Lincoln Ls problems
The Lincoln LS is a four-door, five-passenger luxury sedan manufactured and marketed by Ford's Lincoln division over a single generation from 1999 until 2006. Introduced in June 1999 for the 2000 model year, the LS featured rear-wheel drive and near 50/50 weight distribution and was available with a V8 or V6, the latter initially offered with a manual transmission. The LS aimed to provide a blend of luxury and sport to attract a new generation of buyers to the Lincoln brand.
The LS shared the Ford DEW98 platform with the Jaguar S-Type and the Ford Thunderbird. Trim levels ranged from the base V6 model to the Special Edition V8 LSE trims in 2004, with revised front and rear fascia, taillights and foglights, and front grille.
LS models were manufactured at Ford's Wixom Assembly Plant until production ended on April 3, 2006, and the plant was idled as part of Ford's The Way Forward. Approximately 262,900 were manufactured, including 2,331 with manual transmissions and 1,500 LSE editions.
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Lincoln Ls model years
Common Lincoln Ls problems
The Lincoln LS is a luxury sports sedan that combines the athleticism of a European sports sedan with the elegance of an American luxury vehicle. While the Lincoln LS is generally considered a reliable car, some model years have potential problems. Here are some common issues reported by owners of the Lincoln LS:
- Engine problems caused by bad timing chains: Some 2000 Lincoln LS owners have reported engine problems caused by bad timing chains. Over time, timing chains can become loose from normal operation, causing them to jump a tooth or break. A bad timing chain can knock the engine’s timing and lead to numerous issues, such as engine failure and decreased fuel economy. A bad timing tensioner can also be a factor in causing engine problems. Without the tensioner, timing chains can fail prematurely.
- Electrical problems: Some Lincoln LS owners have reported electrical problems with their cars, including issues with the cooling fan and temperature sensor. These problems can be difficult to trace and diagnose, especially if they are intermittent.
- Dual A/C problems: Some Lincoln LS owners have reported problems with the dual A/C system, where one side of the car may start to blow hot air while the other side continues to blow cold air.
If you experience any of these issues with your Lincoln LS, it is important to take your car to a professional mechanic for a complete diagnosis. Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
Was the Lincoln LS reliable?
Users on RepairPal gave the Lincoln LS a 3.8 out of 5.0 reliability rating. Despite the above-average customer rating, the Lincoln LS has been known to fail on more than one occasion. If you're looking to buy a used model, you should expect some issues with the engine, transmission, HVAC, suspension, and interior.
How many miles can a Lincoln LS last?
It could last a long time(100k more) dependent on your stomach for occasional repair(some expensive). It appears you have done well so far. I agree with Andrew in that you could reach 300,000 miles if you keep up the maintenance, a few repairs and some luck.
Are Lincoln LS expensive to fix?
The average annual repair cost for a Lincoln is $879, which means it has average ownership costs.
Why did Lincoln discontinue the LS?
While larger and roomier, the LS was also less refined than its competitors in terms of interior quality and handling. Some reviewers lamented Lincoln's choice to discontinue the LS after just one generation rather than release a second generation to keep the LS nameplate competitive.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lincoln Ls years
We have researched Lincoln problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lincoln Ls cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lincoln Ls model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lincoln Ls model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lincoln Ls years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lincoln Ls car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lincoln Ls , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lincoln Ls vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ls model years
A total of 79 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Ls model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Ls model years
There were a total of 64 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Ls model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1008 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lincoln Ls . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lincoln Ls vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lincoln Ls 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-24
- VIN: 1LNHM87A71Y
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Lincoln LS. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH the contact heard an abnormal noise. The contact was able to pull over on the side of the road and the contact noticed the front passenger side tire had separated from the joint. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and the mechanic stated that the vehicle was experiencing a similar failure as NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V359001 (Suspension). The dealer was contacted, and the dealer stated that the vehicle was not under any recalls. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the manufacturer stated that the vehicle was not under NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V359001 (Suspension) and advised that contact NHTSA. The failure mileage was 114,000.
Lincoln Ls 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-24
- VIN: 1LNHM87A71Y
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Lincoln LS. The contact stated while driving 15 MPH, the front suspension ball joint detached. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic; however, it was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V359001 (Suspension). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.
