PROBLEM GUIDE

2010–2016 Lincoln MKT Common Problems

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

Last updated June 2026

19

complaints filed for this model year

2010–2016

Model years affected

$1,250 – $1,750

Typical repair cost, by problem

This generation's dominant complaint category (10 complaints) is power steering assist failure and seizure while driving at highway speeds, with "Service power steering now" warnings — the same electric power steering failure is reported on the Lincoln MKS, which shares Ford's D3/D4 platform. Multiple complaints note that recalls related to this steering defect have expired, or that owners' VINs do not match the recall database despite exhibiting the identical failure. Recurring turbo boost failures and an internal PTU failure are also reported on the Lincoln MKS.

Quick Scan: 5 Issues

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

Think this sounds like your Lincoln MKT?

Tell us what's happening and get a preliminary diagnosis, typical cost range, and trusted shops near you.

Get a Second Opinion

Compare estimates before authorizing major work.

Compare Estimates →

Talk to MyGearGuru

Answer a few questions and get a preliminary read plus shops near you.

Start my diagnosis →

PROBLEM DETAILS

Power steering assist failure and seizure at highway speed

Steering assist fails or the steering seizes at highway speed

Check engine light: On

Power steering issues include the steering wheel becoming firm/difficult to turn, and power steering seizure while driving at highway speeds, with "Service power steering now" warnings.

The same electric power steering failure is reported on the Lincoln MKS, which shares Ford's D3/D4 platform.

↑ Back to the problem table

VINs not matching recall database, or recall expired

Same steering defect as the recall, but excluded from coverage

Check engine light: On

Multiple complaints note that recalls related to the steering defect above have expired, or that owners' VINs do not match the recall database despite exhibiting the identical failure.

The Lincoln MKS shows a similar gap, where certain model years were left out of the recall.

↑ Back to the problem table

Recurring turbo boost failures

Both turbochargers blown simultaneously in some cases

Check engine light: On

Recurring turbo boost failures, oil pressure warnings with both turbochargers blown simultaneously, and excessive smoking from the exhaust are documented, alongside hard shifting and knocking sounds.

An internal PTU failure requiring replacement is also documented. The same failure is reported on the Lincoln MKS.

↑ Back to the problem table

Failed taillight seals causing water intrusion

Not covered under extended warranty in one documented case

Check engine light: Off

Rear taillights stopped working when headlights were on, traced to a failed seal that let water leak into the housing; the extended warranty did not cover this lighting issue in one documented case.

$1,500

The same tail-lamp seal water intrusion is documented on the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class.

↑ Back to the problem table

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 18 owner reports on file.

↑ Back to the problem table

Some owners report that their VIN is not covered by the steering recall despite showing the same failure, which is also the case on the Lincoln MKS. 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.

Free instant car diagnosisKnow what's wrong before you go to the mechanic — takes 1 minute.