2016 Lincoln Navigator Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Lincoln Navigator: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Lincoln Navigator has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Lincoln Navigator has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 Lincoln Navigator?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Lincoln Navigator, the first step is to read the error codes from the vehicle's ECU using an OBD-II scanner. This tool will help you pinpoint the specific issues that triggered the warning light. Once you have the codes, take the time to research their meanings to understand the potential problems. It's crucial to identify the root cause of the issue before considering any resets; simply turning off the light without addressing the underlying problem can lead to further complications. After diagnosing the issue, proceed to fix it, whether that involves replacing a faulty sensor, tightening a loose gas cap, or addressing more complex mechanical problems. If the problem persists or if you're unsure about the necessary repairs, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable to ensure your vehicle is safe and functioning properly. By following these steps, you can effectively manage the check engine light situation and maintain your Lincoln Navigator's performance.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Lincoln Navigator?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Lincoln Navigator, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most frequent culprits is emissions-related issues, which can stem from a faulty oxygen sensor or a malfunctioning catalytic converter. These components play a crucial role in managing your vehicle's emissions and fuel efficiency, so addressing them promptly is essential. Additionally, if the check engine light is flashing, it signals a more severe problem, such as a catastrophic misfire, which can lead to significant engine damage if not resolved quickly. Other potential issues include loose or damaged gas caps, which can cause fuel vapors to escape, and problems with the ignition system, such as worn spark plugs or ignition coils. To effectively diagnose the problem, consider using an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble codes, which can guide you in pinpointing the exact issue. By understanding these common problems, you can take the necessary steps to troubleshoot and maintain your Lincoln Navigator, ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Lincoln Navigator?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2016 Lincoln Navigator, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's health and safety. A flashing check engine light is a clear signal that something is seriously wrong, often indicating issues such as engine misfires that could lead to significant damage if not addressed immediately. In this case, it is advisable to pull over safely and turn off the engine to prevent further complications. On the other hand, a steady check engine light, while less urgent, still warrants prompt attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to escalating problems that may result in costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the specific trouble codes associated with the light. This will help you identify the underlying issue, whether it’s a simple fix like a loose gas cap or something more complex requiring professional assistance. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only ensure the optimal performance of your Lincoln Navigator but also safeguard against potential safety hazards on the road.

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