Lincoln Ls 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-14
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1LNHM87A15Y
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Car accident with full left side impaction door will not open doors will not open and I was not able to move out of my seat and yet I was stuck behind the steering wheel behind smashed impacted buckled, steering wheel did not deploy the airbags
Lincoln Ls 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-11
- VIN: 1LNHM87A12Y
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Lincoln LS. The contact stated while driving at 50-55 MPH, the vehicle accelerated unintendedly. The brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that he stood on the brake pedal until the vehicle responded 8-10 minutes later. The vehicle speed was 120 MPH at the time the contact regained control of the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred while driving. The contact shifted into neutral (N) and veered to the side of the road where the vehicle came to a complete stop. The contact then shifted into park (P). However, the RPMs revved up to 5,000 MPH. The contact turned off the vehicle. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.
Lincoln Ls 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-05
- VIN: 1LNHM87A43Y
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: We have owned this car for about 3 years and it has been one problem after another and see same problems on line 1) Will start over heating sometimes at idle sometimes while driving (try being in DFW rush hour traffic and deal with that 2) Wife was driving one day and a bolt on right lower control arm broke sending her across 4 lanes of traffic including on coming. 3) All of a sudden when brake pedal was depressed started hearing vacuum leak under dash, brake pedal real hard , and couldn't hardly get car to stop, traction control light started flashing. Found bad brake booster and sensor located on it (both unavailable from manufacturer), also found on line that to get light to stop flashing you have to take to dealer and have reprogrammed (nobody else has the ability) 4) Have constantly had problem with check engine light staying on and running rough, no power, and having to replace ignition coils 5) While wife was driving with no advance notice of any kind heading home on farm market road with no shoulder to pull off on transmission went out completely and stopped pulling 6) Rear control arm bushings go from ok to extremely bad causing back end to drift from side to side going down the highway in a blink of an eye 7) Right front sway bar link keeps wearing control arm and snapping stud off 8) Sunroof drain hoses constantly failing and allowing water to get to electrical components The list goes on but all you have to do is a online search of the LS sport with the 3.9 v-8 and see all the problems. I was in automotive for over 16 years and every vehicle generally has its know couple problems but this is way beyond that. There hasn't been any accidents or injuries but real close to it.
Lincoln Ls 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-12
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-31
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Lincoln LS. The contact stated all four tires melted and rusted to the ground and the belly of the vehicle fell out. The contact also stated the vehicle was overheated. There were no warning lights. The contact put tape underneath the engine to keep it in place. The contact drove the vehicle to the local mechanic which diagnosed the failure with a tire stripped. The vehicle was towed to a junkyard. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000
Lincoln Ls 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-05
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-17
- VIN: 1LNHM87A12Y
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I have a 2002 lincoln LS v8 the passenger ball joint came loose and broke had it fixed driver side has now came loose and rattling
Lincoln Ls 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-16
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-07
- VIN: 1LNHM87A35Y
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The fuel tank needs replacement due to a crack in the fuel tank is causing fumes in the vehicle. Exactly like the recall of 2005 Lincoln LS, that the dealership cannot find because it is more than 15 years.
Lincoln Ls 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-29
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-29
- VIN: 1LNHM87A43Y
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Lincoln LS. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle was vibrating abnormally. The contact stated that the chrome wheels were leaking air which caused the tires to become flat. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact stated that the failure was like NHTSA campaign number: 03V136000 (Wheels). The failure mileage was 120,000.
Lincoln Ls 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-16
- Components: TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Lincoln LS. The contact stated that the advanced traction control warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed but was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that they were unable to provide any assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000. The vin was not available.
Lincoln Ls 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-21
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-29
- VIN: 1LNHM87A01Y
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 LINCOLN LS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL POPPING SOUND COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHCILE BEGAN TO SHAKE BACK AND FORTH VIOLENTLY WHICH CAUSED THE CONTACT TO PULL THE VEHICLE OVER TO SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED BACK TO HIS RESIDENCE. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WHO IS A CERTIFIED MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE WITH A FRACTURED BALL JOINT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 148,000.
