When considering the Lincoln MKZ, be cautious about the 2013 model, which had serious engine problems and power steering failures. These issues often result in expensive repairs and safety risks.
The 2007 and 2008 models also had braking and airbag problems.
It’s important to know which years to avoid unexpected problems and ensure a smoother ownership experience.
Interested in finding out about other problematic years and what makes some models more reliable?
Key Takeaways
- Avoid the 2007 MKZ: This model has a lot of problems with the transmission, electrical system, and engine.
- Avoid the 2008 MKZ: This one has major issues with the brakes, rims wearing out, and airbags not working properly.
- Avoid the 2013 MKZ: This year often has problems with the power steering, brakes, and engine performance.
- Worst Reliability: The 2007, 2008, and 2013 models have serious reliability issues.
- High PainRank: The 2007 and 2008 models score high on the PainRank scale because of their many mechanical and safety problems.
Common MKZ Problems
When looking at a Lincoln MKZ, it’s good to know about some common problems that owners have reported. These include issues with the transmission, electrical system, and engine.
Transmission problems can show up as rough shifting or gears not engaging right, which can make driving difficult.
Electrical issues are also common, like troubles with the infotainment system and other electronic parts, leading to hassle and sometimes safety risks.
Engine problems, such as big oil leaks and cooling system failures, have also been noted and can be expensive to fix.
Knowing about these issues can help you decide if a Lincoln MKZ, especially an older model, is the right choice for you.
Recalled Takata Airbags
The recalled Takata airbags are a big safety issue. They affect over 34 million cars from 24 brands, including Lincoln. The problem is with the inflators, which can explode and send out sharp pieces when the airbag deploys. This has led to one of the biggest recalls ever in the car industry. Many Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models with these airbags have been called back for repairs. Ford is making a big effort to fix the problem and keep customers safe. If you have a Lincoln with a recalled Takata airbag, it’s very important to get it fixed right away to protect yourself and your passengers.
| Affected Brand | Safety Risk |
|---|---|
| Lincoln | Defective inflators |
| Ford | Shrapnel hazard |
| Mercury | Deployment risk |
| Various others | Severe injuries |
Additional Issues
Lincoln MKZ owners have reported several other problems, including issues with the automatic transmission and early wear on the dashboard.
Many drivers complain about rough shifting in the automatic transmission, which makes driving less smooth. The dashboard often shows signs of wear early, especially bubbling, and this is common in the 2007 models. Unfortunately, this isn’t usually covered by extended warranties.
Power steering fluid leaks are also a problem, often caused by poorly secured hoses. This issue is seen mostly in the 2007-2008 and 2010-2012 models.
Another common issue is the trunk lid not closing properly, requiring frequent adjustments. Additionally, the chrome on the wheels can peel off, affecting both the car’s reliability and its look. These problems make certain model years less attractive to buyers.
Owner Complaints
Many Lincoln MKZ owners have mentioned common engine problems and frequent electrical issues. These troubles often result in expensive repairs and ongoing frustration.
If you’re thinking about buying an MKZ from the affected years, it’s important to keep these complaints in mind.
Common Engine Issues
Many people who own the 2013 Lincoln MKZ with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine have had problems with how the engine runs. A common issue is the power steering assist not working, which makes the car harder to drive. These problems have made this model less reliable.
Some owners worry that these engine issues can make the car unsafe, so it’s important to fix them quickly. Also, if these engine problems keep happening, they can lead to expensive repairs and shorten the car’s life.
If you’re thinking about buying a 2013 Lincoln MKZ, be aware of these engine problems so you can make a smart choice.
Frequent Electrical Failures
In some model years of the Lincoln MKZ, frequent electrical problems have been a big issue. These problems affect things like the car’s infotainment system, power windows, door locks, and lights. Usually, these electrical issues are caused by bad wiring, failing parts, and faulty sensors. Owners often have to go back to the repair shop multiple times, which is both frustrating and inconvenient.
| Component | Problem | Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Doesn’t work right | Bad wiring |
| Power Windows | Works off and on | Failing parts |
| Door Locks | Won’t respond | Bad wiring |
| Lighting | Flickers or goes out | Faulty sensors |
| General Electrical | Keeps failing | Various reasons |
Knowing about these issues can help you decide if buying a Lincoln MKZ is the right choice for you.
MKZ Generations
When looking at the Lincoln MKZ, it’s important to know the differences between its two main versions to get a clear picture of their reliability and performance issues.
The 1st generation MKZ, which includes models from 2007 to 2012, has a poor reliability ranking, coming in 23rd out of 24. During this time, there were 152 complaints, mostly about brake problems, deteriorating rims, and faulty airbag modules.
On the other hand, the 2nd generation, covering models from 2013 to 2020, is more reliable, ranking 14th with a PainRank of 2.46. Although this newer generation still had some airbag and engine issues, its overall performance was better.
Knowing these differences is important if you’re thinking about buying a Lincoln MKZ.
