2013 Lincoln MKS

2013 Lincoln MKS

Overview

The 2013 Lincoln MKS, a full-size luxury sedan, aimed to blend American comfort with modern technology. While generally considered a solid vehicle, like any model, 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 the 2013 MKS. Understanding these common issues can help prospective buyers and current owners anticipate and address potential repairs, ensuring a smoother ownership experience.

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Engine

3.7L V6

Cooling System Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible puddles under the vehicle.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) System

• Symptoms: Rough idle, engine knocking or ticking noises, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of VCT solenoids or phaser units.
• Cost: $400 - $900

3.5L EcoBoost V6

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, black smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of turbocharger assembly.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Direct Injection System Problems

• Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, reduced fuel economy, check engine light.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of fuel injectors and related components.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Transmission

6-Speed SelectShift Automatic (FWD/AWD)

Hesitation or Shuddering

• Symptoms: Jerking or shuddering during acceleration or gear changes, delayed engagement.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, potential software update or internal repairs.
• Cost: $300 - $1000

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission warning light, inability to shift gears.
• Solution: Replacement of the TCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Electrical

Infotainment System (MyLincoln Touch)

Screen Freezing or Unresponsiveness

• Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system reboots unexpectedly.
• Solution: Software updates, rebooting the system, or replacement of the unit.
• Cost: $200 - $1500

Connectivity Issues

• Symptoms: Bluetooth pairing problems, USB port malfunctions, navigation system errors.
• Solution: Software updates, checking connections, or replacement of modules.
• Cost: $100 - $500

Battery Drain

Parasitic Battery Drain

• Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, electrical components malfunctioning.
• Solution: Diagnosis to find the source of the drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessory) and repair.
• Cost: $200 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Interior Materials and Electronics

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

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Summary Verdict

The 2013 Lincoln MKS presents a mixed reliability profile. The powertrain, particularly the 3.7L V6, shows some susceptibility to cooling system leaks and VCT issues, while the 3.5L EcoBoost can encounter turbocharger and direct injection problems. Transmission issues, such as hesitation and TCM failures, are also noted. The electrical system, especially the MyLincoln Touch infotainment, is a common source of complaints, with screen unresponsiveness and connectivity issues being prevalent. However, the suspension, exterior, and interior components generally hold up well with no widespread reported defects. Owners should be aware of potential engine and electrical system concerns and budget accordingly for repairs.