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Lincoln Nautilus: which year should you buy?

Across the 20192025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2021 (90/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history — pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2021 90 · 2020 82 · 2024 75 · 2025 72

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year — not that it’s clean.

202572/100
Buy

20 complaints · 6 recalls

202475/100
Buy

19 complaints · 7 recalls

202364/100
Unproven

6 complaints · 3 recalls

202264/100
Unproven

7 complaints · 2 recalls

202190/100
Buybest year

18 complaints · 2 recalls

202082/100
Buy

30 complaints · 5 recalls

201964/100
Caution

95 complaints · 8 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2021?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist — a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Lincoln Nautilus as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only — always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.