2014 Lincoln MKS

The 2014 Lincoln MKS is a full-size luxury sedan that aimed to provide a comfortable and spacious ride. The available engine options included a 3.7L V6 producing 305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivering 304 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the MKS for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and quiet cabin. However, common complaints centered around its outdated technology, underwhelming fuel economy (especially with the EcoBoost engine), and somewhat bland styling compared to some of its competitors.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Coolant Leak from Water Pump
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating, low coolant level warning. Often, the leak originates from the weep hole on the water pump.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the engine, oil consumption, burning oil smell. Leaks may occur from valve cover gaskets, timing cover, or oil pan.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location and complexity.

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ per turbo.
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating, low coolant level warning.
  • Solution: Repair/Replace coolant lines, water pump, or thermostat housing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, decreased fuel economy, misfires.
  • Solution: Perform an intake valve cleaning service (walnut blasting or chemical cleaning).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6F50 6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Could be due to low fluid, worn solenoids, or internal damage. A fluid flush and filter change may help if the problem is minor. Replacement or rebuild of the transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) to $3000+ (rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor running constantly, “Ride Control Fault” warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per strut, $500 - $1000 for the compressor.
• Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints, control arm bushings, or entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side.

Electrical

• Issues with the MyLincoln Touch System
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, glitching, random reboots, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates may improve performance. In some cases, replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (software updates) to $500 - $1000+ (APIM replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle failing to start, dead battery overnight.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic draw. Common culprits include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, and the SYNC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles failing to open or sticking.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per handle.

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, track, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+

Summary

The 2014 Lincoln MKS, while offering a comfortable ride and spacious interior, does present some potential issues. The EcoBoost engine, while powerful, can be prone to turbocharger and carbon buildup problems. The 6-speed transmission can experience shifting issues. Suspension issues can be costly, especially if the vehicle is equipped with air suspension. Electrical problems, particularly with the MyLincoln Touch system, are also common. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase. Repair costs can range from relatively minor to quite expensive, depending on the nature and severity of the problem.