Common Lincoln Continental Faults: Reliability, Breakdowns And More!
The Lincoln Continental is a perfect choice for those looking for a full-size luxury car, with its easy-to-use technological features and spacious cabin. But not everything is luxury and perfection, the Lincoln also tends to present problems; For this reason, we invite you to learn about the common faults of the Lincoln Continental .
If you’re planning to buy one, it’s helpful to read about its reliability ratings and the problems it can develop as it racks up mileage.
How good is the Lincoln Continental?
The Lincoln Continental scores well in terms of reliability. Consumers gave the model a reliability score of 4 out of 5, while another group of consumers gave the 2020 Lincoln Continental a score of 3.5 out of 5.
Older models also scored highly, with several owners giving the 2017 Lincoln Continental a rating of 4 out of 5.
The Lincoln Continental also has a great reputation when it comes to safety . The National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) in the US gave the 2020 model an overall rating of 5 stars. Older models like the 2017 and 2018 Lincoln Continental also earned a 5-star safety rating.
Common Lincoln Continental Faults
As reliable as it is, the Lincoln Continental doesn’t get away from its problems as it gets older. Here are some of the common Lincoln Continental failures reported through its model years:
1. Suspension problems
Suspension sag is a common problem on many 1990-2002 Lincoln Continentals. In most cases, air suspension struts or a leaking dryer can cause this problem .
This type of leak can lead to a failure of the air suspension compressor if not fixed immediately. It’s a good thing that there are high-quality, yet affordable compressors on the market to repair your suspension system.
2. Engine Idle and Shutdown Faults
According to some owners of the 2002 Lincoln Continental, problems with its exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system are common for the model year. Some units from 1990-2001 also developed similar problems.
The EGR solenoid on some Lincoln Continentals can fail, which can even mistakenly activate the EGR system and cause the engine to stall. Reports show that this issue often occurs in dusty areas , and replacing the dirty filter should resolve the issue.
3. Problems with the Impeller
If you’re considering buying a 1990-2002 Lincoln Continental, look for corrosion inside the water pump. The impeller on some of the units that fall under these model years is prone to corrosion.
You can rotate on the axis of the water pump. This will reduce coolant circulation and lead to engine overheating, which can damage other engine components.
Replacing the water pump fixed the problem in most of the affected vehicles. However, keep in mind that other issues can also cause engine overheating, so it is advisable to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair once you notice this symptom.
4. PCV Grommet Vacuum Leakage Problems
Several Lincoln Continental vehicles from the years 1995-2002 are prone to PCV grommet vacuum leaks. Damaged molded rubber hose connections can cause the vehicle to run rough and trigger the check engine light. PCV hose replacement resolved the issue on most affected Lincoln Continentals.
5. Transmission problems
Transmission related problems are common on several Lincoln Continental model years. Some 2000 Lincoln Continental owners have complained that they had to replace their transmission after around 55,000 miles because it stopped working properly.
Several drivers also reported that their transmission was leaking . To fix the problem, the mechanics had to disassemble the transmission and replace the faulty joints. The owners of the affected units had to spend around $1,200 to fix these types of problems.
6. Dome Light Malfunction Issues
Several 1999 Lincoln Continental owners have reported that their dome light keeps on for no apparent reason. A triggered door ajar light can cause the Lincoln Continental’s map light to flash on and off.
Applying a water displacing spray to door locks and latches resolved the issue in some of the affected vehicles.
7. Problems with the power steering
Some 1998 Lincoln Continental owners have also complained of problems related to their power steering system. The power steering cuts out suddenly while driving, and in most cases returns to normal after restarting the engine.
Replacing faulty steering components usually fixes the problem.
8. Air conditioning heating problems
Some 1994 Lincoln Continental owners have complained that their heating and air conditioning system began to malfunction around 170,000 miles.
The A/C system is made up of various components that work together to keep the cabin at comfortable temperatures. Therefore, it can be difficult to identify which part is causing a vehicle’s A/C system to malfunction .
In conclusion
Keep in mind that the problems listed above are just some of the problems that your Lincoln Continental can develop as it gains mileage. As long as you do your research and have the vehicle you intend to purchase inspected by a mechanic, purchasing a Lincoln Continental should carry little risk.
