2018 Lincoln MKT

The 2018 Lincoln MKT is a full-size luxury crossover SUV known for its spacious interior and distinctive styling. The MKT offered two engine choices: a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 producing 303 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 generating 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the MKT’s comfortable ride and ample passenger and cargo space. Some common complaints revolve around its fuel economy, dated infotainment system, and polarizing exterior design.

Engine

3.7L Ti-VCT V6

• No Issues Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling or whining noises from the engine bay, check engine light. Can be caused by oil leaks around the turbocharger or impeller damage.
  • Solution: Replace the failed turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (depending on the extent of damage and if one or both turbos need replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, especially when cold. Hesitation during acceleration. This can be caused by a faulty valve body, worn solenoids, or contaminated transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission flush and filter change. If the problem persists, the valve body may need to be replaced or rebuilt. In severe cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Transmission flush and filter change: $200 - $400. Valve body replacement: $800 - $1500. Transmission rebuild or replacement: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags, the air compressor runs constantly or not at all, and a “check suspension” warning light appears. This can be due to leaks in the air springs, a faulty air compressor, or a defective ride height sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air springs, faulty air compressor, or defective ride height sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air spring replacement: $500 - $1000 per side. Air compressor replacement: $500 - $800. Ride height sensor replacement: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing (SYNC 3)
  • Description/Symptoms: The touchscreen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or the system restarts unexpectedly. This can be caused by software glitches or corrupted data.
  • Solution: Try a system reset. Update the SYNC 3 software to the latest version. If the problem persists, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: SYNC software update: typically free at a dealership. APIM replacement: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate fails to open or close properly, makes unusual noises, or stops mid-cycle. This can be caused by a faulty liftgate motor, damaged struts, or a malfunctioning sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty liftgate motor, struts, or sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the specific component that needs replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks (Sunroof)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin, particularly after rain or washing the vehicle. The sunroof drain tubes may be clogged or disconnected.
  • Solution: Clean and clear the sunroof drain tubes. Check the sunroof seals for damage and replace if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Drain cleaning: $50 - $150. Seal replacement: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Housing Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The tail light housings develop cracks, often around the edges or mounting points. This can lead to moisture intrusion and bulb failure.
  • Solution: Replace the cracked tail light housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per tail light.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heated/Cooled Seat Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The heated or cooled seats fail to function properly, either not heating/cooling at all or becoming excessively hot/cold. This can be due to a faulty heating/cooling element, a malfunctioning control module, or a broken wire.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty heating/cooling element, control module, or repair the broken wire.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Lincoln MKT has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The turbocharger issues on the EcoBoost engine can be expensive to repair. Transmission problems, while not universally reported, can also lead to significant costs. The air suspension is a known weak point, and electrical glitches with the infotainment system and power liftgate are common. Overall, while the MKT offers a comfortable and spacious ride, potential owners should factor in the possibility of these repairs when considering a purchase. The severity of the issues ranges from minor electrical annoyances to significant mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.