Lincoln

Navigator (2nd)

2003-2006 · Full-Size SUV
320 NHTSA Complaints
4 Recalls
10 Fire Reports
19 Crash Reports
View all 3 generations of the Lincoln Navigator → 📋 Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (19.1% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (19.1% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No

Recalls (4)

06E064000Jul 16, 2006serious
Exterior Lighting

CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

05V519000Sep 10, 2005cosmetic
Powertrain

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN INCORRECTLY MANUFACTURED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PARKING PAWL GUIDE PLATE.

05V520000Sep 10, 2005serious
Visibility

ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, PASSENGER CARS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITHOUT GREASE BEING APPLIED TO THE OUTPUT SHAFT GEAR.

05V310000Jun 6, 2005serious
Tires

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE FRONT AND REAR TIRES ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF AFFECTED VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED AT THE CENTER TREAD DURING PRODUCTION.

Alternatives in Full-Size SUV

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator problems?

The 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator has accumulated 320 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are general mechanical issues. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Lincoln Navigator engine is most reliable?

The 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator was offered with 0 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the base engine has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator a good used car?

The 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 320 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator have?

The 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator has 320 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator?

There are 4 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2003-2006 Lincoln Navigator vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Lincoln Navigator?

Before buying a used Lincoln Navigator, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to general mechanical issues, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Navigator?

The 2006 Lincoln Navigator received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: 4 stars (19.1% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 320 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.

© 2026 The Weekly Driver