2016 Lincoln Navigator

2016 Lincoln Navigator

Overview

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. As a body-on-frame vehicle, it offers robust towing capabilities and a commanding presence. While generally considered reliable, like any vehicle, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and technicians. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers or current owners. The focus is on components that have shown a higher propensity for failure or require specific attention.

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Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

Timing Chain Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
• Cost: $1,200 - $2,500

Turbocharger Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or hissing sounds from the engine bay, increased oil consumption.
• Solution: Replacement of affected turbocharger(s).
• Cost: $1,000 - $2,000 per turbocharger

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6R80)

Transmission Fluid Leaks

• Symptoms: Leaking fluid from the transmission pan or seals, potential for slipping gears or harsh shifting.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of seals, gaskets, or transmission pan.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at certain speeds, slipping, or delayed engagement.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $800 - $1,500

Suspension

Adaptive Air Suspension

Air Spring Leaks

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running excessively, ‘Service Suspension System’ warning light.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking air springs or air lines.
• Cost: $500 - $1,200 per corner

Air Compressor Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to raise or lower the vehicle, constant compressor operation, warning lights.
• Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
• Cost: $600 - $1,000

Standard Suspension

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Electrical

Infotainment System

SYNC System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, audio problems.
• Solution: Software updates, module reset, or replacement of the infotainment module.
• Cost: $200 - $1,000

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Faults

• Symptoms: Various warning lights, power window malfunctions, door lock issues, interior lighting problems.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1,000

Exterior

Door Handles

Interior Door Handle Breakage

• Symptoms: Interior door handles becoming loose or breaking off.
• Solution: Replacement of the interior door handle assembly.
• Cost: $100 - $300

Power Running Boards

Sticking or Slow Operation

• Symptoms: Running boards failing to deploy or retract smoothly, or not at all.
• Solution: Lubrication, cleaning, or replacement of motors and mechanisms.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Interior

Seat Actuators

Power Seat Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Power seats failing to adjust forward, backward, or recline.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty seat adjustment motors or control modules.
• Cost: $300 - $600 per seat

Climate Control System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or airflow direction, clicking noises from the dashboard.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator, equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, generally offers a solid ownership experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of specific issues that have been reported. The EcoBoost engine can experience timing chain or turbocharger problems, while the transmission may develop leaks or torque converter issues. The optional adaptive air suspension is a common source of concern, with leaks in air springs and compressor failures being the most frequent complaints. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the SYNC infotainment system and Body Control Module, can also arise. Interior components like power seat actuators and climate control blend door actuators are also noted for occasional failures. Despite these potential issues, many owners find the Navigator to be a reliable and comfortable large SUV when properly maintained.