The 2008 Lincoln MKZ has 4 recalls, the most serious being defective front airbag inflators on both the driver and passenger sides that can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, causing serious injury or death.
These airbag recalls are part of the broader Takata inflator issue, where long-term exposure to heat and humidity causes the propellant inside the inflator to degrade, making an explosive rupture more likely. Vehicles that were sold or registered in high-humidity regions such as Florida, Texas, Hawaii, and similar climates carry elevated risk.
On the braking side, the anti-lock brake system's hydraulic control unit contains valves that can react with certain corrosion-inhibiting additives found in some brake fluids. When that happens, the valves may not seat fully closed, which can cause the brake pedal to travel further than normal before the vehicle slows, increasing stopping distances.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver's side air bag inflator may explode. This can happen when the propellant degrades after prolonged exposure to high heat, humidity, and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the driver-side airbag inflator or module with a new one at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
Brake fluid additives can react with valves in the ABS hydraulic control unit, preventing them from closing properly and affecting braking performance.
What the fix does
Dealer will flush brake system with DOT 4 fluid, install new reservoir cap, test the control unit, and replace it if a stuck valve is found.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front air bag inflator may rupture during a crash due to propellant breakdown from long-term exposure to humidity and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator at no cost. Ford will mail recall notices and notify owners when parts are available.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front air bag inflator may rupture during a crash due to propellant breakdown from long-term exposure to humidity and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger front air bag inflator at no cost once parts become available.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
