2016 Lincoln MKC

Routine

Owners filed 80 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 5 times.

Not among the Lincoln MKC years to avoid. Which Lincoln MKC years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
69,000 milesMedian miles at failure

33 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2016 Lincoln MKC problems

43 of the 80 complaints (54%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine39
041
Power Train · transmission8
010
Unknown or Other5
010
Electrical System5
000
Steering4
000
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine4
000
Back Over Prevention · backup camera4
000
Wheels2
000
Exterior Lighting · headlights2
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration1
000

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Equipment › Electrical › Engine Block Heater26V011000
Filed Jan 15, 2026116,672 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.

Risk. An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 6, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S01. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026.

Equipment › Electrical › Engine Block Heater25V685000
Filed Oct 10, 202559,006 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.

Risk. An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated December 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.

Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera25V572000
Filed Sep 3, 20251,456,417 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC, Mustang, F-350 SD, F-250 SD, F-450 SD, 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, 2015-2018 Edge, Transit Connect, 2016-2019 F-550 SD, Transit, 2017-2019 Econoline, and 2019 Ranger vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, inverted, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.

Risk. A rearview camera that displays an inverted, distorted, or blank image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 13, 2026. Ford owners will receive letters in phases, beginning January 2026 and June 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S89. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 25V270. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning September 8, 2025.

Engine23V378000Park outside
Filed May 26, 2023142,734 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC vehicles. The battery monitor sensor may short-circuit and overheat, causing a fire in the engine compartment while parked or driving.

Risk. An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will add an in-line fuse to the battery monitor sensor power circuit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S28.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine16V183000
Filed Mar 31, 20161,543 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured November 25, 2013, to January 25, 2016, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured October 20, 2014, to January 28, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with 2.3L GTDI engines and engine block heaters. These engine block heaters have elements that may overheat while plugged in.

Risk. Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine block heater, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical cord, as necessary. The recall began on May 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S14. Note: Owners should not use the engine block heater until the vehicle has been remedied.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 22, 2026MN

I purchased this vehicle 3 weeks ago from CarMax Brooklyn Park, MN. Within 50 miles of driving, the vehicle threw a Ford Diagnostic Trouble Code P1450 indicating a Unable to bleed up fuel tank vacuum( excessive vacuum in the fuel tank). This defect causes an improper fuel tank vacuum, presenting an immediate engine stalling hazard at highway speeds. Concurrently, the vehicle has a very noticeable floorboard/chassis vibration at 60+ mph when releasing the foot of accelerator, making highway operation highly unstable. CarMax's warranty service department at Brooklyn Park has actively denied authorization to let me use a certified RepairPal partner facility located 10 minutes from my house. Instead, they are explicitly demanding that I drive this defective, stall-risk vehicle on the highway for over 45 minutes to their Brooklyn Park dealership to receive warranty service. Forcing a consumer to drive a vehicle with a known highway powertrain vibration and a critical EVAP vacuum fault creates an immediate, severe highway safety hazard.

Steering
Filed Aug 26, 2026WI

The vehicle displayed service advanced track, hill assist and traction control warning lights and immediately locks up steering and jars the steering wheel pulling vehicle to left or right abruptly before returning to normal. It has continued to happen and I’ve taken the vehicle to the dealership numerous times and they state they are unable to replicate yet it continues to happen and codes .this vehicle is throwing codes consistently and kicks off traction control. It’s almost caused me to hit another vehicle and a few of the cement barrier’s and put me in ditch a few times since the initial incident.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 14, 2026CA

Two years waiting for recall repair (rear-backup camera). Lincoln Mfg notified that a pending recall/repair for driver's rear-camera was required. As of 08/14/2026 the repair has not been performed by Lincoln Mfg or it's agents. Rear-camera fails to work consistanly and is a danger to pedestrians. Local dealerships (Sedano Lincoln, Arron Ford , and Pacific beach Ford) have failed to repair the known camera issue upon inspection. My only recourse is contract an independent technician to make the vehicle safe to operate.

Engine
Filed Jul 8, 2026KY

2.0 Ecoboost coolant intrusion in cylinder #4 issue with block defect. Ford Motor Company wont cover issue.

Back Over Prevention
Filed May 20, 202656,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact took the vehicle for a recall repair for notice received NHTSA Campaign Number 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention). The dealer advised the contact that they had to go through the radio to complete the recall repair but this would be at the owners expense. The contact stated that the radio went out when the rearview camera went out. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact believes that the issue with the radio is related to the recall. The approximate failure mileage 56,000.

