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Lincoln Navigator check engine light comes on

39 of the 1,361 owner complaints about the Lincoln Navigator describe check engine light, most of them for the 1998 model year.

owner complaints
39
worst model year
1998
typical repair cost reported
$5,000
typical mileage
81,000
Is there a fix? There are 4 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

  • 2021
    2
  • 2020
    2
  • 2019
    5
  • 2018
    1
  • 2017
    1
  • 2016
    3
  • 2015
    1
  • 2014
    1
  • 2013
    2
  • 2011
    1
  • 2010
    1
  • 2008
    1
  • 2006
    1
  • 2005
    2
  • 2004
    1
  • 2003
    2
  • 2002
    1
  • 2001
    1
  • 2000
    1
  • 1999
    3
  • 1998
    6

Often reported together

Stalling 7Loss of power 7Jerking 6Engine failure 5Misfire 4Hesitation 4Transmission failure 3Fuel pump 3

Trouble codes mentioned

P2703 1P2701 1P1674 1P1500 1P0868 1P07E6 1P0731 1P0722 1P0720 1P0369 1

What owners say

Filed Oct 6, 2026 · Transmission · IL

Vehicle: 2019 Lincoln Navigator (equipped with 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission). Incident Description: While operating the vehicle in normal traffic conditions, the transmission experiences severe internal hydraulic failure, resulting in a violent jolt/jerk. Immediately following this event, the vehicle’s Powertrain Malfunction Indicator (Wrench Light) illuminates, and the vehicle enters a fail-safe "limp mode." Once in this state, the transmission suffers a complete loss of gear engagement, effectively locking the driver out of acceleration. The vehicle actively resists or completely refuses to engage Drive (D) or Reverse (R), causing an unexpected loss of propulsion while navigating heavy public roadways. To temporarily regain vehicle control, the ignition must be cycled completely off and on. A certified franchise dealership diagnostic scan confirmed severe internal mechanical degradation with heavy metal debris suspended in the transmission fluid, destroying the transmission assembly and damaging the Transmission Control Module (TCM). Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Present: P0868:00 (Transmission Fluid Pressure Low), P2701:00 / P2703:00 (Clutch Friction Element Apply Time Faults), P07E6:00 (Transmission Park Valve Circuit Stuck), and P1674:00 (Control Module Software Corrupted). Safety Hazard: The sudden and unpredictable loss of forward propulsion and gear engagement forces the vehicle into an immobilized state without warning, creating an imminent risk of a rear-end collision or leaving the driver stranded in live, high-speed traffic. This is a known systemic component defect (addressed in Ford TSB 23-2120) that poses a severe, active safety hazard to occupants and surrounding motorists. The vehicle has experienced intermittent jerking for over a year, but experienced a complete powertrain failure and loss of gear engagement on 10/6/2026.

Filed Jul 2, 2026 · Fuel system · 70,300 miles · NJ

The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Navigator. The contact received notification of NTHSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The dealer confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that vehicle failed to accelerate as needed due to a lack of fuel going to the engine. The contact stated that that the engine seized with the check engine warning light illuminated. The failure mileage was approximately 70,300.

Filed Jun 29, 2026 · Transmission · KS

Vehicle downshifted while driving. Speedometer stopped working. Stopped the vehicle and the transmission failed to shift out of gear upon acceleration. Cluster showed wrench and engine light. Turned the vehicle off then restarted and the cluster cleared and operation returned to normal. A week later, the same incident. Seems to be the problem that expired in the 2023 customer satisfaction campaign; however, the vehicle is out of that window.

Filed May 20, 2026 · Transmission · MO

CDF Drum Failure is a known issue to Ford. They have issued a technical service bulletin (TSB 22-2428) to replace poorly designed components that have since been redesigned. The failure mode can cause violent gear shifts (from gear 10 to gear 1) at high speeds, which is a significant safety concern. While driving on the highway, the transmission would not shift between gears and the car lurched. Check engine light came on and I exited the highway immediately. I took my vehicle to be looked at, and they diagnosed the problem as CDF Drum failure. Ford needs to take responsibility for their problematic design in these vehicles.

