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2021 Lincoln Nautilus Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 11, 2026·Daniel Wilson·1 Critical Recall
2021 Lincoln Nautilus Report

Overall Score

7.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Nautilus earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts.
  • A critical engine recall (24V635000) addresses potential internal hard part failure, a significant concern for long-term durability.
  • The vehicle has a high TSB count (19), suggesting a higher than average number of minor issues or service advisories.
  • Despite a high TSB count and a critical recall, there are no logged owner complaints in the provided data.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Lincoln Nautilus

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus presents itself as a refined, comfortable mid-size luxury SUV. It boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, achieving 5 stars overall, with perfect scores in frontal and side crash tests. The standard 2.7L V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provides capable performance. However, a significant engine recall concerning internal hard parts and a substantial number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest potential reliability concerns that warrant careful consideration for used car shoppers. While owner complaints are notably absent, the underlying mechanical issues highlighted by recalls and TSBs necessitate a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall (24V635000) addresses the potential for intake valves to break, leading to engine failure and loss of drive power. This indicates a significant manufacturing defect.

Early detection can help you avoid a $4,000-$8,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

3.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a comfortable and quiet cabin experience.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing bulletproof long-term reliability and minimal unscheduled repairs.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Lincoln Nautilus Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Engine Internal Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Rearview Camera Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $125 - $200

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 3.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,000 • Max: $8,000+).

What engine is in the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 2.7.

What transmission does the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

14 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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