Engine
Filed May 15, 2026FL

My 2016 Lincoln MKC with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine experienced coolant intrusion into cylinder 3, leading to engine misfire and check engine light to turn on. The dealership confirmed the issue for $176.55 and recommended a full long block engine replacement, estimated at over $11,000. This failure occurred at 98,000 miles. Two weeks before this, the check engine light illuminated and we took it to a repair shop where we paid $628 to repair the purge valve and fuel pressure sensor, while it was most likely this coolant intrusion both times! Ford and Lincoln (including concierge) have refused any assistance in this matter. The local dealership has also said that they cannot help us with any of the cost. I've found this to be a very well documented problem/engine design failure, Including HTSA ID Number: 10162062 Manufacturer Communication Number: TSB 19-2172 entitled Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING 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. In addition, 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. I believe this is a widespread design defect and request NHTSA’s investigation to ensure proper manufacturer accountability. I am so thankful that this car does not belong to one of my

Engine
Filed May 6, 2026WI

I have Coolant intrusion in cylinder #2 91000 miles this should be a recall it's a problem that's well documented There's a recall for the back up camera hope the camera can see through the white smoke!

Engine
Filed Apr 28, 202660,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the supercharger-A and the under boost needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the check engine warning light was illuminated again. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Mar 11, 202670,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V572000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while in reverse(R), the rearview camera intermittently displayed a distorted image with squiggly, horizontal lines. The contact stated that the failure obstructed the driver's view while in reverse(R). The local dealer was contacted about the failure and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

Engine
Filed Feb 12, 2026IL

When driving you could smell fumes, it would jerk, and kick in and out of gear and would have no heat. Coolant was always low with no visible leaks to the mechanic.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 22, 2026MO

Ford does not have the parts to repair my car; my rear camera gets fuzzy at times

Engine
Filed Jan 22, 2026MO

I have a coolant leak and the dealership states that it's located in the engine.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Dec 10, 2025200,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V572000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the rearview camera displayed a black screen or was glitching while the vehicle was in reverse(R). The contact stated that the failure obstructed the driver's visibility, which prevented the driver from safely operating the vehicle. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 9, 2025AR

As far as everybody did and shut down three times in a major intersections as far as to completely shut off or keep up with the camera activity and it seems to not be able to empower through the cabin or central part of the cabin where the computer is stored when I had my f****** completely turn itself off and ran or red lights just to barely make it to my house and in the car would not start I had various problems with his car and I admit paid thousands at this point to see it keep up with it and I've seen it the under several recalls and just now seeing that my car is reaching some of the max amount that I've ever even been issue. I've never received an email on this car having a recall because I moved a few years ago and although I pick up my mail there I've never received anything from Lincoln or have I had any things in the middle for you guys my main concern is getting this rental car in place while all these updates I haven't paid for are completely addressed immediately and in their entirety no longer putting my life safety and the lives of others at risk around me

Engine
Filed Oct 16, 2025158,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle was shaking, and the check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The contact stated that her brother had replaced the spark plugs and ignition coils. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that there was coolant intrusion into the engine. The contact was informed that the spark plugs and coils needed to be replaced with OEM parts, and the turbocharger, purge valve, vacuum line, long block, and fuel pressure sensor needed to be replaced. The contact stated that her nephew replaced the spark plugs and ignition coils with OEM parts, and AAMCO replaced the fuel pressure sensor; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.

Power Train
Filed Sep 6, 2025FL

At 85,000 miles I was experiencing a grinding noise coming from my front end when making sharp turns to left or right. Took car to my mechanic immediately for diagnosis. They found the motor mounts and rear differential is binding and close to failure. My mechanic contacted FOMOCO to see about a replacement for the rear differential and was told that there were not any available due to a REDESIGN of the product. He was asked to check back in two weeks! Two weeks w/o my transportation! I replaced the motor mounts, (85Kmi?) After researching on line, several ford & lincoln sites the problems I am experiencing are not unique or infrequent on Lincolns and ford Edges. It would seem to me that these problems are frequent enough to have the manufacturer ininitiate a recall on these products! My mechanic also works on our Sherriff department vehicles and their Ford Edge units are experiencing same problems. I would hope these problems will initiate an investigation into this matter!

