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2013 Lincoln MKT

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2013 Lincoln MKT, formatted for your website.

The 2013 Lincoln MKT is a full-size luxury crossover SUV that offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior. Engine options for the 2013 MKT include a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 producing 303 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the MKT for its distinctive styling, comfortable seating, and available technology features. Common complaints revolve around its fuel economy, somewhat polarizing exterior design, and some reported reliability issues.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive turbocharger whine, check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Water Pump Failure (Internal)
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. The internal water pump is driven by the timing chain, so failure can introduce coolant into the engine oil.
    • Solution: Replace the water pump, timing chain, and potentially other components if coolant has contaminated the oil.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.7L Ti-VCT V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often originates from valve cover gaskets or timing cover.
    • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6F50/6F55)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears. Transmission slipping can occur under acceleration.
    • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can improve shifting. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid/filter) - $3,500+ (rebuild)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Can also cause stalling or difficulty shifting.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, failure to maintain ride height, error messages on the dash.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Suspension Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits unevenly, or the rear end droops after being parked. A hissing sound may be heard near the air springs.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking air springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$1000+ per air spring
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • MyLincoln Touch/SYNC System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Unresponsive touchscreen, freezing, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
    • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In severe cases, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $800+ (APIM replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery dies prematurely or requires frequent jump-starting.
    • Solution: Test the battery and charging system. Identify parasitic drains and repair faulty components (e.g., door modules, amplifiers).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Power Liftgate Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate fails to open or close automatically, makes unusual noises, or stops mid-cycle.
    • Solution: Check the liftgate struts, motor, and latch. Replace faulty components as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Climate Control Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or no airflow from vents, failure to switch between hot and cold, or unusual noises from the HVAC system.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty blend door actuators, blower motor resistors, or the HVAC control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Lincoln MKT presents a mix of potential issues, ranging from moderate to severe. Turbocharger failure, water pump failure, and suspension problems represent more significant and costly repairs. Electrical glitches with the MyLincoln Touch system can be frustrating, although often not as expensive to address as mechanical problems. While some issues are relatively minor, others can lead to substantial repair bills. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, particularly focusing on the turbochargers, suspension, and infotainment system.

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