2010 Lincoln MKT
2010 Lincoln MKT
Overview
The 2010 Lincoln MKT is a full-size luxury crossover SUV that aimed to blend distinctive styling with a comfortable and spacious interior. It was offered with a choice of powerful V6 engines, including a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost option, paired with a SelectShift 6-speed automatic transmission. While generally well-received for its ride quality and technology features for its time, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.
Engine
3.7L V6
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Leaking coolant from hoses, water pump, or thermostat housing.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking components (hoses, water pump, thermostat).
- Cost: $200 - $600
Timing Chain Issues
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup.
- Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
3.5L EcoBoost V6 Twin-Turbo
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, check engine light.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of turbochargers and associated plumbing.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000
Intake Manifold Runner Control Issues
- Symptoms: Rough idle, check engine light with codes related to intake manifold.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold runner control system.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Transmission
SelectShift 6-Speed Automatic
Hesitation or Shuddering
- Symptoms: Jerky shifts, hesitation during acceleration, or shuddering at certain speeds.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
- Cost: $300 - $2000+
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Issues
- Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission warning lights, inability to shift gears.
- Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the TCM.
- Cost: $500 - $1200
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
General Electrical System
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Touchscreen unresponsiveness, freezing, or system reboots.
- Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, electrical components malfunctioning.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic draw, or battery replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Exterior
Body and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2010 Lincoln MKT, while offering a luxurious experience, presents a mixed reliability profile. The V6 engines, particularly the 3.7L, can experience coolant leaks and timing chain issues, while the more potent 3.5L EcoBoost is susceptible to turbocharger problems and intake manifold runner issues. Transmission concerns, such as hesitation and TCM faults, are also noted. Electrical gremlins, primarily with the infotainment system and occasional battery drain, can be a nuisance. However, the suspension, exterior, and interior components generally hold up well, with no widespread critical failures reported in these areas. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to engine and transmission warnings are advised for owners.