Filed May 11, 2026 · Engine · NV

While operating my 2013 Lincoln Navigator under normal driving conditions, a spark plug ejected from the cylinder head, causing immediate and catastrophic engine failure. The engine lost power and began producing severe mechanical noise, creating a potential safety hazard due to sudden loss of propulsion. Inspection by both an independent mechanic and an authorized Ford dealership confirmed that the spark plug ejection allowed debris to enter the combustion chamber, destroying internal engine components. The vehicle was properly maintained and this failure occurred without warning. This issue appears consistent with known problems involving the Ford 5.4L Triton engine design. Ford Motor Company has refused to escalate or investigate the failure despite documentation. Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center P.O. Box 6248 Dearborn, MI 48126 Re: Goodwill Assistance Request & Notice of Latent Defect Vehicle: 2013 Lincoln Navigator – 5.4L Triton V8 VIN: [XXX] Case Number: To Whom It May Concern, I am the original purchaser and continuous owner of a 2013 Lincoln Navigator equipped with the 5.4L Triton engine. For more than three decades I have exclusively owned Ford and Lincoln vehicles, including multiple Lincoln Navigators, Ford Expeditions, and Ford trucks — all purchased new. I also still own a 1991 Ford Mustang 5.0 GT Convertible acquired new in 1992 and a 1999 Ford pickup currently exceeding 350,000 miles. My history reflects long-standing brand loyalty and confidence in Ford durability. This Navigator has been properly maintained throughout its life. Oil changes were performed approximately every 3,000 miles by both independent mechanics and authorized service facilities. The vehicle currently has approximately 140,000 miles and remains in exceptional cosmetic and interior condition. The vehicle has never been used for towing or severe duty. While operating under normal driving conditions, the check engine light illuminated and the engine imme INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO

Filed Feb 11, 2026 · Engine · OK

Regularly maintained 2020 Lincoln Navigator at 78,000 miles experienced engine failure with no warning. No check engine light until we experienced power issues and engine shuttering. We took the vehicle directly to the mechanic within an hour of check engine light. They changed the oil and said to go to the dealer. Dealer assessed the vehicle as follows: Bottom end failure of the short block which caused a knocking noise. Confirmed metal debris in the engine oil. Seals failed and leakage occurred. Recommend complete engine replacement. This is the same issue occurring in newer models. Recalls and class action lawsuits filed due to this exact issue. This is premature engine failure requiring complete engine replacement on a 5-year-old vehicle. Major safety concern since the engine can seize up at any time. Imagine going 70 miles per hour down the highway and your engine seizes up with semi trucks around you, and your entire family is in the vehicle. This is beyond unacceptable. Now Lincoln expects us to pay $15,000+ for a new engine. Federal and state oversight organizations are created and funded by our taxpayer dollars to stop these problems and hold these manufacturers accountable. Please do something about this failure.

Filed Dec 30, 2025 · Suspension, Transmission · TN

Well, the problem is with the transmission. The transmission will lurch, and it also will go into neutral while you are driving down the road, the other thing with the suspension I had repaired. But it said the drive modes were disabled and kept on throwing. Check engine lights. Not to mention, I had to have the cam. Phasers fixed last year, that was another $5000 repair.

Filed Oct 8, 2025 · Fuel system · MA

I am the owner of a 2021 Lincoln Navigator black label, currently subject to Safety Recall 25S75 concerning the low-pressure fuel pump that can cause engine stalling and increased crash risk. Ford’s recall filing and public reports make clear the hazard and that a remedy is still being developed. My vehicle has repeatedly exhibited hesitation and loss of acceleration consistent with the recall since I purchased the car in 2021. While driving on the highway with my 10 year old daughter and her friend home from soccer on 495 last Monday 9/29, I tried to pass a car by switching to the left lane and stepped on the accelerator. The car hesitated, and felt like it was going to cease altogether for a moment, however the accelerator did finally « catch » and I was able to pass the car. I have had this same sensation while pressing my foot on the accelerator though at low speeds on backroads.  After the incident last Monday I had the car towed to the Lincoln dealer so they could assess the car. I have been told that the oil was very low. The oil light or check engine light was never on, and it has gone on previously when I’ve been due for an oil change. I’ve been told that the tires also need to be rotated. The dealer who serviced the car said that the car is driving great now and is safe to drive and can be delivered to me or I can pick up. I called Lincoln corporate Friday 10/3/25 and a case was opened and called back on Monday and spoke with a representative who said that there was nothing she could do if the dealer is saying that the car is safe to drive. I don’t feel safe driving the car with this open safety defect unrepaired. A loaner to use while the process for repurchase of the car would be appreciated, but is being denied while they continue the process of good faith eval /consideration of repurchase of the car.

