Actually it's in the large covered area ABOVE the climate controls. The radio and nav unit share a touch screen. Go to lincolnvehicles.com and there are pictures. I believe this is where the regular audio head unit is on non-nav equipped vehicles also.
If the cost is the same why would you go aftermarket? You'll be replacing the built-in nav and audio head unit with an aftermarket version of the same thing. I can't imagine the aftermarket units have more features - the software is all pretty much the same (navtech in this case). Plus you lose all the integration with the steering wheel controls, etc.
I don't see the upside except maybe you could transfer it to another vehicle down the road. I think you need to go look at a nav equipped gator before you make that decision, just so you know what you're giving up.
And, transferring it to another car? By then the unit will be so obsolete, the value to move it wouldn't be worth it. I had that problem with cell phones in the 90's. Between trading cars, and trading phones, it soon became uneconomically feasible to pay the $300 to move the phone from car to car.
My 2000 LS came with the factory ANALOG cell phone in the armrest. The local cell dealer laughed when I asked about activating the thing. Here we go again with CD-ROM based Nav systems instead of a DVD based system. Come on Lincoln!
Traded the 02 Gator for the 04 on Monday. Drove 350 miles, met dealer's delivery guy and traded trucks. After spending 350 miles in 02 and then climbing into 04, WHAT a huge difference!!!! Right off the bat the steering change is huge. The truck sits lower(both AWD), drives much nicer and reduced NVH. Interior appointments very nice and upscale, A-pillar coverings and head liner material very nice. Michelin's much better than Continentals on 02, although they were still going strong with 31,000 on them. But not as quiet as Michelin's.
Something very curious though. The truck does not say Ultimate anywhere on it except on the Window sticker. I got the AWD Ultimate package with only 2 options. 18-inch chrome wheels and tires, and the DVD entertainment center. I thought the 2 wheel drive 04's where I ordered this truck had little "Ultimate" emblems somewhere on the side? It isn't a big deal, I don't have the monochromatic package, just black with the grey running boards and front and rear bottom fascia's.
Love the truck, and may keep this one for the long haul, no pun intended!
in addition to the Ultimate package. The dealer sold me on the Ultimate package because the truck comes with almost everything standard (heated/cooled seats,rear backup sensor, moonroof,etc). The only add on options to the Ultimate package on the window sticker were the 18 inch wheel/tires and DVD system. Sorry if I wasn't clear on last post.
Traded my 99 for my 03, and echo all above comments. There is no "ultimate" badging designated on these trucks anywhere. Only in your wallet. I'm not sorry about that either. I see the ultimate badges on the Grand Marquis and Town Cars, and I think it's kind of cheesy myself.
And, I was just thinking this past week, after a year of ownership, that this may be the one I keep for a while too. Although, I kept the 99 for nearly 5 years...just HAD to have the new one as soon as I saw the improvements. Does Detroit have me in their grip, or what?
There is a "report" on another Ford website that Ford has designed and ordered new emblems and bagding for the Expedition, Navigator, and Escape. Can any of our "insiders" in here confirm this and perhaps give us a description of what the new emblems/badges will look like?
Yes, there will be new badges for each vehicle, to give it a bit of personality. Remember the Cougar head emblem on the Cougar's ? That's pretty much what they are going for. Give the Marauder it's "greek head emblem" as it always had. Give Mustang it's pony emblem, etc. The same will continue for all other vehicles, to give them a sense of seperate personality/identity/uniqueness.
Sidenote: To think years ago Ford was removing emblems, specially on the sides from vehicles, to save money.
I wonder what they'll do for the Navigator? If I remember correctly, my '00 gator had a little globe emblem next to the word Navigator on the sides. I wonder if it's coming back. You think they'll have a hood emblem on the gator? I know, no big deal, but I'm just curious.
The Mark LT concept that was shown at the autoshow, had the red illuminated gunshot emblem on the front grill. MY federal safety standard, illuminated red lighting on the front of the vehicle isn't allowed. But it might give us a hint as to what they might be doing.
