2016 Lincoln Mkx Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2016 Lincoln Mkx, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Brakes5128.2%
- Engine3318.2%
- Electrical2714.9%
- Fuel system126.6%
- Driver assistance126.6%
- Powertrain (other)116.1%
- Other / unspecified73.9%
- Exterior lighting63.3%
- Steering52.8%
- Body & structure52.8%
- Suspension42.2%
- Interior & seats31.7%
- Visibility21.1%
- Seat belts10.6%
- Tires & wheels10.6%
- Airbags10.6%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V544000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V544000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle slowly responded, requiring hard braking, causing the stopping distance to become extended. Several warning lights illuminated with the message "Parking Aid" displayed. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The internal water pump failed, dumping a half gallon of antifreeze into the engine oil. This caused the engine to suddenly stall and lose all power while driving in the middle of active traffic, creating a severe crash hazard .
The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKX. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The message "Coolant Overheated" was displayed on the digital display screen. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart as intended. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with an air intake valve fracture and abnormal engine oil consumption. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V635000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 54,000.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
FOR THESE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS, NEAR OR AROUND DECEMBER OF 2025 MY 2016 LINCOLN MKX HAS BEEN SHORTING OUT OR HAVING GLITCHES IN THE CENTER CABIN. THE CROSS TRAFFIC SYSTEM AND BLINDSPOT SYTEM FAULT HAVE TURNED ON AND OFF SIMULTANEOUSLY CREATING A SHORT IN THE CABIN RESULTING IN THE ac OR hEAT TURNING OFF AND ON. THIS ALSO CREATES A SHORT WHERE THE THE WINDOWS WILL NOT ROLL DOWN, THE GLOVE BOX WILL NOT OPEN OR THE TRUNK, THE DOORS CANT OPEN FROM THE OUTSIDE. AND MOST SERIOUS, MY KEY FOB WILL NOT OPEN THE VEHICLE. THE lINCOLN DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT HAS REFUSED TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM BECAUSE THEY CLAIM THEY CANNOT REPLICATE THE ISSUE. THE DEALERSHIP HAS WITNESSED THE PROBLEM, YET THEIR TECH IS NEVER AVAILABLE. THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE, AND HAS SEEN VIDEOS OF THE PROBLEM BUT REFUSES TO ADDRESS. ORIGINALLY CAR MAX REFERRED THE CAR TO LINCOLN BECAUSE CARMAX CLAIMED THEY DO NOT HAVE THE TECHNOLOGY TO ADDRESS THE LINCOLN'S ISSUES. LINCOLN CLAIMS THEY CANNOT REPLICATE AND THAT I SHOULD WAIT FOR THE CAR TO BREAK DOWN.
My car is currently under two recall notices however only one of the issues has been communicated to me of resolution. One being emissions control 25E02 and second being Recall 25S87 REAR BRAKE FLEXIBLE HOSE LEAK. Recall 1- emissions has been a problem for about 2 years now. Emissions are connected to my engine thus having my check engine light come on. My car failed an emissions test but was only 4 years old and the catalytic converters are not broken, have hole, anything leading to failed test, car repair fees and non-registered vehicle. The second recall is not being fixed, and I have had to replace my brake house, line and rear right brake twice this year. Lastly, I have collision warning however it does not work properly if at all. I was in a minor fender bender when I went to push on brakes the sound to warn me of a collision did not go off until after the crash! I am unsure of the process but if connected to my braking system it failed and if it is a preventative measure it sucks.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
The internal water pump failed, dumping a half gallon of antifreeze into the engine oil. This caused the engine to suddenly stall and lose all power while driving in the middle of active traffic, creating a severe crash hazard .
