This ultimate guide includes a review of every Lincoln Navigator from 1998 to the most recent model, and I have categorized them by the “best” and “worst” years.
This guide will break down the generations of the Lincoln Navigator, showing you the years that are the most desirable to purchase and those to avoid.
We draw insights from reliable sources such as NHTSA Consumer Reports and J.D. Then We dig deep into the user experience, recall history, and safety assessment to ensure our conclusions are not only opinions, but supported by facts.
We aim to help potential Lincoln Navigator buyers by highlighting specific model years and their issues or excellence.
Let’s get right into it.
Related:
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Lincoln Navigator Generations
Lincoln Navigator was introduced in 1998 and quickly rose to the top of luxury SUVs. The Navigator was a premium utility vehicle that set new standards in terms of its stylish design, large interior and powerful performance.
The table below provides an overview of all the Lincoln Navigator models from 1998.
| The Generation of the Right to Generate | The Year |
|---|---|
| First Generation (UN173) | 1998-2002 |
| Second Generation (U228) | 2003-2006 |
| Third Generation (U326) | 2007-2017 |
| Fourth Generation (U554) | 2018-Present |
Generational changes often influence buyer choices, since they represent significant improvements in design, technology and performance.
Lincoln Navigator: Best, neutral, and worst years
When evaluating which years were the best or worst for the Lincoln Navigator, we consider a wide range of variables. They include:
- Owner-reported reliability surveys
- Maintenance costs
- Safety Ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability score
- Consumer Reports scores of owner satisfaction
- NHTSA investigations, recalls and complaints
- Edmunds Owner Ratings
- JD Power Owner Ratings
- Kelley Blue Book owner ratings
- Owner ratings for VehicleHistory
- Owner ratings on Cars.com
This graph will show the total ratings of these sources.
The table below categorizes each Lincoln Navigator model year into best, neutral and worst years, based on factors listed above.
| The Generation of the Right to Generate | Best Years | Neutral Years | The Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Generation (UN173) | 20012002 | N/A | 1998 1999 2000 |
| Second Generation (U228) | 2005 | 2004 2006 | 2003 |
| Third Generation (U326) | 2009 2010 2011 2013 2014 2015 2017 | 2012 | 2007 2008 |
| Fourth Generation (U554) | 2022 2023 2024 | 2020 2021 | 2018 2019 |
The “Neutral Year” was neither a standout for performance, nor were there any notable problems. Instead, it offered a balance of features, reliability and overall satisfaction.
NHTSA Recalls can have a negative impact on rankings. The number of recalls and complaints is higher when there are more safety issues.
Here’s a look at the Lincoln Navigator in its best, worst, and neutral years.
Lincoln Navigator, 1st generation (1998-2002), Best and Worst years
Lincoln Navigator, first generation was introduced in 1998 and marked Lincoln’s entrance into the luxury SUV segment. The first generation of the Lincoln Navigator was introduced in 1998. It marked Lincoln’s entry into the luxury SUV market.
The best year to buy a Lincoln Navigator is 2001 or 2002. Avoid the years 1998-2000.
The Best Years 2001 and 2002
Lincoln Navigators from 2001 and 2002 are the most popular models of this new generation.
The engine was a powerful V8 5.4L with a 300-horsepower output. A automatic 4-speed transmission ensured smooth acceleration and handling.
The fuel economy of these models was better than the average for their classes, with an average of 11 city/15 highwayMPG.
The Ultimate Package, for example, included features such as heated and cooled seats in the front, an upgraded sound system and a panoramic sunroof.
Airbags with advanced sensors and parking sensors are among the safety improvements.
Some issues persisted despite these improvements, including minor electrical problems and suspension issues, though they were much less serious than on earlier models.
The worst years: 1998, 99, 2000
It is wise to stay away from the Navigator 1998, 1999 and 2000 models, as they had multiple issues, mostly with reliability.
Safety risks could be posed by the 1998 Navigator due to spark plug failures and transmission position indicators.
Air suspension systems, while innovative, were prone to failures that affected ride quality.
Battery drain and problems starting up were common issues with the 1999 and 2000 Lincoln Navigator.
During this time, there were many recalls. These included the risk of rollaway caused by transmission cable assembly problems and fire hazards due to overheating deactivation speed switches.
Fuel leaks also caused recalls on the 1999 model, which highlights reliability and safety issues that these early models had to deal with.
View NHTSA 1988; 1989; 2000 Lincoln Navigator complaints and recalls.
Lincoln Navigator Second Generation: Best and Worst Years (2003-2006).
From 2003-2006, the second generation Lincoln Navigator was more technologically sophisticated and refined, further solidifying the Navigator’s position as a luxury SUV.
Lincoln Navigator’s second-generation model is at its best in 2005, but 2003 should be avoided.
The Best Years 2005
If you’re looking to purchase an affordable Lincoln Navigator model, the 2005 year is a great choice.
It is equipped with a V8 engine that delivers a powerful 300 horsepower and an automatic six-speed transmission to enhance its driving experience and performance.
The average 11 city/17 highwayMPG was slightly improved.
Upgraded safety features include advanced airbags and traction control.
Lincoln Navigator 2005 also offers luxurious options such as the Ultimate Package, which includes premium leather seating, power sunroof and state-of-the art DVD entertainment system.
Consumers were very pleased with the luxury and reliability of the Navigator 2005.
The Neutral Year: 2004 and 2006
Both the 2004 and 2006 Navigators were transitional models that maintained a balance of issues from the older models with the 2005 improvements.
In 2004, they continued to offer the V8 5.4L engine, which came with a four-speed automatic transmission. This was upgraded to a six-speed in 2006
The fuel efficiency of the model remained an issue, as it had a similar mileage in 2005.
