1990 Lincoln Continental problems

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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.

1990 Lincoln Continental

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Common 1990 Lincoln Continental problems

The 1990 Lincoln Continental is known for several common problems, primarily related to vacuum leaks, sagging suspension, rough idling, and stalling.

  • Vacuum Leaks: Vacuum leaks are a common issue in the 1990 Lincoln Continental, which can lead to rough idling, stalling, and other engine performance problems. The PCV grommet vacuum leaks are particularly prevalent in models from 1995 to 2002, causing the engine to run roughly and trigger the check engine light.
  • Sagging Suspension: Sagging suspension is a widespread problem in the 1990 Lincoln Continental, often caused by leaking air suspension struts or drier leaking air. This issue can lead to air suspension compressor failure if not addressed promptly.
  • Rough Idling and Engine Stalling: Problems with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system are common in the 1990 Lincoln Continental, causing rough idling and engine stalling. The EGR solenoid may fail, leading to these issues, which can be more prevalent in high-dust areas.
  • Dome Light Malfunction: Some 1990 Lincoln Continental owners have reported that their dome light stays on for no apparent reason. A triggered door ajar light may make the Lincoln Continental’s map light turn on and off. Spraying a water-displacing spray on the door locks and latches solved the issue on some of the affected vehicles.
  • Power Steering Problems: Some 1998 Lincoln Continental owners have complained about issues regarding their power steering system. Their power steering suddenly cuts out while they’re driving, and in most cases, returns to normal after restarting the engine. Replacing faulty steering components usually fixes the issue.
  • A/C Heater Issues: Some 1994 Lincoln Continental owners have complained that their A/C and heater system started to malfunction at around 170,000 miles. It is advisable to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair once you spot this symptom.
  • Transmission Issues: Transmission-related problems are common across several Lincoln Continental model years. Some 2000 Lincoln Continental owners have complained that they had to replace their transmission after around 55,000 miles. Several drivers also reported that their transmission had leaks, which required removing the transmission and replacing faulty seals. The owners of the affected units had to spend around $1,200 to solve these types of problems.
  • Damaged Impeller: The impeller on some 1990-2002 Lincoln Continental units is prone to corrosion, which can lead to engine overheating and damage to other engine components. Replacing the water pump fixed the issue on most of the affected vehicles.

While the 1990 Lincoln Continental has some common problems, it is essential to note that these issues may not be representative of every vehicle in this model year. Proper maintenance and inspection by a trusted mechanic can help mitigate these problems and ensure the vehicle's longevity.

1990 Lincoln Continental engine

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).

What is the best year for a Lincoln Continental?

In terms of overall value for money, the most reliable Lincoln Continental year is the 2017 or 2018 model. According to hotcars.com, either one of these models will be perfect if you want overall dependability and reliability.

Is the Lincoln Continental expensive to repair?

Are Lincolns expensive to maintain? According to RepairPal, the average Lincoln costs $879 a year to maintain and repair, which is about $200 more than the $652-per-year industry average.

What is the value of a 1990 Lincoln?

The value of a used 1990 Lincoln Town Car ranges from $1,343 to $8,432, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

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).

Why did they stop making Lincoln Continental?

Lincoln is stopping production of the Continental at the end of this year. The company says the decision is due to declining sales of full-size premium sedans. With the Lincoln MKZ and Conti both heading for the graveyard, that will leave the luxury automaker with an all-SUV lineup for the first time ever.

What engine is in a 1990 Lincoln Continental?

Used 1990 Lincoln Continental Sedan Signature - Specs & Features

Engine
Base engine size3.8 L
CylindersV6
Base engine typeGas
Horsepower140 hp @ 3,800 rpm

What year Lincoln Continental is the most desirable?

The most valuable of this era are the first-year, 1961 cars; from there, values of most configurations drop. While sedans and coupes (across all model years) are usually worth within 5–7 percent of each other, the rare and desirable convertibles are worth approximately 250 percent more than their hardtop brethren.

