Lincoln problems

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Lincoln Motor Company, or simply Lincoln, is the luxury vehicle division of American automobile manufacturer Ford Motor Company. Marketed among the top luxury vehicle brands in the United States, until 2020, Lincoln was positioned closely against its General Motors counterpart Cadillac; however, beginning with the 2021 model year, they only offer SUV and crossover vehicles.

The division helped to establish the personal luxury car segment with the 1940 Lincoln Continental.

Lincoln Motor Company was founded in 1917 by Henry M. Leland, naming it after Abraham Lincoln. In February 1922, the company was acquired by Ford, its parent company to this day. Following World War II, Ford formed the Lincoln-Mercury Division, pairing Lincoln with its mid-range Mercury brand; the pairing lasted through the 2010 closure of Mercury. At the end of 2012, Lincoln reverted to its original name, Lincoln Motor Company. Following the divestiture of Premier Automotive Group (Jaguar, Land Rover, Aston Martin, and Volvo) and the closure of Mercury, Lincoln remains the sole luxury nameplate of Ford Motor Company.

Originally founded as a freestanding division above Lincoln, Continental was integrated within Lincoln in 1959. For 1969, the Continental-branded Mark series was marketed through Lincoln, adopting the Lincoln name for 1986. The Lincoln four-point star emblem is derived from a badge introduced on the 1956 Continental Mark II; the current version was introduced in 1980.

The current product range of Lincoln consists of luxury crossovers and sport-utility vehicles. Throughout its entire prior existence Lincoln also produced luxury car-based vehicles for limousine and livery use; several examples have served as official state limousines for Presidents of the United States. Today, this niche is filled from its crossover and SUV lineup.

In 2017, Lincoln sold 188,383 vehicles globally. Outside of North America, Lincoln vehicles are officially sold in the Middle East (except Iran and Syria), China (except Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan), and South Korea.

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Lincoln models

lincoln town car photo
Town car
Lincoln

3720

125

410

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Continental
Lincoln

2642

83

283

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Mkz
Lincoln

1528

89

293

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Mkx
Lincoln

1296

47

232

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Navigator
Lincoln

1220

75

0

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Ls
Lincoln

1008

4

186

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Mark viii
Lincoln

448

15

90

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Aviator
Lincoln

371

48

158

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Mkc
Lincoln

339

15

101

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Mks
Lincoln

337

19

156

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Mkt
Lincoln

250

24

192

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Zephyr
Lincoln

241

16

0

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Corsair
Lincoln

89

26

84

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Mark vii
Lincoln

79

12

28

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Nautilus
Lincoln

77

10

84

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Mark
Lincoln

65

0

0

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Mark lt
Lincoln

39

7

67

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Blackwood
Lincoln

7

3

14

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Mark v
Lincoln

5

7

0

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Mark iv
Lincoln

2

4

0

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Mark iii
Lincoln

1

1

0

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Mark vi
Lincoln

1

1

0

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Versailles
Lincoln

1

1

0

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Mkz hybrid
Lincoln

0

0

3

Common Lincoln problems

Lincoln cars, like any other vehicles, can experience common problems that affect their performance and reliability. One of the most frequently reported issues among Lincoln owners is the persistent illumination of the door ajar warning lights, particularly in 2011-2013 Lincoln MKX and 2013 MKT models. This problem can be both frustrating and potentially dangerous, as it may lead to drained batteries or even compromise the vehicle's security.

Another common issue is the cracked rear panel, particularly in the 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator, Ford Explorer, and Mercury Mountaineer models. This problem not only affects the aesthetics of the vehicle but can also lead to water leakage and potential damage. If not addressed promptly, it can cause further complications and compromise the integrity of the lift-gate.

Electronic Throttle Body (ETB) issues have also been reported by some Lincoln owners, leading to sudden surges, dangerous stalls, and the vehicle being sent into "limp home mode". This issue has been an ongoing concern for Ford and Lincoln owners, with various models affected. If not addressed promptly, ETB-related issues can pose potential safety hazards and affect the overall driving experience.

The My Lincoln Touch system, an all-in-one, in-dash communication and entertainment system, has also been a source of frustration for some Lincoln car owners. Many owners have expressed dissatisfaction with its functionality, citing unresponsiveness, difficulty of use, and unnecessary complexity. If you are experiencing issues with your My Lincoln Touch system, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take before seeking professional car service. These include updating the software, performing a system reset, or consulting the vehicle's user manual for specific instructions.

