The 2020 Lincoln Aviator provides an upscale interior design, a comfortable ride quality and strong acceleration. Other midsize three-row luxury SUVs are more poised when going around turns, but overall we like how the Aviator offers shoppers something a little different.
It's been a while since Lincoln's three-row SUV has gone by the name Aviator. For more than a decade it's been the MK … something. Who can keep those letter-coded names straight? With the introduction of a fully redesigned Ford Explorer, however, Lincoln saw an opportunity to resurrect the catchier Aviator moniker.
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*Current MSRP for base vehicle. Excludes destination/delivery fee plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any retailer processing charge, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge. Optional equipment not included. Starting A, Z and X Plan price is for qualified, eligible clients and excludes document fee, destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A, Z or X Plan.
Thankfully, the 2020 version has little in common with the short-lived Aviator of the early 2000s. It's once again based on the Explorer. But this time around, the 2020 Aviator sports a distinctive design both inside and out, impressive standard equipment and features unique to Lincoln. In fact, the new Aviator is more like a scaled-down Navigator than a rebadged Explorer, and that's a good thing.
The Aviator's plush interior and improved cabin noise management make it an excellent highway cruiser, while its robust turbocharged V6 provides plenty of power. There's even a plug-in hybrid model that makes more power and improves fuel economy while providing a bit of EV range.
On the downside, the Aviator's pricing is above average, especially when you're looking at an example with a lot of added options. It might be a little hard to justify when cross-shopping against established three-row luxury crossover SUV rivals such as the Acura MDX, Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90. But overall we recommend giving the new Aviator a look if you want an appealing mix of versatility, power and features.
Notably, we picked the 2020 Lincoln Aviator as one of Edmunds' Best 3-Row SUVs for 2020.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Good
7.7
out of 10
We drove the 2020 Lincoln Aviator on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
7/10
How does the Aviator drive? The Aviator is quick in a straight line. While there's a slight delay when you ask it for power, the Aviator really gets going after that. In Edmunds testing, our all-wheel-drive Aviator Black Label covered 0-60 mph in a quick 5.9 seconds.
Braking and handling are less exemplary. The brake pedal is overly soft and hard to modulate smoothly. The Aviator also feels big and wallowy when you're driving around turns and doesn't give you much confidence in its stability. Another problem is the transmission's clunky and slow transition between forward and reverse. All of these issues combine to make driving the Aviator less pleasing than we expected.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the Aviator? The Aviator reminds us a bit of Lincoln models of old: It's big, heavy and cushy. Bumps are absorbed nicely, although there can be a bit of residual body motion. Wind and traffic noise is minimal, so you can have a quiet conversation in the cabin if you want.
The highly adjustable seats are quite comfortable once you've managed to dial them in. One notable demerit: The seat is a bit narrow, so you may feel the hard frame on your hips. As for the climate control system, it does a good job of regulating cabin temperature, though the seat heating and cooling are a bit weak.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The third row is pretty much a kids-only affair; there's just not much legroom back there. The second row is better and has a lot of legroom, but headroom is a bit limited if you have an Aviator with the optional sunroof. Up front, headroom can be tight for tall adults.
Visibility is another concern. The windshield and rear window are short, blocking some of your view of the road. There are also a lot of surfaces around the cabin that can cause distracting glare and reflections. As for the controls, they're generally easy to use, though the transmission shift buttons and the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel can require taking your eyes off the road to push.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? The infotainment screen has large text and virtual buttons, making it friendly no matter your comfort level with technology. However, it's a less sophisticated system than some competitors and lacks some of the coolest new features. For device integration, the first two rows have plenty of options for plugging in devices. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, but using them locks you out of basic voice controls and creates annoyances with things such as adjusting vehicle settings or switching radio stations.
The Aviator's driver aids are quite good. The lane keeping and centering system works well and isn't overly noticeable, for instance. Adaptive cruise is smooth in heavy traffic, although it will brake aggressively if you set it to follow the vehicle ahead closely.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? The Aviator has an edge over competitors for storage behind the third row. Space behind the second row is average, and many competitors offer more maximum cargo volume. Our Aviator test vehicle had the optional air suspension, which you can use to lower the ride height and make it easier to load cargo. If you want to tow, the Aviator offers a solid 6,700 pounds of max towing capacity. The strong V6 engine helps out too.
Inside the cabin, all three rows offer a handful of useful storage options, though the center console box is a bit shallow. Small-item storage isn't class-leading, but it is certainly sufficient. For family taxi duty, the Aviator's second-row seat is roomy enough to install even bulky rear-facing safety seats. The car seat anchors are easy to access.
