2011 Lincoln Town car problems

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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.

2011 Lincoln Town car

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Common 2011 Lincoln Town car problems

The Lincoln Town Car, a luxury sedan produced by Ford Motor Company, has been known for its reliability and high aesthetic value.

  • Air Leaks: One of the most common problems with the Lincoln Town Car is air leaks from the air suspension struts and drier.
  • Intake Manifold Cracks: The intake manifold may crack near the thermostat, which can result in coolant leaks and engine problems.
  • Vehicle Control Issues: Some owners of the 2003 Lincoln Town Car have reported vehicle control issues, which can cause the car to unexpectedly jerk or accelerate.
  • Steering Issues: The 2011 Lincoln Town Car has been subject to a recall due to severe corrosion that can seize the lower intermediate shaft, causing the upper intermediate shaft to collapse and the steering column lower bearing to separate. This issue can result in reduced steering control and increase the risk of a crash.
  • Recall on Lower Control Arm Ball Joints: In 1998, a recall was issued for certain police, fleet, natural gas, and limousine vehicles due to the one-piece bearing within the lower control arm ball joint weakening and eventually cracking. This issue could result in separation of the ball and cap of the joint, allowing the control arm to drop to the ground and reducing steering control.
  • Recall on Driver Air Bag Bolts: In 1998, a recall was issued for certain vehicles due to two bolts that attach the driver air bag to the steering wheel not being installed during vehicle assembly. This issue could increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

In conclusion, while the Lincoln Town Car is generally a reliable vehicle, it is not immune to common problems. Owners of the 2011 model year have reported issues such as air leaks, intake manifold cracks, vehicle control problems, and steering issues. Additionally, recalls have been issued for certain model years due to steering and lower control arm ball joint issues. It is essential to address these problems promptly to ensure the safety and longevity of the vehicle.

2011 Lincoln Town car engine

Is the 2011 Lincoln Town Car a good car?

A traditional rear-wheel-drive, V-8–powered, six-passenger, full-size sedan, the Town Car is a favorite of livery drivers and retirees because of its space and creamy ride. Although this Lincoln is obsolete by today's luxury car standards, it remains a good value for the undiscerning.

How many miles can a 2011 Lincoln Town Car last?

The Lincoln Town Car is an extremely reliable vehicle, ranking 2nd out of 30 cars in its class, according to RepairPal. With proper maintenance, it can last over 250,000 miles with little to no problems.

How reliable are Lincoln Town cars?

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 year is the best 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.

Is the 2011 Lincoln Town Car a good car?

A traditional rear-wheel-drive, V-8–powered, six-passenger, full-size sedan, the Town Car is a favorite of livery drivers and retirees because of its space and creamy ride. Although this Lincoln is obsolete by today's luxury car standards, it remains a good value for the undiscerning.

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.

How many miles can a 2011 Lincoln Town Car last?

The Lincoln Town Car is an extremely reliable vehicle, ranking 2nd out of 30 cars in its class, according to RepairPal. With proper maintenance, it can last over 250,000 miles with little to no problems.

What year is the best 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.

2011 Lincoln Town car car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lincoln Town car problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Steering problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Lincoln Town car vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2011 Lincoln Town car complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Lincoln Town car.

2022-10-03

STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-10-02
  • VIN: 2LNBL8EV7BX
  • Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I believe I have problem with the ,safety recall ,the vehicle experience a loss of steering, and I was almost crash my vehicle on the highway ,and also believe car was recalled but not fixed .
2022-05-22

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-05-21
  • VIN: 2LNBL8EV7BX
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING GOING OVER 50 PER MILE ON HWY , WHEN I TRY TO TAKE THE EXIT MY VEHICLE KEEP GOING STRAIGHT I CAN'T MOVE THE STEERING WHEEL , I WAS ALMOST GOING TO THE TREES THAN I STOP . AND I THINK THIS PART OF RECALL PLEASE CONTACT ME AT [XXX] THANK YOU . INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2019-07-02

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-06-07
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 2LNBL8CVXBX
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE CAR ACCELERATED WHILE GOING UP A RAMP THAT WENT TO AN AXIS ROAD TO THE INTERSTATE. WE HIT A RETAINING WALL HEAD ON, SPUN AROUND AND THEN THE BACK OF THE CAR ALSO HIT THE WALL. MY SEAT BELT DID NOT HOLD ME BACK. I ENDED WEDGED BETWEEN THE CONSOLE AND DASHBOARD. I HAVE A BROKEN RIB AND CHIPPED TOOTH AND BUMPS AND BRUISES. MY WIFE WAS A PASSENGER AND HER SEAT BELT HELD HER. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. OUR CAR WAS TOTALED
2018-03-09

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
  • VIN: 2LNBL8EV6BX
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: STEERING BINDS DURING RIGHT AND LEFT TURNS. I HAVE TO MANUALLY RETURN THE WHEEL TO CENTER AFTER A TURN.
2014-01-09

STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-11-07
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 2LNBL8CV7BX
  • Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING, MY 2011 LINCOLN, CONTINENTAL WHICH WAS IS SHOWROOM CONDITION, AT APPROXIMATELY 30-35 MPH, ON WET PAVEMENT (NOT SATURATED) NEGOTIATING SLIGHT CURVE,WHILE WEARING A SEATBELT, VEHICLE VEERED LEFT MORE THAN A LEFT FRONT FLAT TIRE WOULD CAUSE. STEERING DID NOT RESPOND. VEHICLE CROSSED YELLOW DOUBLE SOLID LINE STRIKING GUIDE RAIL HEAD ON. NO INTERIOR SAFETY EQUIPMENT WORKED FOR PASSENGER. SEATBELT REMAINED IN LATCHED POSITION BUT DID NOT TIGHTEN. STANDING ON BRAKE VEHICLE DID NOT APPEAR TO SLOW. ... 10-12 SECONDS LATER MY VEHICLE WAS STRUCK AT THE DRIVER'S FRONT WHEEL AND FENDER BY A TRUCK TRAVELING APPROX. 50 MPH. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. INJURIES TO PASSENGER. VEHICLE TOTALED. NOTE:LINCOLN CONTINENTAL DRIVER IS A PROFESSIONAL DRIVER WITH NO ACCIDENTS IN 34 YEARS. 1. STEERING DID NOT WORK, LEFT OR RIGHT. 2. ABS DID NOT ACTIVATE. 3. AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY IN FIRST OR SECOND COLLISION. NO FRONT AIRBAG NO SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. *TR
2013-01-14

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-12-17
  • VIN: 2LNBL8FV0BX
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN TOWN CAR EQUIPPED WITH MICHELIN RADIAL XSE TIRES, SIZE P225/60/R17. THE CONTACT NOTICED THE TIRE WAS COMPLETELY FLAT WITH A 3 INCH GASH ON IT. THE CONTACT TOOK THE TIRE TO A DEALER WHO STATED THAT HE MUST HAVE HIT A POT HOLE IN ORDER FOR THE TIRE TO SUCH EXTENSIVE DAMAGE. THE TIRE WAS REPLACED BUT ANOTHER FAILURE RECURRED ON THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE TIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS ALSO A BLISTER ON THE TIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE OF THE TIRE AND VEHICLE WAS 6,000. THE DOT NUMBER WAS UNAVAILABLE.

2011 Lincoln Town car recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2011 Lincoln Town car.

2014-11-05
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION:PINION SHAFT
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 Ford Crown Victoria, 2005-2011 Mercury Grand Marquis vehicles manufactured March 23, 2004, to August 30, 2011, and 2005-2011 Lincoln Town Car vehicles manufactured March 8, 2004, to August 30, 2011, and on which the upper intermediate shaft was serviced during the course of safety recall 13V-385. The prior repairs may not have been correctly performed.
  • Consequence: Improper servicing of the upper intermediate shaft could cause the shaft to separate, which can then result in a loss of steering control, and increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify the owners of vehicles whose repair records reflect that the upper intermediate steering shaft was repaired during the course of the prior recall 13V-385. Dealers will inspect and replace the upper immediate shaft if necessary free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S25.
2013-08-29
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: Ford is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 Ford Crown Victoria (including Crown Victoria Police Interceptors), Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. The affected vehicles are currently registered or were originally sold in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Severe corrosion can seize the lower intermediate shaft which may cause the upper intermediate shaft to collapse and the steering column lower bearing to separate.
  • Consequence: If the lower bearing separates, the vehicle may experience a loss of steering, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners and dealers will replace the lower intermediate shaft, free of charge. The upper intermediate shaft and steering column lower bearing will be inspected to identify any damage that may have occurred as a result of lower intermediate shaft corrosion, and repaired or replaced as necessary. If the steering column lower bearing has separated, a retainer clip will be installed. The recall began on October 23, 2013. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13S08.
2010-12-09
  • Manufacturer: EXECUTIVE COACH BUILDERS
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
  • Summary: EXECUTIVE COACH IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 LINCOLN TOWN CAR LIMOUSINES. THE FUEL RAIL SHIELD WAS LEFT OFF DURING MANUFACTURING. IN A FRONTAL IMPACT THE ENGINE COULD POTENTIALLY BEND OR RUPTURE FUEL LINES IF THE REPLACEMENT SHIELD IS NOT IN PLACE, CAUSING THOSE LINES TO LEAK FUEL.
  • Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: EXECUTIVE COACH WILL SUPPLY KITS AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS TO HAVE VEHICLES REPAIRED AT A FACILITY OF THE OWNER'S CHOICE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 1, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT EXECUTIVE COACH AT 888-322-9272.

Negative 2011 Lincoln Town car car reviews

  1. Toy Marquardt 2024-10-03

    For our vacation, we rented a Signature Limited Town Car from Hertz. Although I had rented Town Cars in the 90s, I was excited to try out a new one. The car we rented was just built in June of 2009 and had only 6000 miles on it. While the engine had power, it didn't quite have the same thrust as a Cadillac. Additionally, the air conditioning didn't seem to be as cold as a Cadillac's. The stereo had Sirius satellite reception, but the sound quality was just adequate. The seat had lumbar support, which was a great improvement from previous versions, but the seat cushion on the bottom was a bit flat and could have used more cushioning. The ride was a little harsh on bumps, which I think may be due to the air suspension in the rear. Overall, it was a decent rental experience with some minor drawbacks.

