NHTSA (USA)Critical
At a glance
What can fail
The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
What the fix does
This page covers 5 recalls, 143 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2017 Lincoln Mkz.
20–40 mpg combined
5.9–11.8 L/100km
Midsize Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 5 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine complaints dominate the 2017 Lincoln MKZ owner report picture, with coolant intrusion into the engine being the most commonly described problem. Owners report this leading to engine failure, often requiring full engine replacement at significant out-of-pocket cost. Overheating and sudden loss of power while driving at highway speeds also come up repeatedly in engine-related reports. On the brake side, owners describe a brake pedal sinking to the floor with reduced stopping ability, sometimes accompanied by a brake warning light. A smaller cluster of powertrain complaints involves the transmission torque converter failing, with owners reporting rumbling sounds and vibration before the unit stops functioning. A handful of owners also mention backup camera delays and distorted images when shifting into reverse, though that pattern appears less frequently than the engine and brake concerns.
143
Total Complaints
6
Crash-Related
3
Fire-Related
3
With Injuries
By System
The 2017 Lincoln MKZ has 5 recalls, the most serious being a torque converter that can separate from the engine while driving, cutting power and leaving the vehicle unable to move, and a steering wheel that can detach entirely while the car is in motion. Both of these affect vehicles with the 2.0L engine paired to the six-speed automatic transmission, and either one can cause an abrupt loss of control with little warning.
On the braking side, the front brake hoses can rupture and leak fluid, which causes the brake pedal to travel farther toward the floor before engaging and significantly extends stopping distance. A failing brake hose may not give any obvious warning until pedal feel changes noticeably during a stop.
The steering wheel concern is separate from the drivetrain issues: the retaining bolt that holds the steering wheel to the column can work itself loose over time, and if it backs out far enough, the wheel can come free in the driver's hands. This recall covers a broad range of model years across the MKZ lineup, not just 2017 vehicles.
At a glance
What can fail
The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
What the fix does
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Dealers will replace the front brake hoses at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
On 2.0L gas engines with six-speed automatic transmissions, the torque converter weld studs may not be adequately welded, potentially causing failure.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the torque converter at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The steering wheel retaining bolt can loosen, potentially allowing the steering wheel to detach while you're driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the steering wheel bolt with a longer one at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
On certain vehicles with a 2.0L engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, the torque converter may separate from the engine flex plate due to inadequate welds on the attachment studs, causing sudden loss of power.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace the torque converter.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
On vehicles with 2.0L gas engines and six-speed automatic transmissions, the torque converter weld studs may not have been welded properly, which could cause failure.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the torque converter at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
