MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Lincoln Navigator L Safety

NHTSA safety across every Lincoln Navigator L model year we cover.

Across the 2 model years of the Lincoln Navigator L we cover (2025 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 86 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2026 at 84. 6 recalls have been issued across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial ◆ Reviewed against NHTSA data ◆ 2026-10-01

The Lincoln Navigator L is the extended-wheelbase version of Ford's flagship full-size luxury SUV, stretching to accommodate up to eight passengers in three rows of genuine premium space. Aimed squarely at buyers who want maximum presence, towing capability, and upscale comfort in a body-on-frame package, the Navigator L competes at the top of the American luxury SUV segment alongside rivals like the Cadillac Escalade ESV.

The 2025 Lincoln Navigator L's rollover resistance, at three out of five stars, stands as the most significant safety consideration for this large SUV. While expected given its height and mass, it is an important data point for prospective buyers. In contrast, its frontal and side crash protection earned a perfect five out of five stars in federal testing, demonstrating genuinely competitive performance within its class. The vehicle achieved a strong 86 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index. Six recalls have been issued for the 2025 model year; this number is above average and warrants checking specific VINs for open recall campaigns. Owner complaints total 11, with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among them. This low complaint volume is notable, especially for a flagship luxury vehicle, though the model year remains relatively new. The Navigator L offers robust protection in frontal and side impacts, balanced against its rollover rating and a recall record that merits attention.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Lincoln Navigator L for its exceptionally refined interior, smooth ride quality, and commanding road presence. Most agree it delivers a genuinely premium experience that competes credibly with European and domestic luxury rivals. Some reviewers note the tall, truck-based platform can feel less agile than car-based alternatives, but the overall reception is strongly positive for buyers prioritizing comfort and space.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The 2025 Navigator L earns five out of five stars in both federal frontal and side crash tests, placing it among the better performers in the full-size luxury SUV class on those two key measures.
  • Rollover resistance is rated at three out of five stars. The vehicle's height and weight are contributing factors, and buyers who frequently carry a full load of passengers should be aware of this limitation.
  • Six recalls have been issued for the 2025 model year. Before finalizing a purchase or taking delivery, check the NHTSA VIN lookup tool to confirm all open recalls on your specific vehicle have been remedied.
  • Owner complaints total 11 for the 2025 model year, with zero reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among those filings. While the complaint volume is low, the model year is still early in its lifecycle and that number may grow as more vehicles accumulate miles.

Safety Index by year

Most-recalled year on record: 2025 Lincoln Navigator L with 6 recalls.

BY YEARNavigator L by model year

Other Lincoln models