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2018 Lincoln MKZ

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2018 Lincoln MKZ is a mid-size luxury sedan offering a blend of comfort and style. It came with several powertrain options: a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6, and a 2.0L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. The 2.0L turbo four-cylinder produced 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for most drivers. The 3.0L twin-turbo V6, available with all-wheel drive, was the most powerful option, delivering 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Many owners appreciate the MKZ’s quiet cabin, comfortable ride, and elegant interior. However, some criticisms include the somewhat uninspired styling compared to its competitors and the less engaging driving experience. The reliability of the MKZ can vary, with some owners reporting few issues while others experience more significant problems.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

  • Engine Misfires
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s) and/or spark plugs. Diagnosing and repairing vacuum leaks can also resolve misfires.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks around the engine bay. The coolant reservoir is often the location for the leak.
    • Solution: Identifying and replacing the leaking coolant reservoir, hose, or other component, or head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots on the ground, burning oil smell, and low oil levels. Often caused by leaking valve cover gaskets or rear main seal.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, reduced power, and the check engine light illuminating.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the turbocharger and replacing it if necessary. Could also be related to boost leaks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Four-Cylinder Hybrid

  • No Issues Found

Transmission

All Transmissions

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable jerking or clunking during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, valve body issues, or worn internal components.
    • Solution: Checking and topping off the transmission fluid, or a full transmission flush (if appropriate based on fluid condition and mileage). If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Noises from Suspension
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling sounds when driving over bumps. Often caused by worn sway bar links or control arm bushings.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn sway bar links and/or control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ride Quality Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy ride, excessive bouncing, or poor handling. Can be caused by worn shocks or struts.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn shocks and/or struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • SYNC System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response times, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
    • Solution: Performing a master reset of the SYNC system. Updating the SYNC software to the latest version. In some cases, replacing the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset/update) - $800+ (APIM replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts. Can be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or accessory.
    • Solution: Identifying the source of the parasitic drain using a multimeter and electrical testing. Repairing or replacing the faulty module or accessory.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Water Leaks into Trunk
    • Description/Symptoms: Water accumulation in the trunk, often due to a faulty trunk seal or taillight seals.
    • Solution: Replacing the trunk seal and/or taillight seals. Ensuring proper drainage channels are clear of debris.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Door Latch
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors will not open or close properly
    • Solution: Replacing the door latch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, making unusual noises, or leaking water.
    • Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks and mechanisms. Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or other components. Clearing debris from the sunroof drainage channels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Lincoln MKZ presents a range of potential issues, varying in severity and cost. Engine issues, particularly with the 3.0L V6 (oil leaks, turbocharger problems), can be expensive to address. Electrical problems, especially those related to the SYNC system, are common. Suspension issues will depend on the location and severity of the damage. Owners should be prepared for potential repair costs ranging from minor fixes to more substantial investments, depending on the specific problems encountered. Thorough inspection is recommended before purchase.

Lincoln, MKZ
Lincoln MKZ 2018
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