1986 Lincoln Continental problems

General information about Lincoln-Continental
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Lincoln Continental is a series of mid-sized and full-sized luxury cars produced between 1939 and 2020 by Lincoln, a division of the American automaker Ford Motor Company. The model line was introduced following the construction of a personal vehicle for Edsel Ford, who commissioned a coachbuilt 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr convertible, developed as a vacation vehicle to attract potential Lincoln buyers. In what would give the model line its name, the exterior was given European "continental" styling elements, including a rear-mounted spare tire.

In production for over 55 years across nine different decades, Lincoln has produced ten generations of the Continental. Within the Lincoln model line, the Continental has served several roles ranging from its flagship to its base-trim sedan. From 1961 to 1976, Lincoln sold the Continental as its exclusive model line. The model line has also gone on hiatus three times. From 1949 to 1955, the nameplate was briefly retired. In 1981, the Continental was renamed the Lincoln Town Car to accommodate the 1982 seventh-generation Continental. After 2002, the Continental was retired, largely replaced by the Lincoln MKS in 2009; in 2017, the tenth-generation Continental replaced the MKS.

As part of its entry into full-scale production, the first-generation Continental was the progenitor of an entirely new automotive segment, the personal luxury car. Following World War II, the segment evolved into coupes and convertibles larger than sports cars and grand touring cars with an emphasis on features, styling, and comfort over performance and handling. From 1956 to 1957, the Continental nameplate was the namesake of the short-lived Continental Division, marketing the 1956–1957 Continental Mark II as the worldwide flagship of Ford Motor Company; as a second successor, Ford introduced the Continental Mark series in 1969, produced over six generations to 1998.

Along with the creation of the personal luxury car segment, the Lincoln Continental marked the zenith of several designs in American automotive history. The Continental is the final American vehicle line with a factory-produced V12 engine (1948), the final four-door convertible (1967), and the final model line to undergo downsizing (for the 1980 model year).

American production of the Continental and MKZ, its only two sedans, ended in 2020 thereby making Lincoln a crossover/SUV-only brand in the USA. After it was discontinued in Lincoln's home market, Ford indicated that it planned to move Continental production to China.

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Common 1986 Lincoln Continental problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1986 Lincoln Continental, several common problems have been reported:

Electrical System Malfunctions: Complaints have been made regarding electrical system malfunctions in the 1986 Lincoln Continental. Owners have reported issues such as faulty wiring, malfunctioning components, and electrical failures that can result in various problems like non-functional lights, power windows, or other electrical accessories. These issues can be frustrating and may require thorough diagnostics to identify and resolve the root cause.

Engine Performance: Some owners have raised concerns about engine performance in the 1986 Lincoln Continental. Problems related to engine stalling, rough idling, or reduced power output have been reported. These issues can be indicative of underlying mechanical issues, fuel system problems, or ignition system malfunctions that need to be addressed promptly to ensure the engine's optimal performance and longevity.

Transmission Troubles: Transmission-related problems have been highlighted by owners of the 1986 Lincoln Continental. Issues like transmission slipping, rough shifting, or complete transmission failure have been reported. These problems can significantly impact the vehicle's drivability and may require repairs or even transmission replacement to restore proper functionality.

Heating and Cooling System: Complaints have been made about the heating and cooling system in the 1986 Lincoln Continental. Owners have reported issues with the car's HVAC system, including problems with the heater, air conditioning, or ventilation. Malfunctions in this system can lead to discomfort for passengers and may require repairs or component replacements to ensure proper climate control inside the vehicle.

These common problems reported by owners of the 1986 Lincoln Continental highlight the importance of regular maintenance, timely repairs, and thorough inspections to address any issues promptly and maintain the vehicle's performance and reliability over time.

Is the Lincoln Continental a reliable car?

The Lincoln Continental isn't the most reliable luxury car, but it retains above average scores on several ratings. It is, however, one of the safest vehicles to drive, according to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

How many miles will a Lincoln Continental last?

How long do Lincoln Continentals last? Typically, you can expect around 200,000 miles out of a Lincoln Continental. This number might vary depending on the maintenance put into the car and how the person behind the wheel drives it. Many factors are at play when considering the longevity of any vehicle on the market.

What is the rarest Lincoln Continental?

The 1959–1960 Town Car and Limousine are among the rarest Lincoln vehicles ever sold; only 214 examples of the $9,200 (equivalent to $96,200 in 2023) Town Car were produced and only 83 examples of the $10,200 Limousine were produced (equivalent to $106,600 in 2023).

