Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Lincoln MKZ - part 1

My 2018 Lincoln Mkz began misfiring on startups. Eventually the check engine light came on with a code of p0302. About a week later while driving, the engine temp gauge reached the hottest temp reading on the gauge. I had to immediately pull over. Upon pulling over I immediately checked the coolant level in the overflow reservoir and it was empty. After refilling with coolant I was able to drive the car home. Over the next few days I monitored the coolant level but at the same time the car was experiencing rough startups and smoke coming out of the exhaust upon startup. Sometimes turning the engine off and restarting it would stop the smoke, but sometimes it wouldn't. I began doing some research and discovered, technical service bulletin (TSB) 19-2346, which explains my exact experience with my 2018 Lincoln Mkz. I have yet to take my car to the dealership for repairs due to the costs that are expected to have this issue resolved. Documents in the legal case, miller, et al. V. Ford motor company (case no. 2:20-cv-01796) claim that Ford was aware of this defect in their vehicles dating back to 2010. I purchased my 2018 Lincoln Mkz back in 2019.

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2. 0yt coolant intrusion. Needs long block replaced. So basically a motor. Ford knows about this.

See all problems of the 2017 Lincoln MKZ 🔎.

Took car into Ford dealership service because the check engine light came on. The car was sounding a little rough also. When they called me, I was expecting a tune up or just a sensor issue, but I was told that I needed a new engine! the tech found dtc p0302 for misfire on cylinder number 2, found coolant on spark plug. Cylinder #2 was cracked and leaking coolant into it. Was told it would lead to catastrophic failure. Was told I needed a long block replacement at the tune of $9,000. The service tech called Ford to help with the costs, but since I didn't have an extended warranty, they wouldn't do anything. The car has been barely driven and taken well care of. I bought it in 2019 with 12k miles and now in 2026 it only has 69k miles. I have researched and found out that this is a systemic issue. Had I not replaced the engine it could of been catastrophic! I have been with Ford since I started driving in the early 80's. This is unacceptable. According to several reports, this has been reported many times (maybe thousands?). I wonder how many are not reported. Ford needs to reimburse for the defective engine.

Internal water pump failed causing immediate shutdown of vehicle. This water pump is internal to the engine and requires half of the engine be taken apart to be replaced. This affect all 3. 5 and 3. 7 Ford engines through 2021. Unlike traditional water pumps which are belt driven this one is driven by the timing chain. Thereby when failure occurs the engine shuts down. Coolant also leaks into the oil as a result possibly resulting in engine damage. Ford is fully aware of the defect and refuses to recall. Regardless of age or miles this is a defect especially with vehicles equipped with the internal plastic water pump.

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My check engine light came on, I took my car to the dealership that I have using for eight years with less than 38k miles on it and I was told by the service technician who gave the diagnose as, there was coolant in the cylinder where the spark plug #3 is housed. He stated that the car is misfiring and I was told I needed to get an new engine replace to correct the problem. I was given a service bulletin stating the manufacturer knew of the problem with this model. I talk to the dealership service manager and questioned why no indication, clue, or suggestion was told to me of the problem with that type of engine. I have not contact my insurance company and I don't if they have information on the problem of the engine problem. I did tell the service technician on routine maintenance for the car that is running "rich" in using gas. In may of this year is when the engine problem started, 3 weeks before actually being eight years officially, no other indication lights came. I drive to work on the streets and freeway everyday.

Vehicle model is prone to coolant intrusion which causes misfire and engine shut off while driving. Car shakes while accelerating.

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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 the cause of the problem the way they designed it Ford acknowledged the problem saying it's the engine block because of a poor design only way to fix this is with a new redesigned engine block and that cost a lot of money I think Ford should be held accountable and should do a recalls on these and get these fixed this is not right.

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 safety risk if other drivers don’t notice the vehicle slowing to a crawl. It also puts my family at risk if we ever have to exit the car in busy traffic. Ford has diagnosed the issue, but they stated there is no recall associated with this VIN. The check engine light remains on.

