Anybody got any? I've got a few minor ones myself, and would LOVE to know if I'm alone.

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.
3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.

How many miles?? It might be time for a tune up. I dont own an aviator but i thought i would post anyway. Did you talk to the dealership about the issues?

Did you buy it used by chance? I wondering if it was in an accident and not repaired properly....

Nope, bought it new, and it's got about 20K miles now.

Take it to the dealer it should still be under warranty. :L

take a look at this LEMON LAW (http://www.lincolnvscadillac.com/tech/Lemon/index.htm)

I'm not thinking it's a lemon, and I know it's under warranty. I just like to see how many other owners have similar issues with theirs. Usually a large number of owners end up with similar issues on similar models. The dealer is actually a freind of mine, I just haven't gotten around to busting his chops about the truck yet.

if he gets me a new towncar i will be his friend, LOL j/k

THere is a recall for the axle whine, they will replace the rear center section. They won't do a thing about your seats, but everything else should be fixed no problem.

The replacement axle didn't really work on mine, but I'll let them try again. Always nice to get a Townie as a loaner car. ;)

I've had my 2004 aviator for 2-1/2 months now and am still in the new car shakedown period. I've had a little more trouble than with either of my two previous navigators.

While this car is better looking, and is much more fun and capable to drive, the repair record so far isn't too great, despite the prompt and friendly warranty work.

In 11 weeks, I've had the following repaired:

1. replace three interior trim pieces that were scratched or didn't fit right.
2. true rotors and rebalance tires to eliminate slight shake.
3. replace radio which caught on fire.
4. replace rear end which started to whine.

I'm hoping that once Lincoln rebuilds this car the second time, it'll settle in to years of pleasant driving like my navigator's provided.

Only modifications I've made are an KN airfilter, and removing the rear resonator and replacing with a twin pipe stainless exhaust outlet tip. Looks great.

Hope this answers your question.

Yeah, I'm sending mine in for rotors too. My rear doesn't whine but it DOES shake. I figure it's a driveshaft vibration though. Comes in around 70mph. That, and the damn engine shake and loose driver's seat track drive me nuts at times.

This is making me rethink getting an Aviator. Is this the 04 in particular you guys are talking about? I know it supposed to run on 91 octane minumun as well.

I wouldn't let this crap scare you off. It's really a great vehicle. I'd buy one again. It's just the right size and is powerful and handles great. All that and the almost unlimited hot-rodding possibilities make it a lot of fun.

FYI - I expect KVR Performance to become a vendor soon and offer discounts to LVC Gold Members --- They make performance brake parts.

Katshot,

i am so glad to hear someone else complain about the drivers seat in the aviator. have you had any luck getting fixed by the dealer? i have tried 4 different dealers in 4 different states and have had no luck . obvioulsy this is a manufacturer defect that is happening to more people than us. maybe we can band together and try to make a complaint and get this fixed. it absolutely drived me crazy to feel that seat move all the time the way it does. let me know.


Anybody got any? I've got a few minor ones myself, and would LOVE to know if I'm alone.

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.
3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.

.

I too have a 2003 Aviator with 16k miles. This past summer I heard my A/C compressor make the loud CRUNCH noise when it comes on. Noticed it happen when I would start the vehicle with the a/c unit engaged. Never noticed it happening when the vehicle was already running and then I switched the a/c on. Has anybody taken it to the dealer to find out what is causing it? Has anyone heard of a recall for this? I also have the problem with the drivers seat being slopping on the track and moving back and forth a bit when stopping. I also have the DVD unit that keeps making a noise like it is loose. I also hear a rattle like Katshot mentioned in the B pillar area. Since it is still under warranty I plan to take it to the dealer to have all this checked out. Otherwise I really like the vehicle, alot of power, beautiful interior, and good looks. I would definitely buy another. You guys let me know what you find out on my similar complaints.

yes yes yes!!!

i have a 2003 kitty hawk edition with the DVD player as you mentioned. I took it to the dealership and they ordered another "latch" for the DVD player so it would stop rattling. It is alot better than it was, but (being the particular anal individual that i am) i still hear i a little. the seat thing is what bugs me the most. i am tired of lincoln telling me that "the play in the seat you are experiencing is normal and within spec", , , whatever.

about the AC:
i have serious electrical issues. all my dash lights (other than the speedometer and tach lights, the time on the radio, the temperature on the AC controls, and the one light on the roof about the rear ac controls) go out by themselves. then they come back on by themselves. this happens more and more the longer i have had the truck and this issue lincoln also says "there is nothing they can do until the lights go out completely for good". during a cross country trip i also had my entire AC unit quit working. i was in teh middle of Las Vegas in June and for no reason the AC just quit, then came back on by itself. i have no idea what the issue is or how to fix it, but it drives me crazy.

any comments???

