2021 Lincoln Nautilus
Only 27 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
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.
Only 27 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 27
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2021
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2021: 27 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 102 |
| 2020 | 34 |
| 2021 | 27 |
| 2022 | 15 |
| 2023 | 7 |
| 2024 | 21 |
| 2025 | 22 |
| 2026 | 10 |
Known problem areas
Only 27 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Structure
9 of 27 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing body and hinge and attachments.
Show complaint excerpts
Noticed cracking sound when opening and closing front drivers door. Subsequently discovered same issue on Ford Edge (recall in place) and many other owners having same problem (FaceBook posts).
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-29
The driver's side door is cracked at the door hinge assembly. This is a widely documented defect. My door cracked at 50,000 miles. There are thousands of 2019-2024 Nautilus's with this defect. Lincoln wants $5,000 to replace the door.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-08-30
The door broke and cracked the window when I opened the door to get in the car
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-08-23
Power train
8 of 27 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
Transmission was shuddering when it shifted gears. It would lose power and jerk between each gear. We paid for diagnostic at the dealership and they diagnosed as torque converter shudder under 2 separate TSB's.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-10-03
My Lincoln has been in the shop due to a hard AWD System Disabled Message since 10/29/2021. Lincoln Concierge and dealership has kept us updated that NHTSA has not approved the latest AWD control module.
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-11-30
Fuel/propulsion system
3 of 27 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
I bought the 2021Lincoln Nautilus in Aug 2024 with only 54000miles. I was leaving the dealership and driving home with my suv & noticed that the suv was slightly trembling.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-01-05
Also filed under Electrical system
Engine
3 of 27 total reports mention: engine.
Electrical system
3 of 27 total reports mention: electrical system.
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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I
2023-09-29Engineering analysisClosed 2024-10-31 Loss of Motive Power
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R
2025-07-03Engine and engine cooling24V635000 Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine.
Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
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R
2025-10-08Back over prevention25V315000 Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus,...
Remedy: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge.
Buy-smart checklist
2021 Lincoln Nautilus — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Structure: 9 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 8 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel/propulsion system: 3 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 24V635000 · Engine and engine cooling
- Recall 25V315000 · Back over prevention
FAQ
- Is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?
- The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.