1998 Lincoln Continental problems
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 1998 Lincoln Continental problems
The 1998 Lincoln Continental, being a more than two-decade-old model, has received 96 complaints and two recalls on CarComplaints.com. The most reported problem for this model year is its transmission system, specifically with vehicle speed control. Several owners said that the vehicle would accelerate by itself, which could be hazardous. In some cases, the idle air control valve was replaced, temporarily solving the problem, but it would resurface after about a year. In other instances, the car would accelerate when attempting to stop or when in drive and standing still. Moreover, sudden unintended acceleration was also experienced by numerous drivers, which often resulted in body damage.
Intermittent electrical problems that are difficult to diagnose and fix are also concerning for 1998 Lincoln Continental owners. These issues can frustrate owners and may lead to safety concerns if they affect critical systems. The problem affects the vehicle’s lighting and signaling systems in Continental’s case.
The 1999 Lincoln Continental has fewer complaints and less severe issues. However, these issues can be annoying and require expensive repairs. The bulk of the complaints documented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 1999 Continental was its suspension system. The most significant issue seems to be the failure of the front coil springs. This issue can range from annoying to severe because it can lead to sudden tire deflation, which may lead to loss of vehicle control and an accident. There are also reports of coil springs corroding and subsequent failure, suggesting component quality or durability issues.
The 1999 Continental also received numerous complaints about the airbags. Several owners reported that the frontal airbags deployed unexpectedly while driving at low speeds or even without any collision. Needless to say, many drivers were caught by surprise, which may easily lead to a road accident.
The 2002 Continental received fewer complaints and recalls. However, many of its known issues are considered severe and require expensive repair jobs. That said, the NHTSA listed 33 complaints and one recall for the 2002 Lincoln. This Continental sedan also grappled with problematic vehicle speed control like the earlier models. Unfortunately, the unintended acceleration issue is also present in this iteration of the Continental. Some owners suggested the problem might be related to the cruise control system. There are also reports of the accelerator pedal getting stuck and not responding to braking attempts – a really dangerous malfunction that may lead to high-speed collisions.
In summary, the 1998 Lincoln Continental has common problems with its transmission system, specifically with vehicle speed control, and intermittent electrical problems that are difficult to diagnose and fix. The 1999 Continental has issues with its suspension system and airbags, while the 2002 Continental has problems with its vehicle speed control and accelerator pedal. These issues can be expensive to repair and may lead to safety concerns.
Is a 98 Lincoln Continental a good car?
With regular maintenance this car can definitely see 200,000 - 250,000 miles. The interior is perfect, seats are insanely comfortable and speakers really bang. If you're looking for a cheap and reliable car, this is the way to go.
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).
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.
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.
Is a 98 Lincoln Continental a good car?
With regular maintenance this car can definitely see 200,000 - 250,000 miles. The interior is perfect, seats are insanely comfortable and speakers really bang. If you're looking for a cheap and reliable car, this is the way to go.
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 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.
How long should 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.