I have not had the electrical problem but I would not consider anyone anal or particular when you pay $50k + for a vehicle, one should expect not to have these problems. The problem with many dealers is when they can not fix the problem they get irrtated at customers when they should get irritated at Ford, the builder of the vehicle.

Glad to see I'm not the only one having these issues. Unfortunately, have had zero luck with the dealer as far as the seat track, crunching A/C compressor engagement, or a "trembling" steering wheel when doing low speed left turns. The dealer just gives me the old "that's NORMAL for those vehicles".

Hi Katshot

Anybody got any? I've got a few minor ones myself, and would LOVE to know if I'm alone.

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.
3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.

With reference to your #2 complaint, Lincoln have a history of poor seat tracks, my 88TC had sloppy seat tracks, my 92 TC also has sloppy seat tracks. Ford issued a TSB covering 1990 - 92 Town Cars and Crown Vics because there was a sloppy seat track issue.

Regards

Dereck

kat,

i didnt realize your stering wheel issue, but the way you just described it is exactly what i have, that wierd little "shake" when you turn the wheel to the left especially when you go over a bump or driveway apron. it feels very not normal. only to the left though. i addressed this issue with the dealer as well and they determined it "no issue found after a test drive". this is bullsh,,, i am hating these little quirky issues i experience everyday in my $50k truck. i should have stuck with my little ole VW Golf.

how do we get these issues taken care of, i hate to simply accept that this is the way its going to be as long as i have this vehicle. what if we all wrote letters as a group to make ford acknowledge these issue on a deepe level??

My next step if your dealer keeps telling you that it is normal, call Ford Customer Service and file a complaint. Second make sure that you keep all your service work orders where you reported the incident and they came back and told you that it is normal. My response to service techs when they tell me that it is normal is write that down in my work order and I am going to file a complaint against Ford for not selling vehicles with issues. In other words let them know that you are not going to accept that answer and either they do something to address it or you will. Those service tech need to understand that they better keep their customers happy and content because the customers business pay for their paycheck.

This new service tech guy was working on my LS one time, I took it in for the drivers seat heater not working and a rubber strip alongside the drivers side window that was falling down into the door panel. Also the lights on the rear license plate were loose.The car was still under warranty. They know that I take care of my vehicles, at that time I also had a 2000 Mountaineer. I also took it there for the oil changes and the factory service intervals. This service tech in trying to remove my door panel punched to small holes at the top and tore it a bit. He left wires hanging out and loose when he was checking my heater. I immediately told the service rep when I picked up my car as I examine it before I leave the dealer and he told me not to worry that they would take care of it. They bought me a new door panel and replaced it at no charge. I had bought a new wood and leather steering wheel at the time and they installed it without charge. I also had them install the rubber strip that is at the bottom when you open you trunk, mine had become all scuffed up and they replaced it for free. They took care of my very well. Letting your dealer know that you are very pissed and that they better take care of the problems or you will by filing a complaint.

If you remember the Firestone recall on the Ford Explorers. The recall was on all Firestone tires on Explorers and Mountaineers. Ford announced that certain dealers were going to have tire replacements and all you need to do was take your vehicle on one of these selected dealers to have your tires replaces at no charge. I called a local Ford dealer who told me that they did not have the tire replacements yet even though Ford had said this program was in place for 30 days, and to make matters worse the dealer could not tell me on when they would receive them. They told me all we can do is out your name down on our list and call me when they would get them. The list was very long of course. That irritated me very much. I said what do you mean you dont know when you are receiving the tires? Has Ford not kept you informed and given you some time frame? They are the ones spearheading this program and the announcement is already 30 days old. They told me that they were not given any time frame and did not knwo if it was going to be another month or two or three before they start receiving tires to replace the recalled tires. I told them you mean it could be another six months before I could get them replaced? He said I cant tell you that. After I left that I called Ford Customer Service and told them what was going on with this dealer. I told them I cannot believe that they do not have the tires after 30 days into the program but worse yet they do not no when they are going to receive them. I told the Ford rep, so in the meantime if something happens to me then, because you dont have the tires available you guys are on the hook. I told that that I was documenting everything. Believe or not the next morning I got a call from that dealer telling me that the tires were now available and when could I bring it in. I think that call to the Ford complaint dept. was the key.

