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⚑ NHTSA Official DataUpdated: May 2026How we calculate this
Minor Issues

2009 Lincoln Mkx: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict

Shopping for a used 2009 Lincoln Mkx? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 65 complaints, with Airbag Malfunctions as the top reported area.

65
Complaints
β€”
Crashes
β€”
Fires
β€”
Injuries
β€”
Deaths
7
Recalls

2009 Lincoln Mkx Fuel Economy

βœ“ EPA Official Data

EPA-rated fuel economy across 2 2009 Lincoln Mkx trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.

17
MPG City
15–17 range
24
MPG Hwy
22–24 range
19
MPG Combined
18–19 range
468
g COβ‚‚/mile
Regular Gasoline
⚠️Costs $5,750 more than avg vehicle over 5 years

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 2 trims analysed.

2009 Lincoln Mkx Safety Ratings

NHTSA 5-Star Program

Official crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.

Overall

Not Rated

14% rollover risk

Frontal Crash

Not Rated

Side Crash

Not Rated

Rollover

4/5

14% probability

βœ“Stability Control: Standardβ—‹Forward Collision Warning: Noβ—‹Lane Departure Warning: No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.

Quick Answer

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2009 Lincoln Mkx has 65 owner complaints, 0 crash-related complaints, and 7 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Airbag Malfunctions. NHTSA reliability signal: Minor Issues.

2009 Lincoln Mkx β€” key reliability facts
Make
Lincoln
Model
Mkx
Model year
2009
NHTSA owner complaints
65
Crash-related complaints
0
Safety recall campaigns
7
Top reported component
Airbag Malfunctions
Reliability signal
Minor Issues
EPA MPG combined
19
EPA MPG city / highway
17 / 24
Fuel type
Regular Gasoline
NHTSA rollover rating
4/5 stars
Electronic stability control
Standard

Most Common 2009 Lincoln Mkx Problems

Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.

#1
35
complaints

Airbag Malfunctions

#2
11
complaints

Brake System

#3
7
complaints

Electrical Faults

Complaint patterns center on Airbag Malfunctions, Brake System, Electrical Faults. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.

Should You Buy a Used 2009 Lincoln Mkx?

The 2009 Lincoln Mkx looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car.

Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.

What to Check Before Buying a Used 2009 Lincoln Mkx

Inspection Focus

  • Inspect airbag system for warning lights or prior repairs.
  • Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Request service records for brake and electrical system repairs.
  • Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.

Before You Close the Deal

  • Inspect airbag system for warning lights or prior repairs.
  • Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Request service records for brake and electrical system repairs.
  • Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.

Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.

Before buying a used 2009 Lincoln Mkx, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.

What the Complaint Data Suggests

Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology

Complaints for the 2009 Lincoln MKX are concentrated in airbag malfunctions, which account for the majority of reports. Brake system and electrical faults are also notable, though overall confidence in the data is low due to the single model year and limited sample size.

Key Findings
  • Airbag malfunctions represent the most frequently reported component issue.
  • Brake system complaints are the second most common category.
  • No crash-related complaints were reported despite the airbag concerns.
Top Concerns
  • Airbag Malfunctions: 35 complaints, suggesting a potential pattern of deployment or warning light issues.
  • Brake System: 11 complaints, indicating possible braking performance or component failures.
  • Electrical Faults: 7 complaints, pointing to wiring or module problems.
Data note: NHTSA complaints are consumer-submitted and do not confirm a manufacturing defect. The low confidence level reflects the small sample size (65 complaints) and single model year. Complaints may be influenced by reporting bias or external factors.

All 2009 Lincoln Mkx Complaints by Category

Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2009 Lincoln Mkx. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.