A dangerous stall of the engine happens when accelerating,
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
FOR THESE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS, NEAR OR AROUND DECEMBER OF 2025 MY 2016 LINCOLN MKX HAS BEEN SHORTING OUT OR HAVING GLITCHES IN THE CENTER CABIN. THE CROSS TRAFFIC SYSTEM AND BLINDSPOT SYTEM FAULT HAVE TURNED ON AND OFF SIMULTANEOUSLY CREATING A SHORT IN THE CABIN RESULTING IN THE ac OR hEAT TURNING OFF AND ON. THIS ALSO CREATES A SHORT WHERE THE THE WINDOWS WILL NOT ROLL DOWN, THE GLOVE BOX WILL NOT OPEN OR THE TRUNK, THE DOORS CANT OPEN FROM THE OUTSIDE. AND MOST SERIOUS, MY KEY FOB WILL NOT OPEN THE VEHICLE. THE lINCOLN DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT HAS REFUSED TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM BECAUSE THEY CLAIM THEY CANNOT REPLICATE THE ISSUE. THE DEALERSHIP HAS WITNESSED THE PROBLEM, YET THEIR TECH IS NEVER AVAILABLE. THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE, AND HAS SEEN VIDEOS OF THE PROBLEM BUT REFUSES TO ADDRESS. ORIGINALLY CAR MAX REFERRED THE CAR TO LINCOLN BECAUSE CARMAX CLAIMED THEY DO NOT HAVE THE TECHNOLOGY TO ADDRESS THE LINCOLN'S ISSUES. LINCOLN CLAIMS THEY CANNOT REPLICATE AND THAT I SHOULD WAIT FOR THE CAR TO BREAK DOWN.
My car is currently under two recall notices however only one of the issues has been communicated to me of resolution. One being emissions control 25E02 and second being Recall 25S87 REAR BRAKE FLEXIBLE HOSE LEAK. Recall 1- emissions has been a problem for about 2 years now. Emissions are connected to my engine thus having my check engine light come on. My car failed an emissions test but was only 4 years old and the catalytic converters are not broken, have hole, anything leading to failed test, car repair fees and non-registered vehicle. The second recall is not being fixed, and I have had to replace my brake house, line and rear right brake twice this year. Lastly, I have collision warning however it does not work properly if at all. I was in a minor fender bender when I went to push on brakes the sound to warn me of a collision did not go off until after the crash! I am unsure of the process but if connected to my braking system it failed and if it is a preventative measure it sucks.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
Tuesday June 2, 2026 my car went into the shop. At which time the viscous coupler was replaced for the rear AWD differential. This was a Ford OEM Part that had failed. Upon replacing it shut up they found the rear differential gear assembly was in fact also in need of being replaced. The needed part is called a rear final drive. It is now June 30, 2026. My car has been in the shop now for 28 days. The rear final drive part needed is on backorder. “We are more than 100 on the list.” Therefore, I will not be getting my car back any time soon. Upon researching and discussions with dealerships, this is and has been a known problem with the Lincoln and Ford vehicles. However, there has never been a recall, or any justification for this known problem. I would like some answers to why anyone would have to wait that long for a part for their vehicle! I am without a car and will be for an extended period time!
I have had to replace my rear brake pads, rotors, and the whole braking system (not related to sensors) three times in a year. I received the recall notice after the third time and had a mechanic fix my brake hose as a short-term remedy for my car. Not only does my car have a delay in breaking it is a delay in the monitoring service. Technically the sounds related to my vehicle are not related to braking at all by the speed in which a car slows down before it breaks. In this case that mean if I slam on my breaks the "emergency sound" does not go off. I have a minor fender bender as well due to these two problems associated with my braking system.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
Told by Diamond Ford in Lancaster CA that my Lug Nuts need to be replaced at the cost of $225.00. I have been driving for 60 years and Never had to replace Lug Nuts.
My Car has swollen lug nuts . I was informed of this by a Dealer who refused to remove the nuts to rotate the tires . I expressed a concern that I had a flat would the lug wrench remove nuts . I was told probably not. I travel long distances . This possibly means I could be stranded for an extended time due to a known fact. I have replaced the nuts but believe I should have been notified earlier by Lincoln .
