Lincoln · Known Issues

2018 Lincoln Navigator Problems: 10 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2018 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated June 2026

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2018 Lincoln Navigator has 10 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle (CSP 21N03) ($2,800-$5,500 repair), 10R80 10-Speed Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Torque Converter Shudder ($600-$8,700 repair), Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch ($1,800-$6,000 repair), 10R80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Shudder ($300-$4,000 repair), 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle / Timing Failure ($2,800-$4,000 repair) and Brake Master Cylinder Internal Leak (Recall 25S37) ($0-$850 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $8,700. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 10 Known Issues

On the 2018-2020 Lincoln Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (Gen 2), internal locking pins in the 3.5L EcoBoost variable cam timing phasers wear out, producing a loud rattle/clack at cold startup and a knocking idle once warm. Ford issued Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03 (and PCM reflash 21B10) replacing all four VCT units, but coverage expired Jan 1, 2023 and out-of-warranty repair runs $2,800-$3,000+.

Common Symptoms

Diesel-like rattle for 1-3 seconds on cold start
Knocking/clacking at warm idle
Reduced engine performance
P0016/P0017 correlation codes

How to Fix

Check VIN at owner.ford.com or lincoln.com/support/recalls for CSP 21N03 eligibility (coverage expired January 1, 2023 — time-limited, not mileage-based). If out of coverage, replace all four VCT phasers, both primary chains, tensioners, guides, and reflash the PCM with the updated 21B10 calibration. Switch to 5,000-mile oil changes with full synthetic 5W-30 to prevent recurrence.

Typical repair cost:$2,800 - $5,500

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On the 2015-2019 Lincoln Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6, the 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 in 2015+ Navigator (and shared F-150, Expedition, Edge ST) suffers timing chain stretch typically between 80,000-150,000 miles. Symptoms include a rattling noise on cold start, particularly on the passenger-side bank, plus P0016/P0017/P0018/P0019 correlation codes. Causes include extended oil change intervals, low-quality oil, and turbocharger-related oil shear.

This issue also affects: Ford Aerostar, Ford Bronco, Ford Bronco Sport

Common Symptoms

cold start rattle
misfire
check engine light
rough running
reduced power

How to Fix

Full timing chain kit replacement (primary chain, both secondary chains, tensioners, guides, sprockets, water pump) — typically $2,500-$4,500 at dealer, $1,800-$3,000 at independent. Stick to 5,000-7,500 mile oil intervals with Motorcraft full-synthetic 5W-30. Catastrophic chain failure means head rebuild ($6,000+).

Typical repair cost:$1,800 - $6,000

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Manually Verified

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On the 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, fourth-generation Navigators with the twin-turbo 3.5L EcoBoost V6 commonly develop a loud rattle or diesel-like clacking from the front of the engine, most noticeable for 2-5 seconds on cold startup. The internal locking pin inside the variable camshaft timing (VCT) phasers fails, allowing oil to drain and slack to develop in the timing chain. Left unaddressed it can advance to crank/cam correlation faults and timing damage.

This issue also affects: Ford Bronco, Ford Edge, Ford Expedition

Common Symptoms

Loud rattle/clatter from front of engine on cold start
Diesel-like ticking at idle
Check engine light
Rough idle

How to Fix

Ford issued TSB 20-2315 and Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03 (extended warranty to Jan 1, 2023) covering replacement of all four VCT phasers plus a PCM reflash on 2018-2020 models. Out of warranty, repair involves replacing all four phasers, the primary chain, tensioners, and guides.

Typical repair cost:$2,800 - $4,000

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On the 2018-2022 Lincoln Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost V6, the 10R80 transmission paired with the 3.5L EcoBoost suffers axial movement of the CDF clutch drum sleeve, causing internal hydraulic leaks. Owners report harsh 1-2 and 2-3 engagements, clunking on coast-down, shudder at 20-32 mph cruise, and unexpected hard downshifts. Subject of an active class-action lawsuit and multiple Ford TSBs.

