WORST Lincoln Mkx Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

If you’re looking to buy a Lincoln MKX, it’s important to know the years to avoid that are known for serious issues.

The 2016, 2011, 2007, 2008, and 2013 models have had problems like throttle body malfunctions and transmission failures. These issues can not only be expensive to fix but can also affect your safety and driving experience.

So, which years are better options, and why are they more reliable? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the good years stand out.

Key Takeaways

• Steer clear of the 2016 Lincoln MKX because it has major throttle body problems and the engine can stall.
• The 2011 MKX often has big electrical issues and wiring problems.
• Models from 2007 and 2008 frequently have transmission troubles and mechanical failures.
• The 2013 MKX has a lot of complaints about the engine shutting down and expensive repairs.
• Both the 2011 and 2016 models have persistent door ajar warnings that can drain the battery and cause interior light problems.

Common MKX Problems

When looking at the Lincoln MKX, you’ll find that the 2016 model has a lot of serious problems, especially with the engine shutting down while driving. Owners say the engine often stalls without warning, making driving dangerous. This not only affects safety but also leads to expensive repairs. This problem usually shows up at lower mileage, making the vehicle less reliable.

Other years like 2011, 2008, and 2007 also have similar complaints, but not as bad. On the other hand, the 2018, 2017, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2010, and 2009 models have fewer complaints about engine shutdowns.

When you’re checking out used MKXs, it’s important to know about these issues and avoid the 2016 model if possible.

Door Ajar Warning Issues

Owners of the 2011-2013 Lincoln MKX and 2013 MKT models often report issues with the door ajar warning lights staying on. This problem messes with the door sensors and can really mess up your driving experience.

Here’s what can go wrong:

• Battery Drain: The warning lights staying on can wear out your battery.
• Interior Lights: The inside lights mightn’t turn off, which can be annoying and distracting at night.
• Security Risks: The car might incorrectly warn that a door is open, which isn’t safe.
• Sensor Problems: The issue can get worse over time and might cost a lot to fix.
• Annoying Alerts: The constant alarms can get on your nerves.

A lot of people have complained about this on CarComplaints.com, showing just how big of a problem it’s for these models.

Takata Airbag Recall

The Lincoln MKX is one of the many vehicles affected by the big Takata airbag recall, which covers over 34 million units.

Ford recalled more than 816,000 vehicles due to issues with the passenger-side front Takata airbag inflators, which mightn’t be stable.

This recall also includes models like the MKX, MKZ, and Zephyr.

Recall Scope Expansion

The recall for the Lincoln MKX grew a lot bigger because of the huge Takata airbag recall, which affected over 34 million cars. The Lincoln MKX is one of the models hit by this recall. Ford acted quickly to keep people safe by recalling 816,000 cars, including the MKX, for passenger-side frontal Takata airbag inflators.

Here are the main issues they dealt with:

• 87 vehicles, including the MKX and MKT, had power supply cables that weren’t properly secured.
• The 2nd generation MKX and 10th generation Continental had defective Takata airbags.
• The recall was expanded due to problems with passenger-side inflators.
• There was a request to delay the recall over concerns about the stability of the airbag inflators.
• This recall is part of a larger one affecting millions of cars.

These steps show how serious the recall is.

Airbag Inflator Stability

After a big recall, Ford asked to delay the Takata airbag recall because they were worried about the stability of the airbag inflators, especially in Lincoln MKX vehicles. The 2nd generation MKX was part of a recall that included over 816,000 vehicles with faulty Takata airbag inflators.

These inflators were a serious safety risk, particularly due to their instability. Other models like the MKZ and Zephyr were also affected. Ford was mainly concerned with the passenger-side front airbag inflators.

This issue highlights how important it’s to address airbag inflator stability to keep people safe. Owners of these cars should pay attention to recall notices and follow the instructions to reduce risks.

Electronic Throttle Body Problems

Problems with the electronic throttle body in the Lincoln MKX can cause sudden surges and dangerous stalls, putting the car into limp home mode. These issues are especially common in the 2016 model. Here are some symptoms to watch for:

• Low idle RPM
• Erratic throttle response
• Wrench light coming on
• Engine shutting down
• Throttle body failing before 10,000 miles

These problems led to a recall, requiring the replacement of the faulty part.

Fixing the electronic throttle body can be expensive and is a serious safety concern. If you own or are thinking about getting a 2016 Lincoln MKX, be aware of these issues and address them quickly to keep your car safe and reliable.

First-Generation MKX Issues

If you’re thinking about getting a first-generation Lincoln MKX, you should know that the 2007, 2008, 2011, and 2013 models have a lot of problems. These include engine shutdowns, airbag issues, and electrical system failures.

There have been 156 complaints from owners about these issues, which shows they’ve serious reliability problems. The engine shutdowns are usually due to throttle body failures, which can cause the car to stall unexpectedly, making it unsafe.