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
Condensation build up in my passenger headlamp has caused the led rope lighting to stop working.This shows a recall but one not offered at this time.I have never received any recalls through the mail form.I recently moved and my address is as follows: [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The right headlight is filling up with condensation which is shorting out the battery. Replaced it more condensation is back in it. Mechanic says seals are no good says its a common problem in all lincolns. Lights and adaptive module cost well over 5K for one light not including the labor. This is a potential for a fire hazard.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
The rear differential appears to be an issue on these vehicles. 2021-2022 models/vehicles were recalled for having an issue with the rear differential. Fortunately there was not an accident with my vehicle as I was able to determine that it shouldn’t be driven. However, I’m told by the dealership that there are 155 vehicles waiting for the same repair (a rear differential replacement), and that the part to repair it is unavailable. With this information, I can’t Imagine how many vehicles are still on the road with this problem. There does not appear to be a recall on older models, nor has this issue been reviewed by the mechanics that work for the company. At the very least, this issue should be reviewed during routine maintenance.
The power steering went completely out while I was driving down the highway. I believe the problem is related to the power steering control module and the electric assist rack and pinion steering. It was the most dangerous situation I ever encountered. I narrowly missed causing an accident. There are several makes of Ford/Lincoln vehicles that have this problem dating back to 2011. The service advance trac displayed, steering assist fault service required displayed, pre collision assist not available displayed, hill assist not available displayed and a few others. They first appeared on Dec. 4th and next appeared around the 28th. The MKX is currently at Joe Machens Lincoln in Columbia, MO being inspected by the dealership and endurance, my warranty company.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
Rear doors would not latch after being opened in 24° weather. This situation happened after the car was preheated outdoors and persisted throughout a 60 mile trip. Car had to be parked with the doors held shut using the seat belts to keep them closed. After returning during above freezing temperatures the door worked as it should. Children had to hold doors shut during trip.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2016 LINCOLN MKX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE LIFTGATE INADVERTENTLY CLOSED TRAPPING HER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE PREVIOUSLY OCCURRED TWICE AND OTHERS WERE ABLE TO ASSIST HER. HOWEVER, THIS TIME SHE WAS BY HERSELF AND WHEN THE LIFTGATE CAME DOWN, SHE SUSTAINED A BROKEN HIP AND FEMUR WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO BOULEVARD FORD LINCOLN OF LEWES (18443 COASTAL HWY, LEWES, DE 19958) WERE THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER ENGINEER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE ALSO. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SIDE VIEW MIRROR READJUST INDEPENDENTLY WHILE IN REVERSING OUT OF HER DRIVEWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SAME DEALER WHERE THE REVIEW MIRROR WAS READJUSTED HOWEVER THE FAILURE RECURRED WHILE DRIVING AND THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO VIEW THE LANES. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT A RECALL NOTIFICATION WAS RECEIVED FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V809000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) HOWEVER, PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PART NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 17,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
Rear axle joint degraded, the vehicle cannot steer smoothly, indicator shows AWD temporarily disabled; large vibrations and unsafe to drive. In the end the vehicle was having troubles turning directions.
