The Lincoln MKC, a compact luxury crossover SUV, offered a stylish and comfortable alternative to its competitors from 2015 to 2019. Choosing the right model year can significantly impact your ownership experience, affecting reliability, features, and overall value. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Lincoln MKC, highlighting the best years to consider and those you might want to avoid.
Lincoln MKC Model Years: A Quick Reference
| Model Year | Key Strengths | Potential Issues |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Good base price, Stylish design, Available technology features | Transmission issues, MyLincoln Touch system glitches, Some reported engine problems |
| 2016 | Improved MyLincoln Touch (Sync 3), Enhanced safety features | Potential for oil leaks, Some reports of electrical issues |
| 2017 | Minor styling updates, Enhanced driver-assistance features | Continued reports of oil leaks, Some issues with the climate control system |
| 2018 | New 2.3L engine option, Standard driver-assistance features | Potential for turbocharger issues with the 2.3L engine, Some reports of infotainment system freezes |
| 2019 | Final model year, Standard driver-assistance features, Refined interior | Similar issues to 2018, Limited availability of parts in the future |
Detailed Explanations
2015 Lincoln MKC
The 2015 Lincoln MKC marked the beginning of this luxury crossover's production run. It boasted a distinctive design and offered a range of technology features for its time. However, the 2015 model year was plagued by some significant issues, including problems with the transmission, the infamous MyLincoln Touch infotainment system, and some reports of engine troubles. This model year is generally considered the least reliable of the MKC lineup.
2016 Lincoln MKC
The 2016 Lincoln MKC addressed some of the shortcomings of the 2015 model. The most notable improvement was the replacement of the MyLincoln Touch system with the much more user-friendly Sync 3 infotainment system. Enhanced safety features were also introduced. Despite these improvements, the 2016 MKC still suffered from potential oil leaks and some reports of electrical issues. While better than the 2015, careful inspection is recommended.
2017 Lincoln MKC
The 2017 Lincoln MKC received minor styling updates and further enhancements to its driver-assistance features. However, the 2017 model year continued to be affected by reports of oil leaks, a recurring issue in the early MKC models. Some owners also reported issues with the climate control system. This model year offers incremental improvements but doesn't fully resolve lingering problems.
2018 Lincoln MKC
The 2018 Lincoln MKC introduced a new 2.3L engine option, providing more power and performance. Standard driver-assistance features were also a welcome addition. However, the 2.3L engine had its own potential issues, including reports of turbocharger problems. Some owners also experienced infotainment system freezes. While the new engine is a plus, potential turbocharger issues need careful consideration.
2019 Lincoln MKC
The 2019 Lincoln MKC was the final model year for this crossover. It came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features and featured a refined interior. However, being the last year of production, it shared some of the issues of the 2018 model, and sourcing parts may become challenging in the future. The 2019 model is a good option for those seeking a newer MKC, but potential parts availability issues should be considered.
Engine Options and Reliability
The Lincoln MKC offered two engine options throughout its production run:
- 2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This engine was the standard offering and provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. While generally reliable, some owners reported issues with oil leaks and occasional sensor failures.
- 2.3L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (2018-2019): Introduced in 2018, this engine offered more power and a more engaging driving experience. However, it also had potential issues with the turbocharger, including premature failure.
When considering an MKC, carefully inspect the engine for any signs of leaks or unusual noises. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
Transmission Issues
One of the most common complaints about the early Lincoln MKC models, particularly the 2015, was related to the transmission. Owners reported issues such as:
- Harsh shifting: The transmission might shift roughly or jerkily between gears.
- Hesitation: The transmission might hesitate before engaging a gear, especially when accelerating from a stop.
- Slipping: The transmission might slip out of gear or fail to maintain a consistent speed.
If you're considering a 2015 or 2016 MKC, pay close attention to the transmission during a test drive. Have a mechanic inspect the transmission fluid and look for any signs of damage or wear.