Filed Sep 17, 2025 · Fuel system · OH

The throttle body went bad while driving 55mph and 35mph. Over 5 times I could not accelerate while stepping on the gas peddle and it would stall out trying to get it to ford on the same road for 5 miles. I had to quickly stop and turn it back on with my flashers going less than 35mp on a 55mph road. This happened at first going around a corner you can not stop on due to no visual on the other side which would cause a wreck stopping there. The problem was confirmed by Coughlin of Heath Ford and they were the ones that fixed it. There was no warning of the throttle body going bad until it happened at that moment and repeated to happen as I tried to get it to ford on the same road it was happening on into town. The check engine light did come on but it it would go on and off during the situation until it finally stayed on after a few minutes. There is a photo of the report attached to this document.

Filed May 24, 2025 · Electrical · AZ

I had been driving for about 15 minutes and then I noticed a burning plastic smell. It was dark so my headlights were on. I felt heat coming from under the dash by the pedals. I started to watch my dash to see if the truck was over heating or the check engine light would come on but neither of those happened. The next light I stopped at I could see smoke coming from the driver side air vents. I pulled over and opened the hood and nothing. Well after some extensive searching I located the issue. The headlight switch to control my headlights was completely melted. Had I not pulled over and popped the hood, Im sure the truck would have continued to catch fire. I replaced the fuses and switch and have not had any problems there but I do now have problems with my odometer lights. I cannot seem to keep that fuse from popping. Everyone I replace just pops again. So I have an electrical issue somewhere I guess I'll just have to start chasing wires!

Related recalls

EngineReported September 19, 2025 · 4,632 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. A short circuit within the battery junction box can cause an engine fire while driving or parked.
Risk
A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures and other vehicles, until the remedy is performed. Dealers will inspect and replace the battery junction box, as necessary, and remove a ground wire. On models equipped with standard-duty radiator fan motors, dealers will also install an auxiliary electrical box with a wire jumper. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's numbers for this recall are 22S36 and 22S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on on September 23, 2025.

Recall number 25V628000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: oil/lubricationReported March 28, 2025 · 4,356 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, Expedition, and 2024 Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. The engine may have a misaligned engine cup plug, which can result in a rapid oil leak.
Risk
A rapid oil leak can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, an oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the engine cup plug alignment, and replace the plug if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S30.

Recall number 25V198000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: oil/lubricationReported December 20, 2024 · 2,490 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, 2024 Expedition and 2024 Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with a 3.5L GTDI engine. The engines may have a misaligned engine cup plug, which can result in a rapid oil leak.
Risk
A rapid oil leak can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, an oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the engine cup plug alignment, and replace the plug if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 23, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S70.

Recall number 24V851000 · Recall details

EngineReported May 17, 2022 · 66,221 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. An engine compartment fire may occur while driving or parked, even with the ignition in the "Off" position.
Risk
A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures and other vehicles, until the remedy is performed. Dealers will inspect and replace the battery junction box, as necessary, and remove a ground wire. On models equipped with standard-duty radiator fan motors, dealers will also install an auxiliary electrical box with a wire jumper. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 25, 2022. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Currently the remedy is available for vehicles equipped with heavy-duty radiator fan motors, and those letters were mailed July 21, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S36.

Recall number 22V346000 · Recall details

Questions about the Lincoln Navigator check engine light

Why does the check engine light come on in the Lincoln Navigator?

Owners who report it most often also describe engine stalls while driving, sudden loss of power and jerking or lurching, and the codes they mention most are P2703, P2701 and P1674.

Which Lincoln Navigator years have check engine light problems?

The model years with the most reports are 1998 (6 complaints), 2019 (5 complaints) and 1999 (3 complaints).

How much does it cost to fix check engine light on the Lincoln Navigator?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $5,000 (median of 5 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

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