Is the 2016 Lincoln Navigator reliable?

It’s generally reliable for a full-size, body-on-frame luxury SUV, especially when maintained well, but higher-mileage examples can develop suspension, ignition, and occasional transmission or electrical issues.

What are the most common 2016 Lincoln Navigator problems?

Common issues include rear air suspension leaks/compressor problems, ignition misfires from coils or spark plugs, higher-mileage shift quality concerns, and intermittent electrical or infotainment glitches.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2016 Navigator?

Costs are typically above average due to its size, V8 drivetrain, and luxury parts, with repairs like air suspension components and ignition service being the bigger-ticket items.

What are the best years to buy for a used Lincoln Navigator?

Many shoppers prefer later years within a generation because they benefit from incremental updates; the 2015–2017 models are often considered strong picks if service history is excellent and major wear items have been addressed.

What should I check before buying a used 2016 Lincoln Navigator?

Look for suspension sag (especially after sitting), smooth transmission engagement and shifts, evidence of regular fluid changes, absence of misfire under load, and fully functioning electronics (camera, sensors, windows, locks, and infotainment). For a smarter ownership experience, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, recommended service intervals, and model-specific maintenance schedules for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2016 Lincoln Navigator Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable and capable luxury SUV that demands diligent maintenance to mitigate the risks of its complex systems.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2016 Lincoln Navigator

The system most likely to surface first: engine (3.5l ecoboost) (major severity).
Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the service brakes, hydraulic:power assist.
Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2018 Lincoln Navigator earns a 82.

Is the 2016 Lincoln Navigator Worth Buying?

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator, while offering impressive comfort and capability, presents a moderate reliability risk primarily due to its sophisticated EcoBoost engine and complex electrical accessories. Owners should anticipate higher-than-average maintenance and potential for expensive repairs as it ages, especially concerning engine timing components and adaptive suspension. This is a robust full-size SUV, but not one to neglect.

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator is a comfortable and capable luxury SUV, but its underlying complexity requires a discerning buyer. While it offers a plush experience, potential owners must be prepared for the likelihood of significant repair costs, particularly related to the EcoBoost engine's timing components and the…

Best Model Years

2015-2017 (for this generation, generally improved over earlier models, with 2016 being a solid year for the refresh)

Years to Avoid

Earlier generations (pre-2007) had more significant transmission and spark plug issues; post-2017 models are a redesign and offer a different reliability profile.

Biggest Strengths

Robust body-on-frame construction
Generally strong 6-speed automatic transmission
High towing and cargo capacity

What Tends to Fail First on the 2016 Lincoln Navigator

The systems that tend to fail first on the 2016 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.

Engine (3.5L EcoBoost)major~70,000-120,000 mi

The twin-turbo 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is prone to timing chain stretch, VCT (Variable Cam Timing) solenoid failures, and turbocharger issues (oil leaks, wastegate actuators) at higher mileages. Carbon buildup on intake valves is also a long-te…

Suspension & Steeringmoderate~60,000-100,000 mi

Vehicles equipped with the Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adaptive shocks often experience premature wear, leading to costly replacements. Front lower control arm bushings and ball joints are also common wear items, exacerbated by…

Electrical & Power Accessoriesmoderate~40,000-90,000 mi

Common failures include the power running board motors or sensors, tailgate lift motor issues, and SYNC 2 infotainment system glitches (freezing, lagging). These issues, while not critical for driving, are expensive to repair and detract…

Full repair-cost ranges, fix-before-you-buy notes, and inspection checklists are in the report.

2016 Lincoln Navigator Mileage Danger Zones

The mileage windows when the 2016 Lincoln Navigator most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.

30,000

Low Risk Zone

At this mileage, the vehicle should still be in excellent condition, likely covered by the original warranty. Focus on basic maintenance and addressing any initial SYNC glitches.

60,000

Maintenance Zone

This mileage often marks the end of the factory powertrain warranty. Expect to perform more significant preventative maintenance like spark plug replacement and consider transmission fluid service. Watch for early signs of suspension wea…

90,000

Elevated Risk Zone

Serious attention should be given to the engine's timing components and overall suspension health. This is where the costlier repairs associated with the EcoBoost engine often begin to surface.

120,000+

High Risk Zone

Beyond 120,000 miles, the likelihood of major engine and suspension overhauls increases significantly. Budget accordingly for potentially substantial repairs to keep it running reliably.

2016 Lincoln Navigator Ownership Cost Outlook

What it typically costs to keep the 2016 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

$800-2,500 occasionally (e.g., control arms, running boards)

How Long Does the 2016 Lincoln Navigator Last?

Focus on well-documented service history, particularly for vehicles over 70,000 miles. Be wary of high-mileage examples without clear evidence of timing chain service or adaptive shock replacement, as these can lead to immediate, substantial expenses.

What 2016 Lincoln Navigator Owners Actually Say

What Owners Love

Exceptional interior comfort and luxurious cabin materials
Smooth, powerful acceleration from the EcoBoost V6
Generous passenger and cargo space, especially the L model
Strong towing capability for boats or trailers

Common Frustrations

Poor fuel economy, often below EPA estimates in real-world driving
Frustrating and often laggy SYNC 2 infotainment system
High cost of repairs, especially for engine and suspension components
Power running boards are a frequent point of failure and annoyance

Who Should Buy the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?

Best For

Families needing maximum space and towing capacity
Buyers seeking a comfortable, luxurious ride on a budget
Individuals who prioritize interior quietness and road presence

Not Ideal For

Cost-conscious buyers seeking minimal long-term maintenance
Drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency above all else

How the 2016 Lincoln Navigator Compares to Rivals

The Navigator offers a strong value proposition in the used luxury SUV market compared to its European rivals, but it doesn't quite match the long-term, low-cost dependability of Japanese competitors.

More Reliable Than

Cadillac Escalade (earlier generations, pre-2015 for engine/transmission)
Infiniti QX80 (for interior space and overall practicality)

Comparable To

Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban (for ruggedness and overall utility)
Toyota Sequoia (for capability, though Sequoia often has superior long-term reliability)

2016 Lincoln Navigator Recall History

4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and 2016-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.

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.

What breaks on the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other Lincoln Navigator Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Lincoln Navigator. Click any year for its full report.

All Lincoln Navigator years ranked →Lincoln Navigator years to avoid →Lincoln Navigator common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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