MyLincoln Touch vs. Sync 3
The infotainment system was a significant point of contention for early Lincoln MKC models. The 2015 MKC came equipped with the MyLincoln Touch system, which was known for its:
- Unintuitive interface: The system was difficult to navigate and use.
- Slow response times: The system was often slow to respond to commands.
- Frequent glitches: The system was prone to freezing, crashing, and other malfunctions.
In 2016, Lincoln replaced MyLincoln Touch with the Sync 3 system, which was a vast improvement. Sync 3 offered:
- A more intuitive interface: The system was easier to navigate and use.
- Faster response times: The system was more responsive to commands.
- Greater reliability: The system was less prone to glitches and malfunctions.
If you're considering an MKC, prioritize models with the Sync 3 system (2016 and newer) for a much better user experience.
Driver-Assistance Features
The Lincoln MKC offered a range of driver-assistance features throughout its production run, including:
- Blind-spot monitoring: Alerts the driver when a vehicle is in their blind spot.
- Lane-keeping assist: Helps the driver stay within their lane.
- Adaptive cruise control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front.
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking: Warns the driver of a potential collision and automatically applies the brakes if necessary.
The availability of these features varied depending on the model year and trim level. From 2018 onwards, many of these features became standard equipment, making those model years more desirable for those prioritizing safety.
Interior Comfort and Design
The Lincoln MKC was known for its comfortable and well-appointed interior. The seats were generally supportive and offered ample legroom, especially in the front. The interior design was stylish and featured high-quality materials. However, some owners found the rear seats to be a bit cramped, especially for taller passengers. The 2019 model year featured subtle improvements to the interior design, making it the most refined of the MKC lineup.
Fuel Economy
The fuel economy of the Lincoln MKC varied depending on the engine and drivetrain. The 2.0L engine with front-wheel drive typically achieved around 20-22 mpg in the city and 29-31 mpg on the highway. The 2.3L engine with all-wheel drive offered slightly lower fuel economy, around 19-21 mpg in the city and 27-29 mpg on the highway. Fuel economy is a relatively consistent factor across all model years, with minor variations based on engine and drivetrain.
Potential Problems to Look Out For: A Summary
- Oil Leaks: A recurring issue, particularly in earlier models. Inspect the engine for any signs of leaks.
- Transmission Issues: Harsh shifting, hesitation, and slipping were common complaints in the 2015 and 2016 models.
- Turbocharger Problems (2.3L Engine): Premature turbocharger failure has been reported in some 2018 and 2019 models.
- Infotainment System Freezes: While Sync 3 was a significant improvement, some owners still experienced occasional freezes.
- Electrical Issues: Some reports of electrical problems, such as malfunctioning sensors and faulty wiring.
Always conduct a thorough inspection and test drive before purchasing any used vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Lincoln MKC year is the most reliable? While no year is perfect, the 2019 Lincoln MKC is generally considered the most reliable due to its refined design and standard features, though parts availability in the future could be a concern.
Is the MyLincoln Touch system any good? No, the MyLincoln Touch system, found in the 2015 MKC, is widely criticized for its unintuitive interface and frequent glitches; it's best to avoid this system.
What are the common problems with the Lincoln MKC? Common problems include oil leaks, transmission issues (especially in early models), and potential turbocharger problems with the 2.3L engine.
Is the 2.3L engine worth it? The 2.3L engine offers more power, but it also has a higher risk of turbocharger issues, so weigh the pros and cons carefully.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection? Yes, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended for any used vehicle, especially the Lincoln MKC, to identify potential problems.
Conclusion
Choosing the best year for a Lincoln MKC depends on your priorities and budget. While the 2015 model offers the lowest entry price, it also comes with the most potential problems. The 2016 and 2017 models offer incremental improvements, but still have lingering issues. The 2018 and 2019 models offer more features and performance, but may have turbocharger issues or future parts availability concerns. Carefully consider your needs and budget, and be sure to conduct a thorough inspection before making a purchase. Ultimately, a well-maintained 2018 or 2019 model, with a documented service history, is likely the best choice for most buyers.