Complaints Over Time
All Lincoln Models
| Model | Complaints | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| TOWN CAR | 8,656 | 26 |
| CONTINENTAL | 5,080 | 19 |
| MKZ | 3,884 | 96 |
| MKX | 3,394 | 53 |
| NAVIGATOR | 3,382 | 77 |
| LS | 2,732 | 0 |
| MARK VIII | 1,968 | 6 |
| AVIATOR | 1,284 | 96 |
| MKC | 1,220 | 25 |
| MKS | 966 | 19 |
| MKT | 742 | 31 |
| ZEPHYR | 578 | 27 |
| MKZ HYBRID | 462 | 0 |
| NAUTILUS | 400 | 26 |
| CORSAIR | 348 | 71 |
| LINCOLN | 274 | 0 |
| MARK VII | 274 | 0 |
| MARK | 212 | 0 |
| MARK LT | 118 | 1 |
| CORSAIR PHEV | 116 | 4 |
| AVIATOR PHEV | 110 | 1 |
| NAUTILUS HYBRID | 54 | 3 |
| BLACKWOOD | 24 | 2 |
| MARK III | 18 | 0 |
| MARK V | 10 | 0 |
| MARK IV | 8 | 0 |
| MARK VI | 6 | 0 |
| VERSAILLES | 2 | 0 |
| MKT LIMOUSINE/LIVERY | 0 | 1 |
Lincoln Models to Avoid
The Navigator has struggled with transmission failures and electrical gremlins that plague multiple generations. Town Car owners report constant cooling system failures and suspension issues that compound maintenance costs. The MKX has documented problems with transmission shuddering and electrical failures that dealers struggle to diagnose. Continental models show recurring engine cooling problems and transmission hesitation across different years. The MKZ faces transmission reliability issues and interior component failures that affect user experience. Aviator examples have emerging transmission concerns and software glitches that suggest the model needs more real-world testing data.
Most Reliable Lincoln Models
Navigator models from specific years show better build quality when properly maintained and serviced. MKZ sedans with regular maintenance demonstrate acceptable reliability for their class and age. Town Car's simple design makes certain years more durable than others, particularly for basic transportation needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lincoln reliable?
Lincoln ranks below average compared to Japanese luxury brands but better than some domestic competitors. The 36,322 complaints and 584 recalls indicate consistent issues across the lineup. Reliability depends heavily on model selection and maintenance practices.
What Lincoln models to avoid?
Navigator and MKX models with transmission problems should be carefully inspected before purchase. Town Car examples showing cooling system failures cost significant money to repair. Aviator represents an unproven design with emerging reliability concerns that warrant caution.
Most reliable Lincoln?
The MKZ offers the most consistent reliability profile among Lincoln's lineup when properly maintained. Town Car's simpler engineering in later years shows fewer recurring issues than more complex models. Navigator vehicles with clean service records from trusted dealers hold up better than average.
Common Lincoln problems?
Transmission issues appear across multiple models including the Navigator, MKX, MKZ, and Aviator with shuddering and failure patterns. Electrical gremlins plague the Navigator and Continental with battery drain and module failures. Cooling system failures in Town Car and Continental require expensive repairs and repeated replacements.