Last month I reported about the same problems as the rest of you with my 2 1/2 mo old aviator. Dealer has fixed them all, except the slop in the drivers seat. They now plan to send the seat out to an upholstry shop to see what they can do with it, because they admit that this is also a problem on their mountaineers, and they aren't sure how to fix it.

I appreciate their forthright honesty, even if I don't the competency to fix it.

Got to say it, everything they fixed has reallly been fixed. Only irritation was when they drained out my brand new Mobil 0w-20w sythentic oil, without asking, as a favor and installed the motorcraft oil "free of charge". I've always run my cars on Mobil 1 sythentic, and while I'm no expert on engine oil, I've got to say that in I've never had an engine problem associated with oil. I guess it's just a way to pamper my car. (ps, Wal-mart around Atlanta will do a Mobile 1 oil change for $37.00, plus the extra quart of oil it takes. Not bad!!!!

As I mentioned in a previous posting, I replace the rear resonator with a twin pipe, stainless outlet. The sound is ever so slightly better, but I'm really considering a quality performance muffler like "magnaflow". Anybody got any experience with this. I'm hesitant to screw around too much because this engine is already a hi-performance engine, previously used in the Mustang Mach 1 and Mercury Maurader. The engine had 8 to 10 more horsepower in the mustang, but then it had true dual exhausts. My favorite muffler shop guy and I determined that real dual exhausts is out of the question under there with the new independent rear suspension, and I don't care much for phony duals, (one muffler with two ehaust outlets). All I really want is a more throaty sound.

In case you think I'm some kid making this up, I admit I'm 64 years old with 5 children and 5 grandkids. I was just brought up in the 50's and 60's and have owned some pretty neat v-8s over the years, most of which could really put a smile on my face with they way they sounded.

Let me know if you've had a positive experience with a better sounding muffler that isn't too over the top.

Thanks, Wayne

I had the rough idle issue in my Navigator. I took it back to the dealer, they tuned it up, and all is well. As far as the wind noise, you may need a slight door adjustment. I haven't had the problem in the Nav, but I have in prior vehicles. Also, keep in mind that both the Nav and Aviator have large mirrors. They also cause wind noise. My dealer gave me one of the new Eddie Bauer Expeditions as a loaner recently, and those huge mirrors really added to cabin noise at higher speeds. You can easily tell if the mirrors are causing additional noise by driving with them folded in vs. extended.

Hi I recently purchased a 03' Aviator a couple of weeks ago. I hear some sort of howling noise when I have my foot on the gas peddle slightly, is this what everyone is talking about? If so, whats the problem? I also get this strong rattle vibration when I turn the steering wheel ALL THE Way to the left while I hit the brakes, Is this something that is a defect and needs to be fixed? Thanks People!

This is my third, and hopefully last update on my Aviator which is now 6 months old. Those of you who have read my previous reports will remember that my trials and tribulations were about the same as everyone else's - namely, rear differential noise, driver seat track too loose, poorly fitting trim pieces, and a front end noise when turning left.

Well, in summary, the car has had too much wrong with it for an expensive luxury car, but I can now report that the dealer has listened to all my complaints with interest, tried his best, and has now fixed everything to my satisfaction. The rear end required two tries, the seat track is now fixed on the first try. (they installed a new seat track), all the trim pieces that didn't fit right have bee replaced - and I'm now happy. It's a nice truck/car.

I have a neighbor with a beautiful 2004 BMW 740i and his car has been a nightmare of repair. I guess it makes one feel better to know that the germans have their problems too, and this is a $75K car!!!