1998 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
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Lincoln Continental vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Lincoln Continental
The NHTSA has received 72 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Lincoln Continental. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Lincoln Continental vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-09
- VIN: 1LNFM97V8WY
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I AM ONE PERSON AMONG MANY THAT HAVE BEEN HAVING MANY PROBLEMS WITH THE FORD FRONT WHEEL DRIVE TRANSMISSION. BOUGHT MY 98 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL WITH 97000 MILES ON IT, AT 109000 MILES HAD TO PAY 2400 TO HAVE THE TRANSMISSION PULLED AND REBUILT. I'M 65 YEARS OLD AND HAVE NEVER EVEN HIT THE PASSING GEAR. AT 155000 MILES IT HAD TO GET PULLED AGAIN. 1500 DOLLARS AT THST TIME. NOW WITH 175000 MILES ON IT THE CHECK TRANSMISSION SIGNAL IS ON AGAIN. I DID NOT UNTIL NOW DO ANY CODE CHECKS OR INTERNET SEARCH, BUT I DO BELIEVE THAT FORD KNOWS THEY BUILT A BAD UNIT. LOOKING TO FIND OUT IF THERE HAVE BEEN ANY SILENT RECALLS OR IF YOUR DEPARTMENT HAS ANY INFORMATION THAT COULD HELP ME. MY CAR IS IN MINT CONDITION AND RUNS GREAT EXCEPT FOR THE TRANSMISSION. I REMEMBER READING THAT THIS PROBLEM WAS INVESTIGATED OR GOING TO BE LOOKED AT. CURRENTLY I GET A P1744 CODE OFF THE COMPUTER. I HOPE THERE IS A SILENT RECALL OR SOME INFO YOU MAY HAVE THAT COULD HELP ME.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-01
- VIN: 1LNFM97VXWY
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REARVIEW MIRROR WAS DEFECTIVE. THE MIRROR HAD A DAY NIGHT AUTOMATIC TINTING FEATURE. THE SEALS ON THE MIRROR FAILED AND THE FLUIDS LEAKED AND COVERED THE MIRROR. THE MIRROR COULD NOT LONGER BE USED AND WAS NOT FUNCTIONAL. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE MIRROR HIMSELF AND THE ORIGINAL MIRROR WAS TAKEN TO DEALER. THE DEALER WAS UNFAMILIAR WITH THE FAILURE AND WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE HOWEVER NO ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED TO THE CONTACT. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 104,000. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-05
- VIN: 1LNFM97V1WY
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD LUNGE FORWARD WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS ENGAGED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 186,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-01
- VIN: 1LNFM97V8WY
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR VIEW AND DRIVER SIDE MIRRORS WERE TINTED WITH AN ANTI-REFLECTION CHEMICAL WHICH MELTED THE PLASTIC INSIDE CAUSING THE MIRRORS TO LOOK FOGGY OR DARKER THAN THEY WERE. HE BELIEVED IT WAS A SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE HIS VISIBILITY WAS MINIMAL AT NIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 122,000.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-30
- VIN: 1LNFM97V7WY
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE RIGHT AND LEFT SEATS BELTS IN THE REAR OF CAR WILL NO LONGER RETRACT. I GOT THEM UNSTUCK A COUPLE TIMES BUT IT HAPPENS AGAIN AND AGAIN. I AM AFRAID BECAUSE MY KIDS SIT BACK THERE.
SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-03
- Components: SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL. CONSUMER WRITES REGARDING DEFECTIVE REAR SEAT BELTS *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE RIGHT AND LEFT REAR SEAT BELTS NO LONGER RETRACT. ALSO, WATER ENTERED THE FRONT HEADLIGHTS AND CAUSED THE LENS TO FOGGED UP. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-16
- VIN: 1LNFM97V3WY