1990 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:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Lincoln Continental vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1990 Lincoln Continental

The NHTSA has received 252 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Lincoln Continental. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Lincoln Continental vehicles.

2005-02-23

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-05-31
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Number Of Deaths: 2
  • VIN: 1B7GG22X7WS
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: NOT WORKING. NO SUMMARY. *AK
2004-11-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-10-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT THE VEHICLE BEING IMPACTED. WHEN THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED IT SHATTERED THE DRIVER'S GLASSES, REDUCING HIS VISIBILITY. AS A RESULT, VEHICLE SWERVED TO THE RIGHT, WENT UP AND EMBANKMENT 20 FEET, AND LANDED 70 FEET DOWN THE ROAD. DRIVER SUSTAINED SERIOUS BURNS TO BACK, NECK AND HAND. THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE (EMS) HAD TO PEEL THE AIR BAG OFF THE DRIVER'S FACE, NECK, AND HAND. *AK
2004-01-15

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-02-15
  • VIN: ILNCM93E3LY
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: THE AIR BAGS FOR THE SUSPENSION FAIL TO INFLATE. AND IF THEY DO INFLATE THEY GO DOWN WITHIN 1 MINUTE OF INFLATING THEM. ALSO, THE AIR BAG LIGHT GOES ON, THOUGH THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH MY AIR BAGS. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY RECALLS THAT I AM NOT AWARE OF, THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME,,, JASON LAGOWSKI
2004-01-15

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-12-15
  • VIN: 1LNCM9742LY
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I PURCHASED A 1990 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL IN DECEMBER 2002, AND NOTICED THAT DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE ENGINE REVS VERY HIGH AND THE TRANSMISSION DOES NOT ENGAGE THE OVERDRIVE. I ALSO NOTICED THAT SHIFTING FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE OR DRIVE TO RVERSE, THERE IS A DELAY IN THE TRANSMISSION ENGAGING THE APPROPRIATE GEAR. BEFORE I DECIDED TO TAKE MY CAR TO A DEALER TO GET THE TRANSMISSION REPAIRED, I CHECKED THE FLUID TO ENSURE THAT THE LEVEL WAS CORRECT, AND TO CHECK THE COLOR OF THE TRANSMISSION FLUID. BOTH WERE FOUND TO BE IN GOOD ORDER. THEN I CHECKED WWW.ALLDATA.COM AND FOUND THAT FORD WAS AWARE OF THE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS THROUGH A CHECK OF THE FOLLOWING SERVICE BULLETINS: ATRATB331; ATRATB267; 94247; ATRATB029; AND 89225. BECAUSE OF THE SERVICE BULLETINS MENTIONED ABOVE, FORD WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEMS AND FAILED TO TAKE CORRECTIVE ACTIONS. AS A CONSUMER, I WOULD LIKE FORD TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSION AT NO COST TO MYSELF. THE OTHER PROBLEM IS THE ENGINE COOLING FAN. ON 12 DECEMBER 2002 WHILE SITTING IN TRAFFIC, I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND SMELLED WIRES BURNING. I PULLED OVER IN A PARKING LOT OF A SHOPPING CENTER RIGHT WHEN THE COMPUTER SIGNALED THAT THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE WAS HIGHER THAN NORMAL. I TURNED THE ENGINE OFF AND OPEN THE HOOD TO LOOK FOR THE BURNED WIRED. THE ELECTRIC ENGINE FAN HAD SEIZED UP AND STARTED TO MELT THE WIRES. THE FUSE HAD FAILED TO BLOW, AND I HAD TO UNPLUG THE FAN FROM THE WIRING HARNESS TO KEEP THE WIRES FROM BURNING MORE.
2003-05-29

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-05-26
  • VIN: PLEASE PROV
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: HEADLIGHT LENS IS PLASTIC CAUSING IT TO BE HARD FOR THE CONSUMER TO SEE. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
2002-09-11

