2000 Lincoln Navigator

The 2000 Lincoln Navigator marked a significant entry into the luxury SUV market, offering a combination of space, power, and amenities. It was offered with a single engine option, a 5.4L Triton V8 producing 260 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciated the Navigator’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and towing capability. Common dislikes included its large size, fuel economy, and some reliability issues.

Engine

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Blowout
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can eject from the cylinder head, often stripping the threads in the aluminum head. This results in a loud popping noise, misfire, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Repairing the threads in the cylinder head with thread repair kits (like Time-Sert or Heli-Coil) or replacing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on repair method and if the head needs replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic intake manifold can crack, leading to vacuum leaks. Symptoms include rough idling, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or stalling idle, especially when coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Replacing the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4R100 4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/ Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts, delayed engagement, or slipping between gears, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement. Could also be caused by a faulty solenoid pack or valve body issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can fail, causing the vehicle to sag on one or more corners. This can be caused by leaks in the air springs (bags), a faulty compressor, or issues with the height sensors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty components such as air springs, compressor, or height sensors. Many owners opt to convert to a traditional coil spring suspension.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ per air spring, $300-$800 for compressor, $500-$2000+ for coil spring conversion.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per ball joint.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with climate control, such as only blowing hot or cold air, or not being able to change the temperature. Clicking noises from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster, including gauges and lights.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Running Board Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power running boards may fail to extend or retract, or become stuck in one position. This is often due to motor failure or corrosion.
  • Solution: Replacing the running board motor or the entire running board assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may fail to open or close properly, or may leak.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks may intermittently fail to lock or unlock, or may not respond to the key fob or door switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Lincoln Navigator, while luxurious for its time, exhibits several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine issues like spark plug blowout and intake manifold cracking can lead to significant repair costs. The air suspension is a known weak point, often requiring expensive repairs or a complete conversion. Electrical issues, such as blend door actuator failure, are also common. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, and the associated costs can vary widely. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect these areas and factor in potential maintenance expenses when considering purchasing this vehicle.