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: AS I WAS BACKING THE CAR UP THE TIE ROD/STEERING ASSEMBLY DISENGAGED (UNSCREWED) FROM THE RACK&PINYON (PASSENGER SIDE) CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING. THE TIE ROD I STRESS AGAIN UNSCREWED FROM THE RACK. I WAS FORTUNATE THIS TOOK PLACE AT A SLOW SPEED. I FEEL THAT IF THIS OCCURRED AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS IT COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A SERIOUS OR FATAL CRASH. MY MECHANIC REPLACED THE TIE RODS ON BOTH SIDES WITH NEW ONES AND I HAVE THE OLD PART ON HAND. LOOKS LIKE THE SAFETY PIN THAT HOLDS THE TIE ROD TO THE RACK WORE AND ALLOWED THE TIE ROD TO UNSCREW ITS SELF FROM THE RACK. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1LNFM97V9WY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SPONTANEOUS FIRE IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT. VEHICLE LAST DRIVEN ABOUT 12 HOURS BEFORE, AND HAD BEEN OFF SINCE THAT TIME. DURING A DOWNPOUR, AND WHILE PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE IGNITED SHORTLY AFTER 6AM - 02/06/10. EVENTS AND REMAINING EVIDENCE CLOSELY MATCH THOSE DESCRIBED IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH FIRES FOR OTHER FORD MODELS (INCLUDING SAME MODEL-YEAR TOWN CARS). *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-05
- VIN: 1LNFM97VXWY
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AROUND 50 MPH WHEN THE SPARK PLUG BLOW OUT OF THE HEAD OF THE MOTOR. IT CAUSED THE PISTON TO SMOKE AND IT HAD A RATTLE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-16
- VIN: 1LNFM97V3WY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I KEEP GETTING THIS MESSAGE. FROM: [email protected] DATE: 3/18/2009 4:02:15 PM TO: SUBJECT: UNKNOWN FOOTPRINTS INCOMING MAIL ERROR FOOTPRINTS ENCOUNTERED AN ERROR PROCESSING AN INCOMING MAIL MESSAGE. THE ERROR CODE IS BELOW. IF THE ERROR IS UNCLEAR OR IF YOU NEED HELP, PLEASE CONTACT SUPPORT. FOOTPRINTS ERROR: 201 [MICROSOFT][ODBC SQL SERVER DRIVER][TCP/IP SOCKETS]SQL SERVER DOES NOT EXIST OR ACCESS DENIED. (SQL-08001) [MICROSOFT][ODBC SQL SERVER DRIVER][TCP/IP SOCKETS]CONNECTIONOPEN (CONNECT()). (SQL-01000)(DBD: DB_LOGIN/SQLCONNECT ERR=-1) CONNECTION STRING: DBI:ODBC:FOOTPRINTS\ THIS IS WHAT I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO SEND TO:[email protected] FROM: SUBJECT:AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHT MODUALE COMMENTS: I GOT A NOTICE OF AN ERROR ON SENDING YOU MY MESSAGE. HOPE YOU DO NOT GET TWO. MY 98 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL HAS NO TURNSIGNAL LIGHTS,NO EMERGENCY LIGHTS ETC. IT CAN NOT BE DRIVEN SAFELY. WE HAVE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD WE NEED AN AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHT MODULE. HOWEVER IT HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND THERE IS NONE AVAILABLE IN THE UNITED STATES. I CALLED FORD MOTOR COMPANY(CASE ID#1556870779) AND WAS TOLD TO CONTACT YOU. WAS THERE NO RECALL ON THIS PART? I AM CERTAIN THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE THAT HAS A PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR. I WAS TOLD TO GET A PART FROM A JUNK YARD ALTHOUGH THAT TOO WOULD BE EXPENSIVE SINCE THEY TOO KNOW THIS PART IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE.. BEING FEMALE I DO NOT THINK THAT IS POSSIBLE. I ALSO THINK THAT A COMPANY LIKE FORD SHOULD BE RESPONSILBE FOR PROVIDING PARTS FOR THEIR CARS. MANY CARS ARE ON THE ROAD A LOT LONGER THAN TEN YEARS. I COULD GO ON BUT FOR NOW --WHAT AM I TO DO?? FROM NHTSA WEB SITE. 98 LINCOLN HAS NO TURNSIGNAL NO EMERGENCY LIGHTS ETC.IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE THE DEALERSHIP SAID IT NEEDED AN AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHT MODULE BUT NO PART EXISTS IN THE US. WHAT NOW??? *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-01
