2015 Lincoln MKS
2015 Lincoln MKS
Overview
The 2015 Lincoln MKS, a full-size luxury sedan, aimed to blend American comfort with a premium driving experience. It offered a choice between a standard V6 engine and a more potent twin-turbocharged V6, paired with a capable automatic transmission. 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, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential long-term ownership considerations for the 2015 MKS.
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
3.5L EcoBoost V6
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, increased exhaust smoke.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of turbocharger assembly.
- Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Intake Manifold Leaks
- Symptoms: Rough idle, check engine light, reduced engine performance.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket or the manifold itself.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (SelectShift)
Hesitation or Shuddering
- Symptoms: Jerky shifts, delayed engagement, shuddering during acceleration or gear changes.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
- Cost: $500 - $2,000+
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: $400 - $900
Electrical
Infotainment System
SYNC System Glitches
- Symptoms: Touchscreen unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, audio problems.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the module.
- Cost: $200 - $600
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, switch) and repair.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Exterior
No Major Issues
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
No Major Issues
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2015 Lincoln MKS presents a generally reliable profile, with most reported issues concentrated in the powertrain and electrical systems. The 3.7L V6 engine is less prone to significant problems than the more complex 3.5L EcoBoost, which can experience turbocharger and intake manifold issues. Transmission problems, while not universal, can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the SYNC infotainment system and occasional battery drain, are also noted. The exterior and interior components are largely free from widespread defects. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential areas and consider a pre-purchase inspection, especially for models with the EcoBoost engine or higher mileage.
