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2000 Lincoln Continental

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By Research the Car 4 min read

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2000 Lincoln Continental, categorized by component and configuration.

The 2000 Lincoln Continental is a full-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. Under the hood, it features a 4.6L InTech V8 engine producing 275 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the smooth ride and quiet cabin, but some dislike its floaty handling and dated styling.

Engine

4.6L InTech V8

  • Intake Manifold Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or leaking in the intake manifold, leading to coolant leaks, rough idle, and potential overheating. A common symptom is coolant loss without any visible external leaks.
    • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold. Updated intake manifolds are available that address the weakness of the original design.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Spark Plug Thread Stripping
    • Description/Symptoms: The aluminum cylinder heads are prone to spark plug thread stripping, especially during spark plug changes. This results in misfires, rough running, and difficulty starting.
    • Solution: Repairing the threads with thread inserts (e.g., Time-Sert or Heli-Coil) or replacing the cylinder head.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the repair method and whether the cylinder head needs replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling Fan Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The electric cooling fan motor can fail, leading to overheating, especially in warmer climates or during stop-and-go traffic.
    • Solution: Replacement of the cooling fan assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4R70W/4R75W)

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or complete loss of drive. This can be more pronounced at lower speeds or during acceleration.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. It’s often recommended to replace the transmission filter and fluid during this repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, delayed engagement, or failure to shift properly. This can stem from worn or sticking valves within the valve body.
    • Solution: Removal, cleaning, and rebuilding of the valve body, or complete valve body replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, a “bouncy” ride, and/or a warning light on the dashboard. This is caused by leaks in the air springs, compressor failure, or issues with the height sensors.
    • Solution: Replacement of the air springs, compressor, and/or height sensors. Some owners opt to convert to a traditional coil spring suspension to avoid ongoing air suspension issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $2000+ (depending on which components need replacement and whether converting to coil springs)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Front Lower Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Excessive play in the front wheels can also be observed.
    • Solution: Replacement of the front lower ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Blend Door Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent climate control, with hot air blowing when cold is selected, or vice versa. Clicking noises may be heard from behind the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Lighting Control Module (LCM) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of headlights, taillights, or other exterior lights. This can be due to corrosion or failure within the LCM.
    • Solution: Replacement of the LCM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle Breakage
    • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, particularly the driver’s side, can break due to wear and tear of the internal mechanisms.
    • Solution: Replacement of the door handle assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, making grinding noises, or leaking water. This can be due to motor failure, damaged tracks, or clogged drain tubes.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals. Cleaning of the drain tubes.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to adjust in one or more directions. This can be due to motor failure or damaged wiring.
    • Solution: Replacement of the seat motor or repair of the wiring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Lincoln Continental, while offering a comfortable and luxurious experience, has several common issues. The most concerning are related to the air suspension and intake manifold failures, which can be relatively expensive to repair. Electrical issues and transmission concerns are also common. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing.

Lincoln, Continental
Lincoln Continental 2000
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