The Lincoln MKT, a luxury crossover SUV, offered a blend of space, comfort, and technology during its production run from 2010 to 2019. Choosing the right year can significantly impact your ownership experience, avoiding potential pitfalls and maximizing enjoyment. This guide provides a detailed analysis of the MKT's model years, highlighting the best options and those you might want to reconsider.
Lincoln MKT Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Key Features/Improvements | Potential Issues/Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Debut year, distinctive styling, EcoBoost engine option, THX II Certified sound system. | Early production issues, potential for turbo lag, MyLincoln Touch system criticized. |
| 2011 | Minor interior trim updates. | MyLincoln Touch system still problematic. |
| 2012 | Upgraded front grille, revised rear styling, improved MyLincoln Touch system. | MyLincoln Touch still not fully refined, potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models. |
| 2013 | No significant changes. | Potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models. |
| 2014 | No significant changes. | Potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models, reports of power steering issues. |
| 2015 | Improved ride quality with revised suspension tuning. | Potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models, reports of power steering issues. |
| 2016 | Sync 3 infotainment system replaces MyLincoln Touch, improved responsiveness and user interface. | Potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models. |
| 2017 | No significant changes. | Potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models. |
| 2018 | No significant changes. | Potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models. |
| 2019 | Final production year. | Potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models. |
Detailed Explanations
2010 (Debut Year): The 2010 Lincoln MKT marked the introduction of this luxury crossover, showcasing its distinctive design and offering the powerful EcoBoost engine as an option. The THX II Certified sound system was a standout feature, providing a premium audio experience. However, as a first-year model, it was prone to early production issues, and the MyLincoln Touch infotainment system received criticism for its complexity and responsiveness.
2011: The 2011 MKT saw minor updates to the interior trim. While these were welcome, the core issues with the MyLincoln Touch system persisted, making it a less desirable option compared to later models.
2012: The 2012 model year brought significant styling revisions, including an upgraded front grille and revised rear design, aiming to refine the MKT's appearance. A notable improvement was made to the MyLincoln Touch system, though it still wasn't considered fully refined. A potential concern emerged with reports of water pump failure in EcoBoost-equipped models.
2013: The 2013 Lincoln MKT didn't introduce any major changes compared to the previous year. The potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models remained a concern, requiring careful inspection and maintenance.
2014: Similar to 2013, the 2014 MKT saw no significant updates. The risk of water pump failure in EcoBoost engines continued to be a potential issue. Additionally, there were reports of power steering problems in some vehicles.
2015: The 2015 model year focused on improving ride quality through revised suspension tuning, aiming for a smoother and more comfortable driving experience. However, the potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models and reports of power steering issues persisted.
2016: A significant upgrade arrived in 2016 with the introduction of the Sync 3 infotainment system, replacing the problematic MyLincoln Touch. Sync 3 offered a vastly improved user interface, responsiveness, and overall functionality, making it a highly desirable feature. The potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models remained a consideration.
2017: The 2017 MKT did not receive any major changes compared to the previous year. The Sync 3 system continued to be a strong selling point, but the potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models still needed to be addressed.
2018: Like 2017, the 2018 model year saw no significant updates. The reliable Sync 3 system was a continued benefit, but the potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models remained a concern.
2019 (Final Production Year): The 2019 Lincoln MKT marked the end of its production run. While it didn't introduce any new features, it benefited from the proven Sync 3 system. However, the potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost models still needed to be considered.
Distinctive Styling: The Lincoln MKT's design was often described as polarizing. Some appreciated its unique and bold appearance, while others found it less appealing. The prominent grille and distinctive rear end were key elements of its styling.
EcoBoost Engine Option: The availability of the EcoBoost engine, a turbocharged V6, was a major selling point for the MKT. It provided a significant boost in power and performance compared to the standard V6 engine. However, it also came with potential reliability concerns, particularly regarding the water pump.
THX II Certified Sound System: The THX II Certified sound system offered a high-quality audio experience, making the MKT an attractive option for audiophiles. This premium sound system was designed to deliver clear and immersive sound throughout the vehicle.
MyLincoln Touch System: The MyLincoln Touch infotainment system was a source of frustration for many owners. Its complex interface, slow response times, and frequent glitches were common complaints. Later models replaced it with the much-improved Sync 3 system.
Sync 3 Infotainment System: The Sync 3 system was a significant upgrade over MyLincoln Touch. It offered a more intuitive interface, faster response times, and better overall functionality. This system made the MKT much more enjoyable to use.
Water Pump Failure (EcoBoost Models): A common issue in EcoBoost-equipped MKTs was water pump failure. This could lead to overheating and potentially serious engine damage. Regular inspection and proactive maintenance were crucial to prevent this problem.
Power Steering Issues: Some owners reported power steering problems in certain model years of the MKT. These issues could range from stiffness in the steering to complete failure of the power steering system.
Improved Ride Quality (2015): The 2015 model year saw improvements to ride quality through revised suspension tuning. This aimed to provide a smoother and more comfortable driving experience, reducing road noise and vibrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Lincoln MKT year is the most reliable? The 2016-2019 models are generally considered more reliable due to the Sync 3 infotainment system and refined production processes, although the water pump issue on EcoBoost models persists.
Is the EcoBoost engine in the MKT worth it? The EcoBoost engine offers significantly more power, but it comes with the potential for water pump issues, requiring more diligent maintenance.
What is the biggest problem with the Lincoln MKT? The most common issue is the potential for water pump failure in EcoBoost engines, which can lead to costly repairs.
How long will a Lincoln MKT last? With proper maintenance, a Lincoln MKT can last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more.
Is the Lincoln MKT expensive to maintain? The Lincoln MKT can be more expensive to maintain than some other vehicles due to its luxury status and potential issues like the water pump.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Lincoln MKT model year is crucial for a positive ownership experience. While the earlier models offer a lower price point, the 2016-2019 models with the Sync 3 system are generally the best choice, offering improved reliability and usability, even with the potential for EcoBoost water pump issues.