Lincoln Mkz problems
The Lincoln MKZ, is a four-door, five-passenger mid-size luxury sedan manufactured by Ford and marketed as the Zephyr (MY 2006) and as the MKZ (MY 2007–2020) by Ford's Lincoln brand across two generations in both gasoline and hybrid gas/electric models.
Both generations of the MKZ were manufactured at Ford's Hermosillo Stamping & Assembly plant in Mexico. Production ended in 2020 to make way for new Ford vehicles.
First generation (2006–2012)
The 2006 Lincoln Zephyr was initially unveiled in concept form at the 2004 New York International Auto Show, previewing a new entry-level luxury sedan. The front featured Lincoln's signature waterfall grille and jeweled quad projector beam headlights (HID headlights were available). Chrome trim extends along the Zephyr's beltline while the car's rear fascia features LED taillights and dual chrome exhaust tips. All Zephyrs featured low-profile tires on 17x7.5-inch wheels with painted aluminum versions standard and chrome versions optional.
Lincoln officially revived the Zephyr name in the fall of 2005; the vehicles were based on the CD3 platform, which was derived from the Mazda 6. Lincoln had previously used the Zephyr name in the late 1930s for the smaller Lincoln-Zephyr line of mid-size vehicles. The "Zephyr" name had also previously been used by Mercury during the late 1970s and early 1980s, for several vehicles built on the Fox Platform.
The Zephyr's sole powertrain was a 3.0 L DOHC Duratec V6 mated to an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission; identical to the V6 powertrain that was optional in the Fusion and Milan. The interior is largely unique to the Lincoln, along with different equipment packaging. The 2006 Zephyr started at a base MSRP of $28,995 USD, ranging up to $35,340 USD when fully optioned.
Though slightly smaller and front-wheel drive, the Zephyr was marketed as a replacement for Lincoln's previous entry level mid-size, the rear-wheel drive Lincoln LS. To facilitate a smooth transition, the Zephyr and LS were sold parallel to each other during the 2006 model year, the first model year of the Zephyr and the last for the LS. For 2007 the model was renamed MKZ, and took over the LS' market with sales beginning in September 2006. Lincoln's decision to resurrect the Zephyr name refers to the very early days of Lincoln before World War II. At that time, the only Lincoln manufactured was the Lincoln K-series which was a full-size sedan, and Lincoln, under the direction of Edsel Ford, Henry Ford's only son, hoped to introduce a smaller product to compete with the Packard One-Twenty, and the LaSalle, a smaller sibling offered at Cadillac dealerships.
The Zephyr featured a revised interior from the Fusion and Milan. The design featured shapes with real ebony or maple wood inserts (depending on desired trim) in metallic frames. These surfaces were contrasted with chrome-bezeled gauges, circular, chrome-finished vents and a metallic center stack where the radio and climate controls are housed. The Zephyr's steering wheel was leather-wrapped with real wood grips and satin-nickel audio, climate, and cruise control buttons. White LED backlighting was used for the Zephyr's controls and instrumentation. Leather seating surfaces were standard in all models.
Some of these standard features in the Zephyr included: cruise control, automatic headlights, fog lights, power door locks, "global" power windows (all windows can lower simultaneously at the push of a button), power adjustable and heated mirrors with puddle lamps, remote keyless entry, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel with redundant audio and climate controls, dual-zone automatic climate control, a universal garage door opener, 10-way power driver and front passenger seats, rear-seat reading lamps, and a six-speaker audio system with an AM/FM stereo radio and a six-disc, MP3-compatible CD changer. Optional in the Zephyr was a power moonroof, a DVD-based satellite navigation system, HID headlights, heated and cooled front seats, and an industry-first THX II-Certified audio system with a six-disc, MP3-compatible CD changer and ten speakers. Safety features included standard dual front-side airbags, front seat-deployed side airbags, and curtain airbags that extend from the front to rear seats.
