Lincoln MKZ common problems
Owners of 2015–2020 Lincoln MKZ vehicles have filed 318 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported system is engine & cooling (76% of categorised reports). Below is every reported problem area, ranked by real complaint volume, with recall and crash context — useful if you're researching this model before buying used.
- 318
- Owner complaints
- 26
- Recall campaigns
- 21
- Crash-related reports
- 11
- Injury reports
Most reported problem areas
By share of categorised NHTSA complaints across all 6 model years. Each links to what that system covers and its recall history.
How to read this before buying
Complaint volume is not the same as failure rate. A model that sold in large numbers, or one that has been on sale for many years, accumulates more complaints without necessarily being less reliable. Use these figures to learn which systems to inspect, not to rank one model against another.
The single most useful next step is to check the specific vehicle's recalls by VIN — a recall repair is free at any franchised dealer, but only if it has actually been done.
Recent safety events
Full timeline- Recall2015 mkz
A rearview camera that fails to properly display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Recall2019 mkz
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
- Recall2020 mkz
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
- Recall2016 mkz
Vehicle doors opening unexpectedly while driving can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
- Investigation closed2015 mkz
NHTSA closed investigation RQ22004
Front Brake Jounce Hose Failures
- Investigation closed2016 mkz
NHTSA closed investigation RQ22004
Front Brake Jounce Hose Failures
Frequently asked
- What are the most common Lincoln MKZ problems?
- Across 318 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015–2020 Lincoln MKZ vehicles, the most reported systems are engine & cooling (76%), steering (15%), airbags (10%).
- Which Lincoln MKZ model year has the most complaints?
- In our index, the 2017 Lincoln MKZ has the most owner complaints, with 129 filed.
- Are Lincoln MKZ problems dangerous?
- Of the 318 complaints on record, 21 mention a crash, 3 mention a fire and 11 mention an injury. Complaint counts are not a failure rate — check the specific vehicle's open recalls by VIN.
Problems by model year
The 2017 accounts for the most complaints (129). Open any year for its full complaint and recall report.
Where this comes from
Every figure is aggregated from consumer complaints filed directly with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration — not forums, reviews or estimates. Component grouping uses our published taxonomy.