What is the Lincoln Continental known for?

The Lincoln Continental quickly became popular because of its luxurious features and streamlined aesthetics. Today, the model is known to be one of the most iconic luxury sedans ever sold in the U.S. market. If you're a fan of the Lincoln brand, you might be interested in owning this iconic model.

Is the Lincoln Continental a reliable car?

How long should a Lincoln Continental last?

What is the Lincoln Continental known for?

Is Lincoln Continental a luxury car?

Lincoln® Continental | Midsize Luxury Sedan.

1986 Lincoln Continental car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lincoln Continental problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems
Seats problems
Engine and engine cooling problems
Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Lincoln Continental vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1986 Lincoln Continental complaints

The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Lincoln Continental.

2006-11-03

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2006-10-20
VIN: 1LNBP97F4GY
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: I OWN A 1986 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL THAT HAS A RECALL LISTED FOR THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES, 86V109000. THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE PUMP HAS FAILED AND MIDAS TOLD ME ABOUT THIS RECALL AND SAID I SHOULD HAVE FORD FIX IT. I WENT TO SCHAUMBURG LINCOLN MERCURY IN SCHAUMBURG, ILLINOIS - AND THEY SAID THERE WAS NO RECALL. I CALLED FORD DIRECTLY AND THEY DENIED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL. YET, ON THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY SAFETY ADMIN SIGHT THE RECALL FORD NOW DENIES EXISTS, IS IN FACT LISTED. MY VEHICLE HAS HAD THE FUEL SYSTEM RECALL REPAIRED, WHICH FORD ADMITS, BUT NEVER BRAKE RECALL LISTED HEREIN. I WOULD LIKE FORD TO REPAIR/REPLACE THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE PUMP & RELAYS. *JB

Add Complaint

1998-07-30

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Fire: 1
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. CAUSE UNKNOWN.

Add Complaint

1996-06-19

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-06-08
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE STUCK, UNABLE TO RELEASE SEAT BELT. *SD

Add Complaint

1995-09-02

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 1LNBP97F1GY
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AND THE FRONT SUSPENSION WENT OUT THERE WAS NO WARNING . TT

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1995-03-20

SEATS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-03-20
Number Of Injuries: 1
Crash: 1
VIN: 1LNBL97FXGY
Components: SEATS
Summary: SEATBACK CONSISTED OF A STAMPED METAL FRAME WITH OPENING IN CENTER AND NO SUPPORTIVE STRUCTURE, DRIVER FELL THROUGH IT UPON IMPACT, RESULTING IN INJURY. *AK

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1995-03-13

SEATS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1994-07-10
Number Of Injuries: 1
Crash: 1
VIN: 1LNBP97FXG3
Components: SEATS
Summary: DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BACK BROKE DURING ACCIDENT DRIVER WENT THROUGH THE SEAT. TT

Add Complaint

1995-02-16

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1994-11-01
Fire: 1
VIN: 1LNBP97F7GY
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: FUEL LINE FIRE OCCURED AFTER SMELLING GASOLINE. *SKD

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1995-01-12

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-01-03
VIN: 1LMBP97F0GY
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: BRAKING MECHANISM HAS FAILED. TT

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1986 Lincoln Continental recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1986 Lincoln Continental.

1987-09-04

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: SPRING LOCK FUEL LINE COUPLING MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ENGAGED.
Consequence: COUPLING COULD DISENGAGE DUE TO FUEL PRESSURE,VIBRATION, AND ENGINE MOVEMENTS; THIS WOULD CAUSE LOSS OF FUEL WHICH, INPRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CREATES A FIRE RISK.
Remedy: INSTALL RETAINER CLIPS OVER THE COUPLINGS TO PREVENT COUPLING SEPARATION AND FUEL LEAKAGE.

1986-08-08

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:HYDRAULIC
Summary: UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, CONTACTS IN BRAKE SYSTEM RELAY COULD REMAIN CLOSED, CAUSING THE BRAKE PUMP MOTOR TO RUN CONTINUOUSLY, CAUSING IT TO OVERHEAT AND EVENTUALLY FAIL. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: SHOULD THE BRAKE SUPPLY MOTOR FAIL, THE POWER ASSIST TO THE FRONT BRAKES WILL BE LOST, AND AFTER ABOUT 10 TO 15 NORMAL BRAKE STOPS, LOSS OF REAR BRAKE FUNCTION WILL RESULT, CAUSING INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCE. HOWEVER, THE INSTRUMENT BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WILL ILLUMINATE PRIOR TO REDUCED BRAKING CAPABILITY AND IF WARNING IS NOT HEEDED, AN ACCIDENT MAY OCCUR.
Remedy: REPLACE PUMP MOTOR RELAYS.