And the Lincoln Coupe concept, also showed a raised hood emblem as well. That might give us some clues.
As for the Navi having it's globe, I wouldn't doubt it. Alhough by their concepts, it looks as if they wish to reinforce the Lincoln emblem, while Ford and Mercury will concentrate on personalizing an emblem for each vehicle differently.
Does anyone know if there is a kit from Ford to add a cabin air filter to the new Navigator / Expedition? I was able to purchase one for my 2000 Expedition, but doubt that one would fit the latest series.
Had an '01 Navigator and really enjoyed it, not as lucky with my '04. Not as much storage, not as roomy, not as tall, and not as pretty. The only things I actually like about it is the 3rd seat storage and the ride. My major problems right now are electrical it seems - running boards don't always retract or come out, memory seats don't always work, memory side mirrors don't always work and door locks don't always lock by themselves as they should. Went for 5,000 mile check up the other day and was told they were aware of the running board problem and would have a fix out for them sometime soon. Was wondering if this would fix the other problems too. Anybody else having these problems? Wish we had kept the '01 now. Edi in VA
Just bought a new suv. Before I did, I test drove, researched and fretted about these 4 suvs for about a month. Here are my conclusions. The Escalade is a nice driving suv. Smooth engine and a vehicle that drives much smaller than it actually is. I also like the way this bad boy looks. However, this suv has some major problems. First, the dash board is embarrassing for a vehicle in this price range. The wood used looks like something out of the 1970's. Secondly, the 3rd row is not only cramped but folds down onto itself and not into the floor. Therefore, the storage room is reduced dramatically unless you remove the 3rd row entirely. This suv is so similar to its cheaper gmc cousin that it's surprising that they even call them different names. Nice Suv years ago but in desperate need of an interior upgrade. The next was the GX470. This was, with out a doubt, the smoothest and best drive of all the SUV's tested. The interior is beautiful. Off road capabilities are very good. However, this SUV has some serious issues too. First, the 3rd row is very crampt and would only be suitable for children or adults on a very short ride. The 3rd row seats stow off to the sides of the vehicle, therefore, greatly reducing storage capacity in the back. My conclusion is that this SUV is simply too small and is a classic example of the problems with the mid-size SUV market. Mid-size SUVs force you to comprimise greatly. It's like they're in no-man's-land. GX, very nice quality and reputation of Lexus, but in the end, what the heck were they thinking when they designed that 3rd row? Lastly, I was a little worried about the complaints of vibration I read on the Edmunds forum and lack of excitement expressed by those that own it. The QX56 is a nice design and got my serious attention. To make a long story short, I test drove 2 Armadas and experienced the vibration resonance issues on both cars. We know that the QX56 is the same SUV but with more refinement. These Armada issues basically elimated this SUV from contention. If these problems had not been their, I may have bought this vehicle. The 3rd row, however is lacking in headroom. I am 5'10 and my head was touching the top of the headliner. The interior also suffers from too much plastic. It drove nicely and the exterior looks were acceptable. I decided, in the end, to buy the Lincoln Navigator. This was my first American vehicle purchase. I have previously owned Mercedes, Lexus, BMW's. This SUV has alot going for it. First, the edmunds townhall area for the Navigator was fairly positive about the quality of the SUV, but most importantly, the owners seem excited by the vehicle and its design. This came across much stronger than with any of these other SUVS. The Navigator has an interior that makes sense and feels solid. Not flimsy like the Infiniti's. This is a big SUV that feels big, looks big, and has a big interior that feels big and solid. The dashboard is up to date. The 3rd row seat is spacious and adults can sit back there on long rides. The 3rd row that folds into the floor is brilliant and makes a huge difference. The Navigation system is nice and the girl doesn't annoy you with her commands. The vehicle at 80mph feels very solid. Turning radious is excellent. Dvd unit is great. AC and heat on the seats is fabulous. Ride is luxurious. If you want room in your SUV and you're looking for quality and excitement, this suv is the one. The smoothness won't wow you on a quick test drive like the GX, but the overall package blows these other SUVS away. Cruising at 80mph on the interstate, navigation keeping you company, kids enjoying a movie in the back, fantastic sound system. Buy the Navigator, it's the only one that has the right combination of quality, size and excitement.
