2021 Lincoln Aviator

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. It’s available with a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, and a plug-in hybrid version of the same engine that produces 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Aviator’s spacious and well-appointed interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology features. However, some common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, electrical glitches, and occasional mechanical problems.

Engine

3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (Gasoline)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various areas, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is generally the solution. The specific repair depends on the source of the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+, depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of turbocharger failure, leading to reduced engine power, unusual noises, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement is typically required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (Plug-In Hybrid)

• High Voltage Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature degradation or failure of the high voltage battery pack in the plug-in hybrid model. Reduced electric range, error messages, and difficulty charging.
  • Solution: Battery pack replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $20,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hybrid System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the hybrid control system, resulting in error messages, loss of power, and potential driveability problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the faulty hybrid system components, such as the hybrid control module or inverter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. Hesitation or delay when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Software recalibration, valve body replacement, or in severe cases, transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (recalibration) - $6,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs up without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the affected transmission components, such as clutches, gears, or the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Aviator’s optional air suspension can experience issues with air leaks, compressor failure, or sensor malfunctions. Symptoms include uneven ride height, suspension warning lights, and a rough ride.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the air suspension components, such as the air struts, compressor, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The SYNC infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (update) - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty sensors (e.g., parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring sensors) can trigger warning lights and disable safety features.
  • Solution: Replacement of the defective sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, particularly around the sunroof area.
  • Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drains, resealing the sunroof assembly, or replacing damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Individual LEDs within the tail light assembly may fail prematurely.
  • Solution: Tail light assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Seat Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats may fail to adjust properly, or the motors may become noisy or unresponsive.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motors, switches, or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the climate control system, such as inconsistent temperature, blower motor malfunction, or failure to switch between modes.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the climate control system components, such as the blower motor, actuator, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator has some notable issues, ranging from minor electrical glitches to more serious engine and transmission problems. The potential for costly repairs, especially with the hybrid powertrain and air suspension, is a significant factor to consider. While not every Aviator will experience these problems, being aware of them is crucial for potential buyers. Severity of the problems can range from minor inconveniences to very severe cases depending on which issues occur. Cost of the repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to over $20,000.