Lincoln Town car problems
The Lincoln Town Car is a model line of full-size luxury sedans that was marketed by the Lincoln division of the American automaker Ford Motor Company. Deriving its name from a limousine body style, Lincoln marketed the Town Car from 1981 to 2011, with the nameplate previously serving as the flagship trim of the Lincoln Continental. Produced across three generations for thirty model years, the Town Car was marketed directly against luxury sedans from Cadillac and Chrysler.
Marketed nearly exclusively as a four-door sedan (a two-door sedan was offered for 1981 only), many examples of the Town Car were used for fleet and livery (limousine) service. From 1983 to its 2011 discontinuation, the Town Car was the longest car produced by Ford worldwide, becoming the longest mass-production car sold in North America from 1997 to 2011. While not a direct successor of the Town Car, the Lincoln MKS would become the longest American sedan until 2016 (overtaken by the Cadillac CT6).
From 1980 until 2007, the Lincoln Town Car was assembled in Wixom, Michigan, (Wixom Assembly) alongside the Lincoln Continental, LS, and Mark VI, VII, and VIII. After Wixom's closure, Town Car production moved to Southwold, Ontario, (St. Thomas Assembly) alongside the similar Ford Crown Victoria and the Mercury Grand Marquis. The final Lincoln Town Car was produced on August 29, 2011.
Within the Lincoln model line, the Town Car was not directly replaced; the nameplate was used from 2012 to 2019 to denote livery/limousine/hearse variants of the Lincoln MKT. For 2017, the revived Continental replaced the MKS, closely matching the Town Car in wheelbase and width.
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Lincoln Town car model years
Common Lincoln Town car problems
The Lincoln Town Car is known for several common problems based on complaints from its owners.
One of the most dangerous issues is the vehicle control problems in the 2003 Lincoln Town Car. These problems may cause the car to unexpectedly jerk or accelerate, even when the driver steps on the brakes. In some cases, the brakes may fail to stop the car, leading to crashes and confirmed injuries. These issues usually occur around 54,400 miles, and if noticed, it is essential to consult a mechanic immediately to avoid accidents.
Another problem is the acceleration issues in the 1999 Lincoln Town Car. Some owners have reported that their cars wouldn't speed up no matter how much they step on the gas pedal. This issue may be linked to faulty components such as the fuel filter, throttle position sensor, or catalytic converter. However, other transmission, exhaust, and engine issues may also reduce the car's acceleration, making it more complicated to resolve.
The A/C (Air Conditioning) problems in the 1996 Lincoln Town Car can become very severe, leading to total component failure. Some owners have shared that their A/Cs suddenly broke down and stopped working without any warnings. Others have reported abnormal smells coming from their A/C before failure.
The Lincoln Town Car is also known for compressor failure due to air leaks from air suspension struts. This issue is one of the most common problems based on car owner complaints, and it can lead to significant repair costs.
Lastly, the 2003 Lincoln Town Car has the most overall complaints, with engine problems being the worst category. The most-reported problem is with the 1999 Lincoln Town Car for cracked intake manifold, with an average cost to fix of $900 and an average mileage of 120,000 mi.
In summary, the Lincoln Town Car has several common problems, including vehicle control issues, acceleration problems, A/C problems, compressor failure, and engine problems. These issues can lead to significant repair costs and should be addressed promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
What year to avoid Lincoln Town Car?
The 1993-2005 and 2007 Lincoln Town Car tends to develop coolant leaks because of intake manifold damage. Some owners have reported that coolant leaks usually start near the thermostat housing. These leaks may be accompanied by overheating, which may affect long-term engine health.
Is Lincoln Town Car a reliable vehicle?
Lincoln Town Car Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Lincoln Town Car Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 30 for luxury fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $635 which means it has average ownership costs.
What is the best year of the Lincoln Town Car?