Engine
Filed Aug 26, 2025GA

While driving a short distance to work, my 2016 MKC check engine light came on. The previous week I noticed that the engine hesitated slightly when it first started, but it drove normally. However, when the light came on, my husband took the vehicle to the dealership where we bought it in Dec 2019. We were shocked when we were told this was a very common problem with this type of engine, a 2.0 eco boost, and that the engine would have to be replaced due to coolant intrusion, at the cost of $9300! The vehicle only has 57,000 miles on it and has always been maintained at Prater Ford Lincoln in Calhoun GA. After some research I've found this to be a very well documented problem/engine design failure. Ford and Lincoln have refused any assistance in this matter. The local dealership where we purchased it has told us they won't provide any assistance either. The vehicle is currently in the shop, and the engine is being replaced. It was supposed to be completed 5 days ago. Why hasn't there been a recall? Even though there were no deaths or injuries in my case as well as the others on this site, the financial burden is immense! Since this is such a well-documented problem, there should be a recall on the affected engines, or at the very least some assistance should be provided by Ford and/or Lincoln to the unfortunate owners of these vehicles. Thank you.

Engine
Filed Aug 5, 2025IL

Engin light came on, was diagenosed as coolent leaking in spark plug , or Bad head gasket.

Power Train
Filed Aug 2, 2025GA

Was at the Drive-thru ordering speaker and the car would not shift out of park and could not manually be shifted into neutral so the car could be moved. Drive-thru ordering window was blocked for 16 hyrs. Had to have the car towed with dolly. Vehicle was inspected by independent mechanic and found that the bushing was damaged.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 18, 2025120,000 milesFL

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.

Engine
Filed May 1, 2025TN

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.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 1, 2025162,000 milesWI

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.

Engine
Filed Apr 1, 2025NV

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.

Engine
Filed Feb 21, 2025KY

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.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Jan 3, 202535,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated while reversing, the rearview camera image was distorted or black. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 15, 2024IA

Faulty rear camera system. When reversing the vehicle, the infotainment screen shows a turbulent gray static screen rather than a rear view of the vehicle. Extreme safety concern and hazard. Issue is recurring.

EngineFire1 injured
Filed Jun 12, 202495,000 milesNC

The contact owned a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that while an employee was driving at an undisclosed speed, he observed smoke emanating from the engine compartment, prompting him to pull to the shoulder of the roadway. After a visual inspection, the employee observed flames emanating from the engine compartment. Local emergency services arrived and were able to extinguish the flames. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the contact's insurance provider. A fire report was filed. A police report was filed, and injuries were reported. The employee was transported to an area hospital by EMT and treated for injuries to his right shoulder, right elbow, and right hip that he sustained while fleeing the vehicle. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine), and the VIN was included, but the vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 95,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 3, 2024TX

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Steering
Filed Apr 18, 2024MI

.I had 2 lights come on . First one said service advance trac. The second came on that hill assist start . The third no turn signal. I took it immediately to our Ford Lincoln dealer it Midland, Michigan. They have had it almost 3 weeks . The part supplier said it is out of stock and they have no idea when be in. I asked can you check with another dealership to see if they have one . He said they are out. I put a complaint into Lincoln they gave in a case# [XXX]. The driver that took us home said that, usually when the steering module goes out you can't steer the car. I was fortunate to get it to the dealership , very scared seeing I had no turn signals. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Mar 6, 2024FL

My 2016 Lincoln MKC has a recall. Recall was mailed to me and I called closest Lincoln dealership to begin process. Dealership stated part was on back order and I would get a call when it comes in. I called a few weeks later and still no luck. I attempted calling several times with no luck. Fast forward 2-3 months after calling, I’m driving with my son and out of nowhere the car begins to stall while driving and fumes start coming out from air vents. It was an awful and strong smell. As I pulled over the check engine and battery light came on. I had vehicle towed to dealership which they return with a catalytic converter code. I paid to get replaced and get a call that car is good to go, but recall part is still not available. Picked up my vehicle and didn’t make it more than .5 miles I realized my car is stalling and will not go past 40mph. Take it back, employees look dumbfounded and ask me to leave car and they will get back to me. I get a call a week later stating I need a pigtail connector and all will be fixed. They change it out, I go pick up my car and still same condition. Leave dealership and wait on another call stating it is a whole electrical wire harness which needs to be changed. I am Told last week that it would be $1900 to repair! I still do not have my car back and feel as if it is a guessing game at my expense!

Wheels
Filed Jan 16, 2024PA

Had a flat tire. Tire could not be removed. The tin caps on the lug nuts have swelled. The lug nut wrench that Ford provided would not fit over the lug nuts. The AAA service that came out to help, also could not remove the lug nuts. I don't know how I will be able to get the car inspected. I also don't know how I will be able to have the brakes services or replaced. A very serious potential catastrophe. The equipment that Ford includes, with a car, should be able to do its job. I along with many other people are left with a serious problem. This is a problem Ford is aware of and will do nothing. Many Ford owners have this problem.