This issue also affects: Ford Transit, Ford Expedition, Ford Explorer

Common Symptoms

Harsh/clunky upshifts and downshifts
Shudder or vibration between 20-32 mph
Delayed engagement from Park or Reverse
Unexpected hard downshift at speed

How to Fix

Have dealer perform the latest TCM/PCM reflash per the current 10R80 harsh-shift TSB (currently 25-2132, superseding 25-2023/24-2046/23-2250) first. If shudder persists, request CDF clutch cylinder and torque-converter repair rather than fluid-only service - generic flushes typically don't resolve it. Document repeated complaints in writing to preserve lemon-law and class-action (O'Connor v. Ford, N.D. Ill.) standing.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $8,700

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On the 2018-2023 Lincoln Navigator, the 10-speed 10R80 automatic in 2018+ Navigators is widely reported to shift harshly, clunk, jerk, hesitate, or shudder between gears. Causes include a sticking torque converter clutch (TCC) regulator valve causing TCC shudder, valve body issues, CDF drum/bushing failure, and control software faults. The problem prompted a class-action lawsuit against Ford over the 10R80.

Common Symptoms

Harsh or delayed engagement into gear
Jerking, lunging, or clunking between gears
Shudder or vibration (TCC shudder) at cruising speed
Hesitation when accelerating
Slipping

How to Fix

Ford TSBs address the issue with transmission control module/PCM software reflashes, valve body or main control valve body service, and in some cases CDF drum or TCC regulator valve replacement. A transmission fluid service with the correct spec fluid is part of the fix in many cases.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $4,000

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On the 2017-2018 Lincoln Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost V6, consider clarifying: the failing seal is at the rear of the master cylinder (where it mates to the booster), allowing fluid from the front brake circuit to migrate past the seal into the vacuum booster body. Recall 25S37 / NHTSA 25V236 covers replacement at no cost.

This issue also affects: Ford Transit, Ford Expedition, Ford Explorer

Common Symptoms

Soft or low brake pedal
Brake fluid reservoir level dropping with no visible leak
Brake warning light
Reduced front brake performance
Fluid pooling inside booster

How to Fix

Recall 25S37 - dealer replaces master cylinder (and booster if contaminated) free of charge. Check VIN at lincoln.com/support/recalls or NHTSA.gov. Do not drive if pedal goes to the floor; have the vehicle towed.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $850

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On the 2018-2022 Lincoln Navigator, the SYNC 3 (2018-2020) and SYNC 4 (2021+) head unit in the 4th-generation Navigator freezes, reboots mid-drive, displays a black screen with spinning loader, loses touch response, drops Bluetooth pairing, or fails to show the backup camera. Issue is typically an APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) firmware bug or hardware fault. Note: The 2015 Navigator (final year of 3rd-gen) is the only Navigator that ever shipped with MyLincoln Touch / SYNC 2; 2010-2014 Navigators ran SYNC 1, a different system not affected by the MyFord/MyLincoln Touch class action.

Common Symptoms

Touchscreen frozen or black
System reboots randomly while driving
Bluetooth/phone won't pair or drops calls
Voice commands ignored
Backup camera fails to display
Map/nav misroutes or won't load

How to Fix

Soft reset: hold power + seek-right ~10 seconds until reboot. If that fails, perform a master reset (Settings > General > Master Reset) and install the latest SYNC update from owner.lincoln.com via USB. For persistent failure, disconnect the negative battery cable for 10 minutes. Dealer APIM replacement runs $800-1500 if the module is dead. The MyFord/MyLincoln Touch class settlement (Case 3:13-cv-03072) only covered Ford/Lincoln vehicles purchased before August 9, 2013, and the claim period has closed — Navigator owners are not eligible since the Navigator did not receive MyLincoln Touch until MY2015.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $2,500

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On the 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, fourth-gen Navigator owners frequently report the hands-free power liftgate opening or cycling by itself, sometimes while parked or triggered by opening a driver door or even nearby beeping sounds. The root cause is typically a faulty liftgate release switch, hands-free kick sensor, or wiring harness, compounded by software glitches in the body control module.

Common Symptoms

Liftgate opens randomly while parked
Liftgate reopens immediately after being closed
Liftgate triggered by door operation or external sounds
Hands-free kick feature unreliable

How to Fix

TSB 18-2089 addresses early 2018 units with a liftgate release switch and wiring harness replacement. Owners report success replacing the tailgate/hands-free sensor and applying dealer software updates; a battery reset sometimes clears intermittent glitches before hardware replacement.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $900

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On the 2007-2024 Lincoln Navigator, the Dorman-supplied power running board motors and pivot/swivel brackets on 2007-2014 (3rd-gen) and 2015-2017 (3rd-gen refresh) Navigators corrode and seize from road salt and water exposure, especially in northern states. Boards stop deploying, hang in mid-position, or cycle repeatedly. Brackets with dissimilar-metal mounting can crack and drop the board. On 2018+ (4th-gen) trucks the failures are more often electrical/settings-related (boards switching from AUTO to OFF, one-side-only operation) rather than pure mechanical corrosion.