thanks for sharing. I like my '03 Navigator quite a bit too. Still though, I'm taking it in for service this week for regular maintenance plus a few other issues -- the "flapping" body molding has creeped up again at high speeds (they fixed this last year with some sort of adhesive) and I still can't get my rig to drive 100% smooth over 65mph.. there's a slight steering wheel jiggle at speeds over 65 that's been annoying me for a quite a while -- perhaps an alignment will help?
I agree with you though, the Navi is hard to beat when in comes to room, features and value.
That's probably a bad tire or tire out of balance and not an alignment issue. Does it change or go away when the tires are rotated? A Hunter road force balancer will usually fix the problem or at least point out where it's coming from. May need to swap the wheels/tires or realign the tires on the wheels.
I'll mention what you said to my service rep -- by the way do most Lincoln dealerships have a "hunter road force balancer" -- I'm assuming that is a shop item no?
are not a standard Ford Shop item, though some dealerships do have them (mine has 3 - but that is really incredible, but since Roger Penske runs the place . . . ). Since the Navigator went to a rack and pinion steering system (from the older recirculating ball type) the vehicle is more sensitive to wheel irregularities/imbalances. The Hunter Road Force Analyzer is the best piece of equipment to diagnose such problems. If your dealer does not have this specific piece of equipment, search around your local tire specialty shops. It will cost you a few extra dollars whenever you have your tires balanced/mounted with this piece of equipment, but it really pays for itself when it prevents the problem you've been putting up with. My local Discount Tire store has one of these tools, and I've had my last two sets of tires mounted using this tool. Each time, two tires were found to be too unbalanced and were returned to the manufacterer and I got other ones that balanced with under 10-lbs of peak-to-peak force (i.e., very well balanced) before leaving the store. Without this piece of equipment, I would be experiencing the same problem as you.
I concur with the tire theory. Mine had that slight jiggle at high speed in the wheel. Had the tires rotated, not even rebalanced, took it completely out, so it definitely was my tires, either out of round or out of balance. Just got back from a road trip last weekend, the truck floats totally vibration free! Work on those tires, the rack will really transmit any irregularity up to the wheel. The price we pay for "road feel".
Just got my '03 Navigator back.. 10K service, new wipers, new "foam" application inside the body cladding, and had the tires rotated and balanced. Service took 8 hours but they gave me a towncar in the mean time.
Success!!
I just drove the rig 90+ on the highway.. no jiggles and no flapping molding. Sweet! The rims were left filthy and a horrible heavy metal station was playing in my radio when I got my car back but I'm not gonna get picky as long as the problems are fixed.
I'm looking-forward to many more jiggle free miles -- thanks for your previous input folks!
And, I would register a minor complain by letter on the cleanliness of the vehicle, and radio station annoyance. That's not very reassuring to us stodgy types is it? My son works at a dealership, and cleans the cars up (yes, he's a real high achiever....) but he knows better than to change the radio station when driving the cars without changing it back.
I usually get a phone call a few days after servicing my navi. They usually ask me how things went when I took it in. Should I mention the dirty rims and radio station or would that be too nasty? I mean, I washed the truck after service and changing a station isn't that big of a deal -- just two minor annoyances. Would I be getting anyone in trouble? That's really not my intent, I just want them to "up" their service game a little bit.
Personally, gteach? I would mention it, but I have a feeling the "call" I get to follow up, is to guage my satisfaction, before they turn my name in for a survey to fill out. If I'm not happy, strangely enough, I never get the survey in the mail! If I'm pleased, I always get one. But I'd tell them you were put off by it. It may do some good.
