2012 Lincoln Mkz hybrid problems

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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.

2012 Lincoln Mkz hybrid

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Common 2012 Lincoln Mkz hybrid problems

The 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from car owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:

  • Power Steering Fluid Leak from Pump, Hose, or Steering Gear:
    Another common problem with the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a power steering fluid leak. The leak can come from the power steering pump, hose, or steering gear, making it difficult to steer the car and potentially leading to more severe issues if not addressed promptly.
  • Trunk Lid May Not Open or Close Properly:
    Some owners have reported issues with the trunk lid not opening or closing properly. This can be caused by various factors, including faulty sensors or mechanical issues with the trunk lid mechanism.
  • Engine Issues:
    Engine problems have been reported by several owners of the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. These issues include leaks, which can lead to more severe problems if not addressed promptly. Engine problems have been reported by 100% of the complaints made about the MKZ Hybrid, making it the most common issue with this vehicle.
  • Climate System:
    Some owners have reported issues with the climate system in the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. These issues can include leaks in the A/C condenser, radiator, or evaporator, which can lead to more severe problems if not addressed promptly.
  • Brakes:
    Brakes have been reported to be a problem for some owners of the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. These issues can include expensive brake rotors and pads, which can lead to more severe problems if not addressed promptly.
  • Electrical Accessories:
    Electrical accessories have been reported to be a problem for some owners of the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. These issues can include intermittent windshield wipers, which can be inconvenient and potentially lead to more severe problems if not addressed promptly.
  • Exhaust:
    Exhaust issues have been reported by some owners of the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. These issues can include leaks, which can lead to more severe problems if not addressed promptly.
  • Drive System:
    Drive system issues have been reported by some owners of the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. These issues can include problems with the transmission, which can lead to more severe problems if not addressed promptly.
  • Body Hardware:
    Body hardware issues have been reported by some owners of the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. These issues can include rattles, which can be inconvenient and potentially lead to more severe problems if not addressed promptly.

It is important to note that not all 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid owners have experienced these problems, and some have reported having a positive experience with the vehicle. However, these issues have been reported frequently enough to be considered common problems with the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

2012 Lincoln Mkz hybrid engine

How long do 2012 Lincoln MKZ hybrid batteries last?

Your 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid battery will generally last between 3 to 5 years, but that can vary greatly depending on battery size, weather conditions type of battery, and driving habits. Even still, just because your battery isn't totally dead, doesn't mean it's operating accurately.

How many miles can a 2012 Lincoln MKZ hybrid 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.

What is the most common problem with the Lincoln MKZ?

Lincoln MKZ Common Problems

  • Automatic Transmission Shifting Problems.
  • Premature Dashboard Wear.
  • Power Steering Fluid Leak.
  • Trunk Lid Not Latching Properly.
  • Chrome Peeling Off Wheels.
  • Unintended Acceleration.
  • Brake Failure.

What is the transmission problem on a 2012 Lincoln MKZ?

2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Transmission Problems

One of the most common signs is when your transmission shifts gears but the result of those shifts are delayed. Transmission fluid leaks are the most common and urgent sign you need a transmission fluid change or potentially even a complete flush service.

How long do 2012 Lincoln MKZ hybrid batteries last?

Your 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid battery will generally last between 3 to 5 years, but that can vary greatly depending on battery size, weather conditions type of battery, and driving habits. Even still, just because your battery isn't totally dead, doesn't mean it's operating accurately.

What is the power steering problem on a 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid?

The affected vehicles have electric power steering assist systems that may shut down as a result of a steering motor sensor fault. Consequence: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

How many miles can a 2012 Lincoln MKZ hybrid 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.

What is the most common problem with the Lincoln MKZ?

Lincoln MKZ Common Problems

  • Automatic Transmission Shifting Problems.
  • Premature Dashboard Wear.
  • Power Steering Fluid Leak.
  • Trunk Lid Not Latching Properly.
  • Chrome Peeling Off Wheels.
  • Unintended Acceleration.
  • Brake Failure.

2012 Lincoln Mkz hybrid complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Lincoln Mkz hybrid.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2012 Lincoln Mkz hybrid problems:

5 Reasons Why NOT to Buy a Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - YouTube
5 Reasons Why NOT to Buy a Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG-_a3IEF-M

Mar 21, 2022 ... ... •135K views · 5:02. Go to channel · Common Problems with A Lincoln MKZ Part 2 | 2013 - 2020. 321verykind AUTOS•8.7K views · 11:03. Go to channel ...

2012 Lincoln MKZ Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
2012 Lincoln MKZ Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2012-lincoln-mkz/problems

Top 2012 Lincoln MKZ Problems · Harsh or Delayed Shifting of Automatic Transmission. 243 people have reported this. 88 · Power Steering Fluid Leak From Pump, Hose ...

Common Problems with a Lincoln MKZ | 2013-2020 - YouTube
Common Problems with a Lincoln MKZ | 2013-2020 - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmD1Vf0ecXM

Nov 28, 2021 ... Link to AUXITO: https://auxito.com/RV4xvR8H Promo code: gmclincoln Common Problems With a Lincoln MKZ Part 2: https://youtu.be/enV310cbTRI ...

Common Problems with 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - Q&A
Common Problems with 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/ford-lincoln/gi8o7-hybrid-mode-2011-lincoln-mkz-does-not-work.html

Apr 6, 2021 ... The hybrid mode in my 2011 Lincoln MKZ does not work anymore. The vehicle hesitates upon acceleration. It will only - Answered by a verified ...

Common Problems with a 2017-2020 Lincoln MKZ - YouTube
Common Problems with a 2017-2020 Lincoln MKZ - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uA7UFhGqgo

Oct 19, 2022 ... Hello. Today I talk about common problems on a 2017-2020 Lincoln MKZ. Make sure to check out my other 2 videos I've made regarding ...

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