2011 Lincoln MKS

The 2011 Lincoln MKS is a full-size luxury sedan that aimed to offer a comfortable and refined driving experience. Engine options included a naturally aspirated 3.7L V6 producing 273 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, as well as a more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 generating 355 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the MKS for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available features. Common criticisms include its somewhat bland styling and occasionally lackluster fuel economy, especially with the EcoBoost engine.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbochargers, loss of power, check engine light. Potential for oil leaks from the turbocharger seals.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s). Inspect oil lines to the turbos to check for kinks or restrictions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (depending on if one or both turbos need replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from front of engine, overheating, potential engine damage if not addressed quickly. The water pump on the EcoBoost engine is internally mounted, driven by the timing chain.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump, often involves removing the timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at lower speeds or during light acceleration. Potential for stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement of gears, slipping during acceleration, harsh or jerky shifts between gears. Can be caused by low fluid, worn solenoids, or internal damage.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and fill (if fluid is old or contaminated). If the problem persists, further diagnostics are needed to identify the cause (solenoids, valve body, etc.). Potential transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced ride quality and handling. Leaking fluid from the struts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 (for both front struts)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low in the rear, compressor not engaging, air leaks from air springs, rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of air springs, air compressor, or solenoids. Inspect the air lines for leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1500 depending on the failing parts.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating properly, slow operation, grinding noises, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, Bluetooth connectivity problems, screen flickering, and system reboots.
  • Solution: Software updates (if available). Potential replacement of the SYNC module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500+ (SYNC module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking or becoming loose.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per door handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Lubrication of sunroof tracks and mechanisms, cleaning debris, or replacement of faulty parts (motor, switch, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (lubrication) - $500+ (parts replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2011 Lincoln MKS can be a comfortable and luxurious sedan, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. The EcoBoost engine is prone to turbocharger and water pump failures, which can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the torque converter and overall shifting quality, are also potential concerns across both engine options. Suspension and electrical problems can also arise. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. The cost of repairs can also vary significantly, from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission repairs. Careful inspection and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.