- VIN: 1LNFM97V4WY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE ACCELERATES BY ITSELF. I HAVE HAD THE CAR IN THE SHOP APPROX. EVERY YEAR FOR THIS SINCE 2005 AND AS RECENT AS JUNE OF 08. THE DEALERSHIP USUALLY REPLACES THE IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE BUT THIS PROBLEM WILL AGAIN SERVICE AFTER ABOUT ONE YEAR. I HAVE PAID FOR A COMPLETE FUEL INDUCTION CLEANING (10-05-07). THE ONLY THING THAT WORKS IS REPLACING THE IDLE CONTROL VALVE BUT LIKE I SAID THE PROBLEM RESURFACES. THE CAR WILL IDLE AT 500 RPM FOR NORMAL BUT IDLE AT 1000 RPM IN DRIVE WHEN THE PROBLEM OCCURS, IF I PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL IT WILL TAKE OFF AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED AND I HAVE TO TURN IT OFF IN ORDER FOR IT TO RESET ITSELF. DURING NORMAL OPERATION THE CAR WILL WANT TO TAKE OFF BY ITSELF AT A STOPLIGHT AND JERK WHEN I RELEASE THE BRAKE. I PARTICULARLY NOTICE THIS TO OCCUR WHEN I COME OFF THE FREEWAY BUT IT ALSO OCCURS DURING NORMAL OPERATION. I TOOK MY CAR IN JUNE OF THIS MONTH FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT THEY COULD NOT GET IT TO ACCELERATE ON IT'S OWN. IT IS NOW OCT. 2008 AND THE PROBLEM IS GETTING WORSE MEANING THIS HAPPENS NOW ABOUT 4 TO 6 TIMES A DAY. THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF MY SITUATION AND THEY HAVE THE HISTORY ON MY CAR BUT I'M THE ONE STUCK WITH THE BILL OF GETTING IT FIXED. THE DEALERSHIP HAS THE LAST COUPLE OF TIMES WORKED OUT A DISCOUNT BECAUSE THIS IS A RECURRING PROBLEM BUT I STILL HAVE TO PAY BECAUSE THE WARRANTY HAS USUALLY RUN OUT. THEY DO SHOW ME TAKING IT IN BEFORE THE WARRANTY RUNS OUT BUT THEY CAN NEVER SEEM TO FIND THE PROBLEM UNTIL IT IS SO BAD TO THE POINT OF DANGEROUS AND THE CAR IS DOING IT ALL THE TIME, USUALLY AFTER THE WARRANTY. *TR
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-08
- VIN: 1LNFM97V8WY
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SECURITY FLASHES RAPIDLY WHICH PREVENTS THE IGNITION FROM STARTING. IT ROLLS OK BUT WILL NOT CRANK UP TO RUN. THIS PROBLEM STARTED ALMOST A YEAR AGO, BUT AFTER A LITTLE WAIT IT WOULD FINALLY CRANK. IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS WE HAVE DRIVEN THE CAR ABOUT 4 TIMES BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM. ON MAR , 2008 WE WERE LEFT STRANDED IN BILOXI, MS REQUIRING A TOW TO THE EASTERBROOK DEALERSHIP FROM WHERE THE AUTOMOBILE WAS PURCHASED IN 2004. AT TIMES THE SECURITY LIGHT WOULD FLASH NORMALLY, AND ON THOSE TIMES WE COULD DRIVE ANYWHERE WE LIKED WITHOUT WORRY. FROM OUR PROGRESSIVE DRIVE INSURANCE WEBPAGE I RAN ACROSS A NHTA ITEM # 619266 COVERING THIS COMPLAINT IN 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTALS WHICH WAS A TECHNICAL BULLETIN. WE HAD NEVER EVEN HEARD OF OR RECEIVED A NOTICE OF THIS. I FEEL THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE $369.00 REPAIR OF THIS VEHICLE NOT EVEN SPEAKING OF THE PAIN AND WORRY IT HAS CAUSED AND MISSED DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS AND SUCH. OUR FIRST INCIDENT WAS IN 2006 WHEN, AT OUR EXPENSE, WE ALSO HAD TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION, WHEN IT FAILED ON INTERSTATE 63, LEAVING US STRANDED, HAVING TO BE TOWED, AND WITHOUT A VEHICLE FOR OVER A WEEK. *TR
TIRES,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-26
- VIN: 1LNFM97V8WY
- Components: TIRES,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: MICHELIN IS AWARE THAT OLD, UNSAFE MICHELIN TIRES OUTSIDE MANUFACTURER'S SAFETY GUIDELINES ARE BEING PLACED ON VEHICLES BY THEIR AUTHORIZED TIRE DEALERSHIPS YET CLAIMS THAT THEY ARE NOT "LEGALLY CULPABLE" AND CAN DO NOTHING ABOUT THIS PRACTICE OR THE RESULTANT DEATHS AND INJURIES SUSTAINED BY END USERS. MY SITUATION IS AS FOLLOWS: WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH MY RIGHT REAR TIRE BLEW OUT ALMOST SLAMMING ME INTO ANOTHER CAR AND GUARD RAIL. SUBSEQUENTLY I LEARNED THAT THE "NEW" MICHELIN SYMMETRY TIRES I HAD PURCHASED AT AN AUTHORIZED MICHELIN DEALERSHIP 2-1/2 YEARS AGO WERE FIVE YEARS OLD WHEN THEY WERE PLACED ON MY CAR ACCORDING TO THE D.O.T. DATE ON THEM. MOREOVER THE OLD MICHELIN SYMMETRY TIRES THAT WERE PLACED ON MY VEHICLE WERE NOT "H" OR "V" RATED FOR SAFETY AS FORD/LINCOLN MANUFACTURER SPECIFIES. I CALLED MICHELIN AND TALKED WITH MULTIPLE INDIVIDUALS INCLUDING THEIR U.S. MANAGER OF CONSUMER RELATIONS. SHE ADMITTED THAT MICHELIN IS AWARE THAT UNSCRUPULOUS MICHELIN DEALERSHIPS SELL OLD, OUTDATED TIRES AND TIRES NOT PROPERLY SAFETY RATED FOR VEHICLES BUT CLAIMS THAT THERE IS "ABSOLUTELY NOTHING" THAT MICHELIN CAN DO ABOUT THIS PRACTICE. APPARENTLY MICHELIN BELIEVES THERE IS AN "ACCEPTABLE" NUMBER OF CONSUMER DEATHS AND INJURIES THAT WILL OCCUR YEARLY FROM FAULTY, DEFECTIVE MICHELIN TIRES. MICHELIN DISCLAIMS ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY BREACHES AT THEIR DEALERSHIPS, PREFERRING TO MEET SALES GOALS AND NET PROFIT MARGINS, LOOKING THE OTHER WAY AND WINKING AT FRAUD AND DANGEROUS PRACTICES BY THEIR DEALERSHIPS, AND HIDING BEHIND "LEGALITIES" TO SHIELD THEM FROM ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY. I BELIEVE THAT THE RICO STATUTE CLEARLY APPLIES TO THEM AND SHOULD VIGOROUSLY BE PURSUED. MICHELIN KNOWS THAT UNSAFE PRACTICES ARE CONSTANTLY OCCURRING, BUT CHOOSES TO DO NOTHING TO STOP THE INJURIES OR THE DEATHS OR TO SANCTION OR POLICE THEIR DEALERSHIPS. HOW MANY MORE DEATHS AND INJURIES WILL OCCUR IF NOTHING IS DONE?????*JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-08
- VIN: 1LNFM97V9WY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DT: THE CONSUMER STATES THAT 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL HAD ONE HEADLIGHT THAT BECAME UNALIGNED AND WAS SHINING THE BEAM STRAIGHTENED UP IN THE AIR. THIS WAS THE DRIVER'S SIDE LEFT HEADLIGHT. WAS HAVING WATER LEAKAGE AND AROUND THE LIGHT WAS TURNING BLACK. THE WARNING LIGHT ON THE DASH BOARD WAS SAYING CHECK BRAKE LAMP, BUT THE BRAKE LAMPS WERE BOTH WORKING. THE OWNER THOUGHT THAT THE HEADLIGHT SHORTED OUT, CAUSING THAT INSIDE LIGHT ON THE DASHBOARD TO COME ON. THIS STARTED IN THE PAST COUPLE OF MONTHS. THE OWNER HAS NOT HAD THE CAR CHECKED YET, BUT WAS GOING TO TAKE IT TO DEALER. THE OWNER COULD NOT AFFORD TO PAY $400.00 FOR A HEADLIGHT. THE OWNER HAS NOT CONTACTED FORD. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-03
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE POWER SEAT WILL NOT RETRACT BACK. THE SEAT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT AND SEAT BACK WORK FINE. THE MOTOR CLICKS TO ENGAGE, BUT THE SEAT WILL NOT MOVE BACK.*AK
SUSPENSION,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-23
- VIN: 1LNFM97V2WY
- Components: SUSPENSION,TIRES
- Summary: #1-WHILE LEAVING WORK THE LEFT FRONT COIL SPRING FRACTURED IN HALF PUNTURING (TEARING) THE TIRE CAUSING IMMEDIATE DEFLATION OF LEFT FRONT TIRE AFFECTING STEERING CONTROL AND BRAKING.(I HAD NO ADVANCE NOTICE -NOISE OR BOUNCE-BEFORE FAILURE). #2-FAILURE OCCURED IN A PARKING LOT AT LOW SPEED - THANKFULLY. #3-THE LEFT FRONT STRUT/SPRING ASSEMBLY #1F3Z*5W311*AA WAS REPLACED AS WELL AS THE RIGHT STRUT/SPRING #1F3Z*5W310*AA ASSEMBLY DUE TO INSPECTION REVIELED A CRACK IN THE RIGHT FRONT SPRING.THE LEFT FRONT TIRE WAS REPLACED. THIS COULD EASILY HAVE CAUSED MAJOR DAMAGE OR A FATALITY AT DRIVING SPEEDS. I HAVE OLD PARTS FOR INSPECTION - THEY REMIND ME HOW LUCKY I WAS IN A PARKING LOT AT TIME OF FAILURE.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-11
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN, THE SLANTED WINDSHIELD ABOVE A GREY DASHBOARD, CAUSING A REFLECTION IN THE BRIGHT SUNLIGHT THAT MAKES SOME OBJECTS INVISIBLE TO THE DRIVER. TOO MANY CAR DESIGNS HAVE THIS FAULT AND SHOULD BE OUTLAWED FOR SAFETY REASONS. ALSO THE CONTINENTAL INSTRUMENT PANEL CANNOT BE READ IN CERTAIN ANGLES OF SUN ON THE PANEL. YOU CANNOT SEED THE NEEDLE ON THE SPEEDOMETER AND I WONDER HOW MANY SPEEDING TICKETS RESULT FROM THIS DEFECT. I HAVE ADDED A BLACK COVER TO MY DASHBOARD AT MY COST TO TRY TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM. IF AUTOS ARE MADE LIKE THIS THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD STAND THE COST OF BLACK OUT MATERIAL. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- VIN: 1LNFM97V5WY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TWO OF THE VEHICLE'S IGNITION COILS FAILED WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO HESITATE AND STALL WHILE BEING DRIVEN. *NM *SC *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1LNFM97V5WY