Common Symptoms

Running board stuck open or closed
Board cycles in/out repeatedly while driving
Grinding/whining noise on deploy
Visible corrosion at pivot brackets
One side works, the other doesn't

How to Fix

Pull the affected board, free the linkage with PB Blaster, lube all pivots with marine grease. If motor is dead, OE replacement (Ford 9L7Z-16A507-A family) is ~$500/side, aftermarket Dorman motor+bracket assemblies run $150-300. On 2018+ trucks, first verify board mode is set to AUTO and check battery health before replacing hardware. Scan the BCM for B-codes to confirm which side before ordering.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $1,400

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On the 2007-2020 Lincoln Navigator, navigators equipped with deployable (power) running boards commonly have boards that stick in the deployed or retracted position, deploy on only one side, or retract and then immediately redeploy. Failures stem from corroded/seized motors (original Dorman-type units on 2007-2014 models) and dirt or ice binding the swivel arm linkage. The board assembly is sold as a complete unit, making repairs expensive.

Common Symptoms

Running board won't retract or won't deploy
Only one side operates
Board redeploys immediately after retracting
Grinding/clicking from board motor
Board stuck down collecting ice/snow

How to Fix

Clean and lubricate the pivot joints/arms (white lithium grease) for binding; replace the running board motor or the entire board assembly when the motor or swivel brackets fail. Some owners disable the feature to avoid winter ice hazards.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $1,500

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Lincoln Navigator problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2018-2018 Lincoln Navigator has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle (CSP 21N03), 10R80 10-Speed Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Torque Converter Shudder, Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Lincoln Navigator reliable?

The 2018-2018 Lincoln Navigator has 10 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 6 issues are rated critical: 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle (CSP 21N03) and 10R80 10-Speed Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Torque Converter Shudder and Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch and 10R80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Shudder and 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle / Timing Failure and Brake Master Cylinder Internal Leak (Recall 25S37). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Lincoln Navigator problems?

Repair costs for known Lincoln Navigator issues range from $0 to $8,700, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle (CSP 21N03), typically costs $2,800-$5,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2018-2020 Lincoln Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle (CSP 21N03)?

Internal locking pins in the 3.5L EcoBoost variable cam timing phasers wear out, producing a loud rattle/clack at cold startup and a knocking idle once warm. Ford issued Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03 (and PCM reflash 21B10) replacing all four VCT units, but coverage expired… Repairs typically run $2,800-$5,500. Severity: high.

All 10 Known Issues

2018-2020 Lincoln Navigator: 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle (CSP 21N03)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2015-2019 Lincoln Navigator: Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator: 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle / Timing Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2018-2022 Lincoln Navigator: 10R80 10-Speed Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Torque Converter Shudder#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2018-2023 Lincoln Navigator: 10R80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Shudder#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2017-2018 Lincoln Navigator: Brake Master Cylinder Internal Leak (Recall 25S37)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2018-2022 Lincoln Navigator: SYNC 3 / SYNC 4 Infotainment Freezing, Black Screen, and Touch Unresponsiveness#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator: Power Liftgate Opens / Operates on Its Own#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2007-2024 Lincoln Navigator: Deployable Power Running Board Motor Failure & Linkage Corrosion#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2007-2020 Lincoln Navigator: Deployable Power Running Boards Stick / Fail to Retract#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Lincoln Navigator problems?

Is the Lincoln Navigator reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Lincoln Navigator problems?

What is the 2018-2020 Lincoln Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle (CSP 21N03)?

What is the 2018-2022 Lincoln Navigator 10R80 10-Speed Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Torque Converter Shudder?

What is the 2015-2019 Lincoln Navigator Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch?

What is the 2018-2023 Lincoln Navigator 10R80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh/Erratic Shifting & Shudder?

What is the 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle / Timing Failure?

What is the 2017-2018 Lincoln Navigator Brake Master Cylinder Internal Leak (Recall 25S37)?

What is the 2007-2024 Lincoln Navigator Deployable Power Running Board Motor Failure & Linkage Corrosion?

What is the 2018-2022 Lincoln Navigator SYNC 3 / SYNC 4 Infotainment Freezing, Black Screen, and Touch Unresponsiveness?

What is the 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator Power Liftgate Opens / Operates on Its Own?

What is the 2007-2020 Lincoln Navigator Deployable Power Running Boards Stick / Fail to Retract?