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ProblemsByVin File / 2021-LINCOLN-AVIATOR
2021 · lincoln

lincoln Aviator problems

4 safety recalls. 31 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.

0 5 10
Reliability score
7.6 / 10

Solid reliability overall. Common issues are concentrated in a few systems.

0
Critical
4
Severe
0
Moderate

Top trouble spots 3 categories with 3+ complaints

electrical
7 reports · avg $850
severe
engine
4 reports · avg $3,100
moderate
powertrain
3 reports · avg $2,500
moderate

What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim

2021 Aviator · visibility
The driver-side front window regulator failed and was replaced on October 4, 2025. The passenger-side window regulator also failed and was removed and replaced on November 21, 2025. At the time each incident, the window would not raise using the car controls and remained stuck…
12/17/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11705685.0
2021 Aviator · engine
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 fumes…
12/01/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11702357.0
2021 Aviator · electrical
The backup camera and 360 degree camera periodically malfunction and display a blue image. The backup camera does not work again until I restart the vehicle. This has happened both on a roadway while parallel parking and in a parking garage.
11/26/2022 · NHTSA ODI #11494978.0
2021 Aviator · engine
The engine of my 2021 Lincoln Aviator with only 79,403 miles has failed, leaving myself and my family stranded on the side of a very busy interstate in another state far from home. There were absolutely no warnings given before the engine acted as if it had a significant loss of…
11/09/2023 · NHTSA ODI #11554373.0

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Active recalls showing 3 of 4

severe NHTSA 21V223000 30/03/2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles

A backup camera that displays a blank or distorted image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: 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.
severe NHTSA 25V349000 23/05/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 3

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.

Fix: 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.
severe NHTSA 20V726000 20/11/2020

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles

The improperly manufactured knuckle may fracture, reducing steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: 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.
View all 4 recalls →

Common questions

Is the 2021 Lincoln Aviator reliable?

Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 7.6 out of 10 based on 31 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2021 Lincoln Aviator is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.

What's the most common problem on the 2021 Lincoln Aviator?

Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is electrical, with 7 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $850 at an independent shop.

What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?

The electrical is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $850 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.

How do I check if my Lincoln Aviator has open recalls?

Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2021 Lincoln Aviator?

Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 31 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $850, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.

Related vehicles

Recall and complaint data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database, last synced 22 hours ago. Editorial commentary written by ProblemsByVin contributors and reviewed by ASE-certified mechanics. We are not affiliated with lincoln. Some links on this page are affiliate links and we may earn a commission if you complete a quote or purchase.
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