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Lincoln · Known Issues

2023 Lincoln Nautilus Problems: 5 Known Issues

2023 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus has 5 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Incorrectly manufactured rear shock absorbers damage rear brake hose (recall 23V439 / Ford 23S32) ($0-$0 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Nautilus Suspension1
  • Nautilus Engine1
  • Nautilus Body/Panels1
  • Nautilus Electrical1
  • Nautilus Brakes1
  • Recalls16
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Suspension1
  • Engine1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Electrical1
  • Brakes1

All 5 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS20262025202420232022202120202019

On the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus, ford recalled certain 2023 Lincoln Nautilus SUVs built February 20 - March 9, 2023 because the rear shock absorbers were manufactured with the shock-rod stopper support not securely crimped in the rod groove, allowing excessive rebound travel. The over-travel can allow the shock to contact and damage the rear brake hose, rear axle half-shaft, rear wheel-speed sensor, and/or stabilizer-bar end links. A damaged brake hose can leak fluid and extend stopping distance, increasing crash risk. About 366 vehicles were affected. This is a distinct suspension/braking safety defect.

This issue also affects: Ford Bronco, Ford Escape

Common Symptoms

  • Excessive rear rebound/bounce
  • Rear-end clunk or noise over bumps
  • Damaged/leaking rear brake hose
  • Longer braking distance
  • Damaged rear wheel-speed sensor or half-shaft

How to Fix

Under recall 23S32 (NHTSA 23V439000), dealers inspect and, as necessary, replace the rear shock absorbers, rear brake hoses, rear wheel-speed sensor, and rear half-shafts free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2023. Owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and reference recall 23S32.

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Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 2019-2023 Lincoln Nautilus 2.7L EcoBoost V6, nautilus models with the optional 2.7L EcoBoost V6 produce a ticking, tapping, or rattle noise from the top-front-cover area of the engine on initial start-up after a cold soak of 6 hours or more, lasting roughly 2-5 seconds. Ford TSB 23-2356 (superseding 22-2376 and 23-2049) attributes the noise to stuck internal components in the variable cam timing (VCT) / cam phaser units. Left unaddressed it can set crank/cam correlation codes (P0016). It is a well-documented EcoBoost cam-phaser pattern failure also seen on the F-150 2.7L.

This issue also affects: Ford Bronco, Ford Edge, Ford Escape

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking/tapping/rattle from front of engine for 2-5 seconds on cold start
  • Noise only after the car sits 6+ hours
  • Noise diminishes once oil pressure builds
  • Possible check engine light with cam/crank correlation codes at higher mileage

How to Fix

Per TSB 23-2356 the prescribed repair is to replace all four VCT (cam phaser) units — a substantial ~14.7-hour labor job. Using the correct oil viscosity and avoiding extended oil-change intervals helps slow phaser wear. Many out-of-warranty owners report Ford goodwill covering a large portion (one owner quoted ~$2,600 with ~2/3 covered at 88k miles).

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Ford L1MZ-6256-E intake VCT/camshaft sprocket, two required
    OEML1MZ-6256-E

    Replace both intake VCT units on a TSB-confirmed 2019-2023 Nautilus 2.7L repair Fitment/availability: Live Ships in 1-2 Business Days/Add to Cart page identifies current L1MZ-6256-E, superseding -A/-B/-C/-D, and lists 2019-2023 Lincoln N…

    FordPartsGiant
  • Genuine Ford L1MZ-6C525-C exhaust VCT unit, two required
    OEML1MZ-6C525-C

    Replace both exhaust VCT units on a TSB-confirmed 2019-2023 Nautilus 2.7L repair Fitment/availability: Live Ships in 1-2 Business Days/Add to Cart page identifies L1MZ-6C525-C, replaces -A and lists 2019-2023 Lincoln Nautilus 2.7L. Do no…

    FordPartsGiant
  • Genuine Ford CP9Z-6279-C VCT-unit bolt, four required
    OEMCP9Z-6279-C

    Confirm the current supersession and quantity for th

    FordPartsGiant

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $3,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2019-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, the hands-free power liftgate frequently becomes intermittent or fully inoperative on first-generation (2019-2023) Nautilus. The system uses a single electric motor on the driver's side plus a gas strut on the passenger side; failures include the motor straining without the latch releasing, the gate not responding to the fob/dash button/kick sensor, and the gate opening or closing on its own while parked. Ford documents that many 2019-2020 cases are Rear Gate Trunk Module (RGTM) software, while others are a weak motor or a worn gas support strut (one owner quoted ~$1,200 for struts).

