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Which Years Of Used Lincoln Nautilus Vehicles Are Most Reliable?

in Reliability
Blue Lincoln Nautilus parked on a street

Lincoln Nautilus by Kevauto - CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Lincoln Nautilus, a midsize luxury SUV, is known for its elegant design, comfortable ride, and advanced tech features. When buying a used vehicle, it’s important to consider reliability, and for those looking at this particular model, identifying the most reliable Lincoln Nautilus year can guide a savvy purchase.

The Nautilus first entered the market in 2019, replacing the Lincoln MKX, and since then, it has earned a good reputation for its performance and build quality. However, as with any vehicle, some years are more reliable than others. This article delves into which years of the used Lincoln Nautilus are seen as the most reliable, based on data from various sources and user reports.


THE LINCOLN NAUTILUS YEARS TO AVOID

As a potential buyer, understanding the Lincoln Nautilus years to avoid can give you a significant edge while hunting for used options.


Most Reliable Years For The Lincoln Nautilus

The Lincoln Nautilus began its production in 2019 as a rebranded and updated version of the Lincoln MKX. Since then, it has largely demonstrated strong reliability, especially in the 2020 and 2021 model years. These years have reported fewer mechanical issues, and many owners praise the SUV’s smooth driving dynamics, roomy interior, and abundant standard features.

  • 2020 Lincoln Nautilus
  • 2021 Lincoln Nautilus

It is important to remember that every used vehicle’s condition depends heavily on its maintenance history and how it was driven by its previous owners. As such, a well-cared-for Nautilus from these years could potentially offer a more reliable ride than a neglected one from a later model year. However, based on the available reliability data, the 2020 and 2021 Lincoln Nautilus are the most reliable years to consider if you’re in the market for this luxury midsize SUV.


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Are Lincoln Nautilus Vehicles Generally Reliable?

Lincoln Nautilus vehicles have been a consistent Consumer Reports reliability favorite, offering owners a refined driving experience with minimal issues. Its powerful engine options, coupled with an elegant cabin full of high-quality materials, make it a favorite among luxury midsize SUVs. The comfort and smoothness of its ride also contribute to its reputation for reliability. US News & World Report also rates the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus’s reliability at 88100.

Not only that, Lincoln as a brand has shown consistent improvement in many industry-wide reliability studies. Therefore, while it’s important to remember that each vehicle can vary in dependability based on factors like care and maintenance, the Lincoln Nautilus is generally seen as a reliable choice for those seeking a used luxury SUV.

Which Lincoln Nautilus Years Are The Least Reliable?

While the Lincoln Nautilus has generally proven to be a reliable vehicle, the 2019 model year has shown more issues than its successors. This is somewhat expected, as the first year of a new model often has some kinks to work out. 

Owners have reported occasional issues with the electronics and infotainment system, specifically with the screen freezing or the system rebooting. Some have also mentioned transmission problems and concerns about build quality. These problems are not pervasive across all 2019 models, but they have been reported more frequently than in the 2020 and 2021 model years.

Are Lincoln Nautilus Vehicles Expensive To Maintain?

As with any luxury vehicle, the cost of maintaining a Lincoln Nautilus can be higher than that of an economy or mid-range vehicle. This can be attributed to the premium parts used in its construction and the specialized service needed for its advanced features. However, the Nautilus is not excessively costly to maintain when compared to other vehicles in its class. 

According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for a Lincoln Nautilus is about $879. This is on par with the median for luxury midsize SUVs and significantly lower than the average for all models. Regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotation, and brake checks can go a long way towards preventing larger, more expensive repairs down the line.


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Which Lincoln Nautilus Is Most Reliable?

Given the Lincoln Nautilus’ relatively recent debut, there are fewer model years to analyze for long-term reliability. However, based on the available data, the 2020 and 2021 model years stand out as the most reliable. These vehicles have fewer reported issues than the 2019 model, which experienced some teething problems in its debut year. 

The 2020 and 2021 Nautilus models appear to have benefited from the feedback and improvements made after the inaugural year, and both have incredible scores from J.D. Power. They showcase better reliability ratings, boasting the refined ride quality and smooth performance the Nautilus is known for. But, as with any used vehicle purchase, it’s essential to get a comprehensive inspection to ensure you’re making a sound investment.

What Are The Common Lincoln Nautilus Problems?

Like any vehicle, the Lincoln Nautilus has had some reported issues, especially with the earlier models. The most frequently cited problems involve the electrical system and the transmission. Some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s infotainment system, such as unresponsive touch screens or glitches with Bluetooth connectivity. 

Others have experienced rough transmission shifts or even failure, especially in the 2019 model. In addition, a few instances of premature brake wear and air conditioning system issues have been reported. However, it’s essential to note that these issues are not widespread and Lincoln has addressed many of these concerns in subsequent models.

Is The Lincoln Nautilus Worth It?

The Lincoln Nautilus offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and reliability. Its sleek design, comfortable cabin, and advanced features make it a desirable option in the luxury midsize SUV category. 

According to Repairpal, however, there are maintenance costs and potential issues to consider, its relative affordability compared to other luxury SUVs, combined with its reputation for reliability, make it a worthwhile consideration for those seeking a used luxury SUV.


THE 10 MOST RELIABLE USED SEDANS

If you’re ready to start shopping for a used car and reliability is a priority for you, take a look at our list of the top 10 most reliable used sedans on the market today. 


Final Thoughts

When looking at the most reliable Lincoln Nautilus year, it’s clear that the newer models, particularly the 2020 and 2021, stand out as top choices. However, every used vehicle comes with its unique history, so a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is crucial.

While some maintenance costs and potential issues are associated with owning a Lincoln Nautilus, its blend of luxury and performance makes it a compelling option in the luxury SUV segment.



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