PROBLEM GUIDE

2009–2016 Lincoln MKS Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated March 2026

51

complaints filed for this model year

2009–2016

Model years affected

$1,632 – $3,161

Typical repair cost, by problem

This generation's dominant complaint category (~16 complaints) is Electronic Power Steering Assist (EPAS) failure, causing loss of power steering without warning or steering wheel locking — one complaint states the driver was "COMPLETELY UNABLE TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL." Critically, the 2010 model year is excluded from the recall covering this exact defect on 2011-2013 models. Separately, roughly 10 complaints describe unintended acceleration events with multiple crash incidents directly attributed to sudden acceleration.

Quick Scan: 9 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Electronic Power Steering Assist (EPAS) failure, 2010 excluded from recall

Loss of power steering, or the wheel locking/seizing

Check engine light: On

EPAS failures cause loss of power steering without warning or steering wheel locking/seizing, at speeds ranging from highway to low-speed — one complaint states the driver was completely unable to turn the steering wheel. Multiple consumers note that 2011-2013 model years received a recall for this exact defect, but the 2010 model year is excluded despite exhibiting identical failures.

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Unintended acceleration events

Multiple crashes directly attributed to sudden acceleration

Check engine light: On

Roughly 10 complaints describe vehicle speed control issues including unintended acceleration events, cruise control malfunctions, throttle control failures, and accelerator pedal seizing — with multiple crash incidents directly attributed to sudden acceleration.

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Takata airbag recall parts unavailable

Extended delays completing recall repair

Check engine light: On

Roughly 6 airbag complaints reference the Takata recall with parts unavailable for extended periods; separately, non-deployment in frontal collisions at 45 mph is documented.

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Moonroof spontaneous explosion

Glass exploded from interior to exterior

Check engine light: Off

A moonroof exploded from interior to exterior in one documented case.

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Power transfer unit and turbocharger failures

Smoke and loss of power reported on some AWD vehicles

Check engine light: On

Water pump failures around 50,000 miles, EcoBoost timing chain tensioner issues, and turbocharger failures accompanied by smoke and loss of power are documented, alongside PTU (power transfer unit) failures — including one AWD vehicle needing the part replaced twice.

$1,632 – $3,161

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Various Radio Concerns

Various radio concerns

Check engine light: Off

Various radio concerns. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 211 owner reports on file.

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Grunting or Grinding Noise From Front Brakes

Grunting or grinding noise from the front brakes

Check engine light: Off

Grunting or grinding noise from the front brakes. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 45 owner reports on file.

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Fluid Leak From Axle Area

Fluid leak from the axle area

Check engine light: Off

Fluid leak from the axle area. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 39 owner reports on file.

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A/C Fan Speed Changing Constantly

A/C fan speed changes constantly

Check engine light: Off

A/C fan speed changes constantly. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 42 owner reports on file.

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This generation's 2011-2013 model years received a recall for Electronic Power Steering Assist failure, but the 2010 model year is reported excluded despite identical symptoms. A separate Takata airbag recall also applies. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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