First-Generation Issues
The first-generation Lincoln MKZ, especially models from 2007 to 2012, has some big problems you should know about if you’re thinking of buying one.
The most serious issues are with the brakes and airbags, which can make the car unsafe. Many owners have dealt with brakes wearing out too soon and rims that degrade, making the car less reliable. Airbag problems add to the safety worries, making these cars less attractive.
The 2007 and 2008 models are particularly known for having bad brakes and faulty airbag systems. With a PainRank of 11.2, these issues are a red flag, so you might want to think twice if you’re considering these years of the first-generation MKZ.
Second-Generation Issues
When checking out the second-generation MKZ, there are a few common problems you should know about. These include:
- issues with the airbag system
- engine performance troubles with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine
- power steering failures
Knowing about these problems can help you decide if buying or owning one of these cars is right for you.
Airbag System Faults
The second-generation Lincoln MKZ models, especially those from 2013 to 2015, are known for having troublesome airbag systems, which have raised major safety concerns among owners.
These cars have had several reported issues, particularly with their airbags, including:
- Not deploying during crashes: Airbags failing to work when they should.
- Warning lights: Airbag warning lights constantly appearing on the dashboard.
- Sensor issues: Faulty sensors causing system errors.
The 2013-2015 MKZ Hybrid has a PainRank of 4.63, showing that it has had quite a few reported problems, including with the airbag system.
It’s important to know about these issues when assessing how reliable and safe these cars are, especially if you’re thinking about buying a used second-generation MKZ.
Engine Performance Problems
Besides airbag issues, the second-generation Lincoln MKZs (2013-2020) also face significant engine performance problems, especially with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. Owners have reported frequent power steering assist faults, which affect engine performance and raise safety concerns.
The 2013 model year, in particular, has notable engine troubles that can make driving less reliable. These problems highlight the need for potential maintenance and a thorough check before buying. Given these issues, it’s wise to be cautious with these model years.
Checking the engine’s condition and any past repairs can help avoid future problems. Addressing all performance-related issues will improve safety and the car’s overall dependability.
Power Steering Failures
Power steering problems in the second-generation Lincoln MKZ (2013-2020) are a big deal for anyone thinking about buying one. Many owners have had trouble with the power steering system, making the car hard to steer and increasing the risk of accidents. These issues show that these models mightn’t be very reliable, so it’s important to be careful.
If you’re considering a second-generation MKZ, keep these points in mind:
- Reported Problems: A lot of owners have had power steering issues.
- Safety Risks: Difficulty steering can make driving dangerous.
- Reliability Concerns: Ongoing power steering problems suggest other reliability issues.
Knowing how common these power steering problems are can help you decide whether or not to buy a second-generation MKZ.
Worst Years to Avoid
When thinking about which Lincoln MKZ years to avoid, the 2007, 2008, and 2013 models are the ones to watch out for because they’ve a lot of reported problems.
The 2007 and 2008 models are especially bad due to issues with the braking system, faulty airbags, and other safety concerns. These early models also have problems with rims wearing out, making them less reliable.
The 2013 MKZ, which is part of the second generation, has its own problems, including issues with the airbags and power steering. Additionally, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine in the 2013 model is known for performance issues.
Best Years to Buy
The 2007, 2008, and 2013 Lincoln MKZ models have a lot of problems, but the 2011, 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2017 models are some of the best to buy. These years are known for being reliable, performing well, and having better features. Here’s what to know about them:
- Reliability: The 2011 and 2012 models have fewer issues, making them dependable.
- Performance: The 2014 and 2016 models come with better engines and smoother handling.
- Features: The 2016 model has updated technology and safety features for a more modern driving experience.
2007 MKZ Problems
The Lincoln MKZ has had several common problems over its production years that potential buyers should know about. These issues include transmission troubles, electrical system glitches, and engine problems.
Owners have also reported early brake wear, faulty electronic parts, and significant oil leaks. Additionally, there have been complaints about paint peeling and cooling system failures.
The first-generation MKZ, with an average reliability ranking of 23rd for Lincoln, had 152 complaints, pointing to quality concerns. Issues with steering gear and suspension have also been noted.
The second-generation MKZ ranks 14th in reliability, with a PainRank of 2.46, which means there are still some problems to think about before buying.
2008 MKZ Problems
When looking at an MKZ, you should know about major braking system problems, rims that wear out, and airbag issues in some model years.
These problems can hurt the car’s performance and safety.
Knowing about these issues can help you make a better choice when buying or keeping an MKZ.
Braking System Issues
The 2007 and 2008 Lincoln MKZ models have serious braking system problems, including parts wearing out too soon and faulty electronic modules, which can be dangerous. Owners have reported various issues that need your attention and possible repairs.
These braking system problems show how important it’s to address safety risks with the MKZ.
Consider these key points:
- Parts Wearing Out Too Soon: Brake parts are wearing out faster than they should, making the brakes less effective.
- Faulty Electronic Modules: Problems with the brake system’s electronic parts can cause unpredictable braking.
