MODEL
Lincoln Nautilus Safety
NHTSA safety across every Lincoln Nautilus model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Lincoln Nautilus we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 94 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 87. 33 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Lincoln Nautilus is a two-row luxury midsize SUV that competes in one of the most crowded and demanding segments in the American market. Aimed squarely at buyers who want premium refinement without stepping up to a full-size footprint, the Nautilus has served as Lincoln's core volume entry since its 2019 debut, offering a quieter, more polished alternative to its mainstream Ford Edge sibling.
The Lincoln Nautilus, across its 2019 to 2025 model years, presents a complex safety profile. Its structural performance in crash tests is genuinely strong: the 2022 model year, for instance, earns an Exceptional NHTSA Safety Index of 94 out of 100. This is supported by five-star ratings in both frontal and side impact testing. The vehicle also achieves a four-star rollover rating, which is a common result for SUVs of its type. However, the Nautilus's recall record tempers this positive assessment. A total of 33 recalls across just seven model years represents a notably high volume for a premium vehicle. While many recalls are precautionary, such a quantity suggests a recurring need for dealer service attention. Owner complaints across these model years total 189. Among these unverified allegations, 9 reported crashes and 3 reported injuries are noted. The Nautilus thus earns credit for its robust crash-test results, but its recall history requires careful research by specific model year prior to purchase. Verify all open recalls at NHTSA.gov before any transaction.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Nautilus for its hushed, upscale cabin and smooth ride quality, positioning it as one of the more genuinely luxurious options in the mainstream premium SUV segment. Most find it a comfortable and well-appointed daily driver, though some note that its driving dynamics and technology features feel more conservative compared to European rivals at similar price points.
- The 2022 Nautilus represents the high-water mark in our covered range, earning a 94 out of 100 Safety Index rated Exceptional, with five-star frontal and side crash scores making it the model year to prioritize if safety performance is your top filter.
- Thirty-three recalls across 2019 to 2025 is a high count for a luxury nameplate. Before buying any specific model year, check NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls have been remedied, and ask the seller for documented service records.
- The rollover rating holds at four out of five stars across strong-performing years, which is typical for a vehicle of this ride height but is a meaningful step below its frontal and side scores. Buyers who frequently carry passengers should factor this in.
- Owner-reported complaints include 9 alleged crashes and 3 alleged injuries across the covered years. These are unverified allegations submitted to NHTSA, not confirmed incidents, but reviewing the specific complaint narratives on NHTSA.gov can surface patterns worth discussing with a dealer or independent mechanic before purchase.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Lincoln Nautilus with 8 recalls.