It might be of interest for some of you that the last visit to the dealer (seat track), they also informed me that they had a factory notification for a transmission service. It called them to add a transmission additave. I havn't noticed any difference, and havn't heard about any particular troubles with this transmission. Good thing they took care of it because this is a sealed transmission in case you didn't know. There is no dipstick, or topside place to add transmission oil.

I've been working with this dealer for 15 years, and make it perfectly clear to them that top notch service is the primary reason I return to buy new lincolns. I'm pleased to report that they've lived up to my expectations.

FYI - Baranco Lincoln-Mercury, Atlanta, GA.

Wayne

I have the same issue with the AC crunch. The vehicle is an 03 and never made the sound till recently. The dealer told me it is normal freon rush sound, sounds like bunk to me, especially since it just started. I'm taking to another dealer and will post what I find out.Anybody got any? I've got a few minor ones myself, and would LOVE to know if I'm alone.

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.
3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.

I'm only at 5,000 miles, but already have the A/C compressor noise, loose fitting trim pieces and the rear-end whine. I had an 84 Grand Marquis with a noisy rear-end. Difference was the Mercury did it at low speeds, and this aviator does it at high speeds. Glad to hear they'll fix it. I just thought the 3.73 gears were a noisy Ford problem!! This is my first Lincoln Mercury vehicle in many years, and I'm starting to remember why. Hopefully the dealer will be helpful, but my first phone call was not encouraging.

P.S. I love the way the truck feels other than this.








Anybody got any? I've got a few minor ones myself, and would LOVE to know if I'm alone.

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.
3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.

I get the rear end whine i think you all are talking about.i think it only comes when your on the freeway and give it a little gas after being off the throttle the whole way....then i hear it...kind of gets annoying but its a turn up the music thing to me lol
i also get the steering wheel shake really bad when i am turn the wheel the whole way to the right or left and gently accelerate..........i will be taking it to the dealer very soon for this

My was repair 3 times by dealer, the last time they installed a new tranxale, has to wait 2 months for the new one. loaner a 2005 Sable.Anybody got any? I've got a few minor ones myself, and would LOVE to know if I'm alone.

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.
3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.

Ask the dealer to replace part # v*654*k axle asy they have to replace w a new one, there is no repair for it. Hi I recently purchased a 03' Aviator a couple of weeks ago. I hear some sort of howling noise when I have my foot on the gas peddle slightly, is this what everyone is talking about? If so, whats the problem? I also get this strong rattle vibration when I turn the steering wheel ALL THE Way to the left while I hit the brakes, Is this something that is a defect and needs to be fixed? Thanks People!

Does anyone have suggestions on how to get the dealer to correct the following issues on an '04 Aviator:
1. Strange vibration/clunking when turning left
2. No interior lights on clock, steering wheel controls, A/C controls or radio?

Katshot your thread made me laugh, I have be trying to describe this noise and I think you got it ,its a howling that just comes out of no where on occasion and I haven’t been able to troubleshot it yet . I am not sure if it has something to do with the A/C or acceleration, help.



Anybody got any? I've got a few minor ones myself, and would LOVE to know if I'm alone.

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.
3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.

Has anyone figured out what causes the car to shake so bad at idle? My 2003 Navi started about 3000 miles ago have had it to 3 different dealerships and they say nothing is wrong, I have driven other 2003 expeditions/f-150/navi's and none of them do it at all !! WTF(frick)!!!

Hi guys,


I just got my avi bought it used a week ago at 25k miles. Everything was good until today...I noticed that my fuel gauge dropped after I filled up on gas, loss of fuel pressure I'm guessing from not installing the cap right. I've tried uninstalling and reinstalling, seemed to take a few tries to get it right to make the gauge read my full tank after a couple cold starts. I didn't think a gas cap could cause this much trouble, now my check engine light came on. I could disconnect my battery and see if it resets, but I did notcie a a groove where an "O" ring seal might go on the gas cap...is there supposed to be one? I can't find any info. on it now, can someone let me know if the gas cap is supposed to have a seal? Maybe that's why I am losing fuel pressure? Thanks.

For the fuel gauge issue, go to Wal-mart and buy a bottle of Techron.... probably a batch of gas with too high a sulfur content - May have fouled your sending unit.