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-09-06
  • VIN: 1LNLM9740LY
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THIS VEHICLE IS EXPERIENCING THE SAME DEFECT AS STATED IN RECALL 98/V/323/000 FOR SUBFRAME CORROSION. HOWEVER, SINCE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN ARKANSAS IT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL.*AK
2001-09-18

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-06-15
  • VIN: 1LNCM93E2LY
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: I NOTICED THIS PROBLEM MYSELF WITH 2 FORD MOTOR CO VEHICLES I OWN AND ONE MY FATHER OWNS. THE 2001 EXCURSION I OWN IS BEING RECALLED FOR THE SAME PROBLEM - THE INTERMITTENT WIPER MOTOR FUNCTION EITHER SHUTS THE WIPER BLADE ACTION DOWN OR THE BLADES DO NOT PARK. THE OTHER VEHICLES AFFECTED ARE THE ONE DESCRIBED IN THIS REPORT (1990 LINCON MKVII), A 1992 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS, AND A 1995 LINCOLN TOWN CAR.
2001-09-18

SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-07-26
  • VIN: 1LNLM9847LY
  • Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ON THE INTERNET IT STATED FORD HAD CALLBACKS FOR ALL3.8 ENGINES FOR HEADGASKET PROBLEMS BUT ONLY RECALLED A FEW VIN NUMBERS. HOW COULD THEY GET AWAY WITH THAT? YOU AND I AND EVERY MECCHANIC KNOWS THE PROBLEM WITH THE 3.8 ENGINE BY FORD WHY CANT SOME THING BE DONE. I WASNT TOLD OF ANYTHING ABOUT THIS. LUCKY I WAS DRIVING NOT MY DAUGHTER. SHE WOULD HAVE DIVEN TILL IT BURNED THE MOTOR UP. AND THE AIR SHOCKS AT $ 4,000 FOR THE 4 OF THEM THATS ANOTHER FARCE. CANT YOU MAKE THEM AT LEAST INSTALL AT COST ? MY ENGINE OVERHEATED AS I WAS DRIVING ON THE PA. TURNPIKE LUCKY I PULLED OVER AND GOT TOWED WITH A $350 BILL.*AK
2001-03-29

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-12-28
  • VIN: 1LNCM9741LY
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT HAS BEEN FLASHING OFF AND ON. *AK THE CONSUMER STATES THAT ACCORDING TO INFORMATION ON THE WEB THE 1990 MODELS HAD RECALLED FOR BAD MODULES. *YH
2001-03-07

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-03-01
  • VIN: 1LNCM9746LY
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: RECALL 98 V 323 000/SUBFRAME CORROSION: WHILE BEING SERVICED FOR AN OIL CHANGE NOTICED SUBFRAME FAILURE; DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED, AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER A RECALL. *AK THE VEHICLE'S BODY AND UNDER CARRIAGE WERE FREE OF RUST, BUT THE EXHAUST SYSTEM HAD RUST. *YH
2001-02-28

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: NOT AVAILAB
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: REAR AIR SPRINGS HAVE BLOWEN OUT, CAUSING REAR END TO BOUNCE AND HAS DROPPED LOW TO GROUND. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
2001-02-27

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1LNCM974XLY
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TIRED PRESSURE IS A MESS. THE VEHICLE GOES UP AND DOWN WHENEVER IT FEELS LIKE IT. *AK
2001-02-22

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1LNLM9740LY
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: HEADIGHTS HAVE AN INSERTED BULB, AND LENS COVER DETERIORATE IN COLOR/DIRT, AND OTHER DEBRIS WOULD GET INSIDE. ALSO, CAUSED A PROBLEM WITH LIGHTING. THIS HAS HAPPENED OVER A PERIOD OF TIME, AND NOT READILY NOTICEABLE. *AK MOISTURE COLLECTS INSIDE OF THE LENS COVER, FURTHER LIMITING THE HED LIGHT ILLUMINATION. *YH
2001-01-10

