Common Lincoln MKX Failures: Solutions, Problems and Reliability!
All of its model years have something good to offer, from advanced safety features and superb fuel efficiency to excellent steering and engine performance. Do not leave without first reading our list of common Lincoln MKX failures here.
There’s a lot to love about the Lincoln MKX. Its resale value is good, since it only depreciates 51% in five years.
How good is the Lincoln MKX?
The Lincoln MKX enjoys above-average reliability ratings, with some model years scoring better than others. It has had a rating of 3.0 out of 5.0, ranking ninth out of 14 midsize luxury SUVs in its category. The 2018 Lincoln MKX was also rated 83/100 for quality and reliability.
In addition, the 2018 Lincoln MKX ranked 7th out of 19 luxury midsize SUVs, with a rating of 7.7 out of 10. With these numbers, it’s clear that with careful driving and regular maintenance, the Lincoln MKX can easily enjoy a Long useful life.
Main common faults of the Lincoln MKX
Although the Lincoln MKX is a reliable luxury midsize SUV, it still has its fair share of issues. Here are the most commonly reported problems for the different model years:
1- Brake failures
Although complaints from those who drive a 2010 Lincoln MKX are minor compared to other model years, that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. In addition, this can be one of the common Lincoln MKX faults that endangers people the most.
Hissing noises can be heard from the brake pedal before it begins to malfunction . The brake pedal may squeal or feel low, while whining sounds may be heard coming from the brake boosters.
Ford has issued several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to address this issue. Brake booster failures on some models may even be covered by the extended warranty.
2- The engine shuts down
Engine stalling is among the most reported problems with the 2016 Lincoln MKX. Some owners have complained that their engine would cut off intermittently while their vehicle was running. An error that appears on the tachometer display that says ” full accessory power active ” usually accompanies the problem. Once the engine stops, all electrical components work again.
For some, the wrench light came on before the engine stalled. For others, the SUV gave a violent jolt before coming to a stop. Many owners experienced throttle failure from less than 10,000 miles. Ford has issued a recall to fix this issue.
3- Rattling noise from the roof lining
According to some 2013 Lincoln MKX owners, problems with the headliner are common for some units of this model year. A poor headlining fit can cause the MKX’s sunroof area to make a rattling noise . This sound is caused by the detachment of the ceiling insulation foam batts.
Many owners have reported hearing constant rattling noises from the headliner. The reason for these noises ranges from loosening of the headlining to the headlining collapsing behind the sunroof.
To repair this, the foam blocks must be reattached with cables or zip ties . The warranty may cover an ill-fitting headliner that makes rattling noises.
4- Refrigerant leaks
Many 2011 Lincoln MKX owners have complained of coolant leaks in their SUV. Drivers have reported that their vehicle would make clicking noises before shutting down completely .
Some have noticed that their yellow coolant light and check engine light came on before their MKX gave up. In some cases, smoke started coming out of the hood.
5- Problems with the door opening sensor
According to some 2011 Lincoln MKX owners, door ajar sensor issues are common for the model. This sensor supposedly works intermittently, causing your SUV’s interior lights to stay on even after you’ve exited the vehicle.
Others have complained about the door ajar sensor light coming on even though the door is closed . In some cases, the panic alarm can be triggered due to this problem.
Some owners had to repeatedly close the door or close it slightly to disable the sensor. Fortunately, replacing the switch usually fixes this problem.
6- Accelerator failure
Many 2016 Lincoln MKX owners have reported problems with their throttle body. Some of them complained that their vehicle lost full throttle on the highway and the warning light and wrench symbol came on on their dashboard .
When they took their SUV to the dealership for repair, technicians identified a faulty throttle body intake as the culprit.
7- Liquid leak in the shaft area
Many 2008 Lincoln MKX owners have reported problems caused by a leaking shaft seal and power transfer unit (PTU) cover seal.
Aside from hearing whining noises coming from the vehicle, drivers may notice that there is red or brown fluid leaking from both sides of the vehicle. The red fluid is usually from the transmission, while the brown is from the PTU .
Most owners of affected vehicles were able to resolve the leak by replacing the gaskets.
8- Problems with the foam seal
According to some 2007 Lincoln MKX owners, the foam seal between their SUV’s dash and the windshield came out of place. This allowed water to enter the driver’s front dash when it rained or washed the vehicle.
Some owners have tried to fix this by pushing the foam seal back in with a paint stick . However, this was only a temporary fix, as the foam seal comes back off after some time. To solve this problem, most drivers had to remove the windshield and replace the foam seal.
In conclusion
If you’re in the market for a Lincoln MKX, be prepared to take the good with the bad. As long as you are aware of the issues the specific model year you are planning to get may have, buying it should be low risk.
Knowing common Lincoln MKX failures will also help you avoid costly repairs through preventative maintenance, so you can maximize the life of your midsize luxury SUV.