Since my son works at my favorite LIncoln store now, and I know him, I can see how these things can happen, and the service director should know about it. Anyway, that's how I feel.
Got mine back this morning from having the 15,000 mile service. All was well, and it had been washed, though the wheels were done poorly. That brake dust is a bear to get off I guess. I checked though - radio station was intact, even on talk radio! Unbelievable! No, my son was off today. You think I'd let him drive my car?
Just got back from a little road trip with my family (250 miles round trip).
The nasty little steering wheel jiggle... has returned. It is especially noticeable going 70mph++ on long stretches of straight-away roads. WHY WON"T THIS GO AWAY FOR GOOD?! I guess it is back to the shop to see if it's a bad tire.. even though they SHOULD have diagnosed this on my last visit.
and...
now the body paneling on the DRIVER'S door is rattling (the previous problem maker - the rear passenger door is quiet as can be). WHY CAN'T THEY STOP MY CLADDING FROM FLAPPING?!
On top of that, the air suspension is now getting locked in the "high" position at times when I turn the car off (it is supposed to lower itself a few inches when you shut the ignition off).
This is SUCH a comfortable, good looking, useful SUV.. I just can't seem to iron out these little annoying tendencies -- and I don't have the time or desire to be visiting my "always friendly but not always useful" service reps so often.
On little around-town type drives this truck is A+++... it is on the freeway that my issues crop up. Anyhow, my lease is up on this baby in December and I'm leaning towards leaving the SUV category (and Ford) after 7+ years driving one (97 Explorer, '00 Navi, and now an '03 gator).
... then again who knows, I'm just a little grumpy about my ride right now. I hate to be a whiner but I needed to vent a bit.
Gteach - do you have the Michelin pilot tires? Mine are great - and once my cladding was fixed, it's been silencio ever since.
On the air suspension - if you have a rear window, or door open, it won't settle. And when I've had it out in the "wilderness", I've noticed sometimes it stays up when off. I figured it was because it had been on rough roads, and it had raised itself for clearance, and was just staying up anticipating. I may be giving it too much credit, I don't know.
I may leave "SUVville" myself next go around. Been looking into a Q45..... Like the Lincoln LS very much, but it's a tad small for my needs.
I've got Michelin Cross Terrain SUV tires.. I've read/heard they are some of the best out there. I'd take it to another tire shop and pay to get 100 % satisfaction but I don't want to dump more money into a car that I don't own and will be giving back in 9 months. We'll see....
For my next go 'round I'm either doing another gator (if I stick with a truck) but more likely I'll let my wife have SUV duty with an '04/'05 LX470.
Meanwhile I'm looking at the Lexus LS430, the new '05 caddy STS, the new '05 Acura RL, and maybe the Q45... The car with the most cushy interior that I fit in best will get my $$. I wish lincoln would get off its you know what and make a towncar with a sporty side (inside and out). The new Mercury Montego is a step in the right direction but it is not there yet IMO. The LS is TINY for me, but looks great.
As it stands now (in my grumpy state of mind) my Lincoln sales guy is going to have to do ONE heck of a sales pitch and offer me a very nice deal to keep me in a Navi for a couple more years though...
Well, the vibration in the steering rack just about has to be the tires. If they've been balanced on the truck, then one of them is going bad. Can't blame that on the truck. This problem is common, because of the rack & pinion, which gives you great "road feel". Not a big priority with me, but Car & Driver loves it!
I'm also all about what "fits" me best.... That's one reason I kind of like the Infiniti. The Q has always felt like a Ford to me when I get in and put it on. The wheel feels right in the place it's in, the seats feel comfy and supportive, and the beltline and cowl seem right too. I think the Q is underrated, and therefore, a bargain oftimes, leasing new, or buying 2 years old. We'll see. I'm really happy with my Nav. But in a couple of years, I may be done with the big SUV thing, and my wife has one too....
