2011 Lincoln Navigator

The 2011 Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spaciousness, comfortable ride, and powerful performance. It came standard with a 5.4L Triton V8 engine producing 310 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. The 2011 Navigator was only available with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically appreciate the Navigator’s large cargo capacity, smooth ride, and towing capability. Common dislikes include its relatively poor fuel economy and large size, making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Thread Repair
  • Description/Symptoms: The 5.4L Triton engine is known for spark plugs seizing in the cylinder heads and stripping the threads when removal is attempted. This is often accompanied by a misfire, rough idle, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Repair the spark plug threads with a thread repair kit (like a Time-Sert or Heli-Coil) or replace the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the extent of the damage and the chosen repair method).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cam Phaser Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling or knocking noise, particularly at idle or low RPMs, coming from the front of the engine. This indicates wear or failure of the cam phasers, which are part of the variable valve timing system.
  • Solution: Replace the cam phasers, timing chains, chain guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6R80)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, particularly when shifting from 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd gear. This can be caused by worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the issue persists, inspect the valve body for wear or damage. Valve body replacement or rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush and filter change: $150 - $300. Valve body replacement: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A vibration or shudder, often felt at highway speeds, when the transmission is under load. This can be caused by a failing torque converter.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags, the air compressor runs constantly, or the “Check Air Suspension” warning light illuminates. This indicates a leak in the air springs, a faulty air compressor, or a problem with the suspension control module.
  • Solution: Inspect the air springs for leaks and replace if necessary. Test the air compressor and replace if it’s not functioning properly. Check the suspension control module for faults and replace if needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air spring replacement: $300 - $800 per spring. Air compressor replacement: $500 - $1000. Suspension control module replacement: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Ride Height Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may ride unevenly, or the air suspension system may not function correctly. This can be caused by a failed ride height sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ride height sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more power door locks fail to operate, either not locking or unlocking when the button is pressed.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may freeze, become unresponsive, or fail to boot up. The audio system may also experience problems, such as distorted sound or no sound at all.
  • Solution: Try resetting the system. If that doesn’t work, the navigation/infotainment unit may need to be replaced or repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may not stay open on its own and can fall closed unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heated/Cooled Seat Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The heated or cooled seats fail to function properly or stop working altogether. This can be caused by a faulty heating element, blower motor, or control module.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the malfunction and replace the faulty component. This can include the heating element, blower motor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Lincoln Navigator, while a comfortable and spacious SUV, can suffer from several common issues. Engine problems, such as spark plug thread stripping and cam phaser noise, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues like harsh shifting and torque converter shudder are also prevalent. The air suspension system is prone to failures, adding to the maintenance costs. Electrical issues with power door locks and the infotainment system can be frustrating. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, making it important to have a thorough inspection performed before purchasing a used 2011 Navigator.