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Lincoln Continental Problems

The Lincoln Continental represents American luxury sedan tradition, with a history spanning from the 1940s through multiple revivals. With 5,080 complaints and 22 reported deaths, the Continental's record reflects both its long production history and some problematic years. The nameplate has meant different things across eras, from personal luxury coupes to front-wheel-drive sedans.

5,080
Total Complaints
19
Total Recalls
30
Model Years
22
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

1994 1991 1990
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1975 1977 1978

Common Problem Categories

Engine And Engine Cooling 896
Suspension 578
Electrical System 508
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 414
Power Train 354

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2020 14 2 0 0 Good
2019 60 3 4 0 Good
2018 36 2 2 0 Good
2017 170 4 2 0 Average
2002 86 1 8 0 Average
2001 76 1 2 0 Good
2000 216 1 34 6 Average
1999 92 1 12 4 Average
1998 176 1 22 4 Average
1997 218 1 10 6 Average
1996 138 1 8 0 Average
1995 188 1 18 10 Average
1994 606 0 32 6 Avoid
1993 400 0 10 6 Below Average
1992 398 0 6 12 Below Average
1991 798 0 14 42 Avoid
1990 488 0 10 32 Avoid
1989 510 0 14 44 Avoid
1988 294 0 18 20 Below Average
1987 28 0 0 6 Good
1986 16 0 4 4 Good
1985 36 0 0 20 Good
1984 18 0 0 4 Good
1983 4 0 0 0 Good
1982 2 0 0 0 Good
1981 2 0 0 0 Good
1979 4 0 0 0 Good
1978 2 0 0 0 Good
1977 2 0 0 0 Good
1975 2 0 0 2 Good

Lincoln Continental Years to Avoid

1991, 1990, 1989. The 1991 model year accumulated the most complaints, with air suspension failures being the signature problem. These front-wheel-drive Continentals also suffered from transmission issues and electrical problems. The complex air suspension system was expensive to repair and frequently failed.

Best Lincoln Continental Years

1982, 1979, 2017, 2018. The early 1980s Continentals offer simpler, more reliable mechanicals for classic car enthusiasts. The revived Continental (2017-2020) addressed many historical issues and represents the most refined version, with the 2017-2018 models proving reasonably reliable for a luxury sedan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lincoln Continental reliable?

It varies dramatically by era. Avoid 1988-1994 models with problematic air suspensions and transmissions. The 2017-2020 revival is more reliable, sharing Ford's CD4 platform with proven powertrains. Classic pre-1980 models are simpler but require vintage car knowledge.

What are common Continental problems?

The late 1980s-early 1990s models are notorious for air suspension failures, transmission problems, and electrical issues. Repair costs were high due to complex systems. The modern Continental (2017-2020) has fewer systematic issues but can experience infotainment glitches.

Why was the Continental discontinued?

Lincoln discontinued the Continental after 2020 due to declining sedan sales and a shift toward SUVs. Despite positive reviews, sales never met expectations as buyers preferred Navigator and Aviator SUVs.