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE PARKED ON A SLIGHT INCLINE, WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING, THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPED OUT OF PARK INTO REVERSE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ENTER THE VEHICLE TO STOP IT FROM HITTING A CHILD, THE CONSUMER GRABBED THE STEERING WHEEL, THE VEHICLE PICKED UP SPEED AND ROLLED OVER HER RIGHT LEG. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE A INSURANCE SPECIALIST INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND DETERMINED THERE WAS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT IN THE TRANSMISSION. *JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-05
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE MIDDLE AND REAR SEAT BELT ARE NOT RETRACTING. THE DEALER WILL NOT FIX THIS SINCE IT ISN'T UNDER WARRANTLY. THE DEALER SAID THAT THE RETRACTORS ARE DEFECTED. SINCE SEAT BELTS ARE A SAFETY ISSUE, IT SHOULD BE FIXED BY THE MANUFACTURER. I HAVE OWNED MANY CARS AND HAVE NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH A SEAT BELT. THE DEALER WILL CHARGE $650 TO FIX THIS AND WHO KNOWS WHEN THIS HAPPEN AGAIN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-01
- VIN: 1LNFM97V5WY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS THAT ACT UP ONLY WHEN THEY WANTED TO AND THE DEALERSHIP IS DECLINING THAT THEY EXIST. I HAVE HAD MY CAR IN FOR SERVICE FOR 3 WEEKS IN THE LAST MONTH AND THEY KEEP COMING UP WITH NOTHING. THEY ALSO CALLED ME IN AND WANTED TO KEEP MY CAR AND HAVE THE SERVICE MANAGER DRIVE IT FOR A FEW DAYS -IN WHICH HE ONLY DROVE 37 MILES, PRIOR TO THAT HE AND I DROVE THE CAR TO SEE IF ANYTHING STRANGE WOULD HAPPEN AND IT DID, WHICH NOW THEY SAY NOTHING IS WRONG AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO DETECT CUSTOMER'S CONCERNS. I HAD A MAJOR DISPUTE WITH THEM AND HAD TO CALL THE POLICE. DIMS 11 IVOQ ENTRY POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT-OVER TO ARTEMIS-----770757. *AK *NLM
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-01
- VIN: 1LNFM97VXWY
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE REAR MIDDLE SEAT BELT WOULD NOT RETRACT. THE DEALER DETERMINED THAT THE RETRACTOR WAS DEFECTIVE AND WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. IT WAS LATER NOTICED THAT THE REAR LEFT SEAT BELT WOULD NOT RETRACT. THE DEALER DETERMINED THAT THE RETRACTOR WAS DEFECTIVE BUT WOULD ONLY REPLACE THE RETRACTOR AT THE OWNERS EXPENSE. *AK THE REAR SEATS WEREN'T HARDLY OCCUPIED. *SCC *JB
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SERVICE AND REPAIR OF 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL.*MR THE CONSUMER WAS UPSET THAT THE DEALER WAS STILL SERVICING THE VEHICLE WHICH WAS GOING ON THE SIXTH WEEK.*TS *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-18
- VIN: 1LNFM97V4WY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER ON A 1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL. THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER FAILED, WHICH RESULTED IN THE CAR STALLING OUT. THIS MADE STEERING AND BRAKING VERY DIFFICULT BECAUSE THERE WAS NO POWER GOING TO THESE UNITS ON THE CAR. I WAS LUCKY AND THE TRAFFIC WAS VERY LIGHT AT THE TIME. THE SECOND FAILURE HAPPENED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN A DRIVEWAY.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-22
- VIN: 1LNFM97V7WY
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC DIMMING INSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR APEARS FROSTED OVER HALF OF THE GLASS DISTORTING THE VIEW TO THE REAR. THIS MIRROR WAS REPLACED LESS THAN ONE YEAR AGO FOR A SIMILAR PROBLEM. RESEARCH ON THE INTERRNET INDICATES THIS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH LINCOLN CONTINENTALS OF MULTIPLE YEARS IN THE LATE 1990'S. THERE ARE NUMERIOUS INCIDENTS OF THIS DEFECT IN THE NHTSA COMPLAINTS ON THIS SITE. FORD MOTOR CO APARENTLY HAS NO SOLUTION TO THIS DEFECT AS CURRENT REPLACEMENT MIRRORS FAIL AGIN IN LESS THAN ONE YEAR. I BELEIVE THIS DEFECT SHOULD BE A SAFETY RECALL AS THE DEFECTIVE MIRROR GREATELY DISTORTS REAR VISION.