This issue also affects: Ford Bronco

Common Symptoms

  • Liftgate won't open or close with fob, dash button, or kick gesture
  • Motor runs/strains but latch doesn't release
  • Liftgate opens or closes by itself while parked
  • Gate stops partway or won't hold position
  • Intermittent operation that comes and goes

How to Fix

Start with an RGTM software reprogram and a power-liftgate re-initialization procedure, which resolves many no-open/erratic cases without parts. If the gate is mechanically weak or won't hold position, replace the failing gas support strut and/or the liftgate drive motor. Verify the kick-sensor and latch operation after repair.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Ford FA1Z-14B351-A driver-side power-liftgate drive motor
    OEMFA1Z-14B351-A

    Replace a driver-side power spindle/drive motor proven failed after RGTM programming and circuit/mechanical tests Fitment/availability: Live Ships/Add to Cart direct page identifies FA1Z-14B351-A and 2019-2023 Nautilus fitment. Catalog l…

    FordPartsGiant
  • Genuine Ford FA1Z-58406A10-B passenger-side power-liftgate gas support
    OEMFA1Z-58406A10-B

    Confirm VIN/equipment and su

    FordPartsGiant
  • Genuine Ford FA1Z-7443150-B power-liftgate latch assembly
    OEMFA1Z-7443150-B

    Confirm VIN and latch diagnosis; do not replace it for a fai

    FordPartsGiant

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $1,300

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2019-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, first-generation Nautilus owners widely report the SYNC 3 center touchscreen freezing, going completely black, or spontaneously rebooting while driving — sometimes leaving only the backup camera working. Symptoms point to memory corruption in the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module / SYNC module) software rather than the display panel itself, so a black or frozen screen usually traces to the APIM. Distinct from the 2024+ panoramic/center-display reboot recall (25V337), which is the newer multimedia module on the redesigned model.

This issue also affects: Ford Bronco, Ford F-150, Ford Focus

Common Symptoms

  • Center screen freezes / unresponsive to touch
  • Screen goes completely black except backup camera
  • Infotainment reboots itself while driving
  • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto drops or won't connect
  • Audio and navigation glitches

How to Fix

Try a SYNC master reset (hold the power/volume button and Seek-Right for 10 seconds) and install the latest SYNC 3 software via USB or OTA. If freezes recur, the APIM module is reprogrammed or replaced by the dealer; updating to the current software level resolves most memory-related lockups. A pending USB drive update can also stop the reboot loop.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $900

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2022-2024 Lincoln Nautilus, owners of the redesigned 2024 Nautilus (and some 2022-2023 cars) report a loud groan, grunt, or grinding noise from the front brakes as the vehicle comes to a complete stop, more pronounced in cooler temperatures and often fading once the brakes warm. Ford service message SSM 52556 ('Front Brake Grunt Noise') ties it to the front rotor material/finish. Lincoln revised the rotors on the production line starting June 16, 2024, with service replacement parts following in Q3; many early-2024 owners reported rotors on nationwide backorder.

Common Symptoms

  • Groan / grunt noise from front brakes just before the car stops
  • Noise worse when brakes are cold or in cool weather
  • Noise dissipates after brakes warm up
  • Rear brake squeak/squeal in some cars

How to Fix

Dealer remedy is to install the revised front rotors (and, for squeal complaints, an updated rear brake-pad shim kit). It is a noise/quality concern, not a stopping-performance failure; replacement is covered under the new-vehicle warranty. Owners experiencing backorder should ask the dealer to document the concern so it stays covered.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Ford PZ1Z-1125-B revised front brake rotor, two required
    OEMPZ1Z-1125-B

    Replace both front rotors on a bulletin-confirmed redesigned 2024 Nautilus front-brake grunt repair Fitment/availability: Live Ships/Add to Cart direct page identifies PZ1Z-1125-B, lists Lincoln Nautilus fitment and positions the rotor f…

    FordPartsGiant

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $600

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
NHTSA Recalls16 recalls

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Ranger and 2024 Lincoln Nautilus vehicles. When closing the windows with the global closing feature, the windows may not automatically reverse after detecting an object. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."