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-01-10
  • VIN: 1LWCM9841LY
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING UNDER 40 MPH ACCELERATOR WILL GO DOWN TO FLOOR, AND ENGINE WILL INCREASE. BRAKES WILL NOT WORK. CONSUMER HAS TO TURN OFF TIGNITION SWITCH. AFTER A WHILE WILL START, AND WORK AS NORMAL.*AK
2000-12-28

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-12-26
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WHILE TRAVELING HEATER WOULD NOT WORK. ALSO, NOTICE WHITE SMOKE FROM TAIL PIPE. TECHNICIAN STATED HEAD GASKET NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK THE BLOWN UP GASKET CAUSED THE ENGINE TO FAILE AND THE MANUFACTURER IS UNWILLING TO ISSUE RECALL. *YH
2000-12-07

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1LNCM9743LY
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE IS EXPERIENCING SUDDEN ACCELERATION, THE VEHICLE WAS ONCE IN REVERSE AND TWICE IT ACCELERATED FROM 55 MPH TO 90 MPH, THE DEALER IS UNABLE TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM. *SLC
2000-11-06

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-11-01
  • VIN: 1LNCM9742LY
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I ALSO HAVE A STALLING PROBLEM THAT A DEALER SAID HE CAN NOT FIND. *AK
2000-09-14

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1LNLM9741L4
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE WOULD NOT RELEASE, CONSUMER HAD TO BREAK THE BUCKLE TO RELEASE OCCUPANT, RECALL #97V-174 WAS DENIED TO CONSUMER. *MJS
2000-08-02

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
2000-07-24

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-06-24
  • VIN: 1LN9743LY69
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ALTERNATER WENT OUT 6 TIMES, AND CONSUMER CAN HEAR CHIMES. THEN, LIGHTS COME ON THE DASH BOARD, AND EVERYTHING GOES DEAD. CONSUMER HAS ALWAYS HEARD A CHIMING NOISE, INDICATING THAT ALTERNATER HAD CHARGING PROBLEMS.*AK
2000-07-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-05-27
  • VIN: 1LNLM9746LY
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE WAS TAKEN IN FOR OVERHEATING AND FAILURE TO COOL. DEALER CHECKED OUT AND RLEASED THE CAR. IMMEDIATELY AFTER LEAVING THE DEALER (WITHIN 5 MILES) I NOTICED THE ENGINE WAS HEATING WAY ABOVE NORMAL. I STOPPED AT A GAS STATION AND RAISED THE HOOD. I NOTICED THERE WAS NO COOLANTIN THE RESERVOIR. I BOUGHT A GALLON OF ANTIFREEZE AND POURED OVER HALF OF THE GALLON INTO THE TANK. I CONTINUED HOME ABOUT 5 MILES AND NOTICED THAT IT WAS STILL OVERHEATING. I RAISED THE HOOD AND PUT OVER A GALLON OF WATER INTO THE RADIATOR. THE NEXT DAY MY WIFE AND I DROVE THE CAR TO CHECK IT OUT ASSUMING THAT THE FORD DEALER GARAGE HAD SIMPLY FAILED TO CHECK OUT COOLANT AND WATER AND IT WOULD BE OKAY. THE CAR HEAT GAGE WOULD RISE AND FALL DEPENDING UPON PRESSURE ON THE ENGINE. WE TOOK IT BACK TO THE GARAGE AND LEFT IT FOR MORING REPAIR. WE GOT A CALL THAT THE ENGINE HAD LOCKED UP AND THE BLOCK WAS CRACKED. THE GASKETS HAD FAILED AND LEAKED COOLANT INTO THE ENGINE.*AK
2000-07-05

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-06-18
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1LNCM93E5L4
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: WIFE WAS DRIVING ON RT 280 ALL OF SUDDEN SMOKE WAS COMING OUT OF THE DASHBOARD. PULLED OVER. NO WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON. VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE.*AK
2000-06-19

SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-09-20
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Number Of Deaths: 1
  • VIN: 1LNLM9849LY
  • Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: MY SON AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE WAS AND IS A COLLEGE STUDENT FROM A SINGLE PARENT HOUSEHOLD AND I AM DISABLED. THE DEALER DID NOT AT ANY TIME ADVISE MY SON THAT THE VEHICLE HAD ANY RECALLS OR PROBLEMS. WE HAVE SPENT WELL OVER $2000.00 IN REPAIRS, THE CAR HAS BEEN TOWED 7-8 TIMES. THE AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON CONTINUOUSLY, THEE RIDE CONTROL ALARM COMES ON CONTINUOUSLY, THE SUSPENSION HAS BEEN REPAIRED TWICE, PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON CONTINUOUSLY AS WELL AS THE CHARGE SYSTEM, WE HAVE HAD IT IN AND OUT OF DEALERSHIP. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER VEHICLE FROM FORD AND I FEEL THAT THIS CAR OR MAKE SHOULD OT HAVE BEEN REL3ASED TO THE CONSUMER WITH THIS MANY DEFECTS. I FEEL THE CAR IS UNSAFE AND THAT THE NUMBER OF REPAIRS PROVES IT OVER AND OVER. I WO0ULD LIKE TO KNOW HOW TO VILE A LOSS OF VALUE CLAIM TO RECOVER THE MONEY WE CONTINUE TO SPEND ON A VEHICLE THAT CANNOT BE TRADED IN OR SOLD . THE DEALER SHIP BEARS A LARGE PART OF THE RESPONSIBLE BECAUSE THEY DID NOT DISCLOSE ANY RECALL OR OTHER POSSIBLE COMPONENTS PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR AT THE TIME MY SON PURCHASED THE CAR. THE DEALERSHIP HAD THE CAR BACK TO REPAIR THE SUSPENSION, THE BRAKES, A SEVERE LEAK WITH THE BRAKE FLUID COMING OUT. THE BREAK JOB DID NOT LAST LONG ENOUGH FOR MY SON TO DRIVE HOME. IT HAS ALSO CAUSED ME A GREAT DEAL OF STRESS AND HAS CONTRIBUTED TO MY DEPRESSION AND STROKES TRYING TO KEEP IT RUNING AND GETTING TO AND FROM VARIOUS POINTS INCLUDING DOCTORS APPOINTS. I BELIEVE THAT THE FOD MOTORE COMPANY BEARS SOME RESPONSIBILITY AND TO THIS DATE WE HAVE NEVER BEEN NOTIFIED OF AY RECALLS ON THIS PARTICULAR MODEL. PLEASE CONTACT MYSELF OR MY SON AT YOUR EARLIEST CONVIENCE. LINCOLN MERCURY REPLACED THE AIR SYSPENSION JUST TWO MONTHS AGO AND IT IS GOING OUT AGAIN AS WELL AS ATHE RIGHT REAR ROTOR. WE HAVE REPLACED THE STARTE5R, CYLIONOID, THE WIRES, SWITCH, THE BRAKES THREE TIMES. THE AIR BAG DEPOLYMENT MAL FUNCTIONS CONSTANTLY. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD.
2000-06-18

