2017 Lincoln Mkz: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2017 Lincoln Mkz? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 123 complaints, with Engine Problems as the top reported area.
2017 Lincoln Mkz Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 5 2017 Lincoln Mkz trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 5 trims analysed.
2017 Lincoln Mkz Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested — showing 2017 Lincoln MKZ 4 DR AWDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
10.9% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
10.9% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2017 Lincoln Mkz has 123 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 4 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Engine Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Lincoln
- Model
- Mkz
- Model year
- 2017
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 123
- Crash-related complaints
- 6
- Safety recall campaigns
- 4
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 23
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 20 / 28
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2017 Lincoln Mkz Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Transmission / Drivetrain
Brake System
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Transmission / Drivetrain, Brake System. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2017 Lincoln Mkz?
The 2017 Lincoln Mkz shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
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 2017 Lincoln Mkz
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the engine thoroughly, as it is the most complained-about component.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for transmission and brake repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect the engine thoroughly, as it is the most complained-about component.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for transmission and brake repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2017 Lincoln Mkz, 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
Based on 123 NHTSA complaints for the 2017 Lincoln MKZ, issues are concentrated in the engine, with 73 complaints. Transmission and brake problems also appear frequently. The data suggests potential reliability concerns, but the low confidence level and limited model year range warrant caution.
- Engine Problems account for the majority of complaints (73 out of 123).
- Transmission/Drivetrain issues are the second most reported component (22 complaints).
- Brake System complaints total 14, indicating a recurring theme.
- Engine Problems
- Transmission/Drivetrain
- Brake System
All 2017 Lincoln Mkz Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2017 Lincoln Mkz. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 73 | 3 | 3 | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 22 | 3 | 2 | — | |
| Brake System | 14 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 10 | 2 | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 9 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 8 | — | 2 | — | |
| Steering Defects | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 4 | 2 | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 4 | 2 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Parking-Brake Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 1 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 1 | — | — | — |
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 2017 Lincoln Mkz. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated that while driving at speeds above 30 MPH, there was a rumbling sound and vibration coming from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who informed the contact that the transmission torque conver…
The vehicle lost power on the highway due to an overheating issue. Very dangerous when this happens while your going 70 mph. The vehicle was later determined to be a victim of Ford's known 2.0L Ecoboost engine that due to Ford's defective design, which Ford admits but refuses to …
The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated that upon shifting to reverse(R), the rear-view camera image was delayed and briefly distorted while displayed. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN…
Coolent intrusion, coolent leaking into cylinder number 2 causing a misfire and excessive white smoke every time I start the vehicle, seems this is a manufacturing flaw from the research I've done with so many other people having the same complaints because the engine block is th…
I am submitting this complaint to report a serious vehicle safety incident involving my 2017 Lincoln MKZ Select that resulted in a catastrophic engine fire while the vehicle was in operation. Prior to the incident, the vehicle underwent a long block engine replacement performed …
I drive a 2017 Lincoln MKZ equip with an Ecoboost 2.0L engine. A very widely known design flaw in the Engine Long block has caused coolant intrusion into the #1 cylinder. This can cause overheating issues and ultimately cause a fire and/or stall the car in a critical moment (i.e.…
The car has been experiencing a persistent cylinder #2 misfire. We replaced the coils and spark plugs, only to learn that this is a common issue with the 2.0 MKZ engines. The problem has worsened to the point where the car sometimes can barely move in traffic, creating a serious …
The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKZ. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the vehicle entered LIMP Mode and failed to shift into third or fourth gear. Due to the failure, the contact made several stops while driving to the residence. The vehicle was driven to an indep…
My 2017 Lincoln MKZ experienced a sudden and severe engine failure consistent with the known Ford/Lincoln coolant intrusion defect affecting 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L EcoBoost engines. While driving, the vehicle began losing coolant with no visible external leak, followed by rough run…
Faulty engine, head gasket failure and needing total engine replace at 83,000 miles
So I bought this car in February of last year. Since I've had it june I had to do a head gasket. Another time the high speed fuel pump had bolt come loose and oil went everywhere causing a fire. Had transmission intercooler line do the same thing. Additional fire. And just r…
After filling up with gas, started the vehicle & it displayed SEVERAL warnings regarding the steering, stability control, etc. Only about 2 miles from home. Started driving home & the steering wheel was variably going from fairly difficult to turn to VERY difficult to turn. Go…
Head gasket failure. coolant leak into engine block. Replaced engine at a cost of $3900
I am paying on a 2017 Lincoln MKZ with total engine failure due to coolant leaking into it. I am aware that NHTSA in early October 2023 there was an investigation into more than 700000 late model Ford due to catastrophic engine failure. Why was people not informed on this matter,…
Total engine failure due to coolant leaking into it. 2023 investigation on this same situation, whats the outcome
Torque converter is going oitvluckly caught it in time before it locked up and caused a crash. There are numerous other vins recalled for the same year and same issue because the torque coverter welds were not done correctly. My vehicle does not show any recalls but should have a…
The torque converter/flex plate is bad rattles and apoarently can cause an accident. There are recalls for this same year same motor and midel but my vehicle is not included but should be. I had it checked by undioendent mechanic who confirmed issue. I have read numerous post onl…
Incident Summary – Vehicle Fire Date of Incident: Thursday, September 4, 2025 Context: I was driving to a scheduled service appointment for my car at Murgado Lincoln Dealership of Chicago Events Leading Up to the Fire While driving, I heard loud metal noises coming from under …
Leasing a 2017 Mkz with total engine failure due to coolant leaking into the engine. Other issues are evolving, while unable to get it fixed
Lemon Was sold a car with a class action lawsuit in progress, still was leased to me stuck with payments with a blown engine. Now can't even open it
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2017 Lincoln Mkz.
2017 Lincoln Mkz Recalls
4 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2017 Lincoln Mkz. 4 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.
2017 Lincoln Mkz Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2017 Lincoln Mkz reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 123 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 4 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2017 Lincoln Mkz shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. 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 2017 Lincoln Mkz?▾
#1: Engine Problems (73 complaints). #2: Transmission / Drivetrain (22 complaints). #3: Brake System (14 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2017 Lincoln Mkz?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2017 Lincoln Mkz?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2017 Lincoln Mkz, NHTSA complaints include 6 crash-related reports and 3 fire reports out of 123 total complaints. 3 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2017 Lincoln Mkz have any recalls?▾
Yes. 4 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2017 Lincoln Mkz. A major recall area is POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER. 4 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 2017 Lincoln Mkz?▾
The 2017 Lincoln Mkz shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. 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 Engine Problems 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 Mkz reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2017 Lincoln Mkz 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.