LINCOLN MKZ Recalls

The Lincoln MKZ has 26 recalls spanning the 2005–2018 production run, with the most serious being a steering wheel retaining bolt that can loosen and allow the steering wheel to fully detach while driving on 2014–2018 models, removing all steering control. Several other significant issues affect the later production years. On 2013–2018 models, the front brake hoses can rupture and leak fluid, increasing pedal travel and extending stopping distances. The 2017 model year has a torque converter defect on 2.0L six-speed automatic transmission vehicles where weld studs can fail, severing the connection between the torque converter and the engine and leaving the vehicle unable to move. The 2016 model year has a fuel tank with walls that may be too thin, causing the tank to crack, leak fuel, and raise the risk of fire. On 2015 models, a front seat belt anchor cable can fail when the pretensioner fires in a crash, leaving the front occupants without functional restraints. The 2013–2016 generation also carries corrosion-related steering issues on vehicles registered in high-salt regions, where the electric power steering motor mounting bolts can corrode and allow the motor to separate from the gear housing, sharply increasing steering effort, especially at low speeds. Door latches on 2013–2016 models can fail to fully engage, making a door appear closed when it is not and allowing it to swing open while moving. There is also an electric power steering fault on 2011–2013 models where the assist can fail unpredictably, again requiring heavier steering effort. On 2013 models with an engine block heater, the power cord insulation can crack in very cold temperatures and expose live wires, creating a shock hazard. Going back further, the passenger airbag inflator on 2005–2012 models sold or registered in high-humidity regions can rupture, sending metal fragments into the cabin. A separate airbag concern affects 2010–2012 vehicles that previously received a replacement passenger airbag under earlier repair programs, where the replacement inflator may not deploy correctly in a crash. The 2013–2014 model years have a transmission range sensor defect on Hybrid trims that allows shifting out of Park without pressing the brake, and 2013–2014 vehicles also share the door latch failure risk described above. On the 2015 model, parking lights fail to reduce brightness when the headlights are on, which can temporarily blind oncoming drivers. Replacement headlamps sold for 2013–2016 vehicles under certain part numbers produce an incorrect beam pattern and may not illuminate side markers. The 2006 model year has an accessory floor mat that can slide forward and catch the accelerator pedal.