Lincoln Aviator

nvbanker · September 2003

I'm sure getting tired of this rumor.

asema · September 2003

Is there any way to hook up the DVD entertainment screen to the Nav Screen so that DVDs playing in the back also show up in the front on the Nav screen (or can the Navigation drive to tuned to play DVDs?). I know there are some car audio/video stores around than can make this happen for different cars (like BMWs), but am wondering if the hardware in the Aviators would allow for this to happen. Any ideas?

raul69 · September 2003

I think you should just keep your eyes on the road. I think having any video system available that allows a driver to view while in the operation of a motor vehicle is an absolute distaction and could pose a danger to your passengers and to drivers and pedestrians around you. I have a dvd in rear of my Aviator and I have viewed it while being parked and "not" in the driver seat. I think there are enough distractions while one commutes. We sure don't need to add any more.

ANT14 · September 2003

Which reminds me, over in Europe, your able to watch regular T.V. in the S80/S60 Navi system which pops up from the center dashboard cowl. Obviously in the U.S., that has been dissabled specially considering if people here can't even drive while chatting on the cellphone, how could they possibly be able to watch T.V.

Although in some cities, you are able to receive the simulcast of some local T.V. stations through some FM stations, and at least your able to hear it than watch it.

nvbanker · September 2003

Having the feature available only in Park may be a viable compromise.....and a real convenience, if anybody cares....

gteach26 · September 2003

Someone once mentioned what I thought was a novel idea.. if the passenger seat senses that someone is sitting there, then the navigation controls and dvd player should function in the front. There is nothing wrong with a passenger watching a movie on a long trip or fiddling with the nav controls while the driver drives. I know that some import SUV's (Rx300) know if that seat is occupied and a light "reminds" you to have them put on their seatbelt., so the technology to make this happen should be easy to implement. Then again, I'm sure lawyers will never allow any company to do this.

nvbanker · September 2003

Also, a good idea, and also, as you say, I'm sure the cellphone (distraction) police will never let it happen. We'll be lucky if they don't take our radios out of our cars.

hapstar1 · September 2003

Does anyone have insight as to what will replace the current rebates as they expire on 9/30? Seeing as how they are selling well now, maybe the rebates won't improve. I am considering buying this weekend, but it would be no problem to wait 2.5 weeks. Only issue is that the pickings may be slimmer at my dealer.

mp19fan · September 2003

I remember seeing TV ads featuring very attractive 0% for up to 72 months or up to $4k cash back. Is this still available? What is the likelihood of getting ~$6-650 monthly payments over 5 years w/ $0 down for a 4WD lux version? I'd like to keep the payments roughly the same as my '01 Montero LTD, which I may trade in or sell. BTW, I'm in the So Cal area, if this helps.

audia8q · September 2003

They never tell us in advance what the "new" incentives will be...
I don't know about other regions since Lincoln does regional incentives.... but we are currently advertising Aviators at $8000 off AND 0% for 72 months....This has generated alot of sales, You should be able to get your dealer in the same area, as long as they do some volume.

markport · September 2003

Does the $8000 includes any rebates or can you get $8000 off plus the incentives. Boston area.

mp19fan · September 2003

$8k off sticker AND 0% for 72 months? Whoa. I think I'll start calling around my area. One local dealer had about a dozen 4x2's, but not one 4x4 luxury. Is this typical? He said they won't be getting 4x4's in until after Oct. because demand isn't there in the summer time. Hmm...

tturedraider · September 2003

I've seen some new models recently that are offering DVD viewing up front.....while the vehicle is in Park.

nvbanker · September 2003

NOW, we're talking!

munkyatpu · September 2003

I was given a quote for a 2003 Aviator (AWD), Premium Package, with assorted options (Moonroof, Tow Package, 17" Chrome Wheels, Tire Pressure Monitoring System) for $38,037. MSRP is $48,845. Do you think I can do better?

nvbanker · September 2003

I doubt you can do much better.

markport · September 2003

I put a deposit on a 2003 today. MSRP was $47460 paid $36300 plus they gave me KBB trade value for my vehicle.

asema · September 2003

If you have any info. on how to enable dvd viewing upfront, please share. would appreciate it.
Also....is it possible to enable Nav data entry while vehicle is in motion?
thanks alot.

bosog1 · September 2003

I turned down a no hassle set price for the Blue Luxury Aviator with DVD of $39,288. They were going to give me $10,000 in total rebates. Should I wait for a better deal?

bosog1 · September 2003

I just checked with my insurance agent and he quoted me $612 for 6 months or $102/month for the Aviator 2003-Premium. WOW! my 95 Explorer is $56/month-the vehicle that I am replacing.

