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Model-year record

2011 Lincoln MKS
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2011 Lincoln MKS

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

43

Reports to NHTSA, 2011

Safety recalls

3

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Not rated

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

19

EPA estimate

Known issues

Steering issues lead owner complaints (49% of 43 reports), followed by electrical system (7%).

Steering49% · 21 reports
Electrical System7% · 3 reports
Engine7% · 3 reports
Air Bags5% · 2 reports
Exterior Lighting5% · 2 reports
Service Brakes5% · 2 reports
Structure5% · 2 reports
Unknown Or Other5% · 2 reports

+ 5 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 43 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11735344, ODI 11704251, ODI 11686253, ODI 11584452, ODI 11573415.

Individual complaint reports(43)

Showing the 43 most recent reports
SteeringMay 2026 · ODI 11735344Details +

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Power Steering While driving yesterday, doing shopping and online order deliveries, the steering wheel started having slight resistance during turns. It became worse shortly after. As I attempted to leave a grocery store, less than 5 minutes away from home, the steering wheel was extremely difficult to turn. I didn't see any leaks under the hood nor on the ground underneath my car. Nor was there any smells nor odors. On 5/1/2026, I did hear a slight noise when I turned the steering wheel to back into the driveway at home. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Steering wheel became difficult to turn right or left. I barely made it home to park it, as the longer I drove to get home, the more difficult it became to make turns. I parked it immediately as I didn't want to make too wide of a turn on a road, risking any accidents. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Not yet. I will need the car towed to a local Ford/Lincoln dealership for assessment. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Not yet, in the process of contacting my auto insurance about it. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? The message on the dashboard was "Service Power Steering" and it appeared on 5/2/2026 for the very first time. Also, the power steering icon showed in a stable amber color. This message did not appear before.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735344 at NHTSA →
SteeringDec 2025 · ODI 11704251Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated that while reversing into a parking space, the power steering warning light illuminated. The vehicle was later restarted, and the traction control and power steering warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle then experienced a loss of power steering assist. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the steering gear had failed and that the steering rack needed to be replaced; however, the steering rack was no longer manufactured so the vehicle required an aftermarket steering rack. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 212,000.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11704251 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2025 · ODI 11686253Details +

I was driving and I hear a beeping sound,and my steering just stopped working and made it difficult to control the vehicle in a curve.. Recall Details: 2011–2013 Power Steering Electric Assist Loss •In June 2015, Ford issued Recall #15S18 (NHTSA Campaign 15V340000) for a range of vehicles—including the 2011 Lincoln MKS—due to a potential intermittent electrical connection in the steering gear. This defect could cause loss of electronic power steering assist, increasing steering effort and potential crash risk , I never received notification of this potential risk and it was lucky that my grandchildren was not in the car because I usually pick them up from school about the time this occurred. Just want to know what action can I take and how can you assist me?

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11686253 at NHTSA →
SteeringApr 2024 · ODI 11584452Details +

the steering system locks up and loses power assist,and the brakes and traction control sys also malfunction, and several failure lights all come on ,as I was making a left turn in front of a police car the steering locked up and I almost hit the police car,the vehicle isn't driveable,the policeman advised me not to drive the car,he verified the steering didn't work,when the problem occurs the steering gets extremely hard and at the same time lights and bells start ringing in the car and it's very scary because between the steering and brakes not working the bells and lights are very distracting

Reported
Apr 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11584452 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2024 · ODI 11573415Details +

In 2015 a recall was done to repair the power steering failure issue. In October of 2021, while driving the vehicle down the highway, the power steering went out making the vehicle almost impossible to steer. Had the vehicle towed to the dealership where they verified the issue and pulled code U3000 for steering gear failure. With 68827 miles, I was charged for the entire repair with not one mention about the extension to the power steering recall. The parts and labor that were charged were those mentioned in the recall. Fast forward to November 2022, had the vehicle towed to the same dealership for the same issue. Lights on the dash were present, and concern verified that the power steering was completely inoperative. No communication with the unit told me that the power steering control needed to be replaced. Again there was no mention or advocating involving the power steering recall that involved this exact issue. This time was told that they installed a part that was used in the previous repair so again I had to pay the entire cost. Currently, there are no issues with the vehicle but I have been looking to sell it because I have not driven it much due to the cost of these repairs. It was during my research to sell that I came across all the recall information on my vehicle and do not understand why all of these costs were not covered and why the dealership did nothing to advocate for me.

