Lincoln MKX Reliability by Year
Best & Worst Years, Problems & Recalls — NHTSA Data
Comparing used Lincoln MKX options? We analyzed 10 model years (2009–2018) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
Model-year trends show patterns. Run a VIN check for the exact Lincoln MKX you plan to buy.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the Lincoln MKX has 839 owner complaints and 37 safety recalls across model years 2009–2018. The most reported issue area is SERVICE BRAKES. 2013 drew the most complaints; 2015 drew the fewest.
- Make
- Lincoln
- Model
- MKX
- Model years analyzed
- 2009–2018 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 839
- Safety recall campaigns
- 37
- Crash-related complaints
- 35
- Fire-related complaints
- 10
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2013 (161 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2015 (19 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- SERVICE BRAKES
- Reliability signal
- Poor
Lincoln MKX: Which Years to Avoid & Which to Buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used — lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record — lower risk starting points.
⭐ NHTSA NCAP Crash Test Ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
PoorThe LINCOLN MKX has 839 NHTSA complaints and 37 recalls on record. 35 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 839 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 37 federal recall campaigns
- 35 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
🔔 NHTSA Safety Recalls
37 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
Safety Recall
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Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2009–2018. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
🔧 Most-Reported Problem Areas
Based on component keywords extracted from all 839 NHTSA complaints.
📋 NHTSA Complaint Reports
839 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
The contact owns a 2009 Lincoln MKX. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the front passenger’s side of the vehicle. The contact stated that the engine power reduced message was displayed and the wrench warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to allow the engine to cool down. The contact removed the oil cap and stated that the engine oil looked like chocolate milk. The contact took the vehicle Precision Tune to get the oil changed and was informed there was a major coolant leak. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was informed to call the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 125,000.
My car has a Recall for the AIRBAGS . The car started life in south Texas where it is hot and humid which makes the problem worse. My dealer hasn't complied with the RECALL, [XXX] , Stone Lake, WI [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Car frequently failed to stop timely when brakes were pressed. A HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT was advised and BRAKE BOOSTER to be installed.
8/31/22 While I am driving, at 25 miles per hour in my neighborhood, or 45 mph through town, or 65 mph on the freeway, without any warning there occasionally will be an EXTREMELY LOUD BANG!! I actually duck down and cover my head for fear a huge rock has come through the windshield. Or a double-barreled shotgun was aimed at my car, or a major jetliner had fallen out of the sky and landed on my roof. Only to look up and see no damage whatsoever, but the shrill, high pitched ring piercing my ears. The radio won't respond, the gps won't respond, the heater or AC won't respond. The sound continues for as long as it takes to get to my destination. When I return to my car the next time, EVERYTHING WORKS FINE, and no high pitched ring. I have seen others' notes on this topic say it is the radio/speakers. This BANG occurs for me even when I am NOT using the radio or media. However, my cell phone auto connects each time I turn on the engine. I will today 8/31/22 disconnect my cell phone and see if the bluetooth makes this terrible connection. I see no evidence that anyone has found a repair for this. Also, other notes have stated they think this is related to temperatures above 73 F degrees. I have experienced this BANG at all temperatures. The latest time it occurred while I was in the middle of a left hand turn through a busy intersection with off-work traffic in all lanes, I almost went into the ditch!! No, there are no warning lights or sounds before this happens. No, I have not been able to reproduce this sound at will. YES, THIS IS A SEVERE SAFETY PROBLEM. IF THE DRIVER'S HEAD IS DUCKING DOWN DURING THE BANG, WHO'S STEERING THE CAR? Please, someone, is there a fix?
The contact owns a 2009 Lincoln MKX. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to stop immediately. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated she continued to pump on the brake pedal until the vehicle began to decelerate. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.
The contact owns a 2009 Lincoln MKX. The contact received a notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V158000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was notified of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer had been notified of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Automatic transmission is slipping badly. Results in temporary loss of power & speed. Taking my foot off the gas pedal, for two-to-three seconds, seems to remedy the situation. It's quite scary losing control of the vehicle during that period. Below, I am identifying an "approximate date"; however, this issue has been ongoing for quite some time - At least one, perhaps two, years. A mechanic's remedy may be checking the transmission fluid, or having the fluid replaced. I ensure I keep the fluid at its' proper level and I'm not replacing the fluid. I don't believe any transmission fluid ever needs draining and replacing - I think that's a scam when it's suggested!
ABS LIGHT CAME ON AND THE REPAIR SHOP SAYS THE ABS MODULE HAS FAILED AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.
I'VE REPLACED A STARTER / ALTERNATOR/ BATTERY/ COIL PACKS/ TUNE UP/AND MY TRUCK IS STILL HAVING PROBLEMS WITH STAYING STARTED..I HAVE TO PUSH THE GAS IN PARK BECAUSE IT SEEMS LIKE IT WILL SHUT OFF.
I HAVE TO CHANGE THE BREAKS & ROTORS TWICE IN 2 YEARS. MY MECHANIC SAYS IT IS THE 'BREAK BOOSTER'. HE STATED THAT THEIR MIGHT BE A RECALL. THE VEHICLE IS HAVING ISSUES STOPPING. I AM AFRAID THE WILL GO OUT AND CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. THE BREAKS MAKE A RELEASED AIR SOUND AND IT IS HARD TO MAKE A COMPLETE STOP. SO I STOPPED DRIVING IT.
