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Service bulletins for the 2021 Lincoln Aviator

A bulletin is a manufacturer's communication to its dealers, as NHTSA indexes it. The summary is NHTSA's. The document is the manufacturer's: read it at NHTSA. A bulletin is not a recall, and listing a model year does not mean every vehicle of it is concerned.

271 on file from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

By type

By component

By trouble code

Bulletins, newest first
SSM 518242023-08-11. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR. 2020-2023 Explorer non-hybrid vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost or 3.3L Duratec engine and 2020-2023 Aviator non-hybrid vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an exhaust rattle requiring replacement of the left or right exhaust flexible pipe (5G203). The updated part locates the flexible joint portion of the pipe closer toward the catalytic converter than the originally equipped part. This is due to a design change with these replacement components which will not cause any functional issues with the vehicle.
SSM 518212023-08-10. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE); SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY; POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with AWD may exhibit a binding or shudder sensation while turning and/or while accelerating from low speeds. The concern may also be described as a grinding and/or chatter noise. If the Workshop Manual (WSM) leads to replacement of the rear axle, inspect the differential for damage and differential fluid for metallic chunks in the fluid. Note that some metallic flake in the fluid and/or discoloration is normal and the rear axle should not be replaced for it. If no damage is found to the rear differential, it is not recommended to replace the rear axle assembly. Instead, refer to the Symptom Charts in WSM, Section 307-07A for further diagnosis of the transfer case.
TSB 23-21742023-08-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) built on or before 30-Aug-2021 may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) C00A6 and/or C0631. This may be due to the front axle disconnect actuator/intermediate shaft. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the front axle disconnect actuator/intermediate shaft with a revised intermediate shaft.
SSM 517922023-07-18. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit poor speaker sound quality and/or tick-tock noise while activating turn signals and streaming audio over Bluetooth. Customers may describe static heard during a Bluetooth phone call, or a door speaker buzz or tick noise with the pulse of the turn signal. This may be due to concerns with the 14401/14A005 wiring harnesses or connector damage. Prior to the replacement of the affected speaker, inspect for incorrect pin fit/crimp, bent pins, broken wire strands, or other damage at inline connectors C202, C2383A, and/or C4240B. These circuits join the SYNC module (APIM) and audio front control module (ACM) components. If wiring/connector concerns are found, repair per Wiring Diagram Cell 5.
SSM 517832023-07-18. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2021-2023 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit a condition where the high voltage battery stops charging when connected to level 1 or level 2 chargers with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2C94 stored in the secondary on-board diagnostic control module A (SOBDM). To restore charging capability, disconnect the off-board charging station charge handle from the vehicle charge port and reconnect. This condition does not affect vehicle durability and no additional diagnosis or service is required for this condition at this time. Inform customers that they can continue to drive the vehicle and engineering is currently working on a solution for this condition that is expected in August 2023. Replacement of the SOBDM will not resolve this condition. Monitor OASIS for additional information.
TSB 23-22082023-07-18. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator non-hybrid vehicles may exhibit radio static and/or poor radio sound quality when moving. This may be more noticeable on AM radio stations. This may be caused by an electromagnetic interference concern. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to install new grounds on the rear knuckle.
SSM 517752023-07-12. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; EQUIPMENT. Some 2020-2021 Aviator vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) built on or before 30-Aug-2021 may require replacement of the left front halfshaft, part number L1MZ-3A427-G. If the halfshaft is unavailable due to a part backorder situation, dealers can perform Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 23-2114. The TSB Service Procedure uses a revised halfshaft and intermediate shaft, which eliminates the front axle disconnect actuator assembly and requires an all-wheel-drive (AWD) module software update. Unless the specific TSB criteria are met, TSB 23-2144 should not be performed if halfshaft part number L1MZ-3A427-G is available.
SSM 517202023-06-22. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; SEATS. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may have a concern where the second row outboard manual/power seats do not fold, exhibit excess effort to fold, or do not slide forward/backward easily. Power or manual second row seats must be pushed forward manually during easy entry function since the assist spring will reduce but not eliminate manual effort. Refer to the Owner's Manual > Seats > Rear Seats > Adjusting the Second Row Rear Seats for further details. If the seats do not easily push forward manually, it maybe due to tension in the seat track due to uneven assembly torque. To correct these conditions, unbolt the second row seat frame from the floor to relax tension. Start the bolts by hand, then tighten in the correct sequence and torque per Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 501-10B.