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Nov 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11573415 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2024 · ODI 11571167Details +

Woke up to leave house and steering wheel was very stiff and hard to control

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11571167 at NHTSA →
StructureJan 2024 · ODI 11567154 · 1 injuriesDetails +

The contact owns a 2011 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated that while attempting to secure items into the trunk of the vehicle, the rear trunk door suddenly came down and struck the contact on the head. During the incident, the contact sustained a head contusion which did not require medical treatment. The contact indicated that the failure had occurred on multiple occasions. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was 100,000.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Nov 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
1 injuries
Open ODI 11567154 at NHTSA →
SteeringJan 2024 · ODI 11563746Details +

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING FAILED WHILE DRIVING. Had a difficult time pulling vehicle over after failure. Notice I missed recall by 90 days.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11563746 at NHTSA →
SteeringNov 2023 · ODI 11556262Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly. The contact's daughter was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, and after restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the power steering control module and gear. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 94,000.

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11556262 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2023 · ODI 11552929Details +

Was driving my 2011 Lincoln MKS (build date 06/07/2010) when the steering froze up and then a message appeared in the center stack indicating a possible steering gear failure. Luckily, I was able to get home and pull it on my driveway with great difficulty. Recall 15S18 starts with build dates of 09/2010. This recall should be extended. Repair quote: $1900 part 6.2 hours labor + Alignment ($120) from Local Ford dealer.

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11552929 at NHTSA →
SteeringAug 2023 · ODI 11537862Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the steering wheel became firm. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over on the side of the road and had the vehicle towed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering). The contact was informed that the recall repair was previously performed on the vehicle. The contact was advised to contact the manufacturer for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was already repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering) and provided no additional assistance. The failure mileage was 110,000.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11537862 at NHTSA →
SteeringJul 2023 · ODI 11535415Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated while making a left turn, the steering wheel seized, and the vehicle stalled. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact restarted the vehicle and continued driving to her destination. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering) however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11535415 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2023 · ODI 11515682Details +

Engine/Coolant Reservoir, Yes you can inspect it. When driving, or stop at a traffic light or just parked, the car will just start smoking and getting hot, the temperature gauge would not show it was getting hot until after it started smoking. The car would stop in the middle of the street or on the freeway. All the Antifreeze would leak out of the Reservoir and be all over the Engine and the ground, when you put Antifreeze in the reservoir the next day, you can drive for a little distant, but it will start doing the same thing all over again. The Cooling Fan would come on and never goes off, it gets louder and louder, it has never done this before. I have taken my car to the Dealer 3 times and they charged me over $4.000 and still couldn't fix it. They told me that they do not know what's wrong with it. The Engine Cooling System / Reservoir should be Recalled.

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Jan 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11515682 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingSep 2022 · ODI 11485845Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the temperature gauge would rise from cool(C) to hot(H) and the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact stated that once she turned off the cooling fans, the vehicle would cool off while idle; however, the temperature would rise once she resumed normal driving. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where she was informed that the failure could not be duplicated. The contact then took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who informed her that there was a service bulletin on the vehicle and referred her back to the dealer. The dealer was again notified about the failure and referred her to the manufacturer for assistance. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred her to the NHTSA Hotline. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

Reported
Sep 2022
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11485845 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherDec 2021 · ODI 11442685Details +

As I was returning home from a haircut, my 2011 Lincoln MKS shut off as I was attempting to stop at a red light. I was able to get the car to complete stop. I looked at the dash to see if any warning signs, alerts or any gauges we abnormal. When nothing alarmed me I started my vehicle and proceeded when the light turned green approximately 1/2 mile the car stalled again as I was driving at 35 mph. I had a difficult time getting the car to stop as the steering wheel locked and the brake pedal was hard to push in. I eventually was able to get it to a complete stop on the right side of the road, by pushing extra hard on the brake and pulling the steering wheel to the right. Which the driver side of my vehicle still in the path of other vehicles I knew my car wasn’t safe there and could possibly cause an accident. I called my husband who came to the location of the car and raised the hood when he noticed the coolant in the overflow reservoir was empty. We filled the reservoir. We started the vehicle which ran normal and didn’t not illuminate any warning light or raise any gauges. Drove vehicle home which was approximately 3 miles as pulling into my driveway the temperature gauge slowly began rising above normal line. I shut car off immediately got out and raised the hood when I seen smoke emerging from under the hood. The coolant reservoir was completely empty again. My husband pulled the dipstick to check the oil where we observed antifreeze covering the entire length of dipstick. This is impossible to prevent or fix if there are no signs or symptoms given to the driver that there is a problem. We have our vehicle serviced regularly and have all the receipts to prove. Ford need to fix and /or replace these engines. People work hard everyday and depend on there vehicles for there daily lives. It’s not an honest sales when a faulty water pump is placed inside and engine knowing water pumps are a commonly replaced part and that if this water pump fails it would ruin engin