Lincoln Town Cars built between 1990 -1997 were the best cars ever made as far as the above rating criteria are concerned. Even after 25+ years, the cars hold up very well mechanically, in appearance, and features. My favorite is the 1997 model as it is the most modern car of this range.
How many miles will a Lincoln Town Car last?
Very comfortable and reliable car
The 4.6 engine is bulletproof and will easily last for 250,000 to 400,000 miles with regular maintenance. Very quiet on the road and rides like a dream.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Lincoln Town car years
We have researched Lincoln problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Lincoln Town car cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Lincoln Town car model years:
- Lincoln Town car 1997
- Lincoln Town car 1992
- Lincoln Town car 1996
- Lincoln Town car 1991
- Lincoln Town car 1990
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Lincoln Town car model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Lincoln Town car years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Lincoln Town car car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Lincoln Town car , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lincoln Town car vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Town car model years
A total of 323 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 Town car model years
There were a total of 485 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 Town car model years
There were a total of 280 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 Town car model years
There were a total of 10 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 3720 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lincoln Town car . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Lincoln Town car vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Lincoln Town car 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 1LNHM82W5XY
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Lincoln Town car 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: 2LNBL8CV3AX
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Lincoln Town Car. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became difficult to control. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the driveshaft had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
Lincoln Town car 1984
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-13
- VIN: 1LNBP96FXEY
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 1984 Lincoln Town Car. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact was able to pull the vehicle to the side of the roadway. The contact stated that the vehicle was able to be restarted. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 152,000.
Lincoln Town car 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-23
- VIN: 1LNHM81W26Y
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Lincoln Town Car. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, he was unable to shift into the intended gear. The contact stated that the gear shifter had seized. The contact stated the steering shaft was maneuvered until the gear shifter unlocked. There was an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the local dealer was contacted; however, no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000.
Lincoln Town car 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-29
- VIN: 1LNHM83W83Y
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Lincoln Town car 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-16
- VIN: 1LNHM81W7YY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I've replaced brake wires on my 2000 Lincoln executive series 5-6 times out keeps burning out wire by brakes light switch. Tried relay kit brakes worked for one day but no brake lights again since I first bought this car I've in multiple occasions replaced this problem in the past 4-5 years no one seen to know what the main issue is
Lincoln Town car 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-04
- VIN: 1LNHM83W2YY
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Inner and outer tie rod ends, tie rod end adjusting sleeve, and sway bar link replaced after inner tie rod end pulled out of the adjusting sleeve that’s on the sway bar link there’s still constant pulling in the steering and is either to touchy when trying to correct vehicle back into lane or has to be turned excessively far before it even starts to correct then tries to jerk the vehicle really hard when the steering finally catches up with how far the steering wheel has been turned
Lincoln Town car 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-25
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-07
- VIN: 1LNHM81VX7Y
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Lincoln Town Car. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the steering shaft. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V704000 (Steering), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 136,000.
Lincoln Town car 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-20
- VIN: 1LNHM81W76Y
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Lincoln Town Car. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the engine made an abnormally loud sound. The contact stated upon shifting into drive(D), the vehicle accelerated unintendedly down the steep driveway. The contact continuously depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact then turned off the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring intermittently while driving. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Lincoln Town car 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-30
- VIN: 1LNFM82W5WY
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: all body frame has rust.
Lincoln Town car 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-21
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-22
- VIN: 1LNHM81V57Y
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: This safety issue was discovered yesterday. The passenger-side rear door will not unlock, either by manual attempt to raise the knob or by using the control buttons on the FOB nor at the driver's station. The window in that door also no longer responds to attempts to raise or lower it. Both my rear seat passengers had to enter using the driver's-side rear door. This creates a serious potential safety hazard by preventing rear-seat passengers exiting the vehicle near their closest door in an emergency. The car will be taken to a local dealership to resolve this safety and convenience issue upon my return from an extended trip. I had no warning of any impending component failure. That door lock and window worked well days ago.