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-06-03
  • VIN: 1LNCM9847LY
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE TEMPERATURE AND SYSTEM CHECK SYSTEM ON MY DASHBOARD GAVE ME NO INDICATION THAT THE CAR WAS OVERHEATING. THE MECHANIC WHO WORKED ON AT THE MADISON TN BP SERVICE STATION SAID MY CAR SAID THAT HE WAS HAVING SEVERAL LINCOLN HAVING THE SAME TYPE PROBLEM ONE WAS IN RIGHT NEXT TO MINE AT THE TIME IT WAS WORKING ACORDING TO HIS COMPUTER MY GAUGES WORKED THEY JUST DIDNT SENSE ANY OVERHEATING I HAVE SPENT TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS TO CORRECT A BLOWN HEAD GASKET TWO FUEL INJECTORS AND A THERMOSTAT WATERPUMP AND TWO SPARK PLUGS AND TWO OXYGEN SENSORS ALL DUE TO THE CAR OVERHEATING I CONSTANTLY RAN A SYSTEM CHECK WITH MY ON DASH SYSTEM CHECK AND HAD ALL SYSTEM NORMAL NOW DUE TO THE CAR OVERHEATING WITH NO NOTICE THE GAUGE ON THE DASH READ TEMPERATURE WAS IN THE CENTER NOT HOT NOR TOO COLD EVEN WITH THE NEW PARTS THE CAR IS NOW HESITATING AND CUTTING OFF THE GAUGES SHOW CHECK ENGINE CHARGE SYSTEM BAD AND THE CAR CUTS OFF CONSTANTLY AND THE MECHANIC CAN'T SEEM TO FIX IT EACH TIME IT CUTS OFF HE KEEPS FINDING SOMETHING ELSE WRONG AND IS ASSOCIATING EACH WITH THE ORIGINAL PROBLEM OF THE CAR OVERHEATING LEADING ME TO BELIEVE THAT THERE IS A MAJOR COOLING SYSTEM PROBLEM ALSO IT HAS A NEW RADIATOR SO IT SEEMS THAT THE PROBLEM IS DUE TO THE ORIGINAL MANUFACTURERS DESIGN FOR THE COOLING SYSTEM NOT TO MENTION THE MINOR BRAKING AND STEEERING PROBLEMS I SEEM TO HAVE HERE LATELY HELP PLEASE I AM AT THE END OF MY ROPE HERE. THANKS. *AK
2000-04-22

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-08-13
  • VIN: 1LNCM9744LY
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM - I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH IT (DANGER). *AK

1990 Lincoln Continental recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1990 Lincoln Continental.

1998-12-16
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEBRASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGNIA, AND WISCONSIN. THE REAR LOWER SUBFRAME MOUNT PLATE NUT CAN EXPERIENCE STRESS CORROSION CRACKING IF SUBJECTED TO LONG TERM EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALTS. THIS CAN RESULT IN FRACTURE AND LOSS OF THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE SUBFRAME MOUNT ATTACHMENT. DETACHMENT OF THE BODY MOUNTS AT THE REAR CORNERS OF THE SUBFRAME, WHICH SUPPORTS THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION, ALLOWS THE REAR CORNERS OF THE SUBFRAME TO DROP.
  • Consequence: IF BOTH REAR CORNERS DROP, STEERING WOULD BECOME SUDDENLY VERY DIFFICULT, AFFECTING VEHICLE CONTROL AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL SUBFRAME REAR MOUNT BOLTS, REINFORCEMENT PLATES, AND PLATE NUTS.
1997-10-07
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. FORD IS INITIATING AN OWNER NOTIFICATION PROGRAM THAT WILL PROVIDE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY, 12 YEARS AND UNLIMITED MILEAGE, FOR ALL SEAT BELT BUCKLES WITH FUNCTIONAL CONCERNS.
  • Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION, THE OCCUPANT OF THE SEAT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED AND PERSONAL INJURY COULD OCCUR.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY, FOR 12 YEARS AND UNLIMITED MILEAGE.
1997-10-07
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE FRONT OUTBOARD SEATING POSITION SEAT BELT BUCKLES MAY NOT LATCH OR UNLATCH.
  • Consequence: THESE CONDITIONS COULD REDUCE SEAT BELT USAGE INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES.
1991-08-06
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
  • Summary: FRONT DISC BRAKE ROTORS OF THE SUBJECT VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE SEVERE CORROSION IF OPERATED IN AREAS WHERE CALCIUM CHLORIDE AND SODIUM CHLORIDE ARE USED EXTENSIVELY.
  • Consequence: SEVERELY CORRODED ROTORS MAY FRACTURE OR SEPARATE NEARTHE INNER EDGES OF THE BRAKE DISCS RESULTING IN REDUCED BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS,HIGHER THAN NORMAL PEDAL EFFORTS, LOUD GRINDING NOISES, AND MODERATE PULLS WHENTHE BRAKES ARE APPLIED. REDUCED BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS MAY INCREASE MINIMUMSTOPPING DISTANCES, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: REPLACE FRONT BRAKE ROTORS WITH FULL CAST FRONT BRAKE ROTORS.
1990-10-30
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
  • Summary: THREADED INFLATOR COMPONENTS MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY WHICH MAY ALLOW COMPONENTS TO SEPARATE WHEN INFLATOR RECEIVES A SIGNAL TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAG.
  • Consequence: INFLATOR COMPONENT SEPARATION ALLOWS HOT COMBUSTION GASES TO ESCAPE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURIES TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
  • Remedy: REPLACE AIR BAG MODULES CONTAINING POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE INFLATORS.