I filed a complaint since the dealer had attempted to fix my 2000 navi the 3rd time for engine trouble and they decided to give Ford more time to replace the engine. I requested for a vehicle refund or replacement but it was denied. The vehicle has been at the dealer since 2/4/04 and still not completed, how much more time do they need. Is there a DSB appeal process? My warranty expires next month and do not know whether to keep the vehicle or not. Ford Executive rep,Ms. Hill could not help either. Would not even make a call to the dealer to expedite repair. I think Lemon Law in MI applies only on the first year. Nothing but problems with only 42,000 miles.
The new F series SuperDuty is getting a 3V V-10 motor putting out 350 hp and 358 ft lb. of torque. BlueOvalNews is speculating that this is the same engine that will be in the 2006 Navigator.
What will occur this year, is the addition of a 6 Speed automatic. (same used by Jag). It'll also received the 3V version of the 5.4L V8. And yes, the F-series Super Duty does receive the V-10 3V as well. As to IF Navi receives this engine, hasn't been confirmed at this time.
Being a Navigator addict...... The 05 will have the 3V 5.4L rather than the current 4V Intech? What will the HP output be? Torque? Regular fuel or Premium? Does the 4V 5.4L go away then, or is it used in something else? Lastly, why? Is this a supposed improvement? A V10 doesn't interest me, a Diesel might.
The benefit of the new 3V 5.4L over the 4V version is it's easier and less complex to assemble/manufacture/ Improved fuel economy, provided by better breathing. All this while using regular fuel.
The 5.4L 4V won't go away, it's being used in the GT for example, and Australian Falcon's as well.
A V-10 might not interest most (specially with current fuel pricees) BUT being the first to do so, might be bragging rights. Although this isn't something I would confirm at this point.
Alright, I'll buy that. Great breakthrough in technology...however, I would like the Lincoln to have the 4V, that will product 300+ power then, because it's a Lincoln. I'm tired of Escalade owners reminding me that their "slade" has more power than my "gator" - although I've never felt the lack of power personally at all - gator has plenty..... I just feel the Lincolns should have a better engine than the Expedition does, or why bother with the Lincoln and the extra money?
The headlights on my 03 Ultimate occasionally do not turn on. It is completely random and can be either one. I can get them to turn on by cycling the on/off switch.
Has anyone else noticed this? Is there a fix? I am dropping it off at the dealer next week for its 15,000 mile service and I want to "help" the dealer with a solution.
Does this problem occur when the headlight switch is set to "automatic" or does it happen when you try to manually turn the lights on?
If it is happening under the "automatic" mode I know there's a sensor somewhere that detects ambient light.. perhaps that's what's gone goofy on your truck?
I have been looking at the Escalade, QX56 and the Lincoln Navigator. Of the 3, the navigator is the vehicle I like the best I especially like the interior of the navigator. Seems much nicer than the other two. The navigator salesman offered this deal: a 2004 ultimate 2wd (black) with navigation system, dvd, thx sound system, deployable running boards, appearance package with 18" chrome wheels for 52,000. There seems to be many individuals here who have a lot of knowlege about this vehicle. Is this a good deal, should I accept it or could I do better?
Go here to edmunds.com and look up the dealer invoice price for that vehicle with the options specified. Don't forget to add the destination charge. Subtract from that any rebates or incentives (should be listed when you do 'price with options'. You can also check lincoln.com for current incentives. Dealer invoice minus incentives is the lowest price you could feasibly get. $0 - $500 over that would be a very good deal unless these are in short supply.
The vehicle is still at the dealer. After replacing the engine the rough idle is still there. Now they are waiting for Ford Engineers to tell them what to do. I called Ford at their head office in Dearborn and got someone else and finally agreed that it is unacceptable for my vehicle to be down for over 3 1/2 months and they are paying for my rental. I finally got a call from Ms. Hill and it sounds like her supervisor got involved. I'm hoping to get a replacement or better yet a refund. Did you guys know that to replace an engine in a Navigator, they have to raise the whole body on a hoist off the frame. The dealer claims it took so long because of that and Ford Protocol. I paid 48,000 for this vehicle and is dead at 42000 miles. NVBANKER - I bought the vehicle in CALI and not at this dealer.
