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Lincoln Navigator El: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2025 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 · 2014 93 · 2013 91 · 2016 87

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

202285/100
Buy

20 complaints · 0 recalls

202164/100
Caution

30 complaints · 12 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202086/100
Buy

28 complaints · 0 recalls

201985/100
Buy

47 complaints · 0 recalls

201864/100
Caution

49 complaints · 12 recalls

201781/100
Buy

30 complaints · 5 recalls

201687/100
Buy

25 complaints · 4 recalls

201586/100
Buy

21 complaints · 4 recalls

201493/100
Buy

17 complaints · 0 recalls

201391/100
Buy

13 complaints · 0 recalls

201294/100
Buybest year

12 complaints · 3 recalls

201164/100
Unproven

9 complaints · 0 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 El’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

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

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