In these years, luxury features were introduced like power adjustable pedals and premium audio systems. The safety features included an upgraded airbag system, and rear parking sensors.
Air suspension problems persisted, however, in both the 2004-2006 model years. The 2006 Lincoln Navigator was reported to have engine misfiring or stalling by some owners.
The Worst Year: 2003
According to our research, the most common complaint among second-generation Lincoln Navigators is the 2003 model.
The electrical system was a problem on this model, with problems with door latches, instrument clusters as well as transmission issues with broken gear shifters.
Air suspension systems were prone to failure, which affected the stability of the vehicle and its ride comfort.
Fuel consumption and spark plug failures were criticised, but the 5.4L engine and automatic 4-speed transmission offered adequate power.
View NHTSA 2003 Lincoln Navigator complaints and recalls.
The Best and Worst Years of the 3rd Gen. Lincoln Navigator (2007-2018)
From 2007 until 2017, the third generation Lincoln Navigator marked an important evolution in terms of design, performance, and luxury. The Navigator was able to solidify its position as the premier luxury full-size SUV, with improved features and capabilities.
The worst model years of the third generation Lincoln Navigator are 2007 and 2008. However, the best years span 2009-2019.
The best years: 2009, 2010 2011, 2013, 2014 2015
Which are the top Lincoln Navigator model years? Model years 2009-2011 and 2013-2017 are the most reliable and dependable years to buy a third-gen Lincoln Navigator. They have fewer complaints, fewer recalls, and better owner satisfaction.
Lincoln Navigator 2009-2017 models are powered by V8 or V6 engines that deliver 310hp and 380hp respectively. They’re paired to a 6 speed automatic transmission.
The powertrain was smooth, responsive, and provided an enjoyable driving experience. Fuel efficiency, however, was modest.
The safety features were upgraded, with multiple airbags and stability control as well as a camera for the rearview.
Navigator 2013-2017 models offer a higher level of luxury, with upgraded infotainment and interior materials. They also include additional features such as heated and cooled seats in the front.
The 2009-2017 Lincoln Navigator is the best third-generation vehicle in terms of reliability.
The Neutral Year 2012
Lincoln Navigator 2012 is a balanced model that balances the older and newer models from the third-generation.
The 5.4L engine with 6-speed transmission was retained.
The safety features and luxurious amenities are similar to those of the previous years. These include a GPS navigation system, premium audio and GPS.
The 2012 model had transmission issues like downshifts that were intermittent. Ford issued an extensive recall in 2016 for this issue.
The worst years: 2007 and 2008
The third generation Lincoln Navigator is rated as having a good level of dependability, but 2007 and 2008 were the two worst years.
The build quality of these models was criticized, and common problems included problematic air suspensions systems and inferior interior materials.
These years saw a significant number of recalls. They were mainly focused on fuel leaks and failures in door latches. This affected the overall reliability and reputation of these models.
View NHTSA 2007, and 2008 Lincoln Navigator complaints.
Lincoln Navigator, 4th generation (2018-Present), Best and Worst years
Lincoln Navigator’s fourth generation, which began in 2018, was a radical redesign of this luxury SUV. The fourth generation of the Lincoln Navigator, which began in 2018, was a revolutionary redesign for this iconic luxury SUV.
The best Lincoln Navigator model years are 2022-2024, and the worst are 2018 and 2019.
The best years: 2022-2023 and 2024
Lincoln has been at the top of its game with their luxury SUVs in recent years.
The models come with an 10 speed automatic transmission and are powered by a twin turbocharged V6 that delivers a strong 450 horsepower.
Fuel efficiency is not the strongest point of this class, with an average 16 city/23 highway mpg.
The safety features of the vehicle are excellent, with advanced systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, along with a 360° camera system.
Interiors are a sanctuary of luxury with high-quality materials and a revel Ultima sound system. The latest models also feature an SYNC4 advanced infotainment with a display measuring 13.2 inches.
In recent years, there have been less recalls. They have also received praise for improved reliability and advanced technology.
The Neutral Years 2020 and 2021
Lincoln Navigator 2020/2021 models are a bridge between the first models of the fourth generation and the newest iterations.
The 3.5L engine is still present and fuel economy remains similar to the previous years.
Recalls were issued for the 2020 model due to rearview camera failures, inoperative collision assist, and windshield wiper failures.
According to NHTSA recall number 22V346000, the 2021 model poses a fire risk while parked.
This year is a good choice for anyone looking to find a compromise between value and the latest technologies.
2018 and 2019: The worst years
The worst years for the fourth-generation Lincoln Navigator are 2018 and 2019. These two years have the most recalls and complaints.
Early models had a lot of teething issues, including engine problems such as rattles, which were probably caused by cam phasers, and transmission malfunctions.
During these years, there were multiple recalls involving issues such as rearview cameras, welds on fuel pumps, seat structure, and the rearview images.
These years were a major leap forward in terms of design, luxury and reliability, but the early reliability issues made them less desirable than the successors. They received the lowest scores for satisfaction on VehicleHistory.com and Cars.com.
View NHTSA 2018, and 2019, Lincoln Navigator complaints.
Lincoln Navigator Resale Values
This graph shows the resale values of Lincoln Navigators across various model years.
The conclusion of the article is:
The Lincoln Navigator is at its best in the later model years, especially those between 2009 and 2017 and up to 2022, with enhanced features and reliability.
Lincoln Navigators from 1998, 2002, 2003, 2008, 2018 and 2019 are more problematic and should be avoided.
What are the features you look for in a luxurious SUV such as the Lincoln Navigator
Comment below to share your thoughts or ask questions!
