Lincoln MKZ Years To Avoid – Cruising down the automotive landscape, the Lincoln MKZ stands tall as an epitome of style and luxury within the midsize sedan segment. With Lincoln’s reputation for reliability, it’s natural to assume that every year of the MKZ would be a smooth ride.
However, like any journey, there are certain stretches that demand a little more caution.
If you’re considering embarking on the adventure of owning a new or pre-owned Lincoln MKZ, it’s imperative to steer clear of a few troubled years.
In this guide, we’ll navigate through the timeline of the Lincoln MKZ, highlighting the years that might leave you with more bumps than bliss.
From unexpected roadblocks to issues that might steer you off course, we’ll delve into the Lincoln MKZ years to avoid and the reasons behind these cautionary tales.
So, buckle up as we shift into gear and take a closer look at the Lincoln MKZ years to avoid.
We’ll uncover the hitches that could transform your driving experience from smooth to shaky, providing you with a roadmap to navigate the choices ahead.
Lincoln MKZ Years To Avoid
In the realm of automotive elegance, the Lincoln MKZ has carved a niche as an alluring midsize sedan since its debut in 2007.
A brand synonymous with sophistication, Lincoln has maintained a reputation for reliability over the years.
However, even amidst this aura of dependability, certain stretches of the journey have proven to be more challenging than others.
With this in mind, let’s delve into the worst years that raise red flags for potential Lincoln MKZ owners, according to data sourced from CarComplaints.com.
Let’s embark on this journey together and unveil the hidden stories behind the Lincoln MKZ’s worst years.
2007 Lincoln MKZ: Navigating Initial Hurdles
The inaugural year of the Lincoln MKZ, 2007, comes with a caution sign attached. While this launch marked the inception of a stylish sedan, it also brought about a fair share of teething problems.
Reports suggest that the early models experienced interior issues, particularly related to plastic components, which caused discomfort and dissatisfaction among owners.
Additionally, performance glitches pertaining to various features could make this year’s model a bumpy ride.
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2008 Lincoln MKZ: A Continuation of Challenges
Continuing in the trajectory of its predecessor, the 2008 Lincoln MKZ follows suit with its own set of issues.
From lingering interior concerns to performance woes, this year’s model seems to struggle with maintaining the standards of luxury and comfort Lincoln enthusiasts anticipate.
As potential buyers, it’s crucial to approach this year with a discerning eye, understanding the potential hiccups you might encounter.
2013 Lincoln MKZ: Navigating the Rough Terrain
The journey through the years brings us to 2013, a year that raises significant concerns for Lincoln MKZ aficionados. In the pursuit of excellence, this model year has encountered setbacks in terms of reliability.
While Lincoln’s commitment to quality remains steadfast, it’s essential to acknowledge the reported issues that emerged during this period.
Steering clear of the 2013 model year might just be the best decision you make to ensure a smoother ride.
The Gray Areas: Years of Marginal Concern
As we tread through the timeline, we encounter two years—2010 and 2012—that lie in a gray area of marginal concern. While they exhibit a higher-than-average number of complaints compared to other Lincoln MKZ model years, the severity and frequency of these issues are notably lower.
It’s akin to navigating a road with some potholes; proceed with caution, but don’t let these concerns deter you entirely.
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Diving into the specifics, we find that the Lincoln MKZ years to avoid share common threads of concern.
Lincoln MKZ Best Years
Embarking on the journey of selecting the perfect luxury sedan involves an intricate dance between elegance and dependability. The Lincoln MKZ, a quintessential example of style and comfort, has graced the automotive stage with various iterations over the years.
Amidst this evolution, some model years have emerged as beacons of reliability and satisfaction, offering a serene ride that soothes both the soul and the senses.
We unravel the chronicles of the Lincoln MKZ’s best years, with a focus on the reliable stretch from 2016 to 2019.