SSM 517252023-06-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2023 Ford and Lincoln SYNC3 equipped vehicles may experience an inaccurate notification in the FordPass®/LincolnWay® app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode. Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode message is expected if the vehicle has not been started for 14 consecutive days, battery voltage is at/below 9.5 volts or the body control module (BCM) 12 volt battery state of charge (SoC) drops below 50%. If the vehicle is going into deep sleep outside these conditions, this may be due to the telematics control unit (TCU) software. To correct this condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the TCU to the latest software. For claiming, use causal part 14G229 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 516872023-06-16. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER; EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL; POWER TRAIN. TSB 22-2428 is missing some labor operations. For any missing labor operations, claim available new model labor operations or m-time. Refer to this article on the repair order. When replacing the CDF cylinder, the current TSB does not require a complete transmission overhaul or cooler and converter flushing. Ford is currently reviewing the TSB. Monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 517012023-06-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2023 Aviator/Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.0L hybrid engine may exhibit illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator and stop safely now warning. Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0AA6:00 may be stored in the battery energy control module (BECM). Inspect the right side frame rail area near the bank 1 charge air cooler (CAC) intake pipe clamp for chafing the orange high voltage harness. If the harness is damaged, de-energize high voltage system per Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 414-03A. Reposition the clamp and replace the high voltage harness (14290). If the harness is not damaged continue P0AA6 diagnostics in WSM, Section 414-03A, Pinpoint Test T. For a P0AA6 diagnostic aid video, refer to Professional Technician System (PTS) > Home > Technical Assistance > Technical Support Videos > enter P0AA6 in search box and click video returned.
TSB 22-24282023-05-30. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Some 2017-2023 F-150, 2018-2023 Expedition/Navigator/Mustang, 2019-2023 Ranger, 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator/Transit and 2021-2023 Bronco vehicles equipped with a 10R60 transmission and built on or before 23-Dec-2022 or with a 18R80/10R80MHT transmission and built on or before 15-Aug-2022 may exhibit a harsh/delayed engagement and/or harsh/delayed shift. It is possible the vehicle may also have an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) or diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to the software in the PCM or TCM, the transmission solenoid ID strategy, sticking valves in the main control valve body and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve.
SSM 516652023-05-29. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2021-2023 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L engine may exhibit an upper engine thump/knock noise coming from the left cylinder head. This condition is most noticeable at idle and may lessen at higher engine speed or while driving. This condition does not affect vehicle durability and will not get worse over time. Use a stethoscope or chassis ears and listen just behind the left cylinder head intake VCT solenoid on the cam cover to determine if the thump/knock noise is coming from the cylinder head/camshaft. The left cylinder head and the camshaft roller followers are available as service parts.
SSM 516502023-05-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a charging system warning in the message center and/or illuminated battery lamp with DTC B11D9 present in the body control module (BCM). Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 414-01, Pinpoint Test C for diagnosis and repair. If the 125 amp fuse on the 14300 wire harness at the auxiliary battery is open, do not replace a complete wire harness to obtain this fuse. The 125 amp fuse (service part number JU5Z-14526-A) is now available separately for service. If the 125 amp fuse is ok, check C1168 connector / SBF08 circuit located underbody behind the left front wheel for wiring or connector issues. For additional C1168 location images, view WSM 414-01 > Removal and Installation > Auxiliary Battery Cable. Repair as necessary per Wiring Diagram (WD) Cell 5 > Connector Repair Procedures.
TSB 23-21202023-05-23. Service bulletin. PARKING BRAKE; POWER TRAIN. Some 2018-2021 Expedition/Navigator and 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 10R80/10R80 MHT or 10R60 may exhibit a momentary transmission neutral-out condition while in drive. Vehicle may also have diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P07E6 and/or P07E4 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM) and/or a possible audible noise. This may be due to a leak in the park valve circuit. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to inspect the park system hardware for wear or damage and replace the valve body separator plate with an improved valve body separator plate.
SSM 516402023-05-16. Service bulletin. SUSPENSION. Some 2020-2023 Aviator vehicles equipped with air suspension may require service of a front air spring/strut. Complete front air spring/strut assemblies are now available and can be replaced instead of replacing individual components of the front air spring or front struts for warranty and retail repairs. Part numbers are LC5Z-3C098-A (right) and LC5Z-3C098-C (left) for non-hybrid vehicles, and LC5Z-3C098-B (right) and LC5Z-3C098-D (left) for hybrid vehicles. Front spring/strut assembly replacement is recommended to make sure a successful repair is performed.
SSM 516212023-05-16. Service bulletin. SUSPENSION. Some 2020-2023 Aviator vehicles equipped with air suspension may exhibit a drive malfunction and/or suspension fault message in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B1041 and U2100 stored in the SUMA. This may be due to the SUMA entering diagnostic service mode after an on-demand (OD) self-test following suspension system diagnosis or repair. Use the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) > SUMA > Run All CM (Continuous Memory) DTCs. Do not run FDRS > SUMA > OD and CM DTCs to prevent invalid DTCs. If an OD self-test was run, clear DTCs using FDRS > SUMA > Transport and Factory Mode Deactivation function. For other DTCs refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 204-05 (Vehicle Dynamic Suspension) for normal diagnostics.
