagnostics in Section 419-01. Repair as necessary outside of this article. For claiming, use causal part 14G617 and labor operations 12651D and 12651D4.
Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.
Compare model years
Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations | Issue Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — |
| 2026 | 0 | 2 | 0 | — |
| 2025 | 11 | 6 | 0 | 51.9 |
| 2024 | 15 | 7 | 0 | 61.9 |
| 2023 | 6 | 8 | 0 | — |
| 2022 | 20 | 14 | 0 | 65.8 |
| 2021Viewing | 31 | 12 | 0 | 60.8 |
| 2020 | 29 | 13 | 0 | 66.1 |
| 2019 | 72 | 10 | 1 | 70.1 |
| 2018 | 50 | 12 | 1 | 66.9 |
| 2017 | 30 | 5 | 0 | 61.8 |
| 2016 | 25 | 4 | 0 | 56.7 |
| 2015 | 21 | 4 | 0 | 59.6 |
| 2014 | 17 | 0 | 0 | 43.3 |
| 2013 | 14 | 0 | 1 | 57.8 |
| 2012 | 12 | 3 | 1 | 44.1 |
| 2011 | 9 | 0 | 1 | — |
| 2010 | 16 | 0 | 0 | 44.3 |
| 2009 | 10 | 1 | 0 | 44.3 |
| 2008 | 30 | 2 | 1 | 55.4 |
| 2007 | 45 | 2 | 0 | 48.5 |
| 2006 | 60 | 3 | 0 | 51.5 |
| 2005 | 48 | 0 | 0 | 38.0 |
| 2004 | 86 | 0 | 1 | 42.5 |
| 2003 | 127 | 1 | 1 | 49.6 |
| 2002 | 32 | 4 | 2 | 64.5 |
| 2001 | 81 | 6 | 4 | 65.6 |
| 2000 | 109 | 7 | 2 | 63.9 |
| 1999 | 132 | 7 | 3 | 63.3 |
| 1998 | 192 | 6 | 4 | 65.6 |
| 1997 | 0 | 2 | 3 | — |
| 1996 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1995 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1994 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1993 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1992 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1991 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — |
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. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.