$52K sounds pretty good to me. That's about what I paid for my '04 in Dec and it was probly about the same sticker as mine was 4WD but no power running boards. Good luck in any case. It's a wonderful vehicle.
Chershel, it seems like there are MAJOR incentives for the Navi right now. $52K seems a bit high right now.
I checked on carsdirect.com and in my zip code they have the price for an ultimate 4x2 navi with thx,navigation, chrome wheels at $46,500 (inc. destination).
I'm sure Edmunds reflects these savings as well.
It seems the navi has a $3500 customer rebate right now and a special pricing deal until June.
If you live in an area with several Lincoln dealerships within driving distance, I'd offer $46,500 and I'll bet they'll take it. It seems like they're trying to get rid of inventory right now.
You've picked a GREAT time to buy! Congrats! Let us know what happens...
" Did you guys know that to replace an engine in a Navigator, they have to raise the whole body on a hoist off the frame"
Yes, body on frame vehicles usually require that setup to replace an engine, than having to shoe-horn it out through the engine bay. It's really not that labor intense as it sounds, they just remove a few screws/bolts from the side structure members, and VOILA!
Here's a link with a few pictures on how it's done.
I am trying to find out if anyone else is having the same problem as I am--I have a 2001 Nav wi 40,000 mi so it's still under warranty--when I go in or out of parking spaces, the front tires grab--makes it feel like you are going over heavy gravel--actually rocks the truck--dealer kept it for 3 days said it needed tired rotated--still having same problem, called another Lincoln dealer, they said it's normal for these big tires, for such a wonderful SUV I find it hard to believe this is normal--any HELP out there, need to find the answer before warranty runs out, THANKS
Comments
If the cost is the same why would you go aftermarket? You'll be replacing the built-in nav and audio head unit with an aftermarket version of the same thing. I can't imagine the aftermarket units have more features - the software is all pretty much the same (navtech in this case). Plus you lose all the integration with the steering wheel controls, etc.
I don't see the upside except maybe you could transfer it to another vehicle down the road. I think you need to go look at a nav equipped gator before you make that decision, just so you know what you're giving up.
Traded the 02 Gator for the 04 on Monday. Drove 350 miles, met dealer's delivery guy and traded trucks. After spending 350 miles in 02 and then climbing into 04, WHAT a huge difference!!!! Right off the bat the steering change is huge. The truck sits lower(both AWD), drives much nicer and reduced NVH. Interior appointments very nice and upscale, A-pillar coverings and head liner material very nice. Michelin's much better than Continentals on 02, although they were still going strong with 31,000 on them. But not as quiet as Michelin's.
Something very curious though. The truck does not say Ultimate anywhere on it except on the Window sticker. I got the AWD Ultimate package with only 2 options. 18-inch chrome wheels and tires, and the DVD entertainment center. I thought the 2 wheel drive 04's where I ordered this truck had little "Ultimate" emblems somewhere on the side? It isn't a big deal, I don't have the monochromatic package, just black with the grey running boards and front and rear bottom fascia's.
Love the truck, and may keep this one for the long haul, no pun intended!
Sam
I've got an '04 ultimate and it IS. And no, mine doesn't have an ultimate badge anywhere. I plan to keep mine forever too.
And, yeah, the way this vehicle steers, rides, handles, yadda yadda is just superb.
Have fun.
And, I was just thinking this past week, after a year of ownership, that this may be the one I keep for a while too. Although, I kept the 99 for nearly 5 years...just HAD to have the new one as soon as I saw the improvements. Does Detroit have me in their grip, or what?
Thanks!
Sidenote: To think years ago Ford was removing emblems, specially on the sides from vehicles, to save money.
And the Lincoln Coupe concept, also showed a raised hood emblem as well. That might give us some clues.
