PROBLEM GUIDE

2013–2016 Lincoln MKZ Common Problems

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

Last updated July 2026

108

complaints filed for the 2013 model year

2013–2016

Model years affected

Recurring 'power steering assist failure' messages causing stiff steering or complete loss of steering assist are the largest single complaint category. Door latches fail or doors don't close while driving, with multiple owners noting a recall existed but their specific VINs were not included.

Quick Scan: 8 Issues

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Power steering assist failure messages

Stiff steering or complete loss of steering assist, often without warning

Check engine light: On

Recurring 'power steering assist failure' messages cause stiff steering or complete loss of steering assist, often without warning at various speeds — the largest single complaint category for this vehicle.

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Door latches failing, some VINs excluded from recall

Doors not closing while driving

Check engine light: On

Door latches fail or doors don't close while driving — multiple owners note a recall existed but their specific VINs were not included.

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Transmission shifts unexpectedly between gears while in motion

A collision hazard

Check engine light: On

The transmission shifts unexpectedly between gears (Drive to Neutral/Park) while in motion, a collision hazard.

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Fuel leaking "at alarming rate"

One incident resulted in an engine fire

Check engine light: On

Fuel leaks 'at alarming rate' from fuel lines, with one incident resulting in an engine fire.

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Brake pedal sinks to the floor, complete fluid loss

Significantly extends stopping distance

Check engine light: On

The brake pedal sinks to the floor with complete fluid loss, significantly extending stopping distance.

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Rear seat belt retractor stuck in the down position

Prevents the seat back from returning upright

Check engine light: Off

The rear seat belt retractor gets stuck in the down position, preventing the seat back from returning upright.

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Lincoln MKZ Key Stuck in Ignition Lock Cylinder With Shifting and Electrical Issues

The key is stuck in the ignition lock cylinder with shifting and electrical issues

Check engine light: Off

The key is stuck in the ignition lock cylinder with shifting and electrical issues. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 54 owner reports on file.

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Trunk Lid May Not Latch Closed

The trunk lid may not latch closed

Check engine light: Off

The trunk lid may not latch closed. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 20 owner reports on file.

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Owners report door latches failing or doors not closing while driving, with multiple noting a recall existed but their specific VINs were not included. 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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