The Epitome of Reliability: Lincoln MKZ 2016–2019
For those who prioritize a smooth ownership experience, the Lincoln MKZ models spanning from 2016 to 2019 stand as pillars of reliability. These years present an exquisite harmony of craftsmanship and engineering, with an astounding feat—zero consumer complaints.
The accolades showered upon these models are a testament to Lincoln’s commitment to producing vehicles that exude excellence from every angle.
Unraveling the Assurance of Ownership
When you opt for a Lincoln MKZ within the 2016–2019 range, you’re not merely purchasing a car; you’re investing in peace of mind. The absence of consumer complaints during these years reflects the culmination of meticulous design, rigorous testing, and a dedication to delivering an unmatched driving experience.
Choosing a Lincoln MKZ from this period is akin to securing a ticket to a world where the hum of the engine soothes, and the road becomes a canvas for your dreams.
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Acknowledging the Reality: Aging and Unforeseen Challenges
While the Lincoln MKZ models from 2016 to 2019 have basked in the limelight of reliability, it’s crucial to acknowledge the universal truth of aging vehicles. Used cars, no matter how pristine their reputation, are not immune to the passage of time.
As the miles accumulate and the years unfold, new challenges might emerge, albeit not in the magnitude of those faced by their less fortunate counterparts.
The Cautionary Tale: Lincoln MKZ 2010
Among the stars that shine brightly in Lincoln’s constellation, there exists one that bears a darker aura—the 2010 Lincoln MKZ. This model year stands as an outlier, marred by a slew of complaints that paint a less-than-flattering portrait of ownership.
Premature tire wear, inadequate air conditioning systems, transmission issues, fluid leaks, improperly latching trunks, and coolant leaks converge to form a challenging landscape for the 2010 model.
It’s a stark reminder that even amidst a lineup of elegance, an occasional misstep can occur.
As you tread the path toward owning a Lincoln MKZ, the lesson is clear: the years from 2016 to 2019 beckon with the promise of reliability and harmony. These models embody Lincoln’s dedication to crafting vehicles that seamlessly blend performance and luxury.
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Lincoln MKZ Problems
In the intricate realm of automotive engineering, even the most refined models can occasionally bear the burden of glitches and malfunctions.
From interior intricacies to mechanical mishaps, this guide serves as your compass to navigate the potential challenges that might await you.
It’s essential to note that while the issues discussed here are potentially serious, they are not widespread occurrences even in the Lincoln MKZ years to avoid.
The vehicular landscape is further complicated by the fact that problems may be less prevalent for vehicles that have surpassed certain mileage thresholds or have undergone necessary repairs.
However, these challenges tend to manifest more frequently in the model years with known issues, particularly the 2007, 2008, and 2013 MKZs.
1. Interior Detail Issues: A Spectrum of Concerns
Interior comfort is paramount in a luxury sedan, and the Lincoln MKZ aims to deliver a refined driving experience. Yet, across different model years, certain interior detail issues emerge as common concerns.
From bubbling and cracking plastic components to air conditioning system malfunctions and other interior feature glitches, these problems underscore the need for careful consideration.
The early years of the Lincoln MKZ, in particular, are susceptible to such intricacies.
However, it’s worth noting that these complaints might be more prevalent due to heightened awareness of the vehicle’s reputation for these issues.
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2. Rim Deterioration: Aesthetic and Functional Hurdles
The allure of a Lincoln MKZ lies not just in its performance but also in its aesthetic appeal. However, in some model years to avoid, issues with rim deterioration have surfaced.
From chrome stripping off the rims to more serious problems like warping and rough edges, these concerns extend beyond mere aesthetics.
A unique challenge here is that these problems often arise before the 100,000-mile mark, and replacement rims might not be a guaranteed solution.
The complexities of rim deterioration warrant attention, as they can disrupt the harmony of your driving experience.
