Lincoln MKC owners have reported 261 problems related to engine and engine cooling (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Lincoln MKC based on all problems reported for the MKC.
My 2019 Lincoln Mkc with a 2. 0l ecoboost engine experienced coolant intrusion into cylinder 2, leading to engine misfire, check engine light, and severe vibration. The dealership confirmed the issue and recommended a full long block engine replacement, estimated at over $11,000. This failure occurred at only 48,000 miles. This appears to be the exact issue described in Ford TSB 19-2346, which covers 2017–2019 model year vehicles with the 2. 0l ecoboost engine, including the Lincoln Mkc and mkz. The TSB acknowledges a design-related coolant leak into the engine cylinders that can cause white smoke, misfire, rough running, and warning lights. Ford’s recommended repair is to replace the long block assembly. I believe this is a widespread design defect and request NHTSA’s investigation to ensure proper manufacturer accountability.
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I purchased a 2017 Lincoln Mkc approximately 90 days ago and recently encountered a check engine light notification with the diagnostic code p303, indicating a misfire in cylinder three. After replacing the fuel injector on that cylinder and completing a tune-up, which included the replacement of all spark plugs and ignition coils, I consulted a new mechanic. They informed me of a potential issue related to engine block intrusion, which reportedly affected other 2. 0 l engines from Ford motor company within the 2015-2019 model years. As a result, I have been advised to consider replacing the entire engine. Given that I acquired the vehicle as a used model with only 43,000 miles and is now out of warranty, I am facing an out-of-pocket expense of nearly $8,000.
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Symptoms consistent with TSB 19-2346 for 2. 0l ecoboost engines: coolant in cylinders, white exhaust smoke and check engine light is on. I have to keep topping off the coolant weekly, engine light comes and goes with same errors. Went to a general mechanic who got error codes po301-00 and po316-00. Currently scheduled next week to see an engine mechanic. Available for inspection upon request. Has not put us in danger yet but is of major concern due to potential for failure, so we are having it seen to ASAP. We don't have a Ford dealership so nearby to go out there with a failing car just to have them verify that yes that is the issue and yes it will be a very expensive repair we could not afford if we did it with them. Despite very low mileage it is still past warranty date, so any goodwill would have to come after we go through the trouble of bringing our vehicle in and hoping for the best. We called and they couldn't even provide any kind of ballpark likelyhood of goodwill.
Only 69,000 miles and have engine failure. Car shut down on the highway and put me and my child in a very dangerous situation. Dealership diagnosed it as coolant intrusion into the engine. Seems to be a widely known problem with the Mkc. The engine now must be replaced and the cost is more than the car is worth.
The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle was shuddering. The contact stated while driving approximately 30-35 mph, the message "engine overheating" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the coolant reservoir was empty. The mechanic added coolant to the vehicle and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was coolant intrusion in the engine block. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,800.
The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who diagnosed that the #2 and #3 spark plugs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, two days after the repair, the check engine warning light illuminated again, and the engine started to overheat. The contact checked to coolant level and discovered there was no coolant in the coolant reservoir. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic and was inspected, and it was determined that the failure was best diagnosed by the dealer. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed additional diagnosis for coolant intrusion to determine if the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
See attached document for complaint.
2018 Lincoln Mkc with 112,700 miles hesitating with accelerating. There have been no check engine lights activated. Took to Ford dealership for inspection and they found coolant level low and confirmed shuddering/jerking when accelerating. Found that cylinder 1 misfiring and upon further inspection found coolant intrusion in cylinder 1. Recommended long block replacement. I found that this year model with Ford ecoboost 2l engine has had frequent issues with the coolant leaking into cylinders due to poor design of this engine. Contacted Ford and asked for help with the cost to replace the engine block and was denied any assistance.
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2019 Mkc - purchased from Lincoln last year used 20k. Known coolant intrusion into the engine. Clouds of white smoke in exhaust and coolant leak. Misfire. Requires replacement per TSB Ford replaced defective engines with exact same problem; customer satisfaction program 21n12 certain 2017-2019 model year fusion and escape vehicles equipped with a 1. 5l gtdi engine – short block replacement after coolant intrusion, program terms this program provides a no-cost, one-time repair (if needed) to the 1. 5l short block, due to coolant intrusion to the cylinder bores, for 7 years of service or 84,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. . . . . . . . . . . . But has not helped Lincoln customers with the exact same issue.