ANT14 · September 2003

Major difference between 95 and 2003 though. Also, depending on region and personal driving record, I still say $1224 yearly is quite good for a luxury SUV. Try getting a quote for BMW or MB and look at how much more it increases.

audia8q · September 2003

mmmm $10,000 off.....maybe you should hold out until they take $20K off sticker.

georgefarmer · September 2003

Our new 2WD Aviator started making a loud hum noise in the rear end soon after we bought it. The dealer kept it for two weeks while the factory sent a new rear end (differential?) and they put it in. Now after a week the noise is back! I expected more from a Lincoln. Any idea what is going on here?

ANT14 · September 2003

Maybe it wasn't the differential, at this point (already replaced), I would just give the vehicle back to them, and tell them it continues to make the noise. DO NOT offer suggestions of your own at this point, see what they have to say instead. And ask for them to lend you a vehicle during the time they are repairing the vehicle, or figure what is wrong with it. Also check the mileage everytime you visit, and leave the service dept., to make sure they have actually DRIVEN the vehicle, if they stated they have.

georgefarmer · September 2003

Yeah, that's next step. they did give us a lincoln town car to use the first time, hope they will again it is a nice but big car.

ANT14 · September 2003

In that case, enjoy putting mileage on the Town Car, take a road trip if you want, etc

I like having the privilage of being able to test drive numerous vehicles, that way I'm not bored with just one vehicle's dynamics.

dondilio · September 2003

Hey guys:
I own a 2003 Explorer Xlt. Ive been visiting the Lincoln dealer very frequently and I might be considering buying the Aviator. My explorer haves auto dimming r/v mirror.Ive read that the aviator doesnt come with the auto dimming r/v mirror. On that dealer they had 6 avi. 5 had auto r/v mirror. All of them were later production models, so I wonder was it dealer installed or did they came with it from the factory??

nvbanker · September 2003

My buddies Aviator makes the same howling noise from the rear. He put it in the dealer here Monday. (Was given a loaner). They had the car 2 days, said there is a TSB out on the problem, but no recommended solution. On Wednesday, they gave the car back with no remedy. My friend called Lincoln hotline, and they opened a ticket on the problem. They weren't aware of the TSB. Meantime, he's a howling away! Personally, I would have refused the car until it's repaired, but my buddy isn't quite the jerk I am.

sirknightd · September 2003

I d be happy with 10K off sticker....dont know what else there is to hold out for...maybe they can throw in a ford escort.

Its a wonderful ride..I love driving it.

Mine was built around May and had the self dimming mirror from the factory included with the DVD Naviagation option...they listed it as the Navigation mirror

the steering is incredible as compared to my 96 Explorer

utl3 · September 2003

The only way I have seen an auto dimming mirror from the factory was to order the Nav system. Makes a lot of sense?
This has to be one of the most idiotic things I have seen a manufacturer of luxury cars do. You said yourself that even your Explorer has one.

There are no '04 on the lots yet here to check, and the '04 ordering guide mentions no change to the mirror. If Lincoln decided to go ahead and add it, or make it a separate option, someone must have extracted their head from their "6" or maybe we got lucky and they started monitoring this board.
I would like to know if anyone else has seen this feature without the Nav system on an '04?

hapstar1 · September 2003

I bought my Aviator 2 weeks ago...no humming noise (crossed fingers and toes). I love this freaking vehicle. I have the 2WD Premium Package (no extras besides that). MSRP in TX $42915. After all is said and done with TTL, the car was was around $41,000 with 0% 72 Months. My buddy works for Ford and the bull on this board about getting the big discounts and 72 mth 0% is exactly bull unless the dealer is willing to take a $3500 hit on the vehicle. The manufacturer will only reimburse the $3500 to the dealer if the car is not 0% financed through Ford. The prices in TX in all major cities have not changed since I purchased 2 weeks ago. TTL adds a buttload to the price of the vehicle (at least $3000).

This car completely blows away the performance of the Explorer and the interior kicks butt. I actually enjoy driving to work now. I do wish the CD player recognized MP3 formatted discs, but oh well. Great car, great reviews, very impressive.

Something to think about b4 spending $2500 on a Nav system. You can get a TOP of the line Nav system for $1000 that is car mountable. This will enable you to not only switch it between two vehicles (if you have 2), but will also allow you to transfer it to your new car someday...plus it is one less part of the vehicle that can break. Keep in mind all of the stuff tied to that system if it does break. That is just my opinion.

arwild · September 2003

I'm confused by the current Lincoln rebates. The Lincoln website says there is a $4k consumer cash rebate on the 03 Aviator, but the Edmunds site says $6K of which $1K is for "September Super Sell Down Bonus Cash" and another $1K is for "Bonus Cash". My local dealer says the rebate is only $4K. What gives? Is the information on Edumunds incorrect?

