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2016 Lincoln Navigator Report

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

Updated Jun 11, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2016 Lincoln Navigator Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Navigator's primary ownership concern is the brake master cylinder recall, which directly impacts stopping power. Confirm this repair is completed.
  • Rearview camera failures are another recurring issue. Verify its functionality during your inspection.
  • With a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, expect potential repair costs beyond routine maintenance.
  • Fuel economy is modest, with a combined EPA rating of 16 MPG, contributing to higher running costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Lincoln Navigator

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV that offers substantial passenger and cargo space. Under the hood, it's powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering adequate power for its size. This model year saw a notable number of recalls, with critical components like the brake master cylinder and rearview camera systems being affected. While consumer complaints are low, the high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and recalls suggests a complex vehicle with potential for underlying issues that may require attention.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate potential issues with the brake master cylinder, which can lead to reduced braking performance or complete brake failure. This is a critical safety concern.

Early detection can help you avoid a $600-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls15
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
16
MPG
City
15
MPG
Highway
19
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing passenger space and towing capability over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking minimal repair costs and maximum reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Lincoln Navigator Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
16

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See the full 2016 Lincoln Navigator buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Brake Master Cylinder 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 System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
15 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Lincoln Navigator reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 15. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Lincoln Navigator for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 16 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

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 System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Master Cylinder (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $1,000).

What engine is in the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2016 Lincoln Navigator use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

EPA combined estimate is 16 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Lincoln Navigator use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

This model year has 15 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Lincoln Navigator?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Chevrolet Suburban and 2016 Ford Expedition.

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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