2021 Lincoln Nautilus VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 18 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (7), Structure (3), Electrical System (2).
Nautilus reliability snapshot
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Lincoln Nautilus before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Most-reported 2021 Lincoln Nautilus issues
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
- Power Train7
- Structure3
- Electrical System2
- Back Over Prevention2
- Engine And Engine Cooling2
- Engine1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
- Test transmission for jerking or hesitation during acceleration
- Inspect driver’s side door for cracking sounds or broken check arms
- Check trunk operation for unexpected closures
- Verify backup camera for real-time display accuracy
- Ensure Powertrain Control Module (PCM) functions correctly
- Confirm recall repairs are completed, especially for engine cooling issues
2021 Nautilus recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Nautilus. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
- BACK OVER PREVENTIONNHTSA 25V315000May 9, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024 Navigator, and 2023-2024 Corsair vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to delay, freeze, or not display when the vehicle is in reverse.
Consequence: A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on June 26, 2025. Additional letters will be mailed once the final remedy is available on each phase. Owner notification letters were sent on October 8, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S49.
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGNHTSA 24V635000Aug 23, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
2021 Lincoln Nautilus on the road
24,443 2021 Lincoln Nautilus units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus
The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus scores a 73 out of 100, aligning it precisely with the segment average for reliability. This indicates a moderate reliability profile, with neither significant strengths nor glaring weaknesses compared to its peers. The vehicle's complaints are somewhat concentrated, with the power train being the most frequently mentioned issue, suggesting potential concerns in this area.
The Nautilus has experienced two recalls, which can be described as limited, suggesting no systemic reliability problems. The distribution of issues across several categories, including structure and electrical systems, implies a need for prospective buyers to be aware of diverse, albeit not severe, concerns.
Overall, the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus presents a moderate reliability risk, matching the segment average and suggesting a balanced approach to reliability expectations.
What you get in a 2021 Lincoln Nautilus report
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2021 Lincoln Nautilus — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus reliable?
The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus scores a 73 out of 100, aligning it precisely with the segment average for reliability. This indicates a moderate reliability profile, with neither significant strengths nor glaring weaknesses compared to its peers. The vehicle's complaints are somewhat concentrated, with the power train being the most frequently mentioned issue, suggesting potential concerns in this area.
How many recalls does the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Lincoln Nautilus problems?
The most-reported 2021 Lincoln Nautilus problem areas are: Power Train (7), Structure (3), Electrical System (2).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Lincoln Nautilus?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Lincoln Nautilus, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.