THE PTU (POWER TRANSFER UNIT) IS CAUSING ENGINE LIGHT TO FLASH AND LOSS OF POWER WHEN ACCELERATING. TRANSMISSION SPUTTERS AND SEEMS TO BUCK AS IF NOT FINDING THE GEAR (ALMOST ALWAYS AROUND 2ND GEAR).
BRAKES INTERMITTENTLY DON'T GRAB SOMETIMES AND SOMETIME THEY GRIND WHEN APPLIED. I HAVE HAD THEM WORKED ON MULTIPLE TIMES AND I'VE HAD MECHANICS TO TELL ME THAT THERE'S SOME PROBLEM IN THE CONTROL UNIT THAT'S CAUSING THIS. I'VE HAD EVERYTHING REPLACED AND IT STILL HAPPENS.
I HEAR A HISSING NOISE WHEN DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE BRAKES FEEL SPONGY AND NOT VERY RESPONSIVE. GARAGE HAVE DIAGNOSED A LEAKING BRAKE BOOSTER. LINCOL RECALL 13N02 EXACTLY FITS THIS FAULT BUT IS ONLY BEING APPLIED TO 2010 - 2013 MODELS, MINE IS 2009. THIS RECALL NEEDS TO BE EXTENDED TO COVER 2009 MODELS TOO.
SUBJECT : GETTING A RAW DEAL ! JUST BOUGHT 2009 LINCOLN MKX. PROBLEMS ARE SURMOUNTING QUICKLY. FUMES IN CABIN RECALL IS CONNECTED TO TRANSMISSION FAILURE IN FORDS, LINCOLNS, MAZDA YEARS 2007 - 2013 APPROXIMATELY AS REPORTED. THE FUEL PUMP FAILS AND IS NOT EASILY REPLACEABLE. FORD IS AT FAULT FOR POORLY DESIGNING A $200 PART BEHIND A "TIMING CHAIN" WHICH REQUIRES REMOVAL BEFORE YOU CAN REACH THE FUEL PUMP TO REPLACE - COSTING THE CUSTOMER EXORBITANT AMOUNT OF MONEY TO REPAIR.
BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM LEAKS CAUSING BRAKES TO SQUEAL AND HISS THUS RENDERING VEHICLE UNSAFE STOP.. THE RECALL STARTS ON 2010 MODELS BUT THE RECALL SHOULD HAVE STARTED ON THE 2009S. I HAD TO REPLACE IT AND IT COST 700. NOW MY VEHICLE IS MECHANICALLY SOUND.
TAKATA RECALL , TIRE SENSOR KEEPS SAYING LOW TIRE PRESSURE EVEN AFTER CAR IN TURNT OFF AND RESTARTED AFTER AIR WAS PUT IN AND TIRE PRESSURE WAS CHECKED BY A MECHANIC. SOME TIME AFTER AIR IS PUT IN THE TIRE THE LIGHT MAY GO OFF FOR A FEW MINUTES AND OR HRS THEN THE LOW TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT COMES BACK ON AND YOU CAN'T SEE YOUR VEHICLE MILEAGE OR ANYTHING.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 LINCOLN MKX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEALER (COURTESY FORD, 5042, 1636 DOGWOOD DR SE, CONYERS, GA 30013, 1-(877) 289-7905) WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE THE RECALL REPAIR APPOINTMENT WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V001000 (AIR BAGS). THE DEALER DID NOT OFFER A LOANER VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AS REPORTED IN FORBES MAGAZINE ON APRIL 24, 2018 THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS REGARDING BRAKE FAILURES WITH LINCOLN MKZ 2006-2012 MODEL YEARS AFFECTING ONE MILLION SEDANS. THE LINCOLN MKX MODEL (CROSSOVER) I BELIEVE TO BE AFFECTED AS WELL. IN MY CASE, WHAT HAPPENED IS THAT THE ANTI LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM HAS FAILED ON MANY OCCASIONS WHILE I WAS OPERATING THE VEHICLE WITH MY FAMILY INSIDE RESULTING IN SEVERAL NEAR REAR END COLLISIONS. APPARENTLY THIS IS A COMMON FAILURE ON THE 2009 LINCOLN MKX MODEL AS THE ABS COMPONENT IS ON BACKORDER AND A WAIT OF OVER 3 WEEKS IS REQUIRED. THIS IS A MONUMENTAL SAFETY ISSUE AND THERE SHOULD BE AN INVESTIGATION OPENED IMMEDIATELY AND A RECALL ISSUED ON THESE VEHICLES.
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 LINCOLN MKX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V384000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. ISLAND LINCOLN-MERCURY, INC. (1850 EAST MERRITT ISLAND CAUSEWAY, MERRITT ISLAND, FLORIDA 32952, (321) 452-9220) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE RECALL AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 LINCOLN MKX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V384000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED ARCENEAUX FORD AT (337) 364-9721 (LOCATED AT 1111 OLD HWY 90W, NEW IBERIA, LA 70560) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Showing 20 of 839 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Before You Buy, Check the Exact Lincoln MKX
These pages show model-year patterns across 10years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
📖 Understanding This Data
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The Lincoln MKX has 839 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The Lincoln MKX has 37 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 35 of the Lincoln MKX's 839 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Poor) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all Lincoln MKX vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two Lincoln MKX vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The Lincoln MKX has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
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