My Aviator recently had a tranny shifting/slipping problem that got progressively worse over a short period of time..... Turned out to be the solenoid pack & was replaced n/c by dealer - Truck shifts like a million bucks now!!

I too have noticed the radio lights go on/off from time to time. Here's something of interest though..... It only happens around dusk! When it's completely dark out, no issues. I thought "maybe" it's somehow tied to the auto headlamp system? Any thoughts???

Anybody have some good performance mod ideas? How about interior woodtrim piece suppliers? Wheels/tires? I'd love to see some pix from fellow members! :)

Lastly, what kind of gas mileage are you getting? My Aviator in fairly mixed driving is getting about 13.5 - 14.5 mpg, this only after I set the tire pressures to 38psi. How's everyone else's performing???

Thanks for all the replies!

Hi guys,


I just got my avi bought it used a week ago at 25k miles. Everything was good until today...I noticed that my fuel gauge dropped after I filled up on gas, loss of fuel pressure I'm guessing from not installing the cap right. I've tried uninstalling and reinstalling, seemed to take a few tries to get it right to make the gauge read my full tank after a couple cold starts. I didn't think a gas cap could cause this much trouble, now my check engine light came on. I could disconnect my battery and see if it resets, but I did notcie a a groove where an "O" ring seal might go on the gas cap...is there supposed to be one? I can't find any info. on it now, can someone let me know if the gas cap is supposed to have a seal? Maybe that's why I am losing fuel pressure? Thanks.

This is a HUGE problem for Ford with several models!! There are published letters from Ford on it. It has absolutely NOTHING to do with the gas cap. They aren't sure why and don't have a cure. They actually showed me a letter where Ford believes there is a certain pump handle at gas stations that delivers fuel so fast it sinks the float. That's bull. I have filled mine up extremely slow and it still occasionally does it. Eventually, it will read correctly...some sooner than others. I have had this same problem on 3 other Ford products and it's frustrating. By now, I've become used to it. But I can sympathize with the dealers. They really don't know why it's doing it. They can't fix it if they can't find the problem!

Hi All,

Bought my '03 Aviator 2WD used 3 months ago w/35k miles on it. Before I bought it, I had a Ford dealer service department run its VIN number to check for its service history. -All maintenance was done every 5k and the only warranty work it had was for a malfunctioning tailgate glass button... Not too bad considering it is a first year model!


The truck has been absolutely fabulous. I'm averaging 16.2 MPG with mostly in town driving with the tires at 40PSI. I also alternate tanks with 87 and 91 octane when I fill up. Love the power.

I do have the momentary A/C compressor grind at startup, but only if the compressor hasn't kicked on for more than 2 days. Through some searching, I have found that this is a characteristic of many Ford truck A/C compressors. It is nothing to worry about and the tradeoff is many years of reliable service.

No rear axle whine whatsoever and it has the original rear end. My '03 also has the class III tow package (and a trailer brake controller installed- was little nervous about that, but all is well)

Glad I found this forum. Sorry for the long post!

Congrats! And enjoy your new purchase.... pretty decent gas mileage you're getting there. We see ~12 - 13.5 mpg city and about 18 highway. :( But, I will admit the power & tranny shift from 1st. - 2nd. @ WOT is simply too addictive. hahaha

I'd be careful about running lower octane fuel in the Aviator. The Ford 4.6 DOHC V8 is a high compression engine. If you run lower octane fuel, you will risk detonation, which is a premature explosion of the fuel, which can result in a loss of power and possible engine damage. If your engine is detonating, you may hear an audible "knock" or "ping". Detonation may vary from a faint noise on light acceleration to a constant, deep hammering noise while driving at a constant speed. Improper timing adjustments, vacuum leaks, or excessively lean fuel mixtures may also cause detonation.