As for the Navi having it's globe, I wouldn't doubt it. Alhough by their concepts, it looks as if they wish to reinforce the Lincoln emblem, while Ford and Mercury will concentrate on personalizing an emblem for each vehicle differently.
Thanks.
The next was the GX470. This was, with out a doubt, the smoothest and best drive of all the SUV's tested. The interior is beautiful. Off road capabilities are very good. However, this SUV has some serious issues too. First, the 3rd row is very crampt and would only be suitable for children or adults on a very short ride. The 3rd row seats stow off to the sides of the vehicle, therefore, greatly reducing storage capacity in the back. My conclusion is that this SUV is simply too small and is a classic example of the problems with the mid-size SUV market. Mid-size SUVs force you to comprimise greatly. It's like they're in no-man's-land. GX, very nice quality and reputation of Lexus, but in the end, what the heck were they thinking when they designed that 3rd row? Lastly, I was a little worried about the complaints of vibration I read on the Edmunds forum and lack of excitement expressed by those that own it.
The QX56 is a nice design and got my serious attention. To make a long story short, I test drove 2 Armadas and experienced the vibration resonance issues on both cars. We know that the QX56 is the same SUV but with more refinement. These Armada issues basically elimated this SUV from contention. If these problems had not been their, I may have bought this vehicle. The 3rd row, however is lacking in headroom. I am 5'10 and my head was touching the top of the headliner. The interior also suffers from too much plastic. It drove nicely and the exterior looks were acceptable.
I decided, in the end, to buy the Lincoln Navigator. This was my first American vehicle purchase. I have previously owned Mercedes, Lexus, BMW's. This SUV has alot going for it. First, the edmunds townhall area for the Navigator was fairly positive about the quality of the SUV, but most importantly, the owners seem excited by the vehicle and its design. This came across much stronger than with any of these other SUVS. The Navigator has an interior that makes sense and feels solid. Not flimsy like the Infiniti's. This is a big SUV that feels big, looks big, and has a big interior that feels big and solid. The dashboard is up to date. The 3rd row seat is spacious and adults can sit back there on long rides. The 3rd row that folds into the floor is brilliant and makes a huge difference. The Navigation system is nice and the girl doesn't annoy you with her commands. The vehicle at 80mph feels very solid. Turning radious is excellent. Dvd unit is great. AC and heat on the seats is fabulous. Ride is luxurious. If you want room in your SUV and you're looking for quality and excitement, this suv is the one. The smoothness won't wow you on a quick test drive like the GX, but the overall package blows these other SUVS away. Cruising at 80mph on the interstate, navigation keeping you company, kids enjoying a movie in the back, fantastic sound system. Buy the Navigator, it's the only one that has the right combination of quality, size and excitement.
I agree with you though, the Navi is hard to beat when in comes to room, features and value.
Success!!
I just drove the rig 90+ on the highway.. no jiggles and no flapping molding. Sweet! The rims were left filthy and a horrible heavy metal station was playing in my radio when I got my car back but I'm not gonna get picky as long as the problems are fixed.
I'm looking-forward to many more jiggle free miles -- thanks for your previous input folks!
Let me know what you think.
Since my son works at my favorite LIncoln store now, and I know him, I can see how these things can happen, and the service director should know about it. Anyway, that's how I feel.
Got mine back this morning from having the 15,000 mile service. All was well, and it had been washed, though the wheels were done poorly. That brake dust is a bear to get off I guess. I checked though - radio station was intact, even on talk radio! Unbelievable! No, my son was off today. You think I'd let him drive my car?
The nasty little steering wheel jiggle... has returned. It is especially noticeable going 70mph++ on long stretches of straight-away roads.
WHY WON"T THIS GO AWAY FOR GOOD?! I guess it is back to the shop to see if it's a bad tire.. even though they SHOULD have diagnosed this on my last visit.
and...
now the body paneling on the DRIVER'S door is rattling (the previous problem maker - the rear passenger door is quiet as can be). WHY CAN'T THEY STOP MY CLADDING FROM FLAPPING?!