On top of that, the airbags mightn’t work correctly, and there are ongoing electrical problems. The first-gen MKX doesn’t score well in reliability, ranking 21st out of 24 for the 2007-2015 models.

To avoid expensive repairs and safety risks, make sure you inspect the car thoroughly and do your research before buying a first-generation MKX.

Second-Generation MKX Reliability

The second-generation Lincoln MKX, especially the 2016 model, has had a lot of reliability problems, so it’s a year to avoid. Many owners have reported that the engine can shut down while driving, which is a big safety concern. If you’re thinking about getting a second-generation MKX, keep these issues in mind:

• Engine shutdowns: They happen often and without warning, which is very dangerous.
• High repair costs: Fixing the 2016 model can be very expensive.
• Mileage issues: Problems often show up even when the car hasn’t been driven much.
• Electrical issues: Many owners have had ongoing problems with the electrical system.
• Transmission problems: These can cause rough shifting and make the car hard to drive.

In comparison, the 2018, 2017, 2015, 2014, and 2013 models are more reliable and have fewer complaints.

MKX Complaint Statistics

To understand which years of the Lincoln MKX have the most problems, it’s useful to look at the complaint statistics. The 2016 Lincoln MKX has the highest number of complaints, mainly because of engine shutdowns while driving. This makes it the worst year in terms of repair costs and average mileage. Other years with a lot of complaints include 2011, 2008, and 2007.

For 2011, the main issues are electrical problems. The 2008 model often has transmission failures, and the 2007 model has brake issues. On the other hand, the years 2018, 2017, and 2015 have fewer reported problems.

Here’s a quick look at the complaint statistics:

Looking at these stats can help you decide which model year might be the best or worst to buy.

MKX Recall Campaigns

Given the serious safety concerns, the Lincoln MKX has been part of 17 recall campaigns to fix various issues and ensure your vehicle is safe.

Some of the main problems addressed include:

• Power supply cables: Cables that weren’t secured properly could cause fires.
• Takata airbags: Faulty passenger-side frontal airbag inflators from Takata led to recalls for over 816,000 vehicles, including the MKX.
• Defective Takata airbags: The 2nd generation MKX and 10th generation Continental were recalled because of these faulty airbags.
• Free repairs: Manufacturers offered free repairs to fix these major safety concerns.
• Model-specific recalls: Highlighting the importance of addressing safety issues specific to the Lincoln MKX.

These recall campaigns make sure that any potential dangers are quickly taken care of for your safety.

Notable MKX Lawsuits

Several lawsuits involving the Lincoln MKX, such as Boatner, et. al., v. Ford Motor Company and Janis Benkle, et al. v. Ford Motor Company, point out major problems with the 2011-2015 models in California. These lawsuits talk about various issues faced by MKX owners, including mechanical breakdowns and safety concerns.

These legal actions show how important it’s to fix these common problems, as affected owners look for solutions and try to hold the manufacturers responsible. The lawsuits highlight the need for car makers to be clear and responsible.

Recent MKX Recalls

Recent recalls for the Lincoln MKX point out major safety problems, like loose power supply cables and faulty Takata airbags. These recalls deal with serious risks that could endanger passengers.

Key issues include:

• Power supply cables: Loose cables can cause electrical problems.
• Takata airbag recall: Defective airbag inflators are a problem.
• Airbag inflator stability: Worries about the stability of the inflators made Ford ask for a delay in the recall.
• Wide impact: Over 816,000 vehicles, including the MKX, were recalled for bad passenger-side front airbags.
• Multiple generations: Both the 2nd generation MKX and the 10th generation Continental were affected.

Knowing about these recalls is important to keep your Lincoln MKX safe and reliable.

Worst MKX Years

If you’re looking at Lincoln MKX models, you might want to steer clear of the 2016, 2011, 2007, 2008, and 2013 versions.

The 2016 MKX has a big problem with the throttle body, which can cause the engine to shut down unexpectedly.

The 2011 model is known for having bad transmission issues.

Both the 2007 and 2008 models have various mechanical problems, like engine stalls and airbag issues.

The 2013 MKX also has a lot of reliability complaints.

To avoid these headaches, it’s best to look at other model years for a more reliable choice.

Best MKX Years

If you’re looking at the best Lincoln MKX years, go for the 2009, 2015, and 2017 models.

The 2009 MKX is known for its reliability, making it a good pick for first-gen buyers.

The 2015 model is great for overall performance, and the 2017 MKX has significant improvements compared to earlier years.

2009 MKX Reliability

If you’re looking for a reliable Lincoln MKX, the 2018, 2017, and 2015 models are good choices because they’ve fewer reported problems. These years are known for their dependable performance and fewer engine shutdown issues.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• 2018 model: It has advanced safety features and very few problems.
• 2017 model: It’s well-built and has better technology.
• 2015 model: It offers good performance and reliability with fewer mechanical issues.
• Avoid the 2016 model: It has many reports of the engine shutting down while driving.
• Other good years: The 2014, 2013, and 2012 models also show better reliability with fewer complaints.

