2012 Lincoln MKT

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2012 Lincoln MKT, categorized for clarity and consistency. The 2012 Lincoln MKT is a large luxury crossover SUV known for its distinctive styling and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 3.7L V6 producing around 270 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque and a more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost V6 generating approximately 355 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the MKT for its spacious interior, advanced features, and quiet cabin, but some criticize its polarizing design, complicated infotainment system, and reported reliability issues.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, noticeable decrease in power, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs. Inspect wiring harness for damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching) from the engine, check engine light. Turbochargers can fail due to oil starvation, excessive heat, or component wear.
  • Solution: Replace the failed turbocharger(s). Inspect oil lines for blockages.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per turbocharger
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, engine damage. The internal water pump can fail, leaking coolant into the engine oil.
  • Solution: Replace the internal water pump. May require significant engine disassembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Rough Shifting/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts between gears, noticeable delay when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse, transmission slipping. Can be caused by worn valve body components or contaminated transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission flush and filter change. If the problem persists, the valve body may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ for fluid/filter change; $800 - $2,000+ for valve body work.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sagging, compressor not running, “Service Ride Control” message on the dashboard. Air springs can leak or compressors can fail.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air springs or air suspension compressor. Inspect air lines for leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per air spring; $400 - $1,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MyLincoln Touch/MyFord Touch Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors. The MyLincoln Touch/MyFord Touch system was known for being buggy and unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates can improve performance but may not completely resolve all issues. Replacement with an aftermarket system is an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates may be free or low cost. Aftermarket system replacement: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after short periods of inactivity. Often caused by a parasitic draw from a malfunctioning module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, making unusual noises. Can be caused by a faulty motor, sensor, or linkage.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty liftgate motor, sensor, or linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to open doors, handle feeling loose or broken. Internal mechanisms in the door handles can fail.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, particularly around the sunroof area. Clogged sunroof drain tubes are a common cause.
  • Solution: Clean and clear the sunroof drain tubes. Inspect sunroof seals for damage and replace if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ for drain cleaning; $200 - $500+ for seal replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Lincoln MKT, while offering luxury and space, has several reported issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.5L EcoBoost, can be costly. Transmission issues may also require significant repairs. Electrical problems, especially with the infotainment system, can be frustrating. Suspension and other component issues can also add to the overall ownership cost. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with potential costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and carefully inspect any used MKT before purchasing, or having a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.