2015 Lincoln MKT
The 2015 Lincoln MKT is a full-size luxury crossover SUV, known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. Engine options include a 3.7L V6 producing 303 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivering 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the MKT’s ample passenger and cargo space, quiet cabin, and available features, but some criticisms include the polarizing exterior design, less-than-stellar fuel economy, and complex infotainment system.
Engine
3.7L V6
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power, check engine light illumination. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
- Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Leaks may occur from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket.
- Solution: Replace leaking valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light illumination. Can be caused by oil starvation or wear.
- Solution: Replace the turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Intrusion into Engine
- Description/Symptoms: White smoke from the exhaust, sweet smell of coolant, coolant loss, engine overheating, engine failure. Can be caused by a crack in the cylinder head.
- Solution: Replace cylinder head or complete engine replacement if damage is severe.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant leak, loss of coolant. Can be caused by wear of pump bearing, or impeller damage.
- Solution: Replace water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifting between gears, hesitation when accelerating. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn valve body, or faulty solenoids.
- Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and replace filter, or replace valve body or solenoids as needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high without corresponding acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, transmission warning light. May be caused by worn clutch packs or internal damage.
- Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side or all corners, air compressor running constantly, suspension warning light. Can be caused by leaks in the air springs, faulty compressor, or damaged height sensors.
- Solution: Replace leaking air springs, replace compressor, or repair/replace height sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per component
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- MyLincoln Touch (Infotainment System) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: System freezing, slow response times, connectivity problems, touchscreen malfunctions.
- Solution: Software updates, system reset, or replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after short periods of inactivity. Can be caused by parasitic draw from faulty electronics or a failing battery.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic draw, replace battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Power Liftgate Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Liftgate failing to open or close properly, making unusual noises, or stopping mid-operation. Can be caused by a faulty actuator, damaged struts, or wiring issues.
- Solution: Replace faulty actuator or struts, repair wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Climate Control Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent heating or cooling, failure of the system to blow hot or cold air. Can be caused by a faulty blend door actuator or refrigerant leaks.
- Solution: Replace blend door actuator, repair refrigerant leaks, or recharge refrigerant.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Lincoln MKT can present owners with a range of issues, varying in severity and cost. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.5L EcoBoost, can be expensive. Transmission issues are less common but can also be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins, especially with the MyLincoln Touch system, can be frustrating. Suspension and other systems also have potential failure points. The severity of these problems can range from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, and the costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a thorough inspection performed before purchasing.