There is a parts and labor time error for Explorer/Aviator 3.0L EcoBoost and Aviator 3.0L plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Ford is in the process of updating TSB 23-2114. Explorer or Aviator with 3.0L EcoBoost or 3.0L PHEV engine require new sub frame bolts and a steering shaft pinch bolt. Aviator will also require suspension nuts and bolts missing from the TSB that are related to halfshaft removal and installation. To complete the repair, follow Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 205-03 > Front Axle Disconnect Actuator (use the 2020 WSM for 2021 Aviator as the procedure for 2021 is currently being updated). Complete the wiring modification per TSB 23-2114. For Explorer 3.0L EcoBoost vehic
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2020 Lincoln Aviator steering problems
moderate Owners of the 2020 Lincoln Aviator have filed 4 NHTSA complaints about the steering at roughly $700 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See steering across all vehicles →
Complaints
4
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$700
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering steering on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a power adjustable steering column may exhibit a creak/squeal type noise during up or down travel, including ingress/egress and/or driver memory function. This symptom may be more prevalent with warmer interior temperatures and/or during summer months. This may be due to a lack of lubrication in the steering column. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the steering column.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020 Aviator vehicles equipped with adaptive steering may intermittently display an Adaptive Steering Fault message in the IPC and/or exhibit a steering wheel offset from the straight ahead position without any related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored. This may be caused by the software in the steering effort control module (SECM) and the steering angle sensor module (SASM). To correct the condition, reprogram the SECM and SASM using the latest level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 3600 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles built on 07-Nov-2019 and through 04-Aug-2020 may exhibit a lack of power steering assist at initial engine start-up with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C102D stored in the power steering control module (PCSM). This may be due to the software in the PCSM. During normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 211-02, if pinpoint test (PPT) step AI5 is answered YES, reprogram the PCSM with the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. If DTC C102D returns, continue with normal diagnostics. For claiming, use causal part 3504 and applicable labor operations in Sections 03 and 10 of the Service Labor Time
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020 Corsair/Aviator vehicles may exhibit inoperative heated/cooled seat and/or steering wheel functionality when starting the vehicle using remote start. The heated/cooled seats and/or heated steering wheel may not turn on when previously set to on/auto. This may be due to software in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control module. To correct this condition, reprogram the HVAC control module to the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 18C612 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 0 most recent
Had steering trouble with your 2020 Lincoln Aviator?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2020 Lincoln Aviator?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 4 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $700 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Based on the 4 complaints filed, steering issues most often appear around 96,000 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2020/Lincoln/Aviator.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.