Here's the link on Edmunds:

http://www.edmunds.com/new/2003/lincoln/aviator/100139008/incenti- ves.html?vdp=off&setzip=20165&state=VA&tid=edmunds.n.- incentivesindex.incentives.3.5.Lincoln*

akirby · September 2003

For my zip code it shows $5K and that's what my dealer just confirmed for me. For yours it shows $6K so there's a good chance that's correct. Check with your dealer.

konradek777 · September 2003

I am looking into purchase Aviator premium with Navigation and moon roof, MSRP about 47300 (white)
I would like take advantage of 0% for 72 Mo.
My trade will be 1999 Mitsubishi Galant ES V6, good condition. Neeeeeeeeed Help!!!!!!. My zip code 89148 (Las Vegas area)

tidester · September 2003

Exactly what kind of help are you seeking?

tidester, host

konradek777 · September 2003

Lookig to purchase 03' Lincoln Aviator premium w/Nav and moonroof, MSRP about 47300 (white paint).
I live in Vegas zip 89148, have a trade 99'Galant ES V6

akirby · September 2003

You should be able to buy it for dealer invoice (maybe a bit less) and get the 0% financing. However, you might come out better taking the $5K rebate and financing yourself. Check Edmunds new and used car pricing for dealer invoice on the Aviator and trade-in value on your mits.

akirby · September 2003

I am purchasing the same vehicle (with tow pkg added) on the Ford Xplan (very close to invoice) for $44,070. With the $5K rebate it's $39,070 plus tax, tag, title. With a trade-in you'll probably do better to take the rebate and finance the balance. On mine it's only costing me $2500 in finance charges so I'm $2500 ahead. YMMV.

georgefarmer · September 2003

Any word or the rear end noise in your buddy's aviator? Do you have the hot line number. The problme must be the differential as they replaced ours, the noise wwas gone for a week now back which tells me they are getting defective differentials.

nvbanker · September 2003

Hmmmmm, buddy took car to Salt Lake for the week, says very little howling was noted on the trip. The dealer gave it back to him with a shrug. Lincoln hotline people (customer service or assistance I think) claimed they were aware of the problem, but had no fix currently, and opened a ticket. Said they would call him back in 24 hours. They didn't as of last check. I had hopes the diffential was it, but some have reported the noise while not in motion, unless they're mistaken. My friend isn't sure, but he's not a car guy at all. Barely knows where to put the gas in. Know what I mean? I have to coach him through all of these issues. Will keep you posted as we unravel this mystery. He is delighted with the car otherwise...

ANT14 · September 2003

This brings an interesting point.... "If the person doesn't notice an issue, is it really an issue"

Without getting too techinical. Surveys that are taken by car owner's, offered by JdPower's, come into play. While the demographics that appeal to Buick, maybe those driver's won't notice a noise here and there. While a more concious car consumer might notice one and bring up a warranty issue into play.

Hmmm things to think about.....

msasarman · September 2003

So, I have to buy a second car.
We moved to a big house in the suburbs and my wife will divorce me if I'll leave her alone with the kids at home while I park our vehicle in the company parking lot.
I'm trying to be reasonable so I want a minivan (family of four), she wants branding and sex appeal so she wants an upscale SUV.
Our decision criteria:
A. Price
   - under CDN$50,000 before tax
B. Features: security/safety, performance, warranty, luxury
   - 5 star security rating, sporty/car performance, 4 yr minimum all-inclusive warranty, six seats minimum, top scale leather/wood trim interior
C. Branding

So we started to look around and after talking to dealers, taking test drives, we ended up with the following list and ratings:
1. Mercedes M class
   - A7 - too expensive, B8 - lousy third row seating/too small, C10
2. BMW X5
   - A7 - too expensive, B8 - not sexy enough/ a bit austere on the interior/too small, C10
3. Acura MDX
   - A9, B7 - nice but not quite sexy, C8
4. Cadillac Escalade
   - A4 - way too expensive, B9 - almost perfect/too big, C8
5. Lexus RX330
   - A5 - too expensive, B9 - perfect/only 5 seats though, C10
6. Lincoln Aviator - FIRST CHOICE
   - A6 - too expensive, B9 - almost perfect, C8
7. Volvo XC90 - not tried yet
8. Infinity FX35/45 - not tried yet
9. Chrysler Pacifica - SECOND CHOICE
   - A9, B9 - almost perfect, C7

As a matter of fact after struggling to fit the Aviator into out budget, I literaly stumbled upon the Pacifica and fell in love.
Now I need to make a decision, and I am torn between buying on price (Pacifica clearly comes on top), Features (a toss up), or Brand (Aviator)

So here is my QUESTION: What would you do if you were in my shoes ?