Reported
Dec 2021
Incident date
Dec 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11442685 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2021 · ODI 11440168Details +

While driving the vehicle at normal speed with my wife and baby, car suddenly made a weird noise and started to smoke, the car lost power. I had to pull over right away , as car was smoking we smelled a propane like smell, and we noticed black grease leaking from the bottom. Soon as I got the car towed home , I looked under and notice the transfer box or PTO was busted with grease pouring out. I looked online and it’s a common issue with these cars. The transfer case is so close to the cat converter that it over heats the grease.

Reported
Nov 2021
Incident date
Nov 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11440168 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2021 · ODI 11433825Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated that upon start of vehicle, the air bag warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact had initially called the dealer and was informed that his vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V247000 (Air Bags). The contact then called the manufacturer and was provided the same information as the dealer. The manufacturer referred him to NHTSA for further assistance. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.

Reported
Sep 2021
Incident date
Sep 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11433825 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2020 · ODI 11362454Details +

WHILE DRIVING MY CAR IT INSTANTLY LOST STEERING NO FOREWARNING LIGHTS. IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN OR CONTROL THE CAR. I TOOK IT TO LINCOLN AND THEY SAID THEY CAN'T COVER THIS EXACT THING THESE CARS HAVE A RECALL ON BECAUSE MY CAR WAS PAST THE WARRANTY. THEY EVEN CHARGED ME TO LOOK AT IT BECAUSE ITS PAST WARRANTY. MY CAR IS 4,000 MILES PAST COVERAGE SOO THEY'RE CHARGING ME $2800 FOR A MALFUNCTION THAT IS NOTED A FLAW FOR THIS SAME CAR.

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11362454 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2019 · ODI 11229952 · crash · fire · 38 injuries · 40 deathsDetails +

HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/CU8J1MSZ8OE CAM PHASER WITH DOCUMENTATION

Reported
Jul 2019
Incident date
Jul 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash Fire 38 injuries 40 deaths
Open ODI 11229952 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemApr 2018 · ODI 11085059Details +

ENGINE BEGAN TO RUN ROUGH AND MISFIRE WHILE TRYING TO ACCELERATE ON THE INTERSTATE, FOLLOWED BY A COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER AND VIOLENT SHUDDERING. BIG CONCERN WHEN TRYING TO PASS OTHER VEHICLES, AS I WAS ALMOST REAR ENDED BY A TRACTOR TRAILER. PROBLEM BECOMES WORSE AND MORE FREQUENT WHEN TRYING TO ACCELERATE UP HILLS. FOUND OUT THIS PROBLEM IS ADDRESSED IN FORD TSB 11-08-19, MOST LIKELY CAUSED BY POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE LOSING CALIBRATION. THIS INFORMATION WAS MADE KNOWN TO SERVICE WORKERS, BUT NOT CAR OWNERS. PROBLEM EVENTUALLY RESULTED IN THE BURNING OUT OF THE CAR'S BANK 2 CATALYTIC CONVERTER, SPARKS PLUGS, AND IGNITION COILS.

Reported
Apr 2018
Incident date
Mar 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11085059 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2018 · ODI 11080615Details +

THE RUDDER OF MY VEHICLE GETS VERY HARD, AND WHEN I DRIVE IT SEEMS THAT THE WHEELS OF STEERING DO NOT HAVE STABILITY, IT SEEMS A PROBLEM OF THE POWER STEERING.

Reported
Mar 2018
Incident date
Mar 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11080615 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJan 2018 · ODI 11063607Details +

I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH MY 2011 LINCOLN MKS. I SMELL EXHAUST OR GAS FUMES IN THE CABIN WHEN DRIVING. THE SMELL IS GIVING ME HEADACHES. WHEN I CHECK UNDER THE HOOD I DON'T GET THE SMELL. PLUS THE SMELL IS STRONGER WHEN I PUT THE AIR FLOW ON RECIRCULATION. I'M NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE MY CAR. HAVE YOU RECEIVED ANY OTHER COMPLAINS ABOUT FUMES IN THIS VEHICLES? THANKS FOR YOUR HELP WITH THIS ISSUE.

Reported
Jan 2018
Incident date
Jan 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11063607 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlOct 2017 · ODI 11039550 · crashDetails +

WHEN PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT GOING UNDER 5 MPH AND COMING TO A STOP, THE CAR SURGED FORWARD JUMPING THE SIDEWALK AND CRASHING INTO A CEMENT PATIO TABLE AND BENCH. SMOKE APPEARED AND RADIATOR FLUID WAS LEAKING.

