Lincoln Nautilus
The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 in the Nautilus is the strongest non-hybrid option and shares its architecture with the Bronco and Ranger. Recall 24S55 for brittle Silchrome intake valves covers units built May–October 2021. After remediation, a reliable everyday engine with strong low-rpm torque. Follow the 10,000-km oil change interval to protect the turbos.
V6 Option: More Reserve, More Enjoyment
The 315-hp V6 gives the Nautilus the temperament needed for clean passes and brisk highway travel. Recall 24S55 for affected 2021–2022 builds (May–October) is important to verify before purchase.
Engine Weaknesses 7
Over-hardened Silchrome Lite intake valves can fracture causing engine damage. Affects Nautilus 2021–2022 with 2.7L V6 built May–October 2021. Ford recall 24S55 — free engine replacement.
Symptoms: Engine misfires, power loss, loud knocking noise, possible engine failure.
The 2.7L EcoBoost cam phasers in the MKX II rattle for several seconds on cold starts. Early 2015–2016 builds are more affected. Similar to the 3.5L EcoBoost issue with Ford TSB coverage; replacement of all four VCT units possible.
Symptoms: Loud rattle on cold start lasting 2–5 seconds, disappears when oil warms up. Possible P000A/P000B codes in severe cases.
Even with the 2.7L V6, the 8F35 automatic shows shift shudder behavior. TSB 25-2154 PCM reflash fixes the issue in most vehicles.
Symptoms: Lurch when upshifting 1-2-3, especially in cold weather with light throttle.
Direct injection on the 2.7L EcoBoost without port spray; deposits typically begin around 65,000 km and degrade cold start quality and idle smoothness.
Symptoms: Hard cold start, rough idle, mild power loss at low rpm.
The oil pan gasket and valve cover gaskets on the 2.7L EcoBoost are prone to seepage on older builds (2015–2018). Typically a slow drip rather than a critical leak.
Symptoms: Small oil drops under the vehicle, oil smell after driving, slow oil level drop without warning light.
The plastic oil pan on the 2.7L EcoBoost can develop leaks, typically from around 60,000 km. Gasket or pan replacement required.
Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, slight oil consumption, smell of burning oil.
Direct injection without port spray allows carbon deposits to accumulate on valve faces, reducing cylinder fill and increasing fuel consumption.
Symptoms: Light power loss, rough cold start.
Vehicle Weaknesses 4
The 2019 Nautilus is the most complained-about model year with 46 total complaints — 18 transmission issues alone. Chimicles law firm filed a class action. TSB 25-2154 PCM reflash and in severe cases torque converter or transmission replacement needed.
The SYNC 3 APIM module can freeze or fail completely. WiFi or USB software update resolves many cases. Out-of-warranty APIM replacement costs up to $2,500. Recall 19C03 addressed blank IPC display.
Body seals under the rear taillights can fail and direct rainwater into the spare tire well and rear footwells. Out-of-warranty repair costs around $2,200.
The panoramic sunroof panel track can come loose, allowing water entry. 2019–2020 models more frequently affected; components were updated for 2021.