Lincoln Ls 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-21
- Date Complaint: 2021-01-23
- VIN: 1LNHM87A22Y
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE LOWER BALL JOINTS HAVE FRACTURED, BEEN REPLACED AND HAVE FRACTURED AGAIN. THE STUD POST ITSELF CONTINUES TO FRACTURE ABOVE THE CONTROL ARM MOUNTING HOLE, DESPITE BOTH BALL JOINTS BEING REPLACED AND RETORQUED TO MANUFACTURER RECOMMENDED TIGHTNESS.
Lincoln Ls 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2020-06-18
- VIN: 1LNHM86S35Y
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 LINCOLN LS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A FUEL ODOR COMING FORM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,810.
Lincoln Ls 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-09
- Date Complaint: 2020-06-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1LNHM86S55Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 LINCOLN LS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 15-20 MPH, THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING OR IMPACT. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO NECK AND MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS PROVIDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A RELATIVES HOME. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE INSURANCE COMPANY TO NOTIFY THE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 130,000.
Lincoln Ls 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-06
- VIN: 1LNHM86S85Y
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: BALL JOINTS, OUTER TIE ROD ENDS AND STEERING SECTION GOES BAD, DOING A LOT OF POPPING AND CREAKING. *TR
Recalls Lincoln Ls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Lincoln Ls.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lincoln Ls 2005
- Report Received Date: 2005-03-18
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL TANK MAY HAVE A LOCALIZED THIN WALL SECTION IN THE LOWER HALF OF THE TANK. THE FUEL TANK MAY CRACK CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR A FUEL LEAK AND FUEL ODOR. THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" INDICATOR MAY ILLUMINATE.
- Consequence: A FUEL LEAK IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 4, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673, LINCOLN AT 1-800-521-4140.
- Model: Lincoln Ls 2003
- Report Received Date: 2003-04-07
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 17 INCH CHROME WHEELS, THE CHROME WHEELS WERE NOT HEAT-TREATED. THESE WHEELS MAY CRACK AT THE LUG-NUT HOLES, WHICH COULD RESULT IN THE LOSS OF THE LUG-NUT TORQUE.
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS, THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE NOISE AND/OR VIBRATION WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE COULD RESULT IN THE WHEEL SEPARATING FROM THE HUB, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WHEELS TO MAKE SURE THAT ALL THE WHEELS HAVE BEEN HEAT-TREATED. ANY WHEEL THAT HAS NOT BEEN HEAT-TREATED WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 14, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT LINCOLN AT 1-800-521-4140.
- Model: Lincoln Ls 2001
- Report Received Date: 2000-11-03
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS WERE NOT TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATIONS WHEN THEY WERE ATTACHED TO THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS.
- Consequence: IF THE BALL JOINT ATTACHING NUTS ARE NOT ADEQUATELY TIGHTENED, THEY CAN LOOSEN AND, ULTIMATELY, RESULT IN FRACTURE OF THE BALL JOINT STUD. IF THE BALL JOINT FRACTURES, CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE COULD BE AFFECTED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TORQUE ON THE TWO BALL JOINT ATTACHING NUTS. VEHICLES WITH LOOSE BALL JOINT ATTACHING NUTS WILL EITHER HAVE THE FASTENERS TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATION, OR IF NECESSARY, THE BALL JOINTS WILL BE REPLACED.
- Model: Lincoln Ls 2000
- Report Received Date: 2000-11-03
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS WERE NOT TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATIONS WHEN THEY WERE ATTACHED TO THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS.
- Consequence: IF THE BALL JOINT ATTACHING NUTS ARE NOT ADEQUATELY TIGHTENED, THEY CAN LOOSEN AND, ULTIMATELY, RESULT IN FRACTURE OF THE BALL JOINT STUD. IF THE BALL JOINT FRACTURES, CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE COULD BE AFFECTED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TORQUE ON THE TWO BALL JOINT ATTACHING NUTS. VEHICLES WITH LOOSE BALL JOINT ATTACHING NUTS WILL EITHER HAVE THE FASTENERS TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATION, OR IF NECESSARY, THE BALL JOINTS WILL BE REPLACED.