Campaign #24V59700009/08/2024

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Lincoln Nautilus vehicles. The window automatic reversal system may not react correctly after detecting an obstruction, and the window reversal distance does not meet the minimum requirement. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."

Campaign #24V95300020/12/2024

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Ranger and 2024 Lincoln Nautilus vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-597. When closing the windows with the global closing feature, the windows may not automatically reverse after detecting an object. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Lincoln Nautilus problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Incorrectly manufactured rear shock absorbers damage rear brake hose (recall 23V439 / Ford 23S32), 2.7L EcoBoost cold-start VCT rattle (top-front-cover tick/tap on startup), Power liftgate inoperative / opens or closes on its own (RGTM software, motor, strut). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Lincoln Nautilus reliable?

The 2023 Lincoln Nautilus has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Incorrectly manufactured rear shock absorbers damage rear brake hose (recall 23V439 / Ford 23S32). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Lincoln Nautilus problems?

Repair costs for known Lincoln Nautilus issues range from $0 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Incorrectly manufactured rear shock absorbers damage rear brake hose (recall 23V439 / Ford 23S32), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus Incorrectly manufactured rear shock absorbers damage rear brake hose (recall 23V439 / Ford 23S32)?

Ford recalled certain 2023 Lincoln Nautilus SUVs built February 20 - March 9, 2023 because the rear shock absorbers were manufactured with the shock-rod stopper support not securely crimped in the rod groove, allowing excessive rebound travel. The over-travel can allow the shock… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2019-2023 Lincoln Nautilus 2.7L EcoBoost cold-start VCT rattle (top-front-cover tick/tap on startup)?

Nautilus models with the optional 2.7L EcoBoost V6 produce a ticking, tapping, or rattle noise from the top-front-cover area of the engine on initial start-up after a cold soak of 6 hours or more, lasting roughly 2-5 seconds. Ford TSB 23-2356 (superseding 22-2376 and 23-2049) att… Repairs typically run $0-$3,500. Severity: medium.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Recalls
16
  • FAQ
  • Campaign #25V23700011/04/2025

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Nautilus vehicles. The multimedia module software may cause the panoramic and center displays to reboot, resulting in a blank screen. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 111, "Rear Visibility," and 102, "Transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock, and transmission braking effect," as well as FMVSS numbers 126, 108, 135, 138, 208, 101, and 305.

    Campaign #25V33700023/05/2025

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Lincoln Nautilus, 2023-2025 Escape, 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2025 Lincoln Corsair, Maverick, and Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L MPC engine and an engine block heater. The engine block heater may overheat when the vehicle is parked with the block heater plugged in.

    Campaign #25V34300023/05/2025

    + 11 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

    Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

    What is the 2019-2023 Lincoln Nautilus Power liftgate inoperative / opens or closes on its own (RGTM software, motor, strut)?

    The hands-free power liftgate frequently becomes intermittent or fully inoperative on first-generation (2019-2023) Nautilus. The system uses a single electric motor on the driver's side plus a gas strut on the passenger side; failures include the motor straining without the latch… Repairs typically run $150-$1,300. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2023 Lincoln Nautilus SYNC 3 / APIM infotainment freezes, black-screens, and reboots?

    First-generation Nautilus owners widely report the SYNC 3 center touchscreen freezing, going completely black, or spontaneously rebooting while driving — sometimes leaving only the backup camera working. Symptoms point to memory corruption in the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interfac… Repairs typically run $0-$900. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2022-2024 Lincoln Nautilus Front brake groan/grunt noise on stopping (rotor material defect)?

    Owners of the redesigned 2024 Nautilus (and some 2022-2023 cars) report a loud groan, grunt, or grinding noise from the front brakes as the vehicle comes to a complete stop, more pronounced in cooler temperatures and often fading once the brakes warm. Ford service message SSM 525… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: low.