ComponentComplaintsCrashesFiresAvg MileageVolume
Airbag Malfunctions35β€”β€”β€”
Brake System11β€”β€”β€”
Electrical Faults7β€”β€”β€”
Uncategorized Issues5β€”β€”β€”
Engine Problems3β€”β€”β€”
Transmission / Drivetrain3β€”β€”β€”
Wheel Issues3β€”β€”β€”
Fuel/Propulsion System2β€”β€”β€”
Structural Problems2β€”β€”β€”
Unintended Acceleration1β€”β€”β€”
Equipment1β€”β€”β€”
Headlight/Taillight Failures1β€”β€”β€”
Steering Defects1β€”β€”β€”
Visibility1β€”β€”β€”
Hydraulic1β€”β€”β€”
Seat-Related Issues1β€”β€”β€”

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.

Real Owner Complaints

Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2009 Lincoln Mkx. Type a keyword (e.g. β€œtransmission”, β€œstalling”, β€œbrakes”) to filter.

Showing 65 most recent complaints

Engine ProblemsJan 29, 2024

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. Th…

Airbag MalfunctionsDec 6, 2023

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…

Brake SystemOct 22, 2022

Car frequently failed to stop timely when brakes were pressed. A HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT was advised and BRAKE BOOSTER to be installed.

Uncategorized IssuesAug 31, 2022

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 windshie…

Brake SystemApr 12, 2022

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 ve…

Airbag MalfunctionsApr 12, 2022

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 manu…

Transmission / DrivetrainFeb 6, 2022

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 "appr…

Brake SystemMay 12, 2021

ABS LIGHT CAME ON AND THE REPAIR SHOP SAYS THE ABS MODULE HAS FAILED AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.

Transmission / DrivetrainFeb 11, 2021

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.

Brake SystemNov 22, 2020

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…

Transmission / DrivetrainMar 9, 2020

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).

Brake SystemFeb 6, 2020

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.

Brake SystemDec 11, 2019

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…

Unintended AccelerationJul 29, 2019

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.…

Brake SystemJul 15, 2019

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.

Wheel IssuesMay 23, 2019

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 PRESS…

Airbag MalfunctionsApr 16, 2019

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: …

Brake SystemMar 15, 2019

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 A…

Airbag MalfunctionsNov 14, 2018

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 M…

Airbag MalfunctionsNov 5, 2018

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 REPAI…

Page 1 of 4

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2009 Lincoln Mkx.

2009 Lincoln Mkx Recalls

7 campaigns

NHTSA recall campaigns for the 2009 Lincoln Mkx. 7 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.

21V158000Oct 3, 2021
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

21V08100016/02/2021
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

21E01300016/02/2021
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

16V38400031/05/2016
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

18V046000Nov 1, 2018
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

17V024000Oct 1, 2017
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

15V71200027/10/2015
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

Compare Lincoln Mkx Model Years

Compare complaint and recall volume across years to see whether 2009 lands in a lower-risk or higher-risk part of the model timeline.

2018201720162015201420132012201120102009

2009 Lincoln Mkx Buying FAQ

Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.

Is the 2009 Lincoln Mkx reliable?β–Ύ

Minor Issues. NHTSA currently shows 65 owner complaints, 0 crash-related complaints, and 7 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2009 Lincoln Mkx looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.

What are the most common problems with the 2009 Lincoln Mkx?β–Ύ

#1: Airbag Malfunctions (35 complaints). #2: Brake System (11 complaints). #3: Electrical Faults (7 complaints)

At what mileage do problems start on the 2009 Lincoln Mkx?β–Ύ

Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.

How safe is the 2009 Lincoln Mkx?β–Ύ

Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2009 Lincoln Mkx, NHTSA complaints include 0 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 65 total complaints. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Does the 2009 Lincoln Mkx have any recalls?β–Ύ

Yes. 7 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2009 Lincoln Mkx. A major recall area is AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE. 7 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.

Should I buy a 2009 Lincoln Mkx?β–Ύ

The 2009 Lincoln Mkx looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Airbag Malfunctions during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.

Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.

Wider context: See the full Lincoln Mkx reliability report with year-by-year comparison.

Owner Reliability Rating

Rate the 2009 Lincoln Mkx based on your ownership experience.

Add your rating:

Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.

Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy

Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.