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2010 Lincoln Navigator

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2010 Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful V8 engine. It was available with only one engine option, the 5.4L Triton V8, which produced 310 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Navigator’s towing capacity, luxurious features, and smooth ride. Common complaints often revolve around its fuel economy, size making it difficult to park, and some reliability concerns, especially with age.

Engine

5.4L Triton V8

  • Spark Plugs Breaking During Removal
    • Description/Symptoms: The 5.4L Triton V8 engine is known for spark plugs that are prone to breaking when attempting to remove them, often leaving part of the plug stuck in the cylinder head. This can lead to misfires, rough idling, and reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: A special tool is often required to extract the broken spark plug. In some cases, the cylinder head must be removed and professionally repaired. The updated spark plugs and proper anti-seize lubricant during installation can help prevent this issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the severity and if head removal is needed.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Roller Follower Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The 5.4L 3V Triton engine has roller followers that may fail and cause issues with the camshaft. This will cause the engine to run rough and may cause a check engine light to appear.
    • Solution: Replace the failed roller follower. Often, the camshaft is damaged as well and will also need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ depending on what parts need to be replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter may fail, causing shuddering, slipping, and poor acceleration. This can be especially noticeable when towing or under heavy load.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter. It is often recommended to flush the transmission and replace the filter at the same time.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Problems within the valve body can lead to harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or complete loss of gear.
    • Solution: The valve body may need to be rebuilt or replaced. In some cases, a complete transmission overhaul may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor can fail, leading to a sagging or uneven ride height, a harsh ride, and an “air suspension fault” warning light on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor. It’s often recommended to inspect and/or replace the air springs at the same time.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Suspension Air Spring Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: The air springs can develop leaks, causing the vehicle to sag, especially overnight. The air suspension compressor may run constantly to compensate, which can lead to premature compressor failure.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking air springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per air spring.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window/Lock Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows and door locks. This can affect individual doors or all doors.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty window motors, door lock actuators, or wiring harnesses.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per window/lock.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience issues such as dimming, flickering, or complete failure. Gauges may also become inaccurate or stop working.
    • Solution: The instrument cluster may need to be repaired or replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rear Liftgate Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may stop working, either failing to open or close. This is often due to a faulty actuator.
    • Solution: Replace the liftgate actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Navigation/Infotainment System Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment system can experience freezing, slow response times, or complete failure. The touch screen may also become unresponsive.
    • Solution: The system may need to be updated, repaired, or replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sunroof Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the sunroof, potentially damaging the headliner and other interior components.
    • Solution: Clean and reseal the sunroof drain tubes. In some cases, the sunroof seal may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Lincoln Navigator, while offering luxury and capability, is prone to several common issues, particularly regarding its engine, transmission, and air suspension. The spark plug issue in the 5.4L Triton V8 can be expensive to repair. Air suspension problems can also lead to significant costs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs that can impact the vehicle’s reliability and safety. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect these areas and budget for potential maintenance and repairs.

Lincoln, Navigator
Lincoln Navigator 2010
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