Negative 1990 Lincoln Continental car reviews

  1. Flavio Bartoletti 2024-08-09

    Hey there! I noticed you've got a lot of stuff to carry around. Luckily, this car has a really spacious trunk that can fit all your tools and more. Just a heads up though, if you're planning on carrying a lot of weight, you might notice a slightly rougher ride, especially if the suspension is out. Hope this helps!

  2. Chadrick Quitzon 2024-08-01

    I purchased my Lincoln back in 1999 when it was already nine years old for $7000. Although my wife and I are not big fans of it, it does perform well in bad weather. Unfortunately, it has been in the shop quite a bit lately and I even heard some strange noises coming from it yesterday. Earlier today, it broke down completely. In comparison, my wife's Saab and my children's Toyotas and Honda Accord are much better vehicles. In fact, my son-in-law's 1977 Honda Accord, which has over 2 million miles on it, has lasted longer than my old Lincoln. For my next car, I am considering purchasing a Saab, Honda, or Toyota instead.

  3. Bill Schulist 2024-07-02

    I purchased this car at a great price, but unfortunately, it had some issues as it was a used car. One day, while driving, the brake light came on, and I was concerned. However, I did not feel anything wrong with the brakes. Suddenly, after 20 minutes, the brake pedal stuck to the floor due to an electric brake booster failure. Unfortunately, the repair costs are quite high, with parts costing around $2000 and labor around $600, and only the dealer can fix it. As a result, my investment in the car has gone to waste. If anyone is interested in buying a car that needs brake work, please let me know. :)

Positive 1990 Lincoln Continental car reviews

  1. Roscoe Champlin 2024-09-23

    The Lincoln Continental is a blast to drive, but there are a few issues to keep in mind, such as the air ride system, factory sound system, and transmissions. Personally, I've owned three and the only trouble I had was with the air ride. However, I highly recommend test driving one for yourself to truly experience the joy of driving this car.

  2. Cullen Kassulke 2024-05-09

    I am thrilled with my car! Even though I haven't needed any major repairs during the time I've owned it, I wouldn't hesitate to have them done. This is definitely one of the best cars I've ever owned.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1990 Lincoln Continental problems:

Most common problems - Lincolns OnLine Message Forum
Most common problems - Lincolns OnLine Message Forum
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1990 Lincoln Continental Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
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1990 Lincoln Continental Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
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Other years of Lincoln Continental

lincoln continental 1991 photo
Continental 1991
Lincoln

359

3

11

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lincoln continental 1992 photo
Continental 1992
Lincoln

179

3

18

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lincoln continental 1993 photo
Continental 1993
Lincoln

427

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15

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  • 4
  • 3
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lincoln continental 1994 photo
Continental 1994
Lincoln

409

5

12

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lincoln continental 1995 photo
Continental 1995
Lincoln

71

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9

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lincoln continental 1996 photo
Continental 1996
Lincoln

59

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19

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