2013 Lincoln MKT

2013 Lincoln MKT

Overview

The 2013 Lincoln MKT, a full-size luxury crossover, aimed to blend comfort, technology, and a commanding presence. It offered a choice of potent powertrains and a spacious interior designed for families and executive transport. While generally well-received for its ride quality and features, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported concerns. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers and current owners.

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Engine

3.7L V6

Cooling System Leaks

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

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil on the engine block, low oil level, burning oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seals.
• Cost: $250 - $600

3.5L EcoBoost V6

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of turbocharger assembly or related lines.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Timing Chain Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
• Cost: $1200 - $2000

Transmission

6-Speed SelectShift Automatic

Hesitation or Shuddering

• Symptoms: Jerking or shuddering during acceleration or gear changes, delayed engagement.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, potential internal component repair or replacement.
• Cost: $400 - $1200

Overheating

• Symptoms: Transmission warning light, burning smell, difficulty shifting.
• Solution: Transmission cooler flush or replacement, potential internal transmission repair.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Strut Mount Issues

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Electrical

Infotainment System

SYNC System Glitches

• Symptoms: Touchscreen unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, audio problems.
• Solution: Software updates, module reset, or replacement of the infotainment module.
• Cost: $300 - $1000

Battery Drain

Parasitic Battery Drain

• Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, electrical components malfunctioning.
• Solution: Diagnosis and repair of faulty modules or accessories causing the drain.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Exterior

Body Panels

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Lighting

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Climate Control

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or airflow direction, clicking noises from the dashboard.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
• Cost: $250 - $500

Upholstery

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2013 Lincoln MKT presents a generally solid reliability record, with most reported issues falling into categories common for luxury vehicles of its era. The powertrain, particularly the 3.7L V6, is relatively robust, though the EcoBoost variant can encounter turbocharger and timing chain concerns. Transmission issues, such as shuddering or overheating, are not uncommon and often require professional attention. Electrical gremlins, especially with the SYNC infotainment system and parasitic battery drain, are notable points of concern. Suspension components like control arm bushings and strut mounts may require replacement over time. While the exterior and interior are largely free of widespread defects, specific components like climate control blend door actuators can fail. Overall, the MKT offers a comfortable and feature-rich experience, but potential buyers should be aware of these specific reliability considerations.