Mechanically the Zephyr was closely related to the Fusion and Milan. As mentioned, all three cars were based on Ford's CD3 platform, which was in turn derived from the Mazda 6. Like these cars the Zephyr is natively front-wheel drive (FWD). The Zephyr uses a coil-over damper, short- and long-arm (SLA) front suspension with double-ball-joint control arms while the rear suspension is an independent multi-link design with lower control arms and a 17 mm (0.7 in) stabilizer bar. Spring rates, bushings, and dampers have been specially tuned for the Zephyr to provide excellent ride comfort without compromising handling. All Zephyrs feature standard four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with traction control. The sole engine offered in the Zephyr was an all-aluminum 3.0 L DOHC Duratec V6 producing 221 hp (165 kW) at 6250 rpm and 205 lb·ft (278 N·m) of torque at 4800 rpm. This engine was mated to an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission and had a final drive ratio of 3.46:1. This powertrain was identical to the V6 powertrain available in the Fusion and Milan from 2006 to 2009. With this powertrain the Zephyr could accelerate from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.5 seconds. The FWD Zephyr came with a 17.5 US gal (66 L; 15 imp gal) fuel tank and is rated to deliver 17 mpg‑US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg‑imp) in city driving and 26 mpg‑US (9.0 L/100 km; 31 mpg‑imp) on the highway based on the revised 2008 EPA fuel efficiency measurement standards.
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Lincoln Mkz model years
Common Lincoln Mkz problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Lincoln MKZ, common problems with this car include:
- Power Steering Fluid Leak: Another common problem is power steering fluid leaks from the pump, hose, or steering gear of the Lincoln MKZ. This issue can result in a loss of power steering assistance, making steering more difficult and potentially compromising vehicle control and safety.
- Trunk Lid Malfunction: Owners have complained about the trunk lid not functioning correctly in some Lincoln MKZ cars. This problem can be frustrating for users, affecting the convenience and usability of the vehicle, especially when accessing the trunk for storage or luggage.
These issues highlight some of the common complaints reported by Lincoln MKZ owners, impacting various aspects of the car's functionality and driving experience.
Is Lincoln MKZ a reliable car?
The Lincoln MKZ has an average reliability score of 3.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal because it frequently requires maintenance. Some common problems with the Lincoln MKZ include transmission shifting issues, premature dashboard wear, power steering fluid leaks, and brake failure.
Why did Lincoln stop making MKZ?
Lincoln ended North America production of its two sedans, the MKZ and Continental, in 2020 as it pivoted to selling higher-margin utilities. But not everyone in the luxury segment followed suit.
How many miles will a Lincoln MKZ last?
A standard Lincoln MKZ will last 180,000-200,000 miles if it's cared for by the owner. Thus, high mileage for the Lincoln MKZ is anything over 150,000 miles or more. Though the MKZ can perform well beyond this mileage market, you're much more likely to encounter expensive repairs here.
Are Lincoln MKZ expensive to repair?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Lincoln MKZ is $831, compared to an average of $739 for luxury midsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lincoln Mkz years
We have researched Lincoln problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lincoln Mkz cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lincoln Mkz model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lincoln Mkz model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lincoln Mkz years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lincoln Mkz car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lincoln Mkz , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lincoln Mkz vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Mkz model years
A total of 95 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 Mkz model years
There were a total of 9 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 Mkz model years
There were a total of 55 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 Mkz 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 1528 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lincoln Mkz . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lincoln Mkz vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lincoln Mkz 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 3LN6L2GKXDR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Car (93,000 miles) was operating fine, no check engine nor any other lights. I go into pharmacy come back out get in car to shift gears into drive and I notice the brake pedal sink to floor. As I am driving I notice that when braking it continues to take a longer distance to stop (brake light comes on). I recently had a spinal fusion so my safety and others was put into jeopardy. There was no waring of potential problems and I regularly have the car maintenance with no indication of needing any work done. I noticed all brake fluid was gone so I refilled hoping for the best but the fluid leaked out of the front passenger side brake line causing the fluid to be sprayed everywhere. Since, the problem happened so suddenly I checked for any brake problems concerning my vehicle type and I found that it has a recall for this problem. This has been an inconvenience due to being my only source of transportation, I need to get my meds, recovering from back surgery, now this!
Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 3LN6L5EC4HR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Coil head caked in oil causing misfire due to valve guideseals in left side cylinder head leaking see attached documentation
Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 3LN6L5EC4HR
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: Factory Rim cracked causing tire to not stay inflated
Lincoln Mkz 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 3LN6L2GK8ER
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated that while her husband was inspecting the vehicle, he was unable to remove the lug nuts. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a tire center, where they cut the lug nuts off. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was concerned that in the event of a blowout, the tire would not be able to be replaced. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Lincoln Mkz 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 3LN6L5E99JR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was a coolant intrusion into the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 46,000.
Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: 3LN6L5FC4HR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-03
- VIN: 3LN6L5E94HR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2017 Lincoln MKZ with 53k miles check engine light comes on and dealership diagnostic shows leaking coolant in cyl #2/needs motor. Car out of warranty so cost of repair is out of my pocket. Lincoln has known about this since 2016...they leased the car out in 2017 and then sold it to me in 2019 KNOWING there was a defective engine in the vehicle but didn't do or say anything about it...NEVER any recall. How is it that there are 100k 2021-2022 trucks and suv's being recalled due to engine issue that could "lead to catastrophic engine damage resulting in a loss of power". I could of suffered a loss of power as well with the defective engine that was in my car. How is this sudden recall on these trucks and suv's any more important or severe than all of the Ford/Lincoln vehicles that had engine issues? This could have been easily rectified early on seeing they knew about this issue from the beginning. I want my money back I paid to get my engine repaired.
Lincoln Mkz 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-03
- VIN: 3LN6L5D99JR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the engine light illuminated. While the vehicle was idling, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who referred the contact to the local dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was coolant intrusion into the engine and that the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 3LN6L5E92HR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment with excessive smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that coolant intrusion had damaged the engine, resulting in a misfire in cylinder #2, and the long block was cracked. The contact was informed the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 3LN6L5A90HR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle was started and there was an abnormal antifreeze odor coming from the exhaust pipe. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven back to the residence. The contact self-diagnosed the vehicle with a coolant leak into the cylinder. The contact had spoken to an independent mechanic, but the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact was informed that the head gasket on the cylinder or the engine might need to be replaced. The contact was occasionally adding coolant to the vehicle to drive the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.
Lincoln Mkz 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
- VIN: 3LN6L2G97FR
- Components: AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: In the middle of June 2024 (about [XXX]), my wife was driving her car, and pressed the horn button to warn a driver who had pulled out right in front of her. The horn failed to sound, and has not worked since then when pursuing the horn button. The horns themselves do sound when pressing the key fob to locate the car. Pressing the horn button has never worked since the time of this report, and several instances have occurred with other drivers needing to be forewarned of hazards. The problem has been verified by the husband, but not yet by the dealer, police or insurance representative. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- VIN: 3LN6L5F92HR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Coolant leak into the engine, causing white smoke, decreased coolant level and a rough start
Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-16
- VIN: 3LN6L5E94HR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I took my 2017 Lincoln MKZ vehicle into my local Lincoln dealership on the morning of 8/13 due to check engine light which came on the previous week. The results of the diagnostic test that was performed which showed P0303 coolant leaking in cylinder #2 needs motor per tsb 22-2229 at a cost $7103.60 plus tax. My 2017 MKZ with 53k miles needs a new motor…how is this??? This issue is a result of a “known” defect in the motors of certain Lincoln and Ford vehicles where coolant seeping into the engine. I call the Lincoln Care/Customer Relations Center department to advise of my situation and the representative I spoke took my information Vin #, address, phone number and said she would call me back once she has looked in what resources or programs available that could possibly assist me with this very expensive repair. She calls me back and advises that because my vehicle is out of the warranty period there is no assistance or resources available to assist me. Now, if my vehicle was still under warranty I would be covered and I wouldn’t need assistance because it would be a covered repair. So, if this is the Lincoln Care /Customer Relations Center that “supposedly” have resources to assist customers in situations such as this, who are you assisting??? not the customer under warranty because they don’t need the assistance and obviously not the customer (myself) that need the assistance but can't get any. I have a long history with this company and I have invested a lot of money with this company to be told there is no assistance for a “known” defect issue which has now become my issue. Unbelievable that you all are treating customers in this manner. I will never support this company ever again after being a repeat customer and getting treated this way. I can only hope all of the other vehicle owners with this “known” defect that are having to pay for the repair does the same. I want my money back that I now have to pay out to get my vehicle repaired.
Lincoln Mkz 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-16
- VIN: 3LNHL2JC0BR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: As I was traveling home from work, I noticed the car jerk slightly and immediately decelerate. The engine temperature gauge light came on the dash and the temperature gauge immediately moved to the “H” position on the dash. Due to the fact that I was in rush hour traffic on the highway, I was worried I wouldn’t have enough speed to get to the median. I turned on my hazards and coasted safely to the side of the road but was nearly ran over by other vehicles not realizing the issue I was having. I was unable to accelerate out of the way and at the mercy of other drivers being courteous and give me space to move. I turned the car off and looked under the hood locating the coolant reservoir. It appeared empty. I was able to get a ride to the nearest auto parts store and buy coolant. When I returned to my car, I emptied coolant into the reservoir and cranked the vehicle. Within a minute the gauge returned to normal temp and carefully got back in flow of traffic but stayed close to the emergency lane. Within a couple hundred yards of driving again, the lights and gauges indicated another overheating issue. At the next stop, I pulled into a gas station. And parked the car to have it towed. My mechanic informed me that the coolant was leaking from the coolant pump into my oil pan. Now the engine is flooded with a mixture of oil and coolant and I will need a new engine. He said this issue has been reported before but wasn’t sure what Ford/Lincoln may be doing about it. I’m lucky I didn’t have an engine fire or some sort of collision while driving along a highway during rush hour traffic.
