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Lincoln · Known Issues

2018 Lincoln Navigator Problems: 4 Known Issues

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

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2018 Lincoln Navigator has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch ($1,800-$6,000 repair) and Brake Master Cylinder Internal Leak (Recall 25S37) ($0-$850 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $1,800 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Navigator Engine1
  • Navigator Brakes1
  • Navigator Exterior1
  • Navigator Electrical1
  • Recalls30
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Brakes1
  • Exterior1
  • Electrical1
  • Recalls30
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

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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 Bronco, Ford Bronco Sport, Ford Edge

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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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 Flex, Ford Transit, Ford Expedition

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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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2018-2020 Lincoln Navigator, a low-voltage event can leave the running-board setting Off instead of Auto, with U3003:16 in the running-board module. The charging warning may or may not be illuminated. This condition does not establish motor corrosion or broken linkage. Applies to: 2018–2020 Lincoln Navigator with power-deployable running boards, when the running-board setting has changed to Off after a low-voltage event and code U3003:16 is stored in the running-board module. Earlier Navigator generations are not covered.

How to Fix

Have the charging concern checked and corrected before restoring the running-board mode under the applicable service and owner's instructions. Do not replace running-board motors based only on this message.

Find a nearby Lincoln repair shop in Google Maps ↗

Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.

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On the 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, owners of fourth-generation (2018 and later) Navigators describe the power liftgate opening, or opening and closing, without anyone pressing a button. Some found it open after parking, or after a remote start. Others say it happened when a door was opened or shut, when the alarm was set, or when a trailer wiring harness was connected. Owners also say dealers sometimes could not make it happen in the shop. Applies to: Owner reports from fourth-generation Lincoln Navigators with a power liftgate, including 2018, 2019 and 2024 models. No report specific to 2020 was found and no manufacturer document confirms a cause or fix for 2020 models, so these are reports, not a confirmed defect for every vehicle.

How to Fix

First rule out an accidental key-fob press, for example a fob carried in a pocket or bag. If the liftgate still opens on its own, have a technician check the liftgate latch, switches, wiring and control software and confirm the cause. Owners describe different repairs with mixed results: a latch replacement with reprogramming, a dealer software update, and in one case replacing the liftgate assembly. Until it is fixed, park where an open liftgate won't hit anything, such as a low garage ceiling.

Find a nearby Lincoln repair shop in Google Maps ↗

Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.

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NHTSA Recalls30 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Ford Mustang, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. At vehicle start-up, the Instrument Panel Cluster Assembly (IPC) may not function, showing a blank display. As a result, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Controls and Displays."

Campaign #19V07600011/02/2019

SUSPENSION:REAR

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The rear suspension toe link fasteners may not have been properly tightened to the frame, possibly allowing separation from the frame.

Campaign #19V77300028/10/2019

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with third-row seating; and 2019-2023 F-Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 SuperCab vehicles. The owner's manual does not include instructions for adjusting or removing certain head restraints. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 202, "Head Restraints."

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Other Lincoln Models

Lincoln Aviator31Lincoln Nautilus27Lincoln MKX10Lincoln MKZ10Lincoln Town Car9Lincoln Corsair6

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 Lincoln Navigator has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch, Brake Master Cylinder Internal Leak (Recall 25S37), Power running boards disabled after low voltage — SSM 50154. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Lincoln Navigator reliable?

The 2018 Lincoln Navigator has 4 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch 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 $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch, typically costs $1,800-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

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

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 c… Repairs typically run $1,800-$6,000. Severity: high.

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

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. Repairs typically run $0-$850. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #23V42000009/06/2023

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator, 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, 2022-2023 Ford Transit, and 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles. The rearview camera, or 360-degree view camera if equipped, may not display a rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse.

Campaign #23V59800025/08/2023

SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The seat belt pretensioner in the driver and/or front passenger seat may inadvertently deploy and lock the seat belt, which will not allow the belt to retract or extend.

Campaign #24V09900009/02/2024

+ 25 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2018-2020 Lincoln Navigator Power running boards disabled after low voltage — SSM 50154?

A low-voltage event can leave the running-board setting Off instead of Auto, with U3003:16 in the running-board module. The charging warning may or may not be illuminated. This condition does not establish motor corrosion or broken linkage. Applies to: 2018–2020 Lincoln Navigator… Severity: medium.

What is the 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator Power liftgate opens or cycles on its own (owner reports)?

Owners of fourth-generation (2018 and later) Navigators describe the power liftgate opening, or opening and closing, without anyone pressing a button. Some found it open after parking, or after a remote start. Others say it happened when a door was opened or shut, when the alarm… Severity: medium.