1986-08-08

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Summary: THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER MAY HANG UP AND NOT FULLY RETURN TO THE "ON" POSITION FROM THE "START" POSITION AFTER STARTING THE ENGINE. IF THIS OCCURS, THE ENGINE WILL REMAIN RUNNING, BUT THE BATTERY CURRENT TO THE BRAKE SYSTEM SUPPLY MOTOR WILL BE INTERRUPTED. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: WITH POWER TO MOST ACCESSORIES AND THE BRAKE SYSTEM SUPPLY MOTOR INTERRUPTED, THE POWER ASSIST TO THE FRONT BRAKE WILL BE LOST AND AFTER ABOUT 10 TO 15 NORMAL BRAKE STOPS, LOSS OF REAR BRAKE FUNCTION WILL RESULT, CAUSING INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCE. HOWEVER, THE INSTRUMENT BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WILL ILLUMINATE PRIOR TO REDUCED BRAKING CAPABILITY AND IF WARNING IS NOT HEEDED, AN ACCIDENT MAY OCCUR.
Remedy: REPLACE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDERS WITH REVISED DESIGN CYLINDERS.

1986-02-10

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Summary: WIRING CONNECTIONS IN AN ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR TO THE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR FLUID LEVEL SENSORS WERE REVERSED AND FAIL TO INDICATE LOW FLUID LEVELS AS SPECIFIED BY FMVSS 105, HYDRAULIC BRAKE SYSTEMS. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: SENSOR WILL NOT TRANSMIT SIGNAL TO BRAKE WARNING LIGHT WHEN THE FLUID LEVEL IS LESS THAN ONE FOURTH FULL. WITHOUT THIS WARNING SIGNAL THE FLUID LEVEL MAY DECREASE TO THE POINT WHERE PARTIAL OR COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKE WOULD BE EXPERIENCED AND MAY LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT.
Remedy: RE-CONFIGURE WIRING TO THE FLUID LEVEL SENSOR CONNECTOR.

1985-09-19

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: AN ALUMINUM CASTING FLASH ON THE FACE OF THE THROTTLE BODY MAY BREAK OFF AND BECOME TRAPPED BETWEEN THE THROTTLE PLATE AND THE BORE IN THE THROTTLE BODY. CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: THROTTLE MAY FAIL TO RETURN TO IDLE POSITION WHEN RELEASED AND COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL WHICH MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
Remedy: REMOVE EXCESS CASTING FLASH.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1986 Lincoln Continental problems:

1986 Lincoln Continental Review - Carsurvey.org

http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/lincoln/continental/1986/

Jun 4, 2010 ... Faults: Two different alternators died. (Can probably thank Napa for their cheap rebuilt alternators on this one.).

Test Drive Review: 1986 Lincoln Town Car Signature Series ...

https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/test-drive-review-1986-lincoln-town-car-signature-series.213373/

Oct 22, 2010 ... Every known part or problem on those cars, happened to mind. Not knowing - most of the problems were there when I bought it, they were all ...

What causes suspension problem in my 1986 Lincoln Continental?

https://www.justanswer.com/ford-lincoln/4rofq-lincoln-continental-1986-lincoln-continental.html

Mar 25, 2011 ... I have a 1986 Lincoln Continental and I have a suspension problem! The air bags are good,load levelers work,air pump good and I get air to ...

Possible problem with the automatic climate control. - Lincolns ...

https://www.lincolnsonline.com/forum/showthread.php?t=66870

Nov 18, 2009 ... I think that's a common problem. Any ... 1984 Continental Turbo Diesel. gadget73. View Public ... 1986 Lincoln Town Car 1991 Mark VII LSC 1984 ...

CC Capsule: 1986 Lincoln Continental - The Fox Gets A Fancy Tail ...

https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/cc-capsule-1986-lincoln-continental-the-fox-gets-a-fancy-tail/

Mar 22, 2012 ... The O ring kit from Ford which is the most common problem was only about $8 per corner back in the day. The bags yes were $150 or so each ...