Engine failure due to coolant leak. Causing vehicle to overheat without warning while traveling down highway issue has been reported to service center no other inspection no warning indicated.
I took my vehicle to rainbow muffler and brake due to my engine light on. I was told I had an evap leak and it may just be my gas cap. I don’t have a gas cap. They turned the light off and it stayed off for a while. A few months later I took it in and was told to do a smoke test. Smoke test showed I need a purge valve ($214 for part from dealer) and rainbow charged $105 to install. A few weeks later light returns, I take it back to rainbow. I’m told a tune up $$250. A few weeks later light comes back on. I’m told I needed coils $325. A few weeks later light is back on. I immediately called rainbow to be told, Lincoln knows there a defect but they aren’t acknowledging it. I filed a complaint with the bbb and my states attorney general office.
Within 4 months, I’ve spent $12k on transmission replacement (refurb. ) (metallics in the fluid), fuel injectors, etc. The check engine light is still on…now im told that coolant is leaking into my engine, and the engine needs replaced! (coolant intrusion) another $9k for parts and labor! I just paid the car off! ive kept up with repairs and service! ive done everything the dealer has suggested…except replace the engine! I’m still recovering from the cost of the transmission! the 2017 Lincoln Mkc with a 2. 0l ecoboost engine has a known defect where coolant leaks into the engine cylinders, often causing misfires, overheating, or engine failure. This issue, linked to faulty engine block and cylinder head design, typically requires engine replacement ($5,000-$9,500). Ford issued TSB 22-2229 but no recall. A class-action lawsuit is ongoing. Check warranty status; report to NHTSA.
The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed on a road trip, the engine coolant temperature warning light illuminated, and the engine overheated. The contact was able to continue driving to the destination. The contact stated that the transmission and rear brakes and rotors had previously been replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the engine was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 99,800.
Loosing coolant resulting in coolant leaking into the engine. White smoke coming from exhaust m. Repair garage states only fix is to replace with revised engine causing over $10,000 in repair costs.
Was uninformed about previous recalls to this same make and model that took place prior to me getting this vehicle. Was told by Ford dealership recently once I took the vehicle for diagnostic for engine light being on that coolant has been leaking into the engine and would require a brand new engine. This has been a manufacture issue that Ford has been made aware of years ago and has done absolutely nothing about.
I purchased a 2016 Lincoln Mkc 2. 0 with 96k miles on it 2 months ago, and we just discovered a coolant leak into the first cylinder, causing a cracked head gasket. The engine needs to be replaced, and will cost $15k. Many other drivers have experienced this problem and reported it, and Ford has done nothing to correct the main issue. This problem is causing overheating of the engine, and could potentially cause injury if not fixed.
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The engine light has appeared approximately in April 2025. The inspection advised that the engine code indicated a misfire in cylinder 4. The engine rough idles when started. The coolant loss is extensive due to an engine issue and must be constantly filled. Vwe were told by, ipaul's repair shop, that upon calling Ford, that there was a Lincoln technical service bulletin the 2 liter eco boost engine. It was re coolant intrusion into the cylinders. Service bulletin # 19-2346. We have also replaced the spark plugs and coils. The engine light still came on with the same issue. It did not solve the problem of a defective engine.
Coolant leak intrusion misfire cyl4 and cyl3 smoke vehicle shut down extreme engine shaking and fire check engile lights class action lawsuits manufacturers refusing to help and dealership is refusing to help. Dealership admits vehicle is unrepairable and has held possession for 75 days.
The contact owns a 2018 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated that when the vehicle was cold-started, the vehicle shuddered, shook abnormally, and idled roughly. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was still running rough after the engine had reached normal operating temperatures. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that there was coolant intrusion into the cylinders, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 49,000.
The contact owns a 2018 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated that there was a misfire coming from the engine while starting the vehicle. While inspecting the vehicle, the coolant level was extremely low. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed of coolant intrusion into the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 69,349.
The contact owned a 2018 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the check engine light illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed the coolant was leaking in the cylinder and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact mention he has traded the vehicle in. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they informed him there were no recalls on the vehicle. The contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 57,000.
