Is the 2004 Lincoln Navigator reliable?

Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2004 Lincoln Navigator is rated "worse than typical".

What are the most common problems with the 2004 Lincoln Navigator?

The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2004 Lincoln Navigator have?

No recalls are on file for this model year.

2004 Lincoln Navigator

◆ Worse than typical

2004 Lincoln Navigator
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:52:35.934Z

This year had 30% to 100% more complaints than 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.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 86
Recalls: 0
Investigations: 1
Top problem: Suspension

Complaints per year

2004: 86 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1997	0
1998	192
1999	132
2000	109
2001	81
2002	32
2003	127
2004	86
2005	48
2006	60
2007	45
2008	30
2009	10
2010	16
2011	9
2012	12
2013	14
2014	17
2015	21
2016	25
2017	32
2018	51
2019	82
2020	30
2021	32
2022	21
2023	7
2024	16
2025	13
2026	1
2027	0

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Suspension

29% · 25 reports

Most commonly citing front and air suspension system.

INJURY

Air bags

15% · 13 reports

Most commonly citing side/window and frontal.

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

While driving north on ar hwy 9 a few miles south of malvern, Arkansas with my wife in the front passenger seat and my son in the second row directly behind me, a loud bang occurred.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-07-27

Also filed under Exterior lighting and seat belts

Car involved in high speed crash with stationary object passenger air bag deployed drivers air bag did not 2004 Lincoln Navigator repairs exceed 24000.00 including frame was a direct hit dead center of vehicle both air bags should have gone...

NHTSA ODI report, 2004-12-10

While driving at 45-50 MPH vehicle hydroplaned and crashed directly into a brick wall. Upon impact, both frontal air bags failed to deploy. Dealer was notified.

NHTSA ODI report, 2004-07-30

Electrical system

13% · 11 reports

Most commonly citing wiring.

FIRE

Show complaint excerpts

2004 Ford Navigator caught on fire while parked in the carport.*mr prior to the fire the consumer read and article about fire occurring in Lincoln Navigator due to faulty cruise control switch.

NHTSA ODI report, 2005-05-03

Structure

12% · 10 reports

Most commonly citing body and hinge and attachments.

Engine and engine cooling

9% · 8 reports

Most commonly citing catalytic convertor and engine.

Safety timeline

No recalls on file for this model year.

0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

▮
2004Complaint volume 86 complaints filed for this model year.
I
2005-09-22Defect petitionClosed 2006-01-04 Spark plug ejection from cylinder head

Buy-smart checklist

2004 Lincoln Navigator — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Suspension: 25 reports on file for this year.
Air bags: 13 reports on file for this year.
Electrical system: 11 reports on file for this year.

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years3 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2004 Lincoln Navigator reliable?: Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2004 Lincoln Navigator is rated "worse than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Lincoln Navigator?: The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2004 Lincoln Navigator have?: No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.