Lincoln Town car 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-26
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-27
- VIN: 1LNHM81W2XY
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Front driver seatbelt does not lock. Unknown when or why this occurred. All other seatbelts in car still functioning. Not repaired yet. Would this be covered under any type of federal warranty?
Lincoln Town car 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-08
- VIN: 1LNHM81W25Y
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Unknown
Lincoln Town car 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-31
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2LNBL8CV5AX
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Electrical; fill gas tank. Minutes later gauge shows I'm empty. Continues to repeat over and over. Driver's seat; crackling sound "like metal broke" seat does not adjust correctly and can no longer move the seats tilt. Having me drive in an uncomfortable position. Wipers; rainy day both motors left and right smoke up and burn out at the same time. Can no longer drive vehicle when it rains. Can't see anything wipers motors fried. As if they were allergic to water.
Lincoln Town car 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-09
- VIN: 1LNHM81V86Y
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel Tank Strap broke leaving only 1 strap to hold fuel tank in place. Multiple complaints filed but no recall. What are you waiting for? Someone to die in a fire? This needs to be addressed with a nationwide recall.
Latest 5 recalls Lincoln Town car
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 125 recalls for different components of the Lincoln Town car.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Lincoln Town car 1997
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-06
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015. These aftermarket replacement steering shafts are sold for use in 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. These steering shafts may separate during operation if the integral fastener is loose or missing and if the interfacing vehicle shaft is compressed in length.
- Consequence: If the shafts separate during vehicle operation, a loss of steering control would result, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering shaft, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2015. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, option 5.
- Model: Lincoln Town car 1996
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-06
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015. These aftermarket replacement steering shafts are sold for use in 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. These steering shafts may separate during operation if the integral fastener is loose or missing and if the interfacing vehicle shaft is compressed in length.
- Consequence: If the shafts separate during vehicle operation, a loss of steering control would result, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering shaft, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2015. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, option 5.
- Model: Lincoln Town car 1998
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-06
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015. These aftermarket replacement steering shafts are sold for use in 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. These steering shafts may separate during operation if the integral fastener is loose or missing and if the interfacing vehicle shaft is compressed in length.
- Consequence: If the shafts separate during vehicle operation, a loss of steering control would result, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering shaft, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2015. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, option 5.
- Model: Lincoln Town car 1995
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-06
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015. These aftermarket replacement steering shafts are sold for use in 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. These steering shafts may separate during operation if the integral fastener is loose or missing and if the interfacing vehicle shaft is compressed in length.
- Consequence: If the shafts separate during vehicle operation, a loss of steering control would result, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering shaft, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2015. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, option 5.
- Model: Lincoln Town car 2000
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-06
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015. These aftermarket replacement steering shafts are sold for use in 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. These steering shafts may separate during operation if the integral fastener is loose or missing and if the interfacing vehicle shaft is compressed in length.
- Consequence: If the shafts separate during vehicle operation, a loss of steering control would result, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering shaft, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2015. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, option 5.
Latest negative Lincoln Town car car reviews
Latest positive Lincoln Town car car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2002
Congratulations on your promotion! It sounds like you made an excellent choice with the towncar. The ride is outstanding, the gas mileage is good, and the interior is both comfortable and stylish. It's great to hear that you haven't had any mechanical issues despite driving 3000 miles per month. Keep on smiling with every mile!
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Vehicle year: 1997
I purchased this car eight months ago for $2100 with 219,000 miles on it. Since then, I have driven it for 11,000 miles and it has been running smoothly without any issues. I love how spacious it is, as it comfortably accommodates my family of four and has a huge trunk. In fact, I have a funny picture of my 21-year-old sister and my two daughters sitting comfortably in the trunk while tailgating. The car handles phenomenally and drives smoothly, even better than some of the brand new vehicles I have owned in the past. I will be sad to part with it when the time comes.