Engine
Filed Dec 29, 2023FL

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Power Train
Filed Dec 20, 2023MO

A gasket failed which allowed coolant to leak into the engine. Due to lack of coolant, two of the cylinder heads cracked and warping of the engine block occurred. No coolant in the engine could result in a engine seizure or fire which poses an extreme risk to one's safety. The check engine light came almost immediately before the cylinders started to misfire. 11/25/2023. The vehicle and components have been inspected by the dealers service department and the warranty inspector. The car needs a full engine replacement which only half is covered under the warranty. I am out of pocket the other half. See link regarding a current lawsuit the describes EXACTLY what happened to my vehicle: [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Nov 17, 202382,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was smoke entering the cabin through the vents. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to exceed 40 MPH. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that an unknown brake part had melted, and the electrical system was damaged. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine). The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.

Engine
Filed Nov 8, 2023TX

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Power Train
Filed Nov 7, 2023117,524 milesIL

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that she started the vehicle and when she shifted the gear shifter into drive, the gear shifted into neutral instead. The contact stated that she noticed that the park mode light was displayed. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle and was able to drive the vehicle to her destination. The contact stated when leaving her destination, the gear shifter would not shift into any gear and was inoperable. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and diagnosed with a failed cable shifter bushing. The contact was informed that the cable shifter bushing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 117,524.

Power Train
Filed Nov 1, 202358,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered and lost motive power. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the torque converter. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who then diagnosed a general failure with the transmission. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to Customer Satisfaction Program: 20N07. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 58,000.

Engine
Filed Oct 25, 202369,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was overheating. The contact stated that he turned on the A/C to cool down the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to two independent mechanics, where the spark plugs, the two variable valve timing solenoids, and the turbo oil lines were replaced, and other unknown repairs were performed; however, the failure persisted. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond and was shuddering. The check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the A/C started blowing hot air. The contact drove back to his residence. The local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that a fee would be charged for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was undrivable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 69,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Oct 24, 202347,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle, a message displayed on the instrument panel “Battery disconnected” and the vehicle failed to start. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Oct 17, 2023TX

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer and a secondary dealer, Planet Lincoln Dallas Love Field (7767 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75209) were contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 21, 202355,000 milesAL

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that while opening or closing the front driver’s and passenger’s side doors, the contact heard an abnormal clicking sound in the front driver’s and passenger’s side doors. The mirrors also clicked erratically and inadvertently moved making it difficult to use while driving. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that while the vehicle was shifted into drive or reverse, the front driver’s and passenger’s side mirrors malfunctioned and inadvertently re-adjust. An undisclosed dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the issue was a known issue however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000. The VIN was unavailable. The contact is requesting a copy of report to make the appropriate edits.

Engine
Filed Sep 8, 2023CA

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Sep 5, 2023NJ

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Aug 10, 2023NE

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. The VIN was unavailable.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 28, 2023CA

Multiple times battery & engine coils have been replaced due to shortages in electric system.

Engine
Filed Jul 24, 2023WI

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Jul 14, 2023SC

My car has had an engine light that comes on goes off throwing a code for Cylinder One Misfire since January 2023. It was 'repaired' at the dealership that I bought it from and they replaced the spark plugs and the coil and that did not stop the light from coming on and going on. I took it to another service center in my town and had it checked one of the times that the engine light was on and they used a camera and ran it through the system and found nothing wrong. It has now started to consume large amounts of coolant but I am not seeing a leak on the ground. I do not know where the coolant is going, I am now worried that it is going into the engine. I did purchase a warranty on the engine with the car but the Lincoln Dealership nearest to me will not accept the warranty because it is not a Ford/Lincoln warranty. I don't know what else to do am at a loss.

Engine
Filed Jul 10, 2023PA

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Engine
Filed Jun 28, 2023100 milesOK

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the RPM was fluctuating. During the failure, the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle was decelerating. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 100.

Engine
Filed Jun 27, 2023NJ

The contact owns a 2016 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that on three separate occasions, while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle jerked and stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The contact then smelled a burning odor throughout the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that an unknown sensor had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact then received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unavailable.

Complaints 1-50 of 80, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2017
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
2019123320Routine
201877400Routine
2017193320Routine
2016 — this page80570Routine
20151311210Routine

Compare every MKC year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jan 15, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.