When it comes to car service or repair, choosing a reliable and trustworthy auto repair shop is essential. Look for certified technicians who specialize in Lincoln vehicles or have extensive experience working with luxury brands, research the reputation of the repair shop by reading customer reviews and ratings, and consider asking for recommendations from fellow Lincoln owners or online forums dedicated to car enthusiasts.

In summary, Lincoln cars, like any other vehicles, can experience common problems that affect their performance and reliability. These issues include persistent illumination of the door ajar warning lights, cracked rear panels, electronic throttle body problems, and unresponsive My Lincoln Touch systems. To address these issues, it is essential to seek professional car service from certified technicians who specialize in Lincoln vehicles or have extensive experience working with luxury brands.

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Percentage distribution of complaints by Lincoln models

We have analysed all the complaints filed against Lincoln cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lincoln models:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lincoln brand.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Lincoln models

We have also compiled a table for you with the number of complaints about specific models of Lincoln cars:

Distribution of Lincoln car problems by type

Based on an anlyse of all Lincoln related complaints and concluded that the most common problems with Lincoln cars are the following:

  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Suspension problems

Below is a graph with statistics on all Lincoln vehicle components and the number of complaints about them.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Lincoln models

A total of 855 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Lincoln models

There were a total of 813 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Lincoln models

There were a total of 782 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Lincoln models

There were a total of 111 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.

The NHTSA has received 13766 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lincoln Lincoln. Below are 15 recent complaints about various Lincoln models. In order to research complaints about a particular brand you need to select it from the list of available models above.