I own a 2017 Lincoln Mkz equipped with the 2. 0l ecoboost engine. At approximately [mileage] miles, the vehicle began experiencing loss of coolant, rough running/misfire, shaking/rough start, and reduced engine performance. The vehicle was diagnosed by a Ford/Lincoln dealership as having coolant intrusion into the engine/cylinders and/or engine block failure, requiring engine/long-block replacement. The estimated repair cost was approximately $8000. This creates a safety concern because coolant intrusion can cause misfires, overheating, engine damage, and possible loss of power while driving. Ford/Lincoln has issued technical service bulletin 19-2346 and superseding bulletin 22-2229 for 2017–2019 Lincoln Mkz vehicles equipped with the 2. 0l ecoboost engine. These bulletins describe low coolant, white exhaust smoke, rough running, misfire codes, overheating codes, and coolant intrusion into the cylinder, with the prescribed repair being long-block engine replacement. Despite this known documented condition, Lincoln/Ford denied assistance because the vehicle is outside warranty. I am reporting this as a potential safety defect because the failure can occur without adequate warning and may cause engine overheating, misfire, or loss of power while the vehicle is being operated.

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 recently I problem that was supposedly fixed already wasn't and flywheel broke leaving me stranding in a parking lot for 4 days dropping transmission. The dealer didn't put back all the parts correctly either.

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 running, misfires, and complete engine shutdown. The vehicle became inoperable and had to be towed to a Ford dealership. At the dealership, technicians were unable to start the vehicle at all, and could not even pull it into the service bay to perform diagnostics. The service department told us the symptoms match the known coolant?intrusion issue documented in Ford’s technical service bulletin 19?2346, which applies to 2017–2019 2. 0l ecoboost engines. They advised us not to pay for diagnostic testing, because the failure pattern is already known and documented by Ford, but not covered under any recall. They referred us to Lincoln corporate. Lincoln corporate then informed us that they have no programs available to assist with this defect, even though it is a known issue. They stated that even if a program existed, they “wouldn’t be able to assist with even half the cost. ” they also suggested that we consider installing a junkyard engine as a more cost?effective option. This was their only recommendation for a catastrophic engine failure caused by a known defect. This is extremely concerning for a safety?related failure. The symptoms match Ford’s documented defect exactly: • coolant loss with no external leak • white smoke prior to failure • engine misfires and rough running • overheating • engine unable to start • potential for engine seizure or fire this is the same failure pattern described in recall 25v685 and the January 2026 recall, which involve coolant intrusion, overheating, and fire risk in similar Ford/Lincoln engines. My VIN is not included, but the failure mode is identical. My vehicle is now completely disabled due to this defect, and Lincoln has refused any assistance.

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 issue a recall for. The only fix for this problem is to have the long block replaced at a cost of over $9,000. 00. Not exactly Ford looking out for the safety of their customers.

Head gasket failure. Coolant leak into engine block. Replaced engine at a cost of $3900.

Check engine light came on. Error code 0302 and 0316 on odb at dealer. Was advised that engine needed to be replaced due to coolant intrusion into cylinder 2 which cause the vehicle to overheat. Engine has 3200 miles on it. Safety hazard due to engine seizing at high speed and causing an accident due to loss of power. Also possible engine fire due to loss of coolant/overheating.

While driving vehicle the engine shut down for no apparent reason. Light came on said do not attempt to drive, not safe. Was able to get car to a safe area. Was able to restart and get the car home. Brought the car to the dealer, said battery was dead, found water in the truck where the battery is located.

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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 the hood. The sound was either metal pieces falling off or grinding/chomping metal against metal. Concerned by the noises, I pulled over to the side of the road. Smoke and fire once stopped, the car began emitting gray smoke, which quickly turned into black smoke. The black smoke entered through the dashboard, filling the interior cabin. I realized the vehicle had caught on fire. Immediate actions taken I quickly gathered personal belongings from inside the car. I was lucky to have evacuated the vehicle immediately to ensure my safety, despite inhalation of potentially hazardous chemicals due to the fire/ plastic of the car. I then called 911 to report the fire and request emergency assistance. The car continued to catch fire and then there was a minor explosion, as the chicago fire department battled the fire.