  2. Andres McLaughlin 2024-07-02

    You owned a 1998 t.c. Cartier, which was twice the car. Don't worry, we all make mistakes, even with Fords.

  3. Philip Stoltenberg 2024-04-06

    Last year, my wife and I purchased a vehicle that we thought was decent. However, after shopping around, I realized that my decision may have been ill-advised. Recently, I came across the Acura RL and was impressed by its features, including over 300 hp from a V6 with all-wheel drive, superior interior quality, 10 airbags, independent suspension, and Honda reliability of over 200k miles. In comparison, my Towncar uses a body-on-frame design and a live axle, which makes for handling that is not as agile as the Acura. Although my wife may not agree, I believe that with GM likely going under, the Towncar's time has come and gone.

Positive 2011 Lincoln Town car car reviews

  1. Ryleigh Hessel 2024-11-02

    I've been driving T/C's since the 80's during my limo days in NYC. The Town Car is a comfortable, spacious car with a 2 or 3 body trunk, and it's the most reliable car ever built by any American car company. I'm currently driving an '05 model, which is smooth, roomy, and a pleasure to drive. Its low cost of ownership is second to none.

  2. Rupert Dooley 2024-10-28

    Based on my dash mileage computer, I'm getting an average of 26mpg on the highway (@70-75mph). That's even better than the turbocharged V6 in the MKZ, which is pretty impressive considering the town car is longer, wider, and heavier. The 0-60 time is around 8 seconds, which is not bad for a non-sportscar. Surprisingly, the car feels quite nimble and light on its feet despite its size. It's effortless to cruise at 80mph and passing at 95mph is a breeze. The suspension is designed to absorb flaws in the road, but it's also adequate for swerving around obstacles like a cinderblock on the freeway.

  3. Charles Sporer 2024-10-02

    I completely understand that professional reviews may not always align with personal experiences. It's great to hear that you found a 2011 TC in excellent shape with plenty of power and a comfortable ride. It's always a good feeling to find a car that you enjoy driving more than your primary car. The TC truly is a classic American car and I appreciate your recommendation to check out Auto Europa and Doug DeMuro's reviews. I hope you continue to enjoy your TC for many years to come!

  4. Payton Ferry 2024-09-28

    This car is built to last longer than any other car on the road. It gets an impressive 26 mpg on the highway for a V8. It's also designed with safety and comfort in mind, making for a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.

  5. Darion Cummerata 2024-09-19

    Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my TC. I bought my first one because it was affordable and had great reviews. It was an 03 and I absolutely loved the spaciousness, smooth ride, and reliability. Whenever something needed fixing, it was always affordable. After driving it for 2 years and 30k miles, I gave it to my in-laws and recently purchased an 06 with only 39k miles. I may have paid a bit too much, but it was definitely worth it. I'm only 51, but I can confidently say that I will never drive anything else again. Living in upstate NY, I put a set of studded snows on it and I never even wish for 4wd! This car is truly bulletproof and unstoppable! Kudos to Ford!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2011 Lincoln Town car problems:

Lincoln Town Car Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
Lincoln Town Car Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/lincoln/town-car

Top Lincoln Town Car Problems · Compressor Failure Due to Air Leaks From Air Suspension Struts and Drier · Intake Manifold May Crack Near Thermostat Resulting in ...

Buy 2003 town car with axle problem?? - Lincolns OnLine Message ...
Buy 2003 town car with axle problem?? - Lincolns OnLine Message ...
https://www.lincolnsonline.com/forum/showthread.php?t=82010

May 17, 2014 ... Buy 2003 town car with axle problem?? 1998 - 2011 Town Car. ... common problem on this year of Town Car. I ... 1986 Lincoln Town Car 1991 Mark VII ...

2004 Lincoln Town Car Ultimate With Only 35k miles. Should I grab ...
2004 Lincoln Town Car Ultimate With Only 35k miles. Should I grab ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/168uihh/2004_lincoln_town_car_ultimate_with_only_35k/

Sep 3, 2023 ... Typical low-mileage old car problems: rotted gaskets and seals, clogged catalytic converter, transmission destroyed due to no fluid changes. The ...

Most common problems - Lincolns OnLine Message Forum
Most common problems - Lincolns OnLine Message Forum
https://www.lincolnsonline.com/forum/showthread.php?t=77537

Aug 21, 2012 ... Good luck. 1996 Lincoln Town Car Cartier - 328K miles 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV - 38K miles. Last edited by AZDude; August ...

Lincoln Town Car Reliability and Common Problems - In The ...
Lincoln Town Car Reliability and Common Problems - In The ...
https://www.carparts.com/blog/lincoln-town-car-reliability-and-common-problems/

Aug 13, 2023 ... One of the most troublesome 2004 Lincoln Town Car problems is its engine that frequently blows out spark plugs. Some owners have shared that ...

Other years of Lincoln Town car

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Town car 1977
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2011 Lincoln Town car photo