Fuel Economy
6.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA-estimated ratings of 20 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway) for AWD and 21 combined (18 city/26 highway) for RWD are acceptable for the class. But in our time with the Aviator, our best tank only returned 18 mpg, and our overall average was under 16 mpg.
Value
7.5/10
Is the Aviator a good value? Lincoln has come a long way in terms of design, content and quality. The Aviator looks and feels luxurious inside and out, with lots of thought put into making sure the first- and second-row passengers have a premium experience. The chrome and piano-black trims are a bit chintzy, but other than that the Aviator offers something special.
We do question the value of the Aviator at its highest trim level. Our loaded Black Label test vehicle felt distinctly overpriced at $84,000. If you can live with a less luxe interior, go with the more competitively priced Reserve.
Wildcard
8/10
The Aviator looks distinctive, which we like. At the same time, it reminds us a bit of Lincoln models of days gone by. This vehicle is best driven in a straight line since it lacks the poise and confidence of European competitors when the road gets twisty. Don't care? Then you'll just be pleased to see Lincoln staking out a distinctive luxury personality.
*Current MSRP for base vehicle. Excludes destination/delivery fee plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any retailer processing charge, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge. Optional equipment not included. Starting A, Z and X Plan price is for qualified, eligible clients and excludes document fee, destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A, Z or X Plan.
2020 Lincoln Aviator trim level differences
The 2020 Lincoln Aviator is available in five trim levels: Standard, Reserve, Black Label, Grand Touring and Grand Touring Black Label. The first three trim levels come with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (400 horsepower, 415 lb-ft of torque) and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an optional upgrade except on the Black Label, which only comes with AWD. The Grand Touring and the Grand Touring Black Label use a plug-in hybrid powertrain based on the same V6. Power rises to 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque. Compare the 2020 Lincoln Aviator trim levels in-depth.
Which Aviator trim does Edmunds recommend?
The Aviator Reserve hits a good balance of features and price. It includes some features worthy of a luxury SUV such as quad-zone climate control, a 360-degree camera and a hands-free liftgate. There are a lot of packages to choose from, but we'd certainly start with the Reserve I package for its added driver aids and heated and ventilated first- and second-row seats.
The 2020 Lincoln Aviator has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 28 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
28 recalls found
Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
Recall Number:
26V159000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
26C18
Manufactured from:
2019-05-09 to
Number of vehicles affected:
561
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
Defect Consequence:
A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Recall Number:
26V123000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
26C11
Manufactured from:
2019-01-07 to
Number of vehicles affected:
889950
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:
An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
The remedy is currently under development. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed April 17, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated second quarter of 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
Recall Number:
26V117000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
26S14
Manufactured from:
2020-07-06 to
Number of vehicles affected:
604533
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly.
Defect Consequence:
Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed March 9, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in May 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.
Recall Number:
25V442000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
25S72
Manufactured from:
2019-04-25 to
Number of vehicles affected:
200061
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Defect Consequence:
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 28, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Recall Number:
25V407000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
25S66
Number of vehicles affected:
132914
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator vehicles. The rear door window bars and C-pillar trim may have insufficient adhesive bonding, which can allow the trim to detach from the vehicle.
Defect Consequence:
Detached trim may cause a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will repair or replace C-pillar appliques and window division bars, free of charge. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 28, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S66.
Recall Number:
25V393000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
25S67
Number of vehicles affected:
304662
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
Defect Consequence:
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 23, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.
Recall Number:
25V349000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
25S58
Manufactured from:
2020-03-04 to
Number of vehicles affected:
8
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines that were repaired incorrectly under recall 23V626. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Defect Consequence:
Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the Battery Energy Control Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 23, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S58.
Recall Number:
25V338000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
25C18
Manufactured from:
2018-11-13 to
Number of vehicles affected:
3227
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator and Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a Revel Audio System that were repaired incorrectly under recall 22V-953. When the driver's seat belt is not buckled and the vehicle is started, the seat belt warning system may activate the audible warning chime for an insufficient amount of time of less than 4 seconds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:
An audible warning chime that does not properly alert of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the audio control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 23, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C18.
Recall Number:
25V159000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
25S27
Number of vehicles affected:
49399
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Defect Consequence:
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.
Recall Number:
25V093000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
25S09
Manufactured from:
2018-10-19 to 2020-07-11
Number of vehicles affected:
240510
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. The seat belt buckle anchor bolts at one or more seating positions may be improperly secured. Additionally, vehicles may have an improperly secured seat belt retractor anchor bolt and/or seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped.