We purchased the vehicle about a year and a half ago and about three months after we purchased it. The check engine light went on. We’ve had the vehicle into the dealership several times we’ve had the problem fixed supposedly twice we put in over $1000 in fixing it and now the check engine light came on again and the car stopped running saying it’s overheating. Took it to the dealership and now they say the car needs a whole new engine because they antifreeze is leaking leaked into the engine so they’re quoting us a $12,000 repair. This is a common problem in later models but obviously in the 2016 it’s also a problem.
Coolant is being blown out of the cars tailpipe. Opon cranking . There's a lot of white smoke. Lately every three days I have to add antifreeze to the coolant reservoir. Car was inside of my yard and parked.
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Known issue with the 2. 4l turbo engine and coolant leak resulting in need for engine replacement.
The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. Upon inspection, the contact discovered a low coolant level. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, who determined that there was coolant intrusion into cylinders #2 and #3. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Bought this 2017 Lincoln Mkc with 75k miles on 2/21/25. Four days later while driving to work an engine light came on. Continuing on to work the car started running poorly while crossing a rail road track. Seemed like it was gonna quit running right there on the track. Then it started running like it did before except now there is a wrench starting blinking on my instrument panel. Had the engine code checked at o’riley’s and was informed it was number 3 cylinder misfiring as they recommend a new spark plug and coil. While they checked the code I called the dealer where I purchased the vehicle and I have an appointment scheduled for 10 am tomorrow. I’m sure they will install a new plug and coil and send me on my way knowing my warranty will be ending in a few more hundred miles . I’ve researched the issue and know the motor needs changed and it should be Ford to recall them. I’m handicap now and won’t be able to afford to fix it or buy another vehicle. This isn’t right and does needs to step up to the plate and accept responsibility for their mistake.
Torque converter failure that has plagued other Ford vehicles of this era having the 2 liter 4 cylinder engines. Please see attached letters to and from Ford and all work orders.
I started my car with no prior warning light or malfunction alerts on my dashboard or Lincoln phone app. Upon shifting into drive, the vehicle began shaking severely, accompanied by a loud rattling noise for the first time. I had the car towed to a Lincoln dealership, where they evaluated the issue (see attached file for their conclusion). Seeking a second opinion, I had it towed again to an independent service center, where they determined that a cracked electrical plug caused a transmission fluid leak. The defect put our safety at risk, as I was unknowingly driving with transmission fluid levels below the minimum and blackened oil. As a result the transmission had to be replaced.
The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was heavy white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. While driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated upon depression of the accelerator pedal, with the check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of coolant, and there were no signs of a coolant leak. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the turbos, spark plugs, and fuel injectors were replaced; however, the failure persisted after the repair. The contact then scheduled an appointment with a local dealer for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.
It was almost time for an oil change when the check engine light came on. The engine was idling roughly when the car was first started. I decided to take the car in early for the oil change and to get them to check the check engine light that’s when they told me of the known problem with the cracked engine block, and the engine coolant leaking into the engine. I took the car to another place for a second opinion and the mechanic told me he had repaired five of these vehicles recently. In my research, I have found that Ford was aware of this problem with Ford vehicles and Lincoln vehicles, but has not offered a solution to the problem. I don’t find a recall notice or anything Ford is doing about this problem, except replacing the engine, as instructed by Ford and charging me full price for the replacement of the engine. I would not have purchased this vehicle had I known of this problem. This vehicle has had every scheduled maintenance performed by the Lincoln dealership except two oil changes that were done at a Ford dealership.
Check engine light on and after scan, code p0302 results. Engine feels sluggish. "coolant level low" displayed on dash, also temperature level rose to high so stopped driving it. Engine temperature elevated may catch fire car. Problem is coolant entering cylinder. Confirmed by two independent mechanics, and today by Lincoln mechanic. Vehicle is at Lincoln service center. Check engine light appeared on dash a few days before the temperature elevation and coolant loss. Got code p0302 a few days before the coolant loss and temperature rise.
The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln Mkc. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to o’reilly auto parts and was diagnosed with a misfire in cylinder #2. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a misfire in cylinder #3. The dealer replaced the ignition coils and the spark plugs; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, no cause for the failure was found. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing excessive coolant consumption, and the contact noticed an abnormal odor coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that assistance would not be provided because the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 190,500.
