2020 Lincoln Aviator
The 2020 Lincoln Aviator is a mid-size luxury SUV that offers a blend of comfort, style, and performance. The standard engine is a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. An available plug-in hybrid powertrain combines the 3.0-liter V6 with an electric motor, boosting total output to 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Aviator is praised for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine options. However, some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, electrical glitches, and air suspension.
Engine
3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the affected seals or gaskets. Common culprits include the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, fittings, or the water pump. Symptoms include a sweet coolant smell, low coolant levels, and overheating.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, fittings, or the water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 Plug-in Hybrid
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported engine misfires, resulting in rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light illuminating. This can be caused by faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
10-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or erratic shifting, especially during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. Slipping between gears can also occur.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. However, in more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) to $3,000+ (transmission replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
- Delayed Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: A delay in engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- Solution: Fluid flush/fill, valve body replacement, or, in severe cases, transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid service) to $3,000+ (transmission replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The Aviator offers an air suspension system, and some owners have experienced issues with it. Symptoms include the vehicle sagging on one side, a “Suspension Fault” warning light, and a rough ride. Common causes include leaks in the air springs, a faulty air compressor, or a defective height sensor.
- Solution: Replacing the affected air spring(s), air compressor, or height sensor(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per corner, depending on the component needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
- Solution: Performing a system reset or software update. In some cases, the entire infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) to $1,500+ (unit replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining overnight or after a few days of inactivity. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component or a failing battery.
- Solution: Identifying and resolving the source of the parasitic draw or replacing the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (battery replacement) to $500+ (diagnosing and repairing parasitic draw).
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Ajar Warning Light
- Description/Symptoms: Door ajar warning staying on despite all doors being closed.
- Solution: Replacing the door ajar sensor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tail Light Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the LED tail lights will stop working or flicker.
- Solution: Replacing the tail light assembly
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Control Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with seat controls, including failure to adjust the seat position or lumbar support.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty seat control module or motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof/moonroof malfunctions, such as failure to open or close properly, leaks, or excessive noise during operation.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 Lincoln Aviator, while praised for its luxury and performance, has exhibited several common issues. Electrical problems, including infotainment system glitches and battery drain, are relatively frequent. Air suspension malfunctions can be costly to repair. Some owners have also experienced engine and transmission issues. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing a used 2020 Lincoln Aviator.