2018 Lincoln MKZ
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2006 | 0 |
| 2007 | 259 |
| 2008 | 281 |
| 2009 | 114 |
| 2010 | 169 |
| 2011 | 145 |
| 2012 | 146 |
| 2013 | 108 |
| 2014 | 97 |
| 2015 | 79 |
| 2016 | 63 |
| 2017 | 138 |
| 2018 | 33 |
| 2019 | 20 |
| 2020 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
33% of complaints: engine — 11 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving, the car stalled. I could not restart it. It was towed to Lincoln Dealer and determined that coolant had leaked into the cylinders and seized the engine. This is a known defect on the Ford EcoBoost Engine.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260914
I own a 2018 Lincoln MKZ. Starting the second week in January I started to notice a strange smell in the cabin of my car and outside of my car.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240130
27% of complaints: power train — 9 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Torque converter stuck off pcm code 6f35 transmission vin look up doesn't show recall but it has same transmission installed with the same problem as 2017 model
NHTSA ODI report, 20231205
UPON DRIVING THE VEHICLE, IT HAS STALLED SEVEN TIMES. TWO OF THOSE INCIDENTS INVOLVED VEHICLE GOING INTO PARK WITHOUT TOUCHING THE PARK BUTTON.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190510
9% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 3 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2018 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30-35 MPH, the engine overheated. The contact pulled over and became aware that the coolant reservoir was empty.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260814
6% of complaints: electrical system — 2 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: lane departure — 2 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing warning and blind spot detection.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion vehicles. The steering wheel retaining bolt may loosen allowing the steering wheel to detach while driving.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering wheel bolt with a longer bolt, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S08.
Campaign 18V167000 — check if this car was fixed
Front Brake Jounce Hose Failures
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S12.
Campaign 23V162000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 Lincoln MKZ — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (9 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 18V167000 (steering) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V162000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2018 Lincoln MKZ reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2018 Lincoln MKZ is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Lincoln MKZ?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Lincoln MKZ have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.