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Lincoln Navigator: which year should you buy?

Across the 20122025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2012 (94/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history — pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2012 94 · 2016 87 · 2015 86 · 2017 81

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.

202564/100
Unproven

11 complaints · 6 recalls

202476/100
Buy

15 complaints · 7 recalls

202364/100
Unproven

6 complaints · 8 recalls

202264/100
Caution

20 complaints · 14 recalls

202164/100
Caution

29 complaints · 12 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202064/100
Caution

28 complaints · 13 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201964/100
Caution

68 complaints · 10 recalls

201864/100
Caution

48 complaints · 12 recalls

201781/100
Buy

30 complaints · 5 recalls

201687/100
Buy

25 complaints · 4 recalls

201586/100
Buy

21 complaints · 4 recalls

201294/100
Buybest year

12 complaints · 3 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2012?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2012 Lincoln Navigator’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 Navigator head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Lincoln Navigator 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.