The rear differential appears to be an issue on these vehicles. 2021-2022 models/vehicles were recalled for having an issue with the rear differential. Fortunately there was not an accident with my vehicle as I was able to determine that it shouldn’t be driven. However, I’m told by the dealership that there are 155 vehicles waiting for the same repair (a rear differential replacement), and that the part to repair it is unavailable. With this information, I can’t Imagine how many vehicles are still on the road with this problem. There does not appear to be a recall on older models, nor has this issue been reviewed by the mechanics that work for the company. At the very least, this issue should be reviewed during routine maintenance.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The major problem occurred right after purchase as check engine light came on. The dealership was no help and refused to take vehicle back. The vehicle is nice looking but the mechanical is a lemon. I purchased this in 2020 and paid $24000. It’s a 2016 Lincoln mkx. I repaired problems and due to covid and my lifestyle I rarely traveled. I have more medical issues and require more frequent doctor visits. I never went back to Brennegen after not standing by this vehicle shortly after purchase. I just tried to focus on the positive and started doing business elsewhere. I maintained proper service. Brennegen did not disclose active recall before purchase. Since purchase I have repaired two problems brakes, and fire risk to engine. At this months regular oils change my current mechanic Dahl ford said the water pump was leaking. The estimated repair is $5000. I paid just to have it diagnosed yesterday as I have not $5000. I followed their advice and parked this. My vehicle is currently not drivable. I investigated and discovered Lincoln Ford has several class action lawsuits filed against them. Many consumers have the water pump problem and unfortunately Lincoln was well informed of this since 2007 and purposely have not fixed the issue. Yet currently many consumers like me are in danger of eminent engine failure and catastrophic failure of Lincoln vehicles. The cost is far more expensive for many and consumers should not be victims of lemons and fraud. Lincoln knew and currently knows of problem. They denied to buy back my vehicle or repair it. The case was just filed yesterday and Lincoln denied it in less than 12 hours. Without any Investigation Or explanation they just told the other department rep to call me back and deny my complaint. I am not the only o e and lawyers are now involved in class action . Please help me start o e I. My area or get Lincoln to stand behind their advertisement as this is a blatant lie. The water pump is too expensive to fix. Please help!
Rear doors would not latch after being opened in 24° weather. This situation happened after the car was preheated outdoors and persisted throughout a 60 mile trip. Car had to be parked with the doors held shut using the seat belts to keep them closed. After returning during above freezing temperatures the door worked as it should. Children had to hold doors shut during trip.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 LINCOLN MKX. WHILE OPENING THE PANORAMIC SUN ROOF, THE CONTACT DETECTED TWO CRACKS ON THE INSIDE OF THE GLASS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LINCOLN SOUTH COAST (1405 AUTO MALL DR, SANTA ANA, CA 92705, (855) 711-9224) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT A ROCK STRUCK THE SUN ROOF GLASS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 22,000.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 LINCOLN MKX. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE SUN ROOF WAS CRACKED. A LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 13,876. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKX. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds with her seat belt fastened, the front driver’s side seat belt loosened upon movement in the seat, without warning. The contact also stated that the seat belt failed to retract while attempting to unbuckle the seat belt. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKX. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at undisclosed speeds, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from the hood of the vehicle. The contact stated that at start-up there was an abnormal sound coming the hood of the vehicle. The check engine warning light and the tire pressure warning light illuminated. The contact then stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed with the accelerator pedal depressed, the vehicle decelerated to approximately 25 MPH and went into LIMP Mode. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the throttle body had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. No further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 LINCOLN MKX. THE CONTACT INITIALLY RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER:19V809000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) HOWEVER, THE PARTS AT THE TIME WERE UNAVAILABLE. HASSETT FORD (3530 SUNRISE HWY, WANTAGH, NY 11793) WAS CONTACTED NUMEROUS TIMES AND CONFIRMED EACH TIME THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT THEN STATED THAT SEVERAL WARNING LIGHTS INCLUDING THE ABS WARNING LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE INTERMITTENTLY ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND HAD HER SERVICE LIGHTS REPAIRED. AFTER THE REPAIR WHILE DRIVING AT 20 MPH, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL BUT THE BRAKES FAILED TO OPERATE WHICH RESULTED IN HER HITTING ANOTHER VEHICLE AS AN ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE CONTACT, IN A STATE OF SHOCK, COULD NOT MOVE AFTER IMPACT. THE AUTHORITIES WERE CALLED TO THE SCENE AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT DENIED MEDICAL ATTENTION, DESPITE EXPERIENCING NECK PAIN, DUE TO COVID-19; NO OTHER INJURIES WERE REPORTED. THE CONTACT'S SON WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BACK TO HER HOME. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT'S HUSBAND DISCOVERED ANOTHER RECALL ON THE VEHICLE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V469000 (SERVICE BRAKES, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); HOWEVER, THE PARTS FOR THAT RECALL ALSO REMAINED UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER HAD YET TO BE MADE AWARE OF THE COLLISION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 35,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V469000 (SERVICE BRAKES, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC).
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .