2015 Lincoln Navigator Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2015 Lincoln Navigator
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2016 Lincoln Navigator earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: adaptive air suspension (major severity).
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the visibility:defroster/defogger/hvac system:fan/motor.
2015 Lincoln Navigator: Buy or Avoid?
The 2015 Lincoln Navigator offers impressive comfort and capability, but it’s a vehicle that demands diligent maintenance and a careful pre-purchase inspection to avoid significant repair costs. While its core powertrain is robust, key ancillary systems present notable risks that can quickly turn a luxury bargain into a financial burden. Proceed with caution and a healthy repair budget.
The 2015 Lincoln Navigator is a compelling vehicle on paper, offering significant luxury and utility for a used price. However, its high-cost failure points like the air suspension and Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) systems mandate a cautious approach. It can be a great vehicle if you are financially prepar…
Best Model Years
2016-2017 (Minor improvements and refinement, but still share core risks of the 2015 model)
Years to Avoid
Earlier 3rd generation models (prior to 2015 EcoBoost) with less powerful engines and different issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Potent 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine
- Spacious and comfortable interior with good features
- Strong towing capacity
2015 Lincoln Navigator — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2015 Lincoln Navigator, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Air struts, compressor, and height sensors are prone to failure, leading to a sagging vehicle, rough ride, or compressor constantly running. This is a common failure point that can manifest as early as 60,000 miles.
The EPAS system, particularly the steering gear or module, can fail, resulting in loss of power steering or an extremely stiff wheel. This is a critical safety issue and an expensive repair, often requiring full steering rack replacement…
While the 3.5L EcoBoost is powerful, its twin turbochargers can fail, particularly if oil changes are neglected or if the turbos are subject to excessive heat cycling without proper cool-down. Symptoms include reduced power, smoke, and r…
2015 Lincoln Navigator Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2015 Lincoln Navigator most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the vehicle should be performing optimally. Focus on ensuring scheduled maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations) has been diligently followed.
Maintenance Checkpoint
Major service is typically due. This is where you should start listening for unusual noises from the air suspension and feeling for any EPAS irregularities. Brake system components will likely need attention.
Elevated Risk Zone
Critical components like the EPAS system and air suspension are increasingly prone to failure. The EcoBoost turbos and timing chain also become areas of concern, potentially leading to costly repairs if neglected.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the Navigator enters a period where major component failures become more likely across the board. Expect to address multiple high-cost items, and proactive replacement of known weak points might be considered.
2015 Lincoln Navigator Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2015 Lincoln Navigator on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-900
Moderate Repairs
$800-2,000 occasionally
How Long Does the 2015 Lincoln Navigator Last?
Target models with comprehensive service records and under 80,000 miles if possible to minimize the immediate risk of major suspension or steering component failures; prepare to address these items if buying at higher mileages.
What 2015 Lincoln Navigator Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional interior comfort and quietness on long drives
- Powerful acceleration and smooth highway cruising from the EcoBoost engine
- Excellent towing capabilities for trailers and boats
- Generous cargo space, especially in the long-wheelbase 'L' variant
Common Frustrations
- Poor fuel economy, a significant ongoing expense
- The MyLincoln Touch infotainment system is often clunky and frustrating
- High cost of unexpected repairs, particularly for air suspension and EPAS
- Ride quality can deteriorate quickly if air suspension components begin to fail
Who Should Buy the 2015 Lincoln Navigator?
Best For
- Families needing extensive passenger and cargo space
- Owners who regularly tow heavy loads
- Individuals seeking luxury SUV comfort without the new car price tag
Not Ideal For
- Budget-constrained buyers who cannot absorb $2,000-$5,000 in unexpected repairs
- Owners seeking the lowest possible long-term ownership costs
How the 2015 Lincoln Navigator Compares to Rivals
The Navigator offers a strong value proposition in terms of luxury and capability but falls short of top-tier reliability compared to Japanese rivals. It's more comparable to its American full-size SUV brethren, sharing similar strengths and weaknesses.
More Reliable Than
- 2015 Cadillac Escalade (often more complex infotainment, higher parts cost)
- 2015 Nissan Armada (less refined powertrain, older tech)
Comparable To
- 2015 Ford Expedition (shares many underpinnings and issues)
- 2015 GMC Yukon Denali (similar luxury SUV repair potential)
Safety Recalls on the 2015 Lincoln Navigator
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The front blower motor located behind the glove box may fail.
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The LED logo lights on the exterior mirrors may short circuit.
What breaks on the 2015 Lincoln Navigator?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Lincoln Navigator — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Lincoln Navigator. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2015s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2015 Lincoln Navigator
Parts and accessories matched to your 2015 Lincoln Navigator
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Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 2015 Lincoln Navigator? Keep it that way.
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