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 by murgado Ford Lincoln of chicago pursuant to Ford technical service bulletin (TSB) 22-2229. The repair involved removal and replacement of the engine assembly and related components. After the vehicle was returned to me following this repair, the engine later experienced a sudden catastrophic mechanical failure while I was driving. The vehicle rapidly began emitting smoke from the engine compartment and subsequently caught fire. The fire escalated quickly and rendered the vehicle a total loss. At the time of the incident, the vehicle was being operated under normal driving conditions. There was no collision or external cause that would have triggered the fire. The event appears to have originated within the engine compartment following the recent engine replacement. The vehicle was subsequently towed and is currently stored at city of chicago auto pound no. 6 following the fire incident. The vehicle has not been repaired or altered since the event and remains available for inspection. Given that this vehicle had recently undergone a major engine replacement under a manufacturer technical service bulletin, I believe the circumstances warrant review to determine whether the incident may be related a defect in the replacement engine assembly improper installation of the engine or related components fuel, oil, or electrical system issues associated with the repair. This incident presented a serious safety risk to the driver and could have resulted in severe injury or loss of life. I was fortunate to escape the vehicle safely before the fire fully developed. I am submitting this complaint so that NHTSA may evaluate whether this type of failure represents a broader safety concern.

Faulty engine, head gasket failure and needing total engine replace at 83,000 miles.

Coolant intrusion into cylinders 2&3 causing misfire at 126,000 miles. Car lost coolant without warning and started overheating. Took to west herr Lincoln in buffalo NY and they said car needs new engine, Lincoln wont cover or help me with repair. I owe ally $16,000 on this car still.

My 2019 Lincoln Mkz check engine light came on. The repair shop said coolant was leaking into #3 cylinder from cracks in the engine block. Per alerts the shop receives from Ford, this is a known issue and there is no way to repair this issue. The engine will need to be replaced. My powertrain warranty ended 4 month earlier. My car has 45,500 miles on it. I talked to the dealership and they advised calling Lincoln directly. I call Lincoln and they confirmed this is a known issue. I was told that my car didn't meet the out of warranty criteria to receive any assistance to replace the defective engine. They wouldn't tell me what the parameters are and said I would need to pay the full cost to replace the engine. My understanding from the shop is they see many escapes and Mkz with this engine issue but never seen one with this low of mileage. Lincoln told me to keep my replacement receipts in case there is a recall. I.

Coolant intrusion of cylinder 3, car has less than 50,000 miles total and has been very well taken care of. Has had over a gallon of coolant added within the month of Aug.

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.

Total engine failure due to coolant leaking into it. 2023 investigation on this same situation, whats the outcome.

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, or a recall established.

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.

My name is [xxx] , and I am leasing a 2017 Lincoln Mkz, with 60000 miles on it and experience total engine failure due to coolant leaking into it information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln Mkz. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the engine had failed due to coolant intrusion. 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 74,000.

Greetings, I am adding my name to what has to be thousands of complaints about engine failure do to antifreeze intrusion. Ford should be replacing these engines for free. I also own a 2019 and waiting to have to spend another 8 grand on it.

My Mkz started slowly losing coolant and running rough particularly upon starting the engine. Two days later the overheating warning came on and I pulled over and shut off the engine. Sioux falls Ford has diagnosed it as coolant intrusion in the engine requiring a new engine block.

See all problems of the 2016 Lincoln MKZ 🔎.