1998 Lincoln Continental recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1998 Lincoln Continental.
- Manufacturer: Robert Bosch LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:PADS
- Summary: Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
- Consequence: A damaged or broken brake disc may reduce a vehicle's braking power, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Bosch will instruct the owners how to have the affected brake pads replaced, free of charge. The recall began on May 26, 2016. Owners may contact Bosch customer service at 1-888-715-3616.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE TEXT AND/OR GRAPHICS FOR THE VEHICLE HEADLAMP AIMING INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED IN THE OWNER GUIDES ARE NOT SUFFICIENTLY CLEAR. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: IF THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES ARE REPLACED, CUSTOMERS MAY BE CONFUSED BY THE AIMING INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED IN THE OWNER GUIDES CAUSING THE HEADLAMPS TO BE IMPROPERLY AIMED.
- Remedy: OWNER GUIDES CONTAINING REVISED AIMING INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE MAILED TO OWNERS OF THESE VEHICLES.
Negative 1998 Lincoln Continental car reviews
Positive 1998 Lincoln Continental car reviews
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I bought this car in 2004 when I was only 18 years old, with just over 40000 miles. It's still my first car and I can't believe how much I've put it through! I used to drive really fast and put it through some extreme abuse, but it's held up so well. I really admire the heavy engineering of this car. A++++++++++++++++
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One of the reasons I decided to buy this vehicle was because of its affordability. Despite having a MSRP price of around 44K in 1998, I was able to purchase it for only $17,000.00 in June of 2001 when it was 3 years old with only 3K miles on it. At the time, the retail price was about 21K, which was an incredible deal for everything that this car has to offer. Overall, I absolutely love it. It has tons of features, tons of power, and provides a classy ride.
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This Lincoln is unbeatable!
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The most trouble-free car I ever owned was my Honda Civic. It was a true road car and a joy to travel in.
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I bought this used because I refuse to pay a lot of money for any kind of car. Besides, there are a lot of good used ones out there. I found this super clean '98 Connie in pale gold with low miles (30K) and got the whole enchilada extended warranty. I love the ride of this car! The 32 valve engine has a really sweet sound. It's one of the best cars I've had.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Lincoln Continental problems:
1998 Lincoln Continental Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Top 1998 Lincoln Continental Problems · Compressor Failure Due to Air Leaks From Air Suspension Struts and Drier · Problems With EGR System are Common in High ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 1998 Lincoln Continental - JustAnswer
Jul 26, 2012 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
1998 Lincoln Continental Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Most Common 1998 Lincoln Continental Problems ... Compressor Failure Due to Air Leaks From Air Su... Sagging suspension can be a result of air suspension struts ...
Q&A: Common Electrical Problems in 1998 Lincoln Town Car
Oct 12, 2015 ... The electrical system is draining a new battery and alternator, and went through all signs of a bad battery or alternator and replaced them ...
1998 Lincoln Continental Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
The interior is perfect, seats are insanely comfortable and speakers really bang. If you're looking for a cheap and reliable car, this is the way to go. Rating ...
Other years of Lincoln Continental
Are you having problems with your 1998 Lincoln Continental?
Mustafa Satterfield 2024-06-04
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my 98 Continental that I bought back in late 99. It had 37,000 miles on it when it came off lease, and I've been lucky enough to have little trouble with it since then. Recently, I took it in for a complete service at 65,000 miles, which cost me $1,000. I just picked it up from the dealership today, but unfortunately, there's still some popping underneath the car that they weren't able to fix. Overall though, I'm still happy with my purchase!