Defect Consequence:
A loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will inspect seat belt buckle anchor bolts in all seating positions. Additionally, dealers will inspect the seat belt retractor anchor bolt and seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped. If loose anchor bolts are found, the affected seat components will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S09.
Recall Number:
24V852000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
24C39
Manufactured from:
2019-07-29 to 2024-09-13
Number of vehicles affected:
27678
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:
Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
Recall Number:
24V368000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
24S35
Manufactured from:
2018-10-19 to 2024-04-25
Number of vehicles affected:
109283
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The accessory protocol image module (APIM) can be affected by electromagnetic interference with a cell phone in the vehicle, causing the rearview camera image to flicker or become distorted.
Defect Consequence:
A flickering or distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Owners are advised not to use their cell phones while reversing until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install shielding on the accessory protocol image module (APIM), free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 23, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S35.
Recall Number:
23V626000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
23S53
Number of vehicles affected:
2954
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Defect Consequence:
Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will perform a Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) diagnostic test and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk were mailed October 3, 2021. The remedy is expected to become available in 4th Quarter 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford Motor Company's number for this recall is 23S53.
Recall Number:
23V598000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
23S48
Number of vehicles affected:
169277
Defect Description:
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.
Defect Consequence:
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will replace the rearview camera, and update the software and wiring as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed October 12, 2023. Remedy parts are anticipated 2nd Quarter 2024. Ford's number for this recall is 23S48.
Recall Number:
23V342000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
23S23
Manufactured from:
2019-01-07 to 2022-12-15
Number of vehicles affected:
442973
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Defect Consequence:
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on July 10, 2023. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed in July 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Recall Number:
23V022000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
23S02
Number of vehicles affected:
382759
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Defect Consequence:
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Recall Number:
22V953000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
22C35
Number of vehicles affected:
101001
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a Revel Audio System. When the driver's seat belt is not buckled and the vehicle is started, the seat belt warning system may activate the audible warning chime for an insufficient amount of time of less than 4 seconds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:
An audible warning chime that does not properly alert of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the audio control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 7, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22C35.
Recall Number:
21V735000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
21S44
Number of vehicles affected:
228297
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Corsair, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 360-degree cameras. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Defect Consequence:
A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will update the Image Processing Module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S44.
Recall Number:
21V534000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
21S34
Number of vehicles affected:
33298
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 3.0L gasoline engines. The wire harness may not be secured properly, possibly contacting the air conditioning (A/C) compressor pulley, and resulting in damage to electrical wires, or the A/C compressor drive belt.
Defect Consequence:
Damaged electrical wires may short-circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:
Dealers will inspect the harness and A/C compressor belt for damage, replacing them as necessary, and install a tie strap to secure the wire harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 30, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S34.
Recall Number:
21V223000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
21C09
Number of vehicles affected:
34952
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The image processing module may be unable to provide video feed to the display, which could result in a loss of the backup camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:
A backup camera that displays a blank or distorted image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the image processing module software with the latest level, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 19, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C09.
Recall Number:
21V154000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
21S11
Number of vehicles affected:
49
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles. The rear lower control arm (RLCA) bolts that attach the rear lower control arms to the wheel knuckles may not have been heat-treated, which could cause them to break.
Defect Consequence:
Broken RLCA bolts can cause a loss of steering control, and increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace both RLCA bolts, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 29, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S11.
Recall Number:
21V014000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
21C01
Number of vehicles affected:
283
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility and 2020 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The affected vehicles contain windshield washer fluid that was contaminated with brake fluid. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 104, "Windshield Wiping and Washing Systems."
Defect Consequence:
A washer system contaminated with brake fluid can reduce the driver's ability to clear windshield, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will flush out the washer system, replacing the washer bottle neck, washer pump assembly, fluid level sensor and the front and rear wiper blades. Dealers will also inspect and repair the vehicle's paint and exterior components if affected, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 8, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C01.
Recall Number:
20V788000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
20S72
Number of vehicles affected:
1405
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The right hand motor mount fasteners may have been incorrectly tightened, and may loosen over time.
Defect Consequence:
With a loose motor mount, motor vibration may cause the axle to disconnect from the engine and could result in loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove and replace the right hand motor mount fasteners, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 8, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S72.
Recall Number:
20V693000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
20S65
Number of vehicles affected:
10905
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with a 2.0L or 3.3L engine and a 10 Speed Automatic Transmission with the All Wheel Drive package. The drive shaft may fracture along the weld seam.
