2022-2024 Lincoln Navigator Fender Liner: Diagnosing Noises and Ensuring a Perfect Fit
Your guide to diagnosing a bad wheel well splash shield, choosing a quality used replacement, and protecting your Navigator's engine components from damage.
- When buying a used fender shield, the most critical inspection is to ensure all mounting holes are intact and not torn or cracked.
- Used OEM shields are highly recommended over new aftermarket ones due to superior fit, material quality, and sound-dampening properties.
- The part is side-specific; the driver (left) and passenger (right) side shields are not interchangeable.
- Driving without a shield is not recommended as it exposes critical engine, electrical, and suspension components to damaging water and debris.
Symptoms of a Failing Fender Splash Shield
Failure of a fender splash shield is almost always due to physical damage from road debris, parking curbs, or deep snow. The symptoms are typically easy to hear and see.
- Scraping or Rubbing Noises: This is the most common sign. A loose or broken piece of the liner hangs down and makes contact with the tire, especially when turning or going over bumps.
- Flapping Sounds at Highway Speeds: If the shield has come loose from its mounting points, it will flap in the wind, creating a loud thumping sound that gets faster as you accelerate.
- Visible Damage: A quick look inside the wheel well can reveal the problem. You may see the liner is cracked, has holes, or is sagging away from the vehicle's body.
- Excessive Debris in Engine Bay: If you notice more dirt, mud, and water in your engine compartment than usual, it's a strong indicator that the shield is damaged or missing, allowing road spray to get past.
Buying a Used Fender Splash Shield: What to Inspect
For a part like this, a high-quality used OEM shield is often a smarter purchase than a cheap new aftermarket one. OEM parts guarantee a perfect fit, which is a common issue with aftermarket liners that can be flimsy or have misaligned holes. Here’s exactly what to check before you buy.
Pro Tip: Aftermarket fender liners often use a harder, more brittle plastic and may not include the sound-dampening felt found on original Navigator parts. A used OEM liner preserves the original quietness and durability.
Inspection Checklist for a Used Shield:
- Check All Mounting Points: This is the single most important inspection. Carefully examine every screw hole and clip slot around the entire edge of the liner. If the holes are torn, cracked, or stretched out, the shield will not fasten securely and will end up sagging or rubbing just like the one you're replacing.
- Look for Cracks and Brittleness: Minor scuffs and scratches are normal for a used part. However, reject any shield with large cracks running through the main body. Flex the plastic slightly to ensure it isn't brittle and prone to shattering on installation.
- Confirm the Correct Side: The driver (left) and passenger (right) side shields are mirror images and are not interchangeable. Ensure you are buying the specific side you need.
- Verify Part Number: If possible, match the part number on the used shield to the one required for your vehicle to guarantee correct fitment (see part numbers below).
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of mid-2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Ford or the NHTSA that relate directly to the fender splash shields on the 2022-2024 Lincoln Navigator. Failures are typically due to external damage rather than a manufacturing defect.
It is worth noting that several unrelated recalls exist for this vehicle, including one for a potentially misrouted front brake line (NHTSA 25V-314). While not directly caused by the splash shield, a missing or damaged shield could increase the risk of debris interfering with under-chassis components like brake lines.
Replacement Overview
Replacing a fender splash shield is a straightforward job suitable for a DIYer with basic tools. The process generally involves turning the steering wheel to one side for better access, removing a series of plastic push-clips and small screws (often 7mm or 8mm), pulling the old liner out, and installing the new one in reverse order.
- Difficulty: 2/5
- Estimated Time: 0.75 hours
- Tools Needed: Jack and jack stands, socket set, screwdriver or trim removal tool for clips.
Cost Comparison: 2022-2024 Navigator Fender Splash Shield
Prices can vary based on supplier and condition. This table provides a general estimate of what you can expect to pay for the part and labor.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $150 - $250 |
| New Aftermarket | $30 - $120 |
| Used OEM | $50 - $100 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $180 |
Technical Specifications & Part Numbers
The primary fender splash shields are side-specific. The term "Engine Side Cover" may also be used to describe these parts.
| Position | Part Number | Other Names |
|---|---|---|
| Front Left (Driver Side) | NL7Z-16103-C | Fender Liner, Guard Front Splash |
| Front Right (Passenger Side) | NL7Z-16102-C | Fender Liner, Guard Front Splash |
Warning: Part number JL7Z-16103-C fits the previous 2018-2021 Navigator generation and will not fit 2022-2024 models. Always verify the part number for your specific model year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drive my Navigator without a fender splash shield?
You can, but it is not recommended for an extended period. Driving without the shield exposes the engine bay, wiring harnesses, and suspension parts to damaging water, salt, and road debris. A broken liner rubbing on the tire is more dangerous, as it can eventually wear through the tire and cause a blowout.
Is the fender liner the same for the Navigator and the long-wheelbase Navigator L?
Yes. For the front wheels, the 2022-2024 Navigator and Navigator L use the same fender splash shields. The vehicle's body is only extended in the rear cargo area, so front-end components are shared.
Why is my new splash shield rubbing on the tire?
This is almost always caused by either incorrect installation or broken/missing mounting clips that fail to hold it securely. If you installed an aftermarket shield, it could also be due to poor fitment from a low-quality part. Ensure all screws and clips are in place and fully seated.
🎬 Watch a quick guide on fixing loose wheel-well linersDo I need special tools to replace a fender liner?
No, special tools are not required. A basic socket set, a flathead screwdriver, and a trim panel removal tool (or pliers) to pull out the plastic push-clips are all that is typically needed for the job.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: NL7Z-16103-C (Front Left) NL7Z-16102-C (Front Right)
Material: Typically polyethylene or a similar thermoplastic; some may have integrated felt for sound dampening.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Lincoln Navigator:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of a Failing Fender Splash Shield
- Buying a Used Fender Splash Shield: What to Inspect
- Inspection Checklist for a Used Shield:
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Replacement Overview
- Cost Comparison: 2022-2024 Navigator Fender Splash Shield
- Technical Specifications & Part Numbers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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