There's plenty of jam--though you'll pay for it at the pumps. Many owners report being dissatisfied with the fuel consumption of their Aviators--even those coming out of other SUV models. Lincoln's engineers specified the engine to run on premium fuel as well.
Other frequent day-to-day gripes deal with a lack of rear-seat legroom and the light-colored interior easily showing dirt and stains.
The Aviator redeems itself on even more levels than it disappoints. Features like climate-controlled seats and satellite navigation are commonly raved about, and the ownership community boasts that their beloved Aviator packs a hard-to-match level of bang-for-the-buck. Exceptional ride and handling characteristics and plenty of storage space are delivered as well.
Lincoln made sure that owners and their families had plenty of peace of mind and confidence during their travels by installing standard driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags as well as four-wheel disc brakes as standard.
A stability control and traction control system were also available to keep the five-thousand-pound truck on its best behavior in slippery conditions. Eventually, tire-pressure monitoring and roll stability control became standard equipment as the Aviator neared death.
Thinking of test-driving an Aviator as a possible contender for your next used SUV? A few common problems should be checked out beforehand.
An ABS warning light on the dashboard may be a result of a failed vehicle speed sensor, and noisy air conditioning may require the replacement of the expansion valve.
Turn off all accessories, find a quiet parking lot, and turn in a tight circle--listening for unusual noises from up front. A known power-steering issue may make itself heard in the form of squealing and squeaking from under the hood. The solution is to install a different type of power steering fluid or to replace the steering gear--depending on the severity.
Get underneath and check for oil leaks while paying careful attention to differential and transfer case areas. Aviator is known for axle seals which become loose and wind up within the axle housing, a problem which requires replacement of the entire assembly.
Any signs of oil leakage or streaking on the vehicle underside should be investigated. If you're not comfortable underneath, this vital check can be left to a mechanic with a hoist. They'll be able to check the condition of suspension components and bushings while the vehicle is off the ground, ensuring that it hasn't been subjected to excessive wear or abuse.
You'll also want to inspect dealer service records on the Aviator from the previous owner to see if maintenance has been kept up to date. Perform any fluid changes or other work that may need to be carried out.
If a thorough check-out comes back with a thumbs-up, Aviator comes off as a great buy if the price is right. It's one of the most capable machines in its class, as well as one of the toughest. Ford's sturdy truck platform and reliable V8 engine have met Lincoln's brand of American luxury for mainly worry-free operation in any situation, on any road.
photo:Lincoln
Other frequent day-to-day gripes deal with a lack of rear-seat legroom and the light-colored interior easily showing dirt and stains.
The Aviator redeems itself on even more levels than it disappoints. Features like climate-controlled seats and satellite navigation are commonly raved about, and the ownership community boasts that their beloved Aviator packs a hard-to-match level of bang-for-the-buck. Exceptional ride and handling characteristics and plenty of storage space are delivered as well.
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Lincoln made sure that owners and their families had plenty of peace of mind and confidence during their travels by installing standard driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags as well as four-wheel disc brakes as standard.
A stability control and traction control system were also available to keep the five-thousand-pound truck on its best behavior in slippery conditions. Eventually, tire-pressure monitoring and roll stability control became standard equipment as the Aviator neared death.
Thinking of test-driving an Aviator as a possible contender for your next used SUV? A few common problems should be checked out beforehand.
An ABS warning light on the dashboard may be a result of a failed vehicle speed sensor, and noisy air conditioning may require the replacement of the expansion valve.
Turn off all accessories, find a quiet parking lot, and turn in a tight circle--listening for unusual noises from up front. A known power-steering issue may make itself heard in the form of squealing and squeaking from under the hood. The solution is to install a different type of power steering fluid or to replace the steering gear--depending on the severity.
Get underneath and check for oil leaks while paying careful attention to differential and transfer case areas. Aviator is known for axle seals which become loose and wind up within the axle housing, a problem which requires replacement of the entire assembly.
Any signs of oil leakage or streaking on the vehicle underside should be investigated. If you're not comfortable underneath, this vital check can be left to a mechanic with a hoist. They'll be able to check the condition of suspension components and bushings while the vehicle is off the ground, ensuring that it hasn't been subjected to excessive wear or abuse.
You'll also want to inspect dealer service records on the Aviator from the previous owner to see if maintenance has been kept up to date. Perform any fluid changes or other work that may need to be carried out.
If a thorough check-out comes back with a thumbs-up, Aviator comes off as a great buy if the price is right. It's one of the most capable machines in its class, as well as one of the toughest. Ford's sturdy truck platform and reliable V8 engine have met Lincoln's brand of American luxury for mainly worry-free operation in any situation, on any road.
photo:Lincoln
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