Defect Consequence:
Defective drive shafts may fail and cause a loss of connection between the transfer case and rear axle, possibly resulting in a vehicle rollaway when in Park or a loss of drive. Either condition can increase the risk of a crash. The drive shafts can also deform and separate from the driveline and potentially contact the fuel tank, increasing the risk of fuel leaks and/or fire.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the drive shaft label inspected and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 14, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S65.
Recall Number:
20V497000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
20S48
Number of vehicles affected:
488
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and 2020 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The side air bag and/or seat back module attachments may not have been properly tightened in the front seat backs.
Defect Consequence:
If the side air bag or seat back fasteners were not properly tightened, the side air bag deployment could be affected, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove front seat back panels from one or both front seats (VIN-specific) and verify that the fasteners have been properly tightened, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 7, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S48.
Recall Number:
19V859000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
19S49
Manufactured from:
2019-01-18 to 2019-07-17
Number of vehicles affected:
3857
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. Over time, the protective sleeve on the vapor fuel line may chafe through the plastic liquid fuel line and cause a fuel leak.
Defect Consequence:
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a longer protective sleeve on the liquid fuel line, as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners and interim notification on January 29, 2020. Recall began March 23, 2020. A second notice will be sent once parts are available, expected to be late in the first quarter of 2020. A renotification letter was sent on July 10, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S49.
Recall Number:
19V633000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
19C07
Manufactured from:
2019-09-09 to 2019-07-22
Number of vehicles affected:
482520
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer and 2019-2020 Expedition vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Defect Consequence:
A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 7, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.
Recall Number:
19V575000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
19C06
Manufactured from:
2019-04-10 to 2019-07-24
Number of vehicles affected:
13896
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The Manual Park Release (MPR) cover may not be installed. In addition, the vehicles may be in Factory Mode, which disables warning alerts and does not display the transmission gear selected. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 114, "Theft Prevention" and 102, "Trans Shift Lever Seq/Starter Interlock/Trans Braking Effect."
Defect Consequence:
Without the cover, the MPR lever may be unintentionally moved, allowing the vehicle to roll away. Being in Factory Mode, the vehicle will not display warnings and/or gear selection on the instrument cluster. Both conditions increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, install a MPR cover. Dealers will verify the instrument cluster is not in Factory Mode and clear any fault codes, free of charge. The recall began August 23, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C06.
2020 Lincoln Aviator Reserve 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
We have always been a fan of Lincoln but in 2016 there wasn't a Lincoln 7 passenger SUV available. In the past I have owned Cadillac, Lexus and Lincoln. Bought the 7 passenger 2016 GX 460 Luxury and really liked that vehicle and figured in 3 years later Lincoln would be out with the 2020 Lincoln Aviator......All I can say is "WOW".......absolutely the most luxurious SUV on the market … besides the 8 passenger Navigator......I owned the Navigator and didn't need that big of SUV at this point in my life. I don't think Lincoln missed anything when this vehicle was designed.......I am proud be back driving from the Lincoln family....I purchased the reserve 202a with every option available and it is a sweet, awesome and beautiful ride!!!!
American Luxury Vehicle
5 out of 5 stars
Lincoln Luxury Aviator , 12/08/2019
2020 Lincoln Aviator Black Label 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
We purchased our new 2020 Lincoln Aviator Black Label and love it! Lincoln has created a luxury vehicle that literally has auto pilot in some sense. My wife and I are both pilots and this vehicle was named right! This vehicle has all the bells and whistles. The exterior design of the Aviator looks like the side of an aircraft and the turbine design wheels are pretty cool! The Aviator … lowers itself out greet you when approaching to easier step into, and once you open the door all you can say is WOW! Lincoln nailed it, and the Black label with it’s luxury leather and suede head liner, and the inside of the vehicle really gives you the sense of an 1930’s-1940’s luxury airliner. Lincoln went as far as to design the leather interior on the steering wheel to look like that of an older style yoke in an airplane. While driving you will enjoy one of the quietest serene experiences, and a great relaxing massage; but if you get to relaxed you can always listen to your 28 speaker Revel sound system. This sound system is so clear and crisp, and the bass is awesome. The Revel sound system is so good that when you call from the car people can always hear me clearly on their end making it an enjoyable conservation, unlike other vehicles that don’t offer this great experience, because of low quality speakers. As for power, don’t worry about that as the Aviator has so much power that you usually can’t hold the gas all the way down as you’ll be over the speed limit too quickly, but don’t worry about knowing what the speed limit is as you drive the cameras on the Aviator will show you the current speed limit as its always scanning due to it’s Speed Limit Recognition feature. This is just some of the features, there are many more. Great job Lincoln!
