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U152 · SUV

2003 Lincoln Aviator

Common problems & what to know before you buy

Before you message the seller, know the documented failure patterns, repair cost exposure, and risk level for the 2003 Lincoln Aviator.

Safety record

Recalls on the 2003 Lincoln Aviator

Recall·02V313000

Power train: automatic transmission

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE CAN BECOME DISLODGED FROM THE SHIFT CABLE BRACKET.

Source: NHTSA

Owner complaints

What 111 owners reported

Power train50
Engine and engine cooling12
Structure10
Air bags7

Source: NHTSA

Specifications

2003 Lincoln Aviator at a glance

Trims
LuxuryUltimate
Engine
4.6L 8-Cylinder
Transmission
Automatic 5-spd
Drivetrain
RWD, AWD
Fuel
Gasoline
Body style
SUV
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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What are the common problems with the 2003 Lincoln Aviator?

Owners have filed 111 complaints about the 2003 Lincoln Aviator with NHTSA, most often about the power train. There is 1 recall campaign covering this model year. Squeezed's free research-backed buyer guide cross-references these against documented failure patterns and mileage-stage risks, sorted by severity, in about a minute.

Is the 2003 Lincoln Aviator reliable?

Reliability depends heavily on the specific configuration and how the car was maintained. Start with the 1 open recall campaign on this model year and confirm the work was completed. Generate a Squeezed buyer guide for this exact vehicle to see a reliability snapshot, repair-cost exposure, and the questions to ask the seller before you buy.

Should I still get a pre-purchase inspection on a 2003 Lincoln Aviator?

Always. A Squeezed buyer guide is the triage step before the inspection: it shows you the documented failure patterns and what to check so you can decide which 2003 Lincoln Aviator listings are even worth a mechanic's time, then walk into the PPI knowing exactly what to look for.

Squeezed is a buyer guide based on public data and industry patterns, not a mechanical inspection. Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection before you buy.