Lincoln Mkz 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-15
- VIN: 3LN6L2J93DR
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Power steering fault, Hard to steering.
Latest 5 recalls Lincoln Mkz
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 89 recalls for different components of the Lincoln Mkz.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lincoln Mkz 2016
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-17
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 Fiesta, 2016 Fusion, and 2016 Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A component inside the door latches may break, which can make it difficult to latch or possibly allow the doors to open while driving.
- Consequence: Vehicle doors opening unexpectedly while driving can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the door latch date codes and if necessary, replace all four side door latches, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S15. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 20V-177.
- Model: Lincoln Mkz 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak will increase brake pedal travel and extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S12.
- Model: Lincoln Mkz 2017
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak will increase brake pedal travel and extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S12.
- Model: Lincoln Mkz 2015
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak will increase brake pedal travel and extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S12.
- Model: Lincoln Mkz 2013
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak will increase brake pedal travel and extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S12.
Latest negative Lincoln Mkz car reviews
Latest positive Lincoln Mkz car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2013
When reading reviews, it's important to ensure that the reviewer has actually driven the car and its competitors. In my case, I test drove several cars, including the Lexus ES 300h, Mercedes C class 300 4 matic, Mercedes E class 350, Audi a6, and the BMW 3 series, before concluding that the Lincoln MKZ (hybrid) was by far the best overall. I found it to be as comfortable as the Lexus ES350, with more tech features than any other car in its class or above it (which deserves a 5-star rating in that category). In comparison, the Merc C class looks and feels like a child's toy. Additionally, the Lincoln MKZ has the highest government safety rating and stops sooner than every car in its class, which is another reason why it deserves a 5-star rating. So, if you're looking for a car that's comfortable, tech-savvy, and safe, the Lincoln MKZ is definitely worth considering.
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Vehicle year: 2007
I really like the strong and smooth quiet ride! Have you seen the consumer reports evaluation of this vehicle? It's a best buy! And the best part is that it's not your grand dad's car.
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Vehicle year: 2014
I have owned a total of 9 luxury cars over the past 30 years, including 5 BMWs, 2 Benzes, 2 Jags, and an Audi. Unfortunately, all of them had issues with tires and ugly brake dust that would appear just a week after washing. Most of them required frequent visits to the service department, with BMW being the worst due to being over-technical. However, in 2007, I decided to try out the MKZ and was pleasantly surprised. Although it was cheaper than my previous cars and had fewer luxury perks, it made up for it in other ways. For example, it only required regular gas, didn't produce brake dust, and the tires lasted up to 46k miles instead of the usual 20k. Additionally, I received free oil changes and rotations, and the car has had no mechanical issues. I highly recommend this car and encourage you to speak to other owners and test drive it for yourself. Plus, it's made in the USA!
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Vehicle year: 2018
I leased the 2017 Lincoln MKZ hybrid Reserve 2 1/2 years ago and I have to say, I absolutely love it! In fact, I've decided to buy it. The dealer has been fantastic in addressing any minor issues I've had with the car, and I haven't experienced any major mechanical, electrical, or peripheral issues since I've had it. The exterior of the car is stunning, and I always receive compliments on the dramatic new grill. When my lease was up, I was considering buying a certified Lexus 300h, but the cost of the MKZ is lower, and I've grown so attached to this car since I've been driving it since it was new. The concierge service that comes with the car is a fantastic bonus, and I've never had to step foot in the dealer's service department! The only downside is that the back seat has limited head and leg room, so if you have a tall or big passenger, make sure they sit in the front. Overall, I think it's a fantastic car!
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Vehicle year: 2018
I just hit 1500 miles on my brand new leased 2017 Lincoln MKZ and I have to say, everything about this car is fantastic! Although my last 5 cars were all Lexus ES 350's, the dealer let me take a MKZ I liked for the 4th of July weekend and the day I returned it, I knew it had to be mine. The technology on this car is overwhelming, the comfort is exactly what I've always wanted in a car, and the looks are turning heads and getting compliments from everyone. I feel truly secure in this car from all perspectives. While my Lexuses were great cars, Lincoln really outdid themselves with the MKZ this time around. Best regards, Mr. Bill
Are you having problems with your Lincoln Mkz?
