Lincoln Grand Touring
The 3.0L TT V6 in the Aviator is a more heavily cooled variant of the Cyclone block with reinforced main bearings. Pre-May 2020 builds had a 10R60 A-clutch snap ring issue — resolved by summer 2020. Recall 24S55 for brittle Silchrome intake valves covers June–October 2021 build dates. The PHEV Grand Touring pairs the V6 with a 47-kWh battery pack and a rear electric axle.
494-hp PHEV — When Electric and Turbo V6 Combine
The Grand Touring PHEV pairs the 400-hp V6 with a rear electric axle for 494 hp combined. Electric-only launch is smooth and brisk; the V6 joining in adds another dimension. For mostly local driving, the EV range often means the engine barely wakes up.
Engine Weaknesses 5
Over-hardened Silchrome Lite intake valves can fracture and cause catastrophic engine failure. Affects Aviator 2021–2022 built June–October 2021. Ford recall 24S55 — engine replacement at no cost.
Symptoms: Engine misfires, power loss, loud knocking, possible complete engine failure.
The AC compressor pulley can cut through wire harness insulation and cause a vehicle fire. Affects ~41,000 Aviators (2020–2021, 3.0L gas). Free repair at dealer.
Symptoms: Burning smell from engine bay, warning lights, visible scorching on wire harness.
The 3.0L EcoBoost in the Aviator can develop cam phaser rattle at cold startup. Less severe than in the 3.5L Navigator, but worth monitoring.
Symptoms: Brief rattling immediately after a cold start, disappears once oil reaches operating temperature.
The 6F35 in the 3.0T MKZ can develop torque converter shudder and delayed shifts at high mileage. Regular fluid changes extend service life.
Symptoms: Shudder between 40–65 mph, jerky upshifts, hesitation from a stop.
Direct injection without port spray means intake valves accumulate carbon deposits over time. Cleaning every 80,000–100,000 km is recommended.
Symptoms: Poor cold starts, rough idle, mild power loss.
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
In pre-May 2020 builds, the A-clutch snap ring in the 10R60 can dislodge and destroy the clutch pack. Repair cost: clutch set to $5,000, full transmission to $11,000. Fixed by build changes from summer 2020.
The driveshaft weld can fracture and allow the shaft to contact the fuel tank, creating a fire risk. Affects 2020 Aviator AWD. Free dealer repair.
LG lithium-ion cells in the Aviator Grand Touring PHEV battery pack can short-circuit and catch fire (folded anode tab). Ford replaces the battery pack free of charge.
The HV battery discharge control can trigger a Stop Safely Now event while driving (DTC P1A0C). Ford Engineering confirmed nearly every PHEV Aviator is affected. PCM software update resolves it.
Electromagnetic interference from cell phones can disrupt the APIM module and disable the backup camera. Affects ~109,000 Aviators 2020–2024. Ford adds shielding at no cost.
The RACM module stays active too long and drains the 12V battery, especially when the vehicle sits unused for a few days. RACM software update resolves the issue.
Factory-crimped panoramic roof drain tubes on 2020 Aviators trap water and direct it into the A-pillar or interior. Dealers must replace or re-route the drain tubes.