SSM 516122023-05-16. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; STEERING. There is a parts and labor time error for Explorer/Aviator 3.0L EcoBoost and Aviator 3.0L plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Ford is in the process of updating TSB 23-2114. Explorer or Aviator with 3.0L EcoBoost or 3.0L PHEV engine require new sub frame bolts and a steering shaft pinch bolt. Aviator will also require suspension nuts and bolts missing from the TSB that are related to halfshaft removal and installation. To complete the repair, follow Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 205-03 > Front Axle Disconnect Actuator (use the 2020 WSM for 2021 Aviator as the procedure for 2021 is currently being updated). Complete the wiring modification per TSB 23-2114. For Explorer 3.0L EcoBoost vehicles, claim operation 232114E 7.2 hours. For Aviator 3.0L EcoBoost and 3.0L PHEV vehicles, claim operation 232114F 7.8 hours. Refer to this article on the repair order.
SSM 515362023-05-04. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE. For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a different vehicle. Most modules on these affected vehicles are VIN/vehicle specific and hardware variations between modules do exist. Swapping a module from a vehicle or ordering a module using a different vehicle/VIN can cause ineffective repairs and additional vehicle down time. Make sure all appropriate Workshop Manual (WSM) procedures are followed when diagnosing the condition prior to all module replacements and only order modules using the correct VIN.
SSM 515392023-05-04. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR. Some 2020-2023 Aviator vehicles built on or before 20-March-2023 may exhibit a passenger door window control switch to bezel rattle while audio volume is playing from speakers that could be mistakenly diagnosed as a speaker issue. This may be due to the natural frequencies of the switch and bezel when excited by sound. To diagnose, perform Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 415-00 > Pinpoint Test E1. Use the 100Hz audio sample file from the Speaker Audio Test link within Pinpoint Test E1, and adjust fade and balance settings to passenger front speaker. If the rattle is isolated to the passenger door switch bezel, remove per WSM Section 501-11. Apply Rotunda flock tape (164-R4903) over the underside of the bezel and the switch in a U-shape, then reassemble. Rerun Pinpoint Test E1 to verify the repair. If the rattle persists, perform the remaining Pinpoint Test E steps.
TSB 23-21142023-05-04. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) built on or before 30-Aug-2021 may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) C00A6 and/or C0631. This may be due to the front axle disconnect actuator/intermediate shaft. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the front axle disconnect actuator/intermediate shaft with a revised intermediate shaft.
SSM 515312023-05-04. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator/Transit, 2021-2023 F-150/Bronco, 2022-2023 Expedition/Navigator/Mustang and 2023 F-250/F-350 Super Duty vehicles may exhibit harsh/delayed engagement and/or harsh/delayed shift concerns. These may be addressed with the powertrain control module (PCM)/transmission control module (TCM) Transmission Accelerated Main Control Break In Routine and/or a main control overhaul. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 307-01, DTC Chart if DTCs are present and/or Diagnosis By Symptom to identify the clutch(s) to be cycled. Cycling the shift solenoids and clutch control valves to remove contamination must be performed along with an adaptive drive cycle before attempting repair. For claiming, use causal part 7A100 and applicable labor operations in Section 7 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 515152023-04-06. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator with start/stop push button ignition switch may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B108A:01 (general electrical failure), B108A:24 (signal stuck high), and/or B108A:9E (stuck on). The ignition mode light emitting diode (LED) indicator may also flash quickly. This condition may be caused by loose wiring terminal crimps on connector C2195 at the push button ignition switch. Examine Pin 1 (CPK34/Gn) first, since it is the only pin with the smallest (26 gauge) wire. To correct this condition, repair terminal crimps per Wiring Diagram (WD) Cell 5. If no wiring terminal faults are found, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 211-05 for normal diagnostics. The push button ignition switch pinpoint tests in the WSM have been updated.
SSM 515132023-04-06. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2021-2023 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit a condition where the high voltage battery stops charging when connected to level 1 or level 2 chargers with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2C94 stored in the secondary on-board diagnostic control module A (SOBDM). To restore charging capability, disconnect the off-board charging station charge handle from the vehicle charge port and reconnect. This condition does not affect vehicle durability and no additional diagnosis or service is required for this condition at this time. Inform customers that they can continue to drive the vehicle and engineering is currently working on a solution for this condition that is expected in June 2023. Replacement of the SOBDM will not resolve this condition. Monitor OASIS for additional information.
SSM 514492023-04-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Some 2020-2023 Ford and Lincoln SYNC3 equipped vehicles may experience an inaccurate notification in the FordPass®/LincolnWay® app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode. Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode message is expected if the vehicle has not been started for 14 consecutive days, battery voltage is at/below 9.5 volts or the body control module (BCM) 12 volt battery state of charge (SoC) drops below 50%. If the vehicle is going into deep sleep outside these conditions, this may be due to the telematics control unit (TCU) software. To correct this condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the TCU to the latest software. For claiming, use causal part 14G229 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.

The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.