Table 1 shows one common engine and engine cooling related problems of the 2013 Lincoln Navigator.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Engine And Engine Cooling problems |
While driving at approximately 65-70 mph on a major interstate, the engine experienced a sudden catastrophic failure without warning. This caused an immediate loss of power and power steering/braking assist, making the vehicle extremely difficult to control in high speed traffic. This sudden stall endangered my life and the lives of nearby motorists. A certified mechanic inspected the engine internals (via borescope) and identified that a valve seat had dropped in the #4 cylinder, causing it to impact and destroy the piston. This 'dropped valve seat' failure is a known defect in Ford/Lincoln 5. 4l engines. It occurred despite my meticulous maintenance history and constitutes a latent manufacturing defect that creates an unreasonable safety risk on public highways.
While operating my 2013 Lincoln Navigator under normal driving conditions, a spark plug ejected from the cylinder head, causing immediate and catastrophic engine failure. The engine lost power and began producing severe mechanical noise, creating a potential safety hazard due to sudden loss of propulsion. Inspection by both an independent mechanic and an authorized Ford dealership confirmed that the spark plug ejection allowed debris to enter the combustion chamber, destroying internal engine components. The vehicle was properly maintained and this failure occurred without warning. This issue appears consistent with known problems involving the Ford 5. 4l triton engine design. Ford motor company has refused to escalate or investigate the failure despite documentation. Ford motor company customer relationship center p. O. Box 6248 dearborn, mi 48126 goodwill assistance request & notice of latent defect vehicle: 2013 Lincoln Navigator – 5. 4l triton v8 VIN: [xxx] case number: to whom it may concern, I am the original purchaser and continuous owner of a 2013 Lincoln Navigator equipped with the 5. 4l triton engine. For more than three decades I have exclusively owned Ford and Lincoln vehicles, including multiple Lincoln Navigators, Ford expeditions, and Ford trucks — all purchased new. I also still own a 1991 Ford mustang 5. 0 gt convertible acquired new in 1992 and a 1999 Ford pickup currently exceeding 350,000 miles. My history reflects long-standing brand loyalty and confidence in Ford durability. This Navigator has been properly maintained throughout its life. Oil changes were performed approximately every 3,000 miles by both independent mechanics and authorized service facilities. The vehicle currently has approximately 140,000 miles and remains in exceptional cosmetic and interior condition. The vehicle has never been used for towing or severe duty. While operating under normal driving conditions, the check engine light illuminated and the engine imme information redacted pursuant to the freedom of informatio.