Aviator is my emotional choice. On price, it is CDN$10,000 more expensive than the Pacifica, CDN$10,000 cheaper than the Lexus RX330.
PROS: in-dash NAV, 6 CD/DVD changer, DVD system, 5 star Explorer safety rating, Lincoln interior, HID lamps, no cost maintenance program.
CONS: heavy on gas, does not have all the kool options of the Navigator (i.e. power tailgate, etc.), interior materials are not as luxurious as the Cadillac Escalade or the Lexus RX330.

But then, alongside the RX330 and the Pacifica, it is the only car, excuse me, SUV, that I found fun to drive.

And then there are these persistent rumours of its impending demise, which may make this model harder/more expensive to service after 2005,
but on the bright side, may also increase its residual value due to supply and demand.

So, do I buy my first choice, the Aviator, and cough up the extra CDN$10,000 or settle for the second best Pacifica.

ANT14 · September 2003

Ok according to your likes dislikes, Did you drive the Pacifica much? MY issue with it is that it feels sooooo slow, it's quite the porker for what it is, and the buzzy sounding engine annoyed me. I like other factors about it, but it's for those who want a minivan, and might be in denial about getting one. Just my view though.

As for the Aviator demise, scroll back on this message board, where I've stated and shown proof that it was a story based on speculation. Even the product manager stated it was NOT on the cutting block. Although the vehicle will be replaced years from now (like all vehicles are, do at some point or another), but the media made it seem as if this would be the last year when reality, it's not.

BUT aside from all this, I really urge you to drive the Volvo XC90, I see it as the next best (car based) alternative, when you like the Aviator, and I've been able to convince some people to try it out (if they are wanting something car based), and they were quite pleased with it. Make sure it's the T6 model, with the higher output engine. The base engine is rather anemic. Then let us know what your findings with that vehicle are.

e350v10 · September 2003

I second the XC90 suggestion. You might also look at the Volvo XC70 (Cross Country wagon). Motor Trend just compared it to the Pacifica and the VW Touareg. The Volvo came out on top. Car and Driver also reviewed the Pacifica, and said that it isn't a good car (slow and stiff ride), isn't a good minivan (limited cargo space and difficult entry), and isn't a good SUV (low clearance and car-like look) - it can't decide what it wants to be.

For quality, fit, and finish, the Aviator is the way to go!

akirby · September 2003

Just picked up a 2003 Silver Birch/Medium Ash Premium w/moonroof, navigation and tow pkg for the wife. Saved about $8230 off sticker by using X-plan and $5K rebates. Kids love the bucket seats in the 2nd row. I like the 300 hp V8.

gogoreagan · September 2003

I to had the same dilemna....Aviator or Pacifica. I ended up going with the Aviator because:
    1. My wife hated the station wagon look of the Pacifica.
    2. The deals on the Aviator were to good to pass up.
    3. The Pacifica was a little sluggish, unlike the Aviator which will give you whiplash if you are not careful.
    4. The Aviator interior is much more "sexy" or stylish.
    5. Dual temp control on Aviator was a plus.
    6. Back-up warning signal on Aviator.
    7. However, I did like how the Pacifica's rear seat does fold flat, unlike the Aviator's.

I have been extremely happy with my Aviator purchase. Over 2300 miles now with no problems. I see more Pacifica's now, but am still very pleased with my ultimate decision.

lee1000 · September 2003

Just to let you know, the rear-end noise and vibration is not new. I own one of the first Aviators and the problem has been there since the beginning. So far, my vehicle has had a new torque convertor, new differential, new tires, etc,etc. It still has the noise and vibration. I love this car,the power,the handling, the interior, but...at the same time, I hate it. It drives me nuts that no one seems to know how to fix it. I finally have resorted to the Dispute Resolution Board in hopes of getting a replacement. Good Luck to the rest of you who have this problem.

ext25 · September 2003

The factory that builds the Aviator is not being closed like what the articles were saying, but instead it got some tax incentives from the state and will be open for at least 4 more years. So it sounds like the rumors of the Aviator being cancelled were just that.

ext25 · September 2003

I got a brochure on the 2004 Aviator. The 2004 has some new chrome wheels available. The regular (non-chrome) wheels from 2003 are still available but now the chrome ones are a different style, 6 spoke instead of 7.

ext25 · September 2003

Looks like Lincoln is offering a new blue tooth hands free phone system on al Lincolns for 2004, dealer installed.

"Unlike the wireless system found on some competitor vehicles, Mobile-Ease is integrated into the vehicles audio system. A microphone is mounted near the vehicle rear view mirror instead of additional speakers mounted in the vehicle.

The system allows the driver to place and receive phone calls with the touch of a button. Up to five different Bluetooth-equipped cellular phones can be linked into a single vehicles system."

http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=16431

Lincoln Aviator

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