2003 Lincoln Aviator
This year had more than double the complaints of this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2003 | 111 |
| 2004 | 81 |
| 2005 | 51 |
| 2020 | 97 |
| 2021 | 35 |
| 2022 | 43 |
| 2023 | 21 |
| 2024 | 5 |
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2026 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
22% of complaints: power train — 24 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER POSITION WAS NOT IN ALIGNMENT WITH THE TRANSMISSION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INDICATOR DID NOT DISPLAY THE CORRECT GEAR THAT WAS BEING UTILIZED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190906
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 LINCOLN AVIATOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR FAILED TO SHIFT FROM PARK INTO ANY OTHER GEAR BECAUSE THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190715
14% of complaints: power train — 16 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
THE CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT A SUDDEN ACCELERATION PROBLEM. WHILE BACKING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SURGE FORWARD. THE CONSUMER SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES AND THE VEHICLE EVENTUALLY STOPPED. *AK RECALL CAMPAIGN# 02V313000. *SC *JB
NHTSA ODI report, 20050414
11% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 12 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: structure — 9 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: electrical system — 7 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
Vehicle Rollaway Allegations
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE CAN BECOME DISLODGED FROM THE SHIFT CABLE BRACKET.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL ADD A STRAP TO THE SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTER TO PREVENT THE SHIFT CABLE FROM BECOMING DISLODGED. FORD HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN.
Campaign 02V313000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2003 Lincoln Aviator — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (24 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (16 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (12 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 02V313000 (power train) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2003 Lincoln Aviator reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2003 Lincoln Aviator is rated "significantly worse".
What are the most common problems with the 2003 Lincoln Aviator?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 22% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 Lincoln Aviator have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.