Lamont Torphy 2025-09-26
Vehicle year: 2010
I have a 2010 MKZ. The seat won’t stay in automatic adjustment. We Found that when the battery goes bad, the seat loses it’s setting. We have had 4 replacement batteries in 4 years. The drivers side seat broke once. The lumbar on the passenger is now broken. The passenger side fender is loose. It came loose from where it is attached. The rims carode and cause the tires to leak via the rim. Tail light recall, repaired by dealer. Rear breaks done at 71,051 miles. AC line leak at 71051 miles Replaced at 71617 miles. Replace inner driver side door handle. A wire on the rear defroster grid got broken, rubbed. Right chrome mirror cover fell off, I was charged for the replacement. The AC is now not working properly again. Are other MKZ’s as troubled as this one? [contact info removed]
Leopold Ziemann 2025-09-21
Vehicle year: 2007
Our 07 MKZ was purchased used in 08 with only 5,200 miles. Despite being parked for the winter, it currently has 20,200 miles on it. Unfortunately, we have experienced some issues with the air conditioning and transmission, resulting in multiple trips to the dealership for repairs. While we are currently driving a focus loaner, we are confident that the dealership will resolve the issues with our Lincoln. We understand that car troubles can be frustrating, but we remain optimistic about the future performance of our vehicle.
Rhett Breitenberg 2025-09-16
Vehicle year: 2012
I recently upgraded my car from a leased 2008 base model to a loaded 2012 model. Although I was hoping for a Hybrid, the cost was almost $100 more per month than a loaded regular gas engine. Unfortunately, FMC does not currently offer Hybrids. While the 2008 handled better than the 2012, the newer model boasts a quieter ride and much nicer interior. I would advise against paying extra for the THX sound system, as the base stereo in the 2008 model was in some ways better. In terms of mileage, I have been averaging around 22 mpg in mixed use and 24 mpg on the highway. The 2008 model had almost 50,000 trouble-free miles, and I expect the 2012 to be the same. If you're considering a loaded car, you can expect a discount of around $7000, but little or none on a Hybrid.
Kaleb McDermott 2025-08-21
Vehicle year: 2012
There's a lot to love about this car! The drive train is nearly flawless and does exactly what you want it to do. It accelerates smoothly, holds 80 if you set the speed control for that, and glides at any speed relatively quietly and very smoothly. While the Synch system may not be perfect, it was clearly designed by people who knew what they were doing. In every case, it defaults to the worst possible option, but with a little practice, you'll be able to navigate it with ease. Although some screens may seem user-hostile, with the Owner's Manual in front of you, you'll be able to set whatever you want to do in no time. There are a lot of buttons and screen prompts to push, but once you get the hang of it, it's a breeze. As for the phone button on the steering wheel, it may take some getting used to, but it's actually quite useful. The navigation system may not be perfect, but it's still a great feature to have. While I personally prefer to use a stick to the windshield GPS, the built-in navigation system is still impressive to every passenger. The real issue is the climate control system. It performed flawlessly all winter, but when summer arrived, I discovered that the vents are not adjustable enough for taller people. The vents are stopped at mid-level, and the right-left adjustment has very limited travel. However, the real amazement is that there is no way to throttle down airflow. Ford should have looked at any other car on the planet to learn how to make vents. This may sound insignificant, but on a really hot day, you'll be fighting with them non-stop to get air where you want it, and failing every time. Each of my Toyotas, Prius and Solara before that, had outstanding climate control. The car was comfortable in all weather conditions. That a Lincoln is so uncomfortable in hot weather is a true amazement. I would recommend test driving the car on a 95-degree day before you write out a check for one.
Dameon Cormier 2025-07-22
Vehicle year: 2012
Congratulations on passing 600 miles on your new Ultimate Pkg MKZ Hybrid! On short trips of about 2 miles, you are getting around 26 mpg. However, during your 22-mile commute to work, with 30% city driving and 70% highway driving, you are consistently getting an impressive 42 mpg. These results are even better than the expected 41 mpg for city driving. When you drive more efficiently, such as accelerating faster and braking later and harder, you can still achieve an average of 33 mpg, which is still quite good. It's great to hear that your car is teaching you how to drive more efficiently. Even when you go past 65 mph but stay under 75 on the highway, you are still getting 42 mpg. It sounds like your biggest challenge is hard acceleration and braking, but overall, you are doing a great job!