Purchased 2016 Lincoln Mkc from a Ford dealer in October with approximately 133k miles. Was a trade-in from August. The beginning of January on a very cold day while warming the Mkc, the air stayed cold. Drove to work and back. That night added antifreeze as it was low. Next day on the way to work, shortly after leaving home the Mkc started losing power and shaking. Couldn't pinpoint where the shake was coming from. A friend's husband is a master tech at the Ford dealership where I purchased it. I described the issues to him. He looked under hood. The antifreeze that was filled up the day before was completely empty. He could tell what the issue was. I called the dealership. Was initially told it would cost $10k-$12k to replace engine. Talked to several managers at the dealership. Called Lincoln concierge. There was no recall for my VIN. The design of my long block with the 2. 0 ecoboost was the same design as the vehicles recalled in 2017-2019. After a second call to Lincoln concierge, was told the VIN specifics are based on the plants where the vehicles are made. I did get the Mkc to the Ford dealership to do an official diagnosis and it was confirmed that there was coolant intrusion. This has been very disheartening. I'm not understanding why, if the engine is the same design flaw, there is no recall or assistance.
The engine failure in my 2017 Lincoln Mkc was caused by coolant intrusion, a known design flaw affecting thousands of 2015-2019 models. This serious issue presents a severe safety risk to drivers and passengers. Symptoms engine light illumination shakiness and sputtering at startup misfire on cylinder #3 rapid coolant loss intermittent engine light warnings battery-like symptoms (vehicle not starting, clicking sounds) violent shaking during 1 startup diagnosis and repair attempts replaced component for cylinder #3 misfire installed new spark plugs refilled coolant reservoir battery checked and jumped final diagnosis: engine replacement required due to coolant intrusion issue confirmed as a known design flaw in Lincoln Mkc safety risks the coolant intrusion problem poses significant safety risks: potential for sudden engine failure while driving, especially at high speeds risk of losing control of the vehicle due to engine seizure danger to occupants and other road users in case of unexpected breakdown confirmation and inspection the issue was reproduced and confirmed by both monro auto and the Lincoln dealership. The vehicle was inspected by the Lincoln dealership, which determined the need for a complete engine replacement the warranty company approved the engine replacement, acknowledging the severity of the problem warning signs intermittent check engine light illumination occasional shaking and sputtering at startup rapid coolant loss without visible leaks intermittent starting issues resembling battery problems one episode of violent shaking at startup all of these symptoms appeared sporadically manufacturer responsibility despite being aware of this design flaw and even developing a new engine to address the issue, Lincoln has not issued a recall. This lack of action raises serious concerns about the manufacturer's commitment to customer safety. The problem is widespread, as evidenced by numerous reports on Lincoln Mkc forums, indicating a systemic iss.
1st engine failure Dec 2021 due to coolant intrusion and the long block engine needed to be replaced. After the repair I came to look at it & I found, bolts were missing—including from the undercarriage, battery mount, & power steering reservoir, splash guard, inner wheel well shield. Tools (10mm snap-on socket & unidentified loose bolts) were left inside the engine bay. The coolant hose came loose, which your team tried to charge $4,000 to fix, despite it being clearly related to poor installation of the engine. The engine mounts—normally last 10-14 yrs before needing to be replaced—suddenly failed. Wiring harnesses weren’t secured, not informed of new engine warranty coverage being only for 1 yr. 2nd engine failure (Dec 2024): less than 22k miles later, the engine failed again—this time 4 months outside the so-called 1-yr warranty that I was never told about. Now, I’m expected to pay out of pocket for another engine, which would conveniently include a 3-yr warranty this time. Why wasn’t the 1st replacement engine covered under the same terms? purchased with: 45,000 miles 1st engine failed 53,594 miles, coolant hose/engine mount issues: 61,000 miles, 2nd engine failed 84,193 miles if inspection is needed, I have photos. It has been confirmed by northpark Lincoln dealership. It was inspected by the manufacturer and other mechanics, not affiliated with dealership. No warning signs no warning lamps no codes thrown no nothing until the loss of acceleration and torque combined with the amount of white smoke coming out of the tailpipe in the middle of the summer. It was the only notification it was too late by that point the damage has been done. On both occasions, the exact same thing happened no warning lights no check engine lights no mil lights, or codes thrown just simply a huge cloud of dust coming from the tailpipe, and you lose almost all power and acceleration. Symptoms appeared after the damage had been done so no way to tell that something wrong prior.