As a 'rule of thumb', engines with compression ratios of 9.3:1 or higher should be using 91 octane fuel or higher. Otherwise, you may risk detonation. The 4.6 DOHC in the Aviator has a compression ratio of 10.0:1.

all the same problems and the dealer is:shifty:

Hi, My name is Jeremy and i am new here, I have had 2 Aviators, an 03 Kitty Hawk edition, and my current an 05 Ivory Parchement tri-coat, i love both of them, however in my 03 i did experience many of the problems you guys are having with yours, such as rear axle noise, electrical and fuel guage problems, etc. I havn't had any problems with my 05 as of yet but it only currently has 3000 miles on it so we will see. I also work for Ford Motor Company at the St Louis assembly plant where the Aviators are (well, were) built, i worked on frame line most of the time but worked on some trim lines as well, so if any of you have any questions about them i can mor than likely answer them, if i cant, i know several engineers involved in the development of the Aviator who can. Sorry for the long post, but feel free to contact me with any questions, and i look foward to talking to all of you,

-Jeremy

Jeremy,

Welcome! Being a guy from the Ford family, perhap you can advise all of us about the fuel requiements for the Aviator? There's been some debate about what octane rating to use with these trucks..... Any "intimate" knowledge you could share with us all?

Thanks & again - WELCOME!!! :)

Being a high compression motor and the sensitivity of the EGR/emissions system the Aviator (as with most newer lincoln V8's) requires 91+ octane fuel (as it probably says on your fuel door), when i bought my first Aviator in 2003 i put 87 octane in it, it turned the MIL on and i had to have the whole EGR system replaced, i do not recommend using anything lower than what is specified by the manufacturer, and as far as i know most higher end vehicles require the use of premium fuels

Thanks for the tip/advice!!!

As a 'rule of thumb', engines with compression ratios of 9.3:1 or higher should be using 91 octane fuel or higher. Otherwise, you may risk detonation. The 4.6 DOHC in the Aviator has a compression ratio of 10.0:1

I'm aware of and do take the relatively higher compression ratio into account when I mix the lower octane fuel. The Aviator DOHC V8 CR is actually higher at 10.3:1.

I also own a Kia Amanti with a 10.0:1 compression ratio and the manual states that regular is fine to run (91+ for "best" performance- hint "best performance"). I use regular with no problem/pinging in that car.

My reasoning is that there is not a big difference in CR between the two above vehicles to worry about running 91+ in the Aviator all the time. I don't need to utilize all 302 horses all the time either.;)

The ECM or PCM or whatever it's called in the Aviator will also advance or retard timing accordingly from input it receives from the engine knock sensors.

I'm not claiming to be an expert, but based on my experience, I've had no problems running lower octane fuel.

Just to cover my butt, I called my local Ford dealer and inquired about this. The service manager stated that it would not void the warranty, but to just be sure to add fuel system treatment to the gas once and awhile.

IMO, unless you tow or haul regularly or live at high altitudes, putting 91+ octane in at every fillup is throwing money away.

Being a high compression motor and the sensitivity of the EGR/emissions system the Aviator (as with most newer lincoln V8's) requires 91+ octane fuel (as it probably says on your fuel door), when i bought my first Aviator in 2003 i put 87 octane in it, it turned the MIL on and i had to have the whole EGR system replaced, i do not recommend using anything lower than what is specified by the manufacturer, and as far as i know most higher end vehicles require the use of premium fuels

I've had tank after tank of 87 octane in with no MIL...

It also says to put 5w-20 motor oil in on my oil fill cap and to ONLY use this weight in the owners manual!!!:eek::shifty:

I won't run anything lighter than 10w-30 here in hot sunny Florida especially during the summer months. No problems so far!

Do you recommend I use 5w-20 in my climate? IIRC Ford switched the recommended oil viscosity across the line a few years back for the sake of improving corporate fuel economy... At the expense of engine protection....See where I'm coming from?

I agree with many of your comments, the computers should be able to compensate for any octane deficiency by retarding ignition. We've run 87 since day one and have had no MIL's either.... I will admit to "floor'in it" every now and again, but nothing has come up to be concerned about.

Just my .02 worth. :)

Thanks dadsdream01!

Though Airman isn't wrong in his theory. The computers can only do so much, ultimately the engines compression ratio IS the biggest factor.

IMO the Aviator is on the borderline CR of absolutely requiring 91+ -any higher and I think it would be a necessity.

CR of 10.0:1 or lower can easily run on regular without problems (if within the limits of the engine computer)

If my engine blows, I will be the here to report and eat my words.:D

I have a 2005 Aviator. When the headlight control is placed on automatic occasionally all of the dash lights go completely out. If I put them back on manual, they come back on. The dealer can't find the cause because it is an intermittant problem. Has anyone else had this problem?

