2014 Lincoln MKX

The 2014 Lincoln MKX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. It was offered with two engine options: a 3.7L V6 producing 305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The 3.7L V6 was generally praised for its smooth power delivery, while the 2.0L offered better fuel economy. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the MKX for its quiet cabin, comfortable seats, and user-friendly technology. Common complaints include the MyLincoln Touch infotainment system’s complexity and occasional reliability issues, as well as the vehicle’s somewhat uninspired handling compared to some competitors.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from various engine seals and gaskets, such as the valve cover gaskets or the front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the water pump can occur, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine overheating. Symptoms include coolant leaks, high engine temperature readings, and a whining noise from the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and associated components (thermostat, hoses).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant may start to intrude into the combustion chamber which causes the engine to misfire. This will usually lead to needing a whole new engine.
  • Solution: Replace the engine
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000-$8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of rough or delayed shifting, particularly between lower gears. The transmission may hesitate to engage or shift abruptly.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 (fluid flush), $800 - $3000+ (valve body/rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links may wear out faster than expected, leading to clunking noises, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MyLincoln Touch Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The MyLincoln Touch system can experience glitches, freezes, slow response times, and connectivity problems (Bluetooth, USB).
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve minor issues. In severe cases, replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500 - $1200+ (APIM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may become unresponsive to the key fob or interior button.
  • Solution: Check the liftgate struts, motor, and latch mechanism. Replace faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Wire Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The wiring harness that goes to the rear hatch can have the wires break which can cause the lights to malfunction, or the rear hatch to not open properly.
  • Solution: Replace the entire harness, or splice the wires back together.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, leak, or make unusual noises when operating.
  • Solution: Inspect sunroof tracks, seals, and motor. Clean and lubricate tracks. Replace damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Lincoln MKX, while offering a comfortable and luxurious experience, can present owners with a variety of issues. Engine oil leaks, transmission problems, and electrical glitches (particularly with the MyLincoln Touch system) are common concerns. Suspension component wear is also a factor to consider. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix (fluid flushes, minor seal replacements), others, like major engine or transmission repairs, can be costly. The severity of these potential problems varies, but it’s important for prospective buyers to be aware of these common issues and have a pre-purchase inspection performed. The turbocharged 2.0L inline-4 engine having catastrophic issues with coolant intrusion is a major concern, and will likely need a whole new engine which will cost $4,000-$8,000+.