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Vehicle year: 2004
This car is so comfortable, it feels like you're sitting in your own living room. It rides beautifully and I love that it's built to last well over 350,000 miles. Plus, the gas consumption is pretty good for an eight cylinder. If I had the money, I would definitely buy my in-laws a brand new one. I think they deserve something special in their later years.
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Vehicle year: 2008
You won't find a better car than the Lincoln Town Car. It's no surprise that the Town Car delivers both comfort and performance! Lincoln really hit the mark with this one. The Town Car is truly in a class of its own when it comes to excellence. There's nothing on the market that can compare to the quality and excellence of the Lincoln Town Car. It's a true classic!
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Vehicle year: 1997
Congratulations on your 'new to me' 97! I can tell you're a true car enthusiast, having owned nearly 40 cars in your life. I completely agree with you that the 91 to 97 Town Cars are legendary. They offer the perfect balance of ride, fuel mileage, comfort, dependability, and performance. The only downside is driving in snow due to the RWD, but with a little bit of caution, it's not a problem. With these cars, you can easily get 22-24 MPG and 250,000 miles. Trust me, once you drive one, you'll never want to drive anything else. If you're considering buying one, I highly recommend it!
Are you having problems with your Lincoln Town car?
Victor Klocko 2025-05-16
Vehicle year: 1998
This car currently has 223K on it. It's my father's car and used it work as a limo driver. Up until about 170K, the car was basically trouble free (one or two minor repairs.) The only real constant problem was a hole in the firewall that allowed rain water and snow to get into the passenger compartment.(The car now wreaks of dirty water). However over the past two years this car has been problematic. Heres a list of all the problems we've had: Two bad wiper motors. Two power driver power window motors. Sunroof stopped working. Intake manifold blew(factory defect). Gas mileage has decreased slowly(now 12-14 mpg). A/C compressor inoperative. A spark plug blew out of the engine.
Jettie Mante 2025-05-14
Vehicle year: 1998
I really enjoy this car. I have driven many types of vehicles all over the United States, and this is one of the nicest road cars out there. I only have one gripe about this wonderful car: once you have put a number of miles on any car or truck, you must be able to grease the front end, and unfortunately, on this Ford product, you can't. This can be dangerous if you travel a lot. The only other thing is that it doesn't have a power trunk like the Cadillacs, and it doesn't have the power of a Northstar motor, and there is a little road noise. But what a ride! The air ride system is fantastic, and it gets 30 miles per gallon on the freeway in a full-size American classic! You will not be disappointed.
Erick Hodkiewicz 2025-05-13
Vehicle year: 2004
Hello! I noticed that you have owned four Town Cars since 1985, that's impressive! I can tell that you really appreciate the older models and their easy driving/handling. It's great to hear that you have had such positive experiences with the reliability of these cars. I understand that the newer model has a different ride quality that you find rough and not to your liking. It's important to have a car that meets your needs and preferences. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this, and I hope you find a car that suits you better in the future!
Johathan Braun 2025-05-08
Vehicle year: 1994
I really love this car! It's actually my second towncar, and it's so much better than my old one. The performance and reliability are top-notch, and I absolutely adore the spacious trunk. I can fit my sound system, all my junk, and even three baskets of laundry in there! Can you name another car that can do that? Plus, if you're good at packing, you can fit up to 10 people inside! Even after 140,000 miles, the car is still holding up amazingly well and looks great. Everyone who sees it is impressed, and some people can't believe it's a 1994 model with that many miles. Just be careful with the air suspensions on Fords - make sure to turn them off before lifting the car, or you'll end up paying for a new one.
Enid Robel 2025-05-06
Vehicle year: 1999
I absolutely love the styling of the new generation (1998-2002) Lincoln Town Cars, especially the Signature Touring Edition which is harder to find. It has an increase in horsepower, dual exhausts, firmer suspension, chrome wheels, monochromatic exterior, and more. When I found one for $4,000, I just had to buy it! With gas prices coming down a bit, it gets respectable gas mileage for a large car. I'm sure this won't be my last Town Car either!