- Safety Risks: The combination of worn-out parts and faulty electronics greatly raises the chance of accidents.
Understanding these concerns is crucial for staying safe and keeping your car in good shape.
Degrading Rims Concerns
In the 2007 and 2008 Lincoln MKZ models, problems with the rims have become a big concern, affecting both how the car looks and how it drives. These issues are especially common in the 1st generation MKZ, where worn-out rims can create serious safety risks.
As the rims get worse, they can mess with how the tires perform, leading to potential dangers on the road. Beyond safety, there’s also the hassle of maintenance; damaged rims need immediate attention to stop them from getting worse. Ignoring this problem can lead to more damage, higher repair costs, and a less enjoyable driving experience.
Keeping the rims in good shape is crucial for the safety and longevity of your Lincoln MKZ.
Faulty Airbag Module
Some Lincoln MKZ owners, especially those with 2007 and 2008 models, have reported serious safety issues because of faulty airbag modules. These defective parts can cause the airbags to malfunction or not deploy in an accident. Lincoln has issued notices to help fix these problems, so it’s important to stay updated and act quickly.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Safety Risks: Faulty airbag modules mightn’t work in an accident.
- Service Bulletins: Lincoln has shared information on how to address these issues.
- Potential Malfunctions: Keep an eye out for any airbag system warnings in your car.
Fixing these issues quickly ensures everyone’s safety in your Lincoln MKZ.
2013 MKZ Problems
Lincoln MKZ owners often face three main problems: transmission issues, dashboard wear, and power steering fluid leaks.
Transmission problems, affecting models from 2007 to 2017, can cause rough or delayed shifts, making driving less smooth. Many owners, especially those with the 2007 model, report their dashboards bubbling prematurely.
Power steering fluid leaks are common in models from 2007-2008 and 2010-2012 due to poorly clamped hoses, which can make steering difficult and unsafe.
Fixing these problems is crucial for keeping your MKZ running well and safe to drive.
2009 MKZ Reliability
When looking at how reliable the Lincoln MKZ is, you’ll see that the engine performance can really differ depending on the model year.
There are common mechanical problems, like issues with the transmission shifting and leaks in the power steering fluid, which can make owning one more challenging.
While the newer models are more reliable, it’s important to know about these frequent issues.
Engine Performance Variability
Engine performance in the MKZ can be quite different depending on the year, which might raise concerns about reliability and lead to higher maintenance costs for some years. Certain model years have known issues that can affect the car’s overall reliability.
For example, some years might’ve problems with power steering or the fuel system, which can impact how the car drives.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when looking at MKZ engine performance:
- Problematic Years: Some years, like 2013 and 2014, are more likely to have engine problems.
- Reliability Concerns: Differences in engine performance can mean more maintenance and repair costs.
- Making Smart Choices: Knowing about these issues can help you avoid problems and make better buying decisions.
Common Mechanical Issues
Common mechanical issues with the MKZ often come from certain model years that have recurring problems, like braking system failures and faulty airbags. The 2007 and 2008 models are well-known for braking system issues, which can be quite dangerous.
The 2013 MKZ has problems with airbags and power steering assist, which can also make driving unsafe. The 2013 model also has issues with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, making it less reliable.
For a more dependable car, consider the 2011, 2012, 2014, 2016, or 2017 MKZ models.
2019 MKZ Reliability
The Lincoln MKZ has average reliability. It ranks 20th out of 31 luxury midsize sedans, with yearly repair costs around $831. This makes it a fairly dependable choice. However, it has a frequency score of 1.71, which is slightly worse than the industry average of 1.3, meaning you might face more problems compared to some other cars.
Newer models are more reliable, showing that Lincoln has fixed some past issues.
Here are the main points:
- Reliability Rank: 20th out of 31 midsize luxury sedans.
- Average Annual Repair Cost: Around $831.
- Frequency Score: 1.71, suggesting moderate issues.
While it’s not the most reliable car, it’s far from being the worst in its category.
Maintenance Recommendations
Taking good care of your Lincoln MKZ is key to keeping it running well and lasting longer. Sticking to the maintenance schedule from the manufacturer can help you avoid big repair costs.
Regularly checking for issues and fixing them early can save you a lot of money in the long run. It’s also important to check for any recalls and take care of them right away to keep your car safe and reliable.
Getting advice from a qualified mechanic or your dealership is a good idea to make sure you’re doing the right maintenance for your MKZ model year. This way, any special problems related to certain years are properly addressed.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Lincoln Navigator, Lincoln Mkx. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about getting a Lincoln MKZ, steer clear of the 2007, 2008, and 2013 models because they’ve a lot of reliability issues.
You might worry that newer ones have problems too, but the 2011, 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2017 versions are much better in terms of performance and safety.
Picking one of these years will give you a more dependable and enjoyable driving experience. Don’t forget that regular maintenance is key to keeping your car in good shape, so make sure to do routine checks.