2015 Model Performance

Choosing the best years for the Lincoln MKX means looking for models that offer great performance and reliability.

The 2009 Lincoln MKX is a great choice because it’s known for being reliable and having few complaints, so you can count on its engine.

If you want peace of mind, the 2015 MKX is also very dependable.

The 2017 Lincoln MKX is another good option because it fixed the issues that the 2016 model had, making it one of the best-rated models.

It’s important to stay away from the 2016 MKX due to major throttle body problems that can cause the engine to shut down. Similarly, the 2011 models should be avoided because of common transmission issues that affect performance.

Focusing on these years will help you get the best engine performance and reliability.

2017 Improvements

Over the years, the Lincoln MKX has gotten better in terms of performance, reliability, and safety, making certain models really stand out for buyers. Here are some of the standout years:

• 2009: Very reliable with few complaints, great for first-time buyers of this model.
• 2015: Known for its high reliability and good track record.
• 2017: A big improvement over the problematic 2016 model, highly rated for reliability.
• 2018: Features significant upgrades in technology and safety.
• 2019: Offers advanced driver assistance systems and better overall performance.

These improvements have made certain Lincoln MKX models more dependable and attractive.

If you’re thinking about buying one, focus on these years for the best experience.

Engine Shutdown Concerns

In the 2016 Lincoln MKX, problems with the throttle body can cause the engine to shut down unexpectedly while driving. This issue often comes with signs like low idle speed and unpredictable throttle response.

The 2016 model has a known history of engine stalling due to throttle body failure, which led to a recall to fix these problems. Drivers have reported seeing wrench light warnings and feeling sudden jerks before the engine shuts off.

These issues can be worrying and dangerous, especially at high speeds. If you own a 2016 Lincoln MKX, it’s important to know about these problems and ensure that any recall repairs have been done to lower the risk of engine shutdown.

Transmission Problems

The 2011 and 2016 Lincoln MKX models often have transmission problems, making them less reliable.

Common issues include coolant leaks and engine stalling, which can lead to expensive repairs.

Avoid these years to dodge frequent transmission issues.

Common Transmission Issues

Many owners of the 2011 and 2016 Lincoln MKX have reported ongoing problems with their transmissions, causing a lot of frustration. Some of the most common issues are:

• Delayed shifting: The transmission takes longer than usual to change gears.
• Slipping gears: The car unexpectedly shifts out of gear while driving.
• Hard shifting: Gear changes are sudden and rough.
• Transmission fluid leaks: Leaks can cause low fluid levels, which affects how the car runs.
• Check engine light: This often comes on because of transmission problems.

These issues make the 2011 and 2016 Lincoln MKX models less reliable.

If you’re thinking about buying a used Lincoln MKX, it’s important to know about these potential problems.

Problematic Model Years

When you’re thinking about buying a used Lincoln MKX, be aware that the 2011 and 2016 models have a lot of problems.

The 2011 MKX often has transmission issues, which can be expensive to fix and make the car unreliable.

The 2016 model is even worse, mostly because the throttle body can fail and make the engine shut down suddenly. If you’re looking at a 2016 MKX, make sure the throttle body is checked out to avoid this problem.

To save yourself from these issues, it’s best to avoid the 2011 and 2016 models.

Repair and Maintenance Costs

Given the frequent transmission problems in the 2011 and 2016 Lincoln MKX models, you should be ready for potentially high repair and maintenance costs. These issues can lead to expensive fixes, affecting your overall experience as an owner.

Transmission problems in these models often require:

• Diagnostics: Figuring out the exact problem can take time and money.
• Parts replacement: Things like solenoids and gears might need to be swapped out.
• Labor costs: Getting a skilled mechanic to take apart and put back together the transmission isn’t cheap.
• Fluid changes: Keeping the transmission fluid fresh is necessary for its health, but it can add up.
• Potential rebuilds: In really bad cases, the whole transmission might need to be rebuilt or replaced.

Choosing a different model year can help you avoid these big expenses.

MKX Electrical Issues

The Lincoln MKX models from 2007, 2008, 2011, 2013, and 2016 have had ongoing electrical problems, including wiring issues and electrical failures. Owners often report bad connections that cause various parts of the car to stop working.

The 2011 MKX is especially known for these electrical issues, which affect important components. The 2016 model also has many complaints about its unreliable electrical system. These problems can hurt the car’s performance and lead to issues like brake problems.

If you’re thinking about getting a Lincoln MKX, it’s best to avoid these specific years because of their well-known electrical problems, which can be expensive to fix and may pose safety risks.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Lincoln Mkz, Lincoln Navigator. 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

When considering a Lincoln MKX, think of it like crossing a bridge. Some years, like 2009, 2015, and 2017, are solid and dependable.

However, certain years—specifically 2016, 2011, 2007, 2008, and 2013—are known for problems. Avoid these troublesome years to ensure a smoother ride without dealing with mechanical or safety issues.

Choose wisely for a safer journey.