3. Rims Causing Tire Damage: A Safety Concern
In certain early Lincoln MKZ models, a worrisome issue emerges where the rims contribute to tire damage. This can range from subtle wear leading to more frequent tire replacements to extreme cases where drivers report tire repairs on a weekly basis.
The financial implications and safety risks associated with this problem are substantial.
Because these wear patterns can be unpredictable and affect tire integrity, it becomes a pressing issue that demands prompt attention. The most common reports of this problem surface between 80,000 to 90,000 miles.
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4. Brake Pedal Issues: A Serious Recall
Amidst the spectrum of Lincoln MKZ problems, the brake pedal issue stands as one of the most concerning. A brake recall was initiated to address this issue, which causes the brake pedal to sink to the floor without engaging as intended.
While there’s a recall in place, consumer confidence in the effectiveness of the repair remains a concern, especially considering instances where the problem reoccurred.
This issue raises critical safety concerns, as it affects braking efficiency and could potentially lead to accidents.
5. Airbag Recall: Safety at Stake
An additional serious concern is the airbag recall affecting certain Lincoln MKZ models.
This recall was necessitated by instances where passengers were injured by fragments released during airbag deployment.
While recalls aim to address such critical issues, the intermittent resolution of the problem within the affected vehicles has raised concerns over the reliability of the fix.
6. Stalling After Refueling: A 2013 Model-Year Issue
In the realm of Lincoln MKZ problems, the 2013 model year stands out for a specific issue—stalling after refueling. This challenge might extend to vehicles within a few model years of the 2013 edition.
The engine stalling after refueling can lead to difficulties restarting the vehicle, causing added stress to the engine and fuel system.
Although the issue usually resolves itself after a few attempts, the wear and tear on the vehicle and the inconvenience remain noteworthy.
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How reliable is the Lincoln MKZ?
The Lincoln MKZ holds an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars according to RepairPal. This ranking situates it in the 20th position out of 31 midsize luxury cars. Looking at car repair statistics provided by RepairPal, the Lincoln MKZ experiences unscheduled repairs approximately 0.57 times per year.
The likelihood of encountering severe repairs stands at 15%, while the average annual maintenance and repair costs are estimated to be around $831.
How long does Lincoln’s MKZ last miles?
When cared for diligently and given proper maintenance, the lifespan of your Lincoln MKZ can extend up to an impressive 200,000 miles or around 15 years. On average, a Lincoln MKZ can last anywhere between 180,000 and 200,000 miles, equivalent to approximately 13 to 15 years.
Does Lincoln MKZ need premium gas?
The Lincoln MKZ operates optimally without the need for premium gasoline. The recommended fuel for the MKZ is regular unleaded gasoline with an octane number of 87 or higher. It’s essential to avoid using fuel with an octane number below 87, as this could potentially lead to engine damage over time.
While the Lincoln MKZ doesn’t demand premium gas, it’s advisable to steer clear of gasoline without detergents to ensure consistent and reliable performance.
Conclusion
The Lincoln MKZ, with its blend of luxury, style, and performance, offers a driving experience that appeals to many. However, as with any vehicle, it’s essential to approach ownership with awareness and knowledge.
The Lincoln MKZ’s reliability, indicated by its RepairPal rating, positions it within the midrange of midsize luxury cars.
With proper care, these vehicles can endure the miles, showcasing longevity that can span up to 200,000 miles or more than a decade.
When considering the challenges that may arise, such as interior detail issues, rim deterioration, or potential recalls, it becomes evident that not all years of the Lincoln MKZ are created equal.
The years to avoid, including the 2007, 2008, and 2013 models, have seen more reports of problems.
Knowledge is your best ally when navigating the landscape of Lincoln MKZ ownership. Armed with insights into common issues and the years to approach with care, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and expectations.
Whether you’re seeking the reliability of the 2016–2019 models or contemplating the charm of the Lincoln MKZ years to avoid, remember that an empowered choice ensures that your journey with the Lincoln MKZ is as smooth and fulfilling as the ride itself.
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