List of the last 15 complaints about Lincoln models

Lincoln Corsair 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMTJ5DZ1MU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Corsair. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, vehicle lost motive power. In addition, the contact stated that a warning light illuminated to stop safely now. The contact stated that the vehicle engine shut down in the middle of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed high voltage battery. The contact was informed that the high voltage battery needed needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacture was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V331000(Electrical system) which had a similar failure description. The contact was informed that the contacts VIN was not associated with the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 86,384.
Lincoln Mkz 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 3LN6L2GKXDR
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Car (93,000 miles) was operating fine, no check engine nor any other lights. I go into pharmacy come back out get in car to shift gears into drive and I notice the brake pedal sink to floor. As I am driving I notice that when braking it continues to take a longer distance to stop (brake light comes on). I recently had a spinal fusion so my safety and others was put into jeopardy. There was no waring of potential problems and I regularly have the car maintenance with no indication of needing any work done. I noticed all brake fluid was gone so I refilled hoping for the best but the fluid leaked out of the front passenger side brake line causing the fluid to be sprayed everywhere. Since, the problem happened so suddenly I checked for any brake problems concerning my vehicle type and I found that it has a recall for this problem. This has been an inconvenience due to being my only source of transportation, I need to get my meds, recovering from back surgery, now this!
Lincoln Mkc 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMTJ3DH5HU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: My car was vibrating and shifting weird. I recently repaired the brakes thinking that was the source of the vibration however the vibration escalated and the car shakes violently when stopped and jerk forward after releasing the brakes. My mechanic said this was a known issue with my model and pointed me to Customer Satisfaction Program 20N07. I spoke with Ford who indicated my VIN was not eligible for this CSP.
Lincoln Corsair 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMCJ2D95NU
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: While driving on [XXX] I was in traffic, Car ahead of me was 2 Car lengths ahead, emergency Brake slammed on! I had put my foot lightly on brake to slow down to keep safe distance! We were violently thrown forward( unexpected stoppage) . Car in back had to slam on its brakes and swerve off Road to keep from hitting us! This has happened about 4 times. I have taken Car to dealer and they keep saying there is nothing wrong with the Car! The Service guy who I am assigned to told me to cut off the Braking system. If it’s not safe why do the keep it on the Car and sell it! I am afraid to drive the Car for fear I will be killed or injure somebody else! The Service dept does not note what I brought Car in for on my service history, this is deceptive record keeping! Claiming I brought Car in for other services, when I clearly complained about the Braking problem! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lincoln Mkc 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-28
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMCJ3C90KU
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: engine misfires, using up antifreeze PO302 PO316 Took to dealer, wanted to replace engine but I am 3 months out of warranty
Lincoln Mkt 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 2LMHJ5AT7CB
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The car had a recall, and they worked on it. A few years later the power steering went out while driving and almost had an accident. They did not replace the steering gear they only worked on the steering module. If they had replaced the steering gear, it may have solved the whole problem. They know there was a problem and did not do their best to solve it. There may be thousands of vehicles waiting for the time when there could be a serious accident due to Ford's negligence. I was moving slow when the steering quit and may have saved my life or others in over vehicles. I was told it is over $4,000 to repair. I cannot afford the repair. I am without a vehicle to drive. I need it for doctors' appointments.
Lincoln Mkz 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 3LN6L5EC4HR
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Coil head caked in oil causing misfire due to valve guideseals in left side cylinder head leaking see attached documentation
Lincoln Mkz 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 3LN6L5EC4HR
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: Factory Rim cracked causing tire to not stay inflated
Lincoln Mkc 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMCJ1D98HU
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Coolant leaking into cylinders 2 and 3 needs engine block replacement causing smoke and misfire
Lincoln Mkc 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMCJ2C97HU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: We tried calling the dealers they stated they are not able to fix it and don't know whe. They will. The back up camera starts shutting off ,going black while reversing. Lights inside car while driving will shut off. It has been happening since 2022 recently 2 weeks ago
Lincoln Mkc 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMCJ2C91KU
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
  • Summary: I have called Leith Lincoln in Raleigh twice in less than 30 days to report an alert that continues to come through on my Lincoln app about the airbags. The airbag light comes on-on the dashboard even when there is not a passenger in the seat. The Restraints Indicator Lamp Warning comes on and remains on for an ample amount of time. The alert on the app states that "your airbag warning is on due to a fault with the passenger airbag detection indicator." It also tells me to contact the dealer. This is a safety concern for me.
Lincoln Mkc 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMCJ3D94GU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Faulty rear camera system. When reversing the vehicle, the infotainment screen shows a turbulent gray static screen rather than a rear view of the vehicle. Extreme safety concern and hazard. Issue is recurring.
Lincoln Mkx 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 2LMDJ8JKXEB
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: The ABS module has failed. Lincoln doesn't have one and they don't know when the will. Apparently (from what I gather from Lincoln Corporate) there is a plethora of these units that have failed. Why is this not a safety recall?
Lincoln Mkz 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 3LN6L2GK8ER
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated that while her husband was inspecting the vehicle, he was unable to remove the lug nuts. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a tire center, where they cut the lug nuts off. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was concerned that in the event of a blowout, the tire would not be able to be replaced. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Lincoln Navigator 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
  • Number Of Injuries: 0
  • Number Of Deaths: 0
  • Crash: 0
  • Fire: 0
  • VIN: 5LMJJ3TT7KE
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: My vehicle fits all criteria for CSP 21B10 and CSP 21N03. The vehicle has 75714 miles whereas 21N03 covers up to 79,999 on this vehicle. The cold start rattle is very bad and drivability due to cam phaser issues has caused the vehicle to be not drivable, at least not safely… this vehicle meets all criteria for the recall, and the issue (confirmed by dealer - at dealership now) is the cam phasers and this recall 21N03 is the repair and they are very surprised our VIN is not listed, citing all of these vehicles require cam phaser replacement to be operable. As this is a known issue with 2018-2020 navigators with the 3.5 this should be covered by the recall.

Latest 5 Lincoln recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 632 recalls involving various Lincoln models.You can learn more about the model you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Lincoln Corsair 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2023-2024 Escape, 2024 Mustang, and 2025 Explorer vehicles. The fuel injectors may have been assembled without O-ring support discs, which can result in a fuel leak.
  • Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Dealers will install new fuel injector O-rings and O-ring support discs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 7, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S54.
  • Model: Lincoln Aviator 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
  • Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 17, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
  • Model: Lincoln Aviator 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
  • Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 17, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
  • Model: Lincoln Nautilus 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
  • Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 17, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
  • Model: Lincoln Aviator 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2024-05-24
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The accessory protocol image module (APIM) can be affected by electromagnetic interference with a cell phone in the vehicle, causing the rearview camera image to flicker or become distorted.
  • Consequence: A flickering or distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised not to use their cell phones while reversing until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install shielding on the accessory protocol image module (APIM), free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 23, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S35.

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