Direct Ignition Coil Guide for the 2018-2022 Lincoln Navigator
Keep your Navigator's 3.5L EcoBoost engine running smoothly by understanding when and how to replace your ignition coils.
- A failing ignition coil will cause a noticeable engine misfire, rough idle, and turn on the check engine light with codes P0301-P0306.
- Replacing a single coil is a simple, DIY-friendly job that requires only basic hand tools and about 30 minutes.
- For reliable, OEM-quality replacement, Denso is a trusted brand often considered the original manufacturer for Motorcraft.
- While performance brands like Granatelli exist, sticking with OEM (Motorcraft) or OEM-equivalent (Denso) is the safest bet for long-term reliability on a daily driver.
Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
A bad ignition coil on your Navigator will make itself known through several performance issues. Because the 3.5L EcoBoost is a high-performance engine, even a small problem in the ignition system can be easy to feel.
🎬 Watch this video to see common symptoms of a bad coil.- Rough Idle and Shaking: Your Navigator may shake or vibrate when stopped, as one cylinder isn't contributing power.
- Engine Misfires: You might feel a jerking or sputtering sensation during acceleration. This is the most direct symptom of a coil not firing correctly.
- Loss of Power: With one less cylinder working, your Navigator will feel sluggish and slow to accelerate.
- Worse Fuel Economy: The engine will burn more fuel to make up for the loss of power from the misfiring cylinder.
- Difficulty Starting: In cases of multiple coil failures or a completely failed coil, the engine may be hard to start.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for ignition coils on the 2018-2022 Lincoln Navigator. Searches for widespread owner complaints or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to premature ignition coil failure on this specific generation of Navigator did not yield significant results. However, a TSB for the related 3.5L EcoBoost engine (SSM 50412) notes that if misfires are present, a technician should swap the suspected bad coil with a known good one to confirm the failure before replacement. This indicates that coil failure is a known, though not necessarily widespread, diagnostic outcome.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When replacing a coil, you have choices between the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part and various aftermarket brands. For your Navigator, the OEM brand is Motorcraft.
Pro Tip: Many owners and mechanics recommend replacing the spark plug in the same cylinder when you replace an ignition coil. A worn or faulty spark plug can cause a new coil to fail prematurely.
Brand Tiers for Your Navigator
- OEM (Motorcraft): This is the part your Navigator was built with. It guarantees perfect fit and performance but is often the most expensive option. Many forum users across various Ford models stand by using only Motorcraft ignition parts to avoid headaches.
- OEM-Equivalent (Denso): Denso is a massive, reputable parts manufacturer that is widely believed to be the original manufacturer for many Motorcraft coils. Choosing a Denso coil often gets you the exact same quality and performance as the OEM part, but at a lower price and without the Motorcraft branding. For a daily-driven vehicle, Denso is a highly reliable and cost-effective choice.
- Performance Aftermarket (Granatelli): Brands like Granatelli Motor Sports cater to enthusiasts looking for higher performance. They claim to offer a higher voltage output for a stronger spark, which can improve throttle response and support modified engines (e.g., those with performance tunes or larger turbos). While some users report positive results like a smoother idle and better acceleration, others have experienced reliability issues. These are best suited for owners who prioritize potential performance gains over proven, long-term OEM reliability.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $80 - $125 |
| New Aftermarket (Denso, Granatelli) | $37 - $75 |
| Shop Labor | $62 - $91 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace all six ignition coils at once?
No, you don't have to. You can replace only the failed coil. However, ignition coils are wear items and tend to have a similar lifespan, which is often around 100,000 miles. If one has failed and your vehicle has high mileage, others may fail soon. Replacing them all at once can be preventative maintenance and save you from future labor costs or breakdowns.
Is an ignition coil the same as a spark plug?
No. The ignition coil sits on top of the spark plug. The coil generates the high voltage, and the spark plug uses that voltage to create the spark inside the engine cylinder. They are two separate but connected parts.
How do I know which coil is bad?
The easiest way is to use an OBD-II scanner. A code like P0304 indicates a misfire on cylinder #4. You can then identify cylinder #4 on your engine and replace that specific coil. A common diagnostic trick is to swap the suspected bad coil with a coil from another cylinder (e.g., swap coils from cylinder 4 and 5). If the code changes to P0305, you have confirmed the coil is the problem.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For most DIY mechanics, this is a very easy job. The coils on the 3.5L EcoBoost are located on top of the engine and are easily accessible. The process involves removing a plastic engine cover, unplugging an electrical connector, and removing a single bolt that holds the coil in place. The coil can then be pulled straight out. No special tools are required beyond a basic socket set.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: HL3Z-12029-A HL3Z-12029-D
Coil-on-Plug (COP), 3-pin female connector, single bolt mount.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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