I am submitting this complaint to formally report that my 2017 Lincoln Mkz experienced engine block damage due to a failed torque converter weld, a known safety defect covered under NHTSA recall 17v-427 / 18v-390 (Ford campaign 17s16). This recall specifically affects vehicles like mine equipped with a 2. 0l gas engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, due to improperly welded torque converter studs. This failure causes loss of power and potential transmission or engine damage—precisely what occurred with my vehicle. When I brought my vehicle to an authorized Lincoln dealership in alexandria, virginia, the service department refused to cover the cost of repair, despite the vehicle falling within the recall parameters. Their refusal directly contradicts federal recall law (49 u. S. Code § 30120), which mandates that manufacturers and authorized dealers must remedy safety defects at no cost to the vehicle owner, regardless of ownership history or age. As a result of their denial, I am left with significant out-of-pocket costs for damage that should be addressed under a federally mandated safety recall. This poses both a financial burden and a public safety risk if other owners are similarly turned away. I am requesting that NHTSA: investigate this dealership’s noncompliance with federal recall obligations. Ensure that Ford motor company and its authorized dealers are held accountable for safety-related repairs. Assist in compelling the dealer to honor the recall and reimburse or cover the cost of required repairs.

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln Mkz. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated with smoke coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated the vehicle lost motive power but was able to be restarted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

I purchased my 2017 Lincoln Mkz select on November 11, 2024. The vehicle was determined to need a new engine, per murgado Lincoln of chicago. They had my car for over 48 days while putting in a new engine. After this was completed the car had to be sent back due to a mistake the mechanics made by not attaching a gasket properly. After this, I began experiencing odd noises underneath the hood and throughout the vehicle; delayed timing belt in both acceleration and deceleration, and so forth. I was then involved in a hit-and-run car accident (not my fault). All side airbags deployed and my passenger side rear wheel is destroyed. I had this car assessed just a few days ago by a certified auto care company who said I needed a completely new transmission and that this car is not street legal at the moment. . . Insurance is not helping me at all.

I purchased a 2017 Lincoln Mkz select which has been a continuous source of mechanical problems. After recently having a new engine installed, the vehicle has now developed significant transmission issues, making it unsafe and difficult to drive. Despite being sold this car under the assumption it was reliable, I am struggling with costly repairs and reduced functionality, effectively driving a “lemon. ” I believe the vehicle’s condition and recurring failures qualify it for protection under consumer lemon laws or warranties, and I am seeking resolution or compensation due to these defects that have severely impacted the vehicle’s usability and my safety.

My 2018 Lincoln Mkz with the 2. 0 ecoboost engine incurred premature engine failure at only 40k miles. My safety as well as other drivers' safety at risk due to ecoboost engine in certain model year 2013-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles have an inherent design defect which makes them predisposed to leak coolant, including allowing the coolant to seep into the engine cylinder, which causes overheating and cylinder head cracking, and can cause the engine to misfire, suddenly stall, or even catch fire while driving. In April the car began to "shake" at start up. The shaking was intermittent. After a few days of this, the check engine light came on. I took it to the mechanic (t&h) to have it looked at. They said the "shaking" is the car misfiring at start up. They were not able to locate any leaks or identify the cause of the misfire. They code on the check engine light was code p0301-cylinder #1. During April and may the misfires have continued and got worse. I was going back and forth to t&h trying to diagnose the issue. On may 12th, while taking the kids to school, I went to pull out into traffic and the car would not accelerate. The dashboard lights said the engine was overheating. The car would not go above 10mph. Luckily my mechanic is down the street. They were concerned about excessive use of coolant and not seeing a leak anywhere. They filled the coolant, and I made a follow up appt in one week to do a borescope inspection. On may 19th, t&h did a borescope inspection and visually confirmed coolant in cylinder #1. They provided me a copy of a TSB 22-2229 that states the engine block needs to be replaced. The cost of the engine block replacement was estimated at $8k. Engine failure at 40k miles is unacceptable. An engine block replacement due to a manufacturing/design flaw should be covered by Lincoln motor CO as a goodwill repair regardless of warranty status.

Ford have a huge problem with the 2. 0 ecoboost. Where coolant pass through the cylinder and make engine mix oil and coolant. Ford have a thousand of claim about this and still doesn’t have any solution and they make customer pay everything.