2009 Lincoln MKX

The 2009 Lincoln MKX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that offers a comfortable ride and a well-appointed interior. All MKX models for 2009 came with a 3.5L Duratec V6 engine, producing 265 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the MKX for its quiet cabin, smooth ride, and available features like heated and cooled seats, but common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, build quality, and some drivetrain components.

Engine

3.5L Duratec V6

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks near the front of the engine, warning lights on the dashboard. The internal water pump seal can fail, leading to coolant mixing with the engine oil.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump. Sometimes requires engine removal due to the pump’s location.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. This is due to wear on the timing chain guides and tensioners. Can cause poor engine performance or failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6F35)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause the vehicle to stall or have difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, difficulty finding the correct gear, slipping between gears. Can be caused by a malfunctioning valve body or worn-out solenoids.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the valve body or solenoids. A transmission flush and fluid change may sometimes resolve minor issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for valve body repair, $150 - $300 for fluid change.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy or unstable ride, excessive bouncing after hitting bumps, clunking noises from the front suspension. Leaking fluid from the struts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (for both struts)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, inability to connect to devices, system crashes. The original SYNC system can be unreliable and outdated.
  • Solution: Software updates (if available), replacement of the SYNC module, or aftermarket head unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moving slowly or not at all, clicking noise from the door when attempting to operate the window.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate not staying open on its own, requiring manual support to prevent it from closing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heated/Cooled Seat Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats not heating or cooling properly, inconsistent temperature, failure of the system to activate. Often caused by a faulty blower motor or control module.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the blower motor, control module, or heating/cooling element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Lincoln MKX, while generally a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle, has its share of common issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly relating to the water pump, timing chain, and torque converter, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues with the SYNC system and power windows are also prevalent. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite severe and lead to significant repair bills. Potential buyers should have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase and be aware of these common problems.