Latest negative Lincoln Ls car reviews
Latest positive Lincoln Ls car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2002
It's great to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your Lincoln LS! The 252 HP V8 sounds like it delivers some serious power, making passing other cars a breeze. It's a shame that the fuel economy isn't quite up to par, but it's good to hear that the transmission is smooth and the throttle input is responsive. The LSE trim sounds like a great choice, providing a firmer suspension without sacrificing ride comfort. While the trunk may be a bit shallow, it's good to know that the car still has plenty of luxury features. It's no surprise that the LS turns heads on the road, with its sleek and timeless design. Overall, it sounds like the Lincoln LS is a fantastic luxury car that delivers on all fronts!
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Vehicle year: 2004
The car is really solid and fun to drive. The V8 engine provides effortless power. I think Ford has done a great job with this car and they should definitely advertise it more. Although many of the car's features are available on other cars, my Lincoln demonstrates a special quality that justifies its premium price. My 'LS Ultimate' is very quiet on the road, yet you always feel secure and comfortable. The controls are convenient and easy to reach. The 'LS' is not a big car, yet it looks great and commands respect not seen in similarly priced automobiles. It has all the goodies that belong on a premium automobile.
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Vehicle year: 2005
Great job! The only downside is that the front seats are quite firm, which can make them a bit uncomfortable.
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Vehicle year: 2002
When it comes to collectability, the styling, quality, performance, and enjoyability of a vehicle are paramount. The Lincoln LS, which had a relatively short production life, is certainly stylish inside and out, and extremely reliable. Owning a car can be enjoyable due to its reliability alone, but one's appreciation for the LS is found in its sporty ride and excellent handling.
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Vehicle year: 2003
I think that it has more than enough power. I don't think that you should change anything about it. It is my favorite car that I own, and it was well worth the price.
Are you having problems with your Lincoln Ls?
Bryce Bode 2025-06-01
Vehicle year: 2004
I just bought a Lincoln LS and a Lincoln Towncar for $77,000. While the LS has a great ride and a good reliability record, it does have a few other issues. Unfortunately, it doesn't handle as well as my old LS or my old Toyota Avalon. As for my Towncar, it's even worse. It's too big and has already needed a new transmission after only 2000 miles. Maybe I should have gone with a Toyota instead.
Barrett Kling 2025-04-29
Vehicle year: 2005
The Lincoln car has not met my expectations in terms of quality and luxury. The batteries have needed replacing twice in less than 9 months, and unfortunately, Ford and the dealer have not provided adequate support. The car is assembled in Mexico, where Ford has had some quality control issues. While the interior finishings are not up to par for a luxury car, they are acceptable for a Ford branded car. The car's smooth ride is a positive aspect, thanks to its Jaguar suspension. However, the electrical systems, which are also from Jaguar, have been problematic and have caused battery issues.
Skylar Waelchi 2025-04-28
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased my 2005ls in 2006 with 20,000 miles on it. Now has 60,000. Nice body style but... Buyer beware! I have had a lot of trouble with this car and its in the shop again today. Always a problem with coils, the engine and other things. Reliability is very poor. I believe there should be recalls for these problems. Can any one help?
Jeramy D'Amore 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 2001
I can understand how reading some of the reviews might make you feel like you had it rough, but it turns out that your experience was actually quite average. You bought the car at 45000 miles and it currently has 72000 miles. During that time, you had to replace the rear valve cover gasket, two window motors, cruise control, steering wheel stereo controls, memory seat, sunroof, and AC. However, the good news is that all of these repairs were 100% covered by the aftermarket warranty. Although the service trips were not always successful on the first try, the bang for the buck on this car when buying used is still awesome. As an owner, you may soon realize that there are lots of problems, some small and some large, and lots of service trips that can waste a lot of time. What I find most unnerving about the poor reviews is that there seems to be little pattern in the problems. What could be next?
Dejuan Sawayn 2025-04-08
Vehicle year: 2005
I noticed that the front seat safety belts are fastened very close to the console, which makes them a bit difficult to use. Additionally, I have experienced some jerking from the transmission while changing gears, and despite informing the dealership twice, they were unable to find any issues during test drives. Lastly, I found it challenging to read the time and temperature display during the daytime. Overall, these are minor issues that I hope can be resolved soon.