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
---how rough, they are not the smoothest idle, is the check engine light on?
how many miles. They do have some problems with valve seats wearing out premituraly. Your dealer should know about this problem. Is it rough on acceleration too or is that smooth?

2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move
back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.

---Also known problemw with the seat rails, again your dealer should know about the service messages on this problem

3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
--- Cant really help with that without hearing/seeing this problem

4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
---Totally normal, sounds bad but its normal sorry to say.

5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
---Another likely known problem. Rear axle whine, service messages on this too. Probably will need to have the rear diff rebuilt

6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.
---Again without hearing it cant determine if its normal or not.

good luck hope that helps.

I have almost the exact same problems with my 2005 Aviator which now has 8500 miles on it. The loud whirring sound in the rear was fixed by having the dealer do something with the transaxle. Not a new problem for them as they seemed to know exactly what it was. I have now started with electrical issues with the lights on the steering buttons going out first. Now sometimes all the dash lights go out except for the speedometer and radio display. My seat also moves in the track when stopping or starting. Any answers for this??



QUOTE=Katshot]Anybody got any? I've got a few minor ones myself, and would LOVE to know if I'm alone.

1. The engine is VERY rough. The whole truck shakes at idle.
2. The driver's seat track is sloppy on the left side making the seat move back and fourth slightly when starting/stopping.
3. The A/C makes a lot of noise but has very poor airflow.
4. The A/C compressor comes on with a loud CRUNCH at first start up.
5. Occasionally, there's a loud howling noise from the rear of the vehicle (sounds like a ghost!)
6. Wind noise and rattle from the right side "B" pillar area.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=lincoln0107]I get the rear end whine i think you all are talking about.i think it only comes when your on the freeway and give it a little gas after being off the throttle the whole way....then i hear it...kind of gets annoying but its a turn up the music thing to me lol
i also get the steering wheel shake really bad when i am turn the wheel the whole way to the right or left and gently accelerate..........i will be taking it to the dealer very soon for this[/QUOTE

MY 2000 LINCOLN LS made a whining sound also..annoying when the radio was off.
:p

Well lets see... We bought our 03 new. it has just 50K on it now and the following has been repaired.
rear glass frame replaced 3 times. cracks right wear the Lincoln symbol is... currently cracked again

rear end replaced for the whining thing

engine replaced at 30K for a broken valve ( they couldn't find the pieces so they replace the whole engine.)

current problems...

left rear window does not work
tailgate does not unlock/work only can open the glass.

and today the ABS light came on after starting but went out after putting it in gear ??? it only comes on after starting but goes out when put in gear.:confused: :confused: :confused:

other than that it has been a great driver

I feel so relieved that I'm not the only one with the loud CRUNCH at startup (after about 48 hours of not driving it only) -- I finally got sick of it and took a video of the crunching part! I HAVE IT ON MY CELL PHONE ha!!

It is the high pressure "pipe/hose/metal thingie" at the front of the vehicle that goes over and around the front of the car - both of my clips to hold it "still" are broken or stripped. That pipe goes WILD when I start the car, the cell phone couldn't even catch it all it moves so fast but I do have the noise and video to keep record of it ha! I paid a mechanic $10 (quickie) to put those heavy duty wrap ties on it in 4 places. STILL get the CRUNCH!!! It's unreal how LOUD this CRUNCH is! I guess I have to live with it then :(

Now -- the "ghost in the back of the car" visits from time to time but not while driving fast, it's while slowing down to a STOP on my car. It's a howling/ghosty sound. Did anyone ever figure it out? It stops when I turn off the a/c too! (oh, did anyone catch that?) It's not often, but it is a worrisome sound.

I just posted about the alarm - I couldn't start my car at ALL after the alarm went on and I put the key in the ignition to stop the alarm (that worked) but then it would not start at all and then the battery went dead completely. Resetting it didn't work via the manual (page 151) so I got it jumped. It was awful in the heat and rain in texas for an hour and a half :( Anyone know what I should have done differently?(you can read the full post under the aviator area).

OH -- the backup assist mirrors -- do yours go back where they were? I've had the motors replaced and they still mess up....??? I'm always having to put them where I want them!