Very Good
4 out of 5 stars
brightsun1, 05/09/2020
2020 Lincoln Aviator Black Label 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
Now coming on 14,000 miles. Have ordered a new one, as Lincoln is offering a brand new Black Label at a slightly reduced monthly payment. Overall, very good. No issues since the few at delivery. I am hoping the new one will have slightly better build quality. The car is a great combination of luxury, styling and convenience. It is not perfect, but, within the category, it is very good … and at a very reasonable value. Have had the German equivalents, and, frankly, they are just too full of tech that is not intuitive, and, the dealers are not very nice to their customers. You can really sense the anxiety in the market. The Black Label concierge service is really nice.
2020 Aviator sets bar high for all Mid-Size SUVs!
5 out of 5 stars
FireMedic, 01/06/2020
2020 Lincoln Aviator Reserve 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
I took delivery on my "customized ordered-out" 2020 Aviator in November 2019. I consider myself a very educated and conscientious vehicle shopper. I will also admit that I've been a very loyal GM customer, having purchased 13 New GM Cars/Suvs within our household over the past 30 years. First, my reason from turning away from GM was NOT because of any bad experiences with their products. … Simply stated, I've become increasingly frustrated with GMs failure to seriously differentiate the production of the Chevrolet, GMC, Buick or Cadillac products! With the exception of some simple exterior cues, GM still insists on sharing one common parts-bin amongst all of its product divisions. From the powertrains to the dashboards, all GM divisions share way to many common parts/features and appear very "dated", to justify the significant difference in pricing that they command. I sincerely was searching for a vehicle to "WOW" me and absolutely stand-out from the crowd of Mid-Size Luxury SUVs. When shopping for a new Mid-Size SUV, I did compare the Cadillac XT6 to the Aviator. If anyone has already completed some simple research they already know that these two vehicles ARE NOT even close in comparison. I encourage you to read an unbiased review, printed in the Feb 2020 issue of Motor-Trend. GM demonstrates some serious neglects in the XT6 development. Mainly, they rushed it through to production without serious thought prior to production. Four serious issues that will keep the XT6 out of reach of the Lincoln Aviator are: 1-they simply stretched the XT5 about 10"; 2-it remains front-wheel drive, 3-it shares the same lackluster 'Naturally-Aspirated' 3.6L (310 HP) V-6 with so many other GM vehicles and 4-it does not offer a Hybrid variant powertrain. Simply "Google" any reviews/comparison reports and you will understand. In contrast, the ALL-NEW, 2020 Lincoln Aviator (with the exception of the chassis below) shares nothing in common with the comparable Ford Explorer which the consumer can identify. Lincoln did some serious homework and accomplished some serious engineering goals! Not only has Lincoln separated itself brilliantly from its Ford brethren, but it truly put a lot of distance between itself and the Cadillac XT6 as well as every other Foreign competitor in the same Class. The Aviator's size inside and out, as well as its Base Twin-Turbocharged 400 HP V-6 Engine are alone, enough to make it a much better value than the aforementioned threats. This vehicle was meticulously designed and is completely new for 2020. The exterior fit/finish are on-par with the finest imports. The interior quality, elegance and comfort puts such imports as Mercedes Benz AMG on notice. The Digital Instrumentation, Infotainment, Sound System and Safety Features are outstanding in its Class. More personally, I have just beyond 2000 miles on my Aviator which has already experienced some northern Wisconsin winter weather. I have yet to experience ANY mechanical or "tech' related issues. I am exceptionally pleased with its comfort, quietness and performance around the City, in the back Country as well as on the multi-lane Interstate Highway system. The engine and powertrain are amazing and function seamlessly. The rear wheel / all-wheel drive performs precise and confidently. All considered, the MSRP of my Aviator is just over $74K and I feel that it is a very good value and investment. I will report back after a full year of service to update my review. I have no fear that my impression will remain extremely positive with the all-new, 2020 Aviator.
Shop wisely and be sure to research before you buy!
Edmunds Reviews Editor Cameron Rogers gets a sneak preview of the 2020 Lincoln Aviator ahead of its official debut at this year's LA Auto Show. The Aviator is a new three-row crossover that promises a supremely comfortable ride, upscale cabin materials and advanced technology features. It's a little too soon to tell if this Lincoln is a true rival to the best luxury SUVs… on the market, but our first impressions are positive.