Buyer Research

2018 Lincoln Navigator — Should You Buy One?

Typical asking price: $36,000–$54,000. This is one of the more reliable vehicles in its class — here's what to watch for anyway.

Kestrel Take

A genuinely world-class full-size luxury SUV — the redesigned 2018 Navigator's twin-turbo V6, sumptuous cabin, and huge space made it a legitimate rival to the German and Cadillac flagships, and it holds value well. Watch the EcoBoost V6's cooling/cam-phaser items and the air suspension. A documented Navigator with full history is a superb, spacious luxury hauler; verify the twin-turbo health, air suspension, and electronics and buy the maintained one.

Known Issues for the 2018 Lincoln Navigator

Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.

3.5L EcoBoost cam phaser / coolingMedium

The twin-turbo V6 can develop cold-start cam-phaser rattle and wants clean oil/cooling; listen at startup and verify service.

Repair cost range: $1,000-$3,000 if affected

Air suspensionMedium

The air suspension leaks and fails; verify it rides level and holds.

Repair cost range: $800-$2,500

Electronics / big-screen techLow

Verify the extensive electronics and infotainment.

Repair cost range: $100-$1,000

Fuel / tire / brake costLow

Big and thirsty; consumables cost more.

Repair cost range: $300-$1,200

Walk-Away Red Flags

✗Cam-phaser rattle at cold start
✗Air suspension sagging
✗Electronics faults
✗No service history

Good Signs

✓Quiet cold start, documented service
✓Air suspension level
✓All electronics working

Found a specific Lincoln Navigator?

This page covers what goes wrong on the 2018 Lincoln Navigator in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.

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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.

Other Lincoln Navigator years

2021 Lincoln Navigator

$52,000–$85,000