Also the alarm for backup....goes off ALL the time -- beep beep,,,beeeeeeeeep and nothing is back there? Any way to set the sensitivity of it? Maybe it's dusty/dirty or ??? I'm afraid one day it'll be a real beep and I'll ignore it because it goes beep all the time! (well, not ALL the time, it has it's moments but gee...)

I've had the car 2,000 miles. I bought it at 50,000 miles.

Lisa

There are two noises that can be described as a howl/whine coming from the rear. One is the rear axle (mentioned a bunch here). The other not mentioned here is called something like 'expansion valve' (or something). It has to do with the rear A/C. I believe this part is located in the C pillar (maybe). What happens is small amounts of air escape and makes a wierd ghostly howl just for a few seconds and then stops. Sometimes it reminds of the sound when cops just turn on thier sirens. I believe the dealerships should be well aware of this issue.

I have that problem now on my 2003 Aviator with 52k miles. Someone here mentioned there was a recall for this problem. When did that happen. Any idea what causes this problem and is it a big and costly repair?

THere is a recall for the axle whine, they will replace the rear center section. They won't do a thing about your seats, but everything else should be fixed no problem.

The replacement axle didn't really work on mine, but I'll let them try again. Always nice to get a Townie as a loaner car. ;)

Can you tell me when this recall happen for the rear axle whine? I have that problem now on my Aviator with 52k miles. Any idea what causes the problem and is it a big and costly repair?

Yeah, I'm sending mine in for rotors too. My rear doesn't whine but it DOES shake. I figure it's a driveshaft vibration though. Comes in around 70mph. That, and the damn engine shake and loose driver's seat track drive me nuts at times.

The coils are bad on the aviators. Mine were replaced (7 out of the 8) for free... they are doing this till november of 07 so get yours in... mine idled rough too its an 05 with 13k on it the ac clanked too when it sat for a while i dunno what the did but it doesnt anymore...:confused:

The coils are bad on the aviators. Mine were replaced (7 out of the 8) for free... they are doing this till november of 07 so get yours in... mine idled rough too its an 05 with 13k on it the ac clanked too when it sat for a while i dunno what the did but it doesnt anymore...:confused:

what do you ask your dealer to do? replace the coils? is it a recall type of thing?

I just went in and said my car shakes at idle and said it pretty pissed and they looked and they said no it doesnt so i went back ands tarted it and sat in the seat wiht him and told him what i felt and he said oh well these coils are having issues and he sat for about 3 hours replacing them one by one to see how it fixed it and then 7 later it was good. why he didnt just replace them all i have no idea but he said to tell fellow owners its a free fix till november... i guess its a recall but recalls are forever i thought?

Another issue to add to the list. Although this one probably applies to every car. When my car is idling or off, opening/closing the windows, operating A/C, etc... causes all the interior lights to dim significantly. I have an Optima Yellow Top bat. I don't believe it's dying already, can't be more then 1.75 years old. I'm guessing it's either grounding or the battery dying. Let's assume the voltage of the battery is normal, what other test can I perform to determine if the battery is on its way out?

I remember seeing something regarding the a/c noise issue. On a cold start up liquid refridgerant will collect in the compressor and when the a/c clutch is activated, the liquid coming out makes that noise. I also remember that the PCM will activate the a/c clutch for a short time during cranking before the engine starts to purge the compressor of the liquid. I don't know if the newer vehicles have this strategy or not. On the interior light issue, my 97 Mark 8, if it's daylight or dusk/dawn and the headlight switch is in the park or head position, the interior lights will not come on. If you put something over the light sensor, they come on. They come on all the time if the switch is in the autolamp position.

freedom9er...I think your problem is going to be either bad, loose, corroded or otherwise less than optimal connections at the battery or distrubition block/box. Also it could be to a higher amperage draw by the window motors due to a dirty/sticking window track in the door. More than likely, it is a normal thing. Almost every vehicle I have owned has done that. I had a camry that if the windows were all the way down or up and you hit both of the front window switches, the car would die. That's how I know about the dirty window run :)

I hope this helps ya'll out

rayner you're the man. thanks for the tips. if my aviator were to ever die from a window roll i would just crash it into a tree and be done with it. i have a feeling it may be the battery not putting out enough amps.