On top of that, the air suspension is now getting locked in the "high" position at times when I turn the car off (it is supposed to lower itself a few inches when you shut the ignition off).
This is SUCH a comfortable, good looking, useful SUV.. I just can't seem to iron out these little annoying tendencies -- and I don't have the time or desire to be visiting my "always friendly but not always useful" service reps so often.
On little around-town type drives this truck is A+++... it is on the freeway that my issues crop up. Anyhow, my lease is up on this baby in December and I'm leaning towards leaving the SUV category (and Ford) after 7+ years driving one (97 Explorer, '00 Navi, and now an '03 gator).
... then again who knows, I'm just a little grumpy about my ride right now. I hate to be a whiner but I needed to vent a bit.
On the air suspension - if you have a rear window, or door open, it won't settle. And when I've had it out in the "wilderness", I've noticed sometimes it stays up when off. I figured it was because it had been on rough roads, and it had raised itself for clearance, and was just staying up anticipating. I may be giving it too much credit, I don't know.
I may leave "SUVville" myself next go around. Been looking into a Q45..... Like the Lincoln LS very much, but it's a tad small for my needs.
For my next go 'round I'm either doing another gator (if I stick with a truck) but more likely I'll let my wife have SUV duty with an '04/'05 LX470.
Meanwhile I'm looking at the Lexus LS430, the new '05 caddy STS, the new '05 Acura RL, and maybe the Q45... The car with the most cushy interior that I fit in best will get my $$. I wish lincoln would get off its you know what and make a towncar with a sporty side (inside and out). The new Mercury Montego is a step in the right direction but it is not there yet IMO. The LS is TINY for me, but looks great.
As it stands now (in my grumpy state of mind) my Lincoln sales guy is going to have to do ONE heck of a sales pitch and offer me a very nice deal to keep me in a Navi for a couple more years though...
I'm also all about what "fits" me best.... That's one reason I kind of like the Infiniti. The Q has always felt like a Ford to me when I get in and put it on. The wheel feels right in the place it's in, the seats feel comfy and supportive, and the beltline and cowl seem right too. I think the Q is underrated, and therefore, a bargain oftimes, leasing new, or buying 2 years old. We'll see. I'm really happy with my Nav. But in a couple of years, I may be done with the big SUV thing, and my wife has one too....
Anyone have any additional information?
The 5.4L 4V won't go away, it's being used in the GT for example, and Australian Falcon's as well.
A V-10 might not interest most (specially with current fuel pricees) BUT being the first to do so, might be bragging rights. Although this isn't something I would confirm at this point.
http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=13620
From Ford Media
That's a good thing....
I myself would love the 5.4L DOHC 4V from Australia. But the ultimate need is torque, and the V-10 would be great for that....
Has anyone else noticed this? Is there a fix? I am dropping it off at the dealer next week for its 15,000 mile service and I want to "help" the dealer with a solution.
If it is happening under the "automatic" mode I know there's a sensor somewhere that detects ambient light.. perhaps that's what's gone goofy on your truck?
NVBANKER - I bought the vehicle in CALI and not at this dealer.
I checked on carsdirect.com and in my zip code they have the price for an ultimate 4x2 navi with thx,navigation, chrome wheels at $46,500 (inc. destination).
I'm sure Edmunds reflects these savings as well.
It seems the navi has a $3500 customer rebate right now and a special pricing deal until June.
If you live in an area with several Lincoln dealerships within driving distance, I'd offer $46,500 and I'll bet they'll take it. It seems like they're trying to get rid of inventory right now.
You've picked a GREAT time to buy! Congrats! Let us know what happens...
Yes, body on frame vehicles usually require that setup to replace an engine, than having to shoe-horn it out through the engine bay. It's really not that labor intense as it sounds, they just remove a few screws/bolts from the side structure members, and VOILA!
Here's a link with a few pictures on how it's done.
http://www.flatratetech.com/images/nav_how_to.htm