Reported
Oct 2017
Incident date
Oct 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11039550 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2017 · ODI 11025218Details +

STEERING IS HARD TO CONTROL. TOOK IT TO AUTO REPAIR, GAVE ME CODES THAT MATCH RECALL CODES. TECHNITION SAID THE WHOLE POWER STEERING SYSTEM MUST BE REPLACED

Reported
Sep 2017
Incident date
Sep 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11025218 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2017 · ODI 10956498Details +

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT 70MPH AND THE POWER STEERING WENT COMPLETELY OUT. A MESSAGE POPPED UP ON THE DASH STATING "SERVICE POWER STEERING NOW". I WAS UNABLE TO MOVE THE VEHICLE OFF OF THE INTERSTATE. I SAW A RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE FOR THE YEAR MAKE AND MODEL OF THIS VEHICLE BUT AM ENRAGED THAT WHEN I CHECK THE VIN IT COMES UP WITH NO RECALL. OBVIOUSLY THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH THE PRODUCT AND WILL NOT BE COVERED ON THE CURRENT RECALL. THIS REPAIR ROUGHLY WILL COST 2200.00 DOLLARS PER THE LOCAL DEALER.

Reported
Feb 2017
Incident date
Dec 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10956498 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2017 · ODI 10945257Details +

VEHICLE PARKED AT RESTAURANT, WHEN CAME BACK OUT THE DOORS WERE UNLOCKED, THE WINDOWS WERE DOWN AND THE SUNROOF WAS OPEN. THIS HAS HAPPENED THREE DIFFERENT TIMES.

Reported
Jan 2017
Incident date
Jan 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10945257 at NHTSA →
StructureOct 2016 · ODI 10920175Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN MKS. WHILE PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT AT 20 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR OPENED INDEPENDENTLY AND THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR OPEN WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,000.

Reported
Oct 2016
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10920175 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2016 · ODI 10917850Details +

RECENTLY, THIS CAR STARTED INTERMITTENTLY DISPLAYING THE "POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT" CODE AND AT THE SAME TIME THE STEERING WOULD SEIZE UP WHEN IN MOTION. THIS HAS NOW HAPPENED TWICE WITHIN THE LAST 2 WEEKS. ON INVESTIGATION, 2011 LINCOLN MKS VEHICLES WITH THE 3.5L GTDI ENGINE (MY VEHICLE) WERE SUPPOSED TO BE COVERED BY RECALL 15S18 WHICH ADDRESSES THIS EXACT SAFETY SITUATION. WHEN I CALLED BOTH THE FORD DEALER AND THE FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE LINE, THEY INDICATED THIS VIN IS NOT COVERED AND THAT THEY COULD DO A DIAGNOSTIC CHECK AT THE DEALERSHIP BUT UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WOULD IT BE COVERED (TRANSLATION--I GET TO PAY FOR ANY REPAIR). IT IS CLEARLY NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. HOW CAN FORD JUSTIFY NOT COVERING THIS CAR WHEN THE RECALL WAS QUITE LARGE IN SCOPE AND CARS OF THE SAME YEAR, SAME MODEL, SAME ENGINE WERE SPECIFIED IN THE RECALL? THANKS! *TR

Reported
Oct 2016
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10917850 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2016 · ODI 10904290Details +

TAKATA RECALL: I RECEIVED A NOTICE THAT MY CAR IS INVOLVED IN THE MASSIVE TAKATA RECALL A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO, AND HERE IT IS SEPTEMBER, AND I HAVEN'T BEEN CONTACTED TO GET THIS CORRECTED. THE RISK OF METAL FRAGMENTS HITTING A PASSENGER IS UNSETTLING TO SAY THE LEAST. WHY IS THIS TAKING SO LONG TO GET RECTIFIED? GOD FORBID I AM INVOLVED IN A FRONT END COLLISION WITH A PASSENGER. PLEASE ADVISE AS TO WHEN I CAN EXPECT THIS TO BE RESOLVED. THANKS

Reported
Sep 2016
Incident date
Jul 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10904290 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2015 · ODI 10778758Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN MKS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH AND MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE VEHICLE STALLED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART AFTER THREE ATTEMPTS. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON ONE OTHER OCCASION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED OR DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,000.

Reported
Sep 2015
Incident date
Sep 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10778758 at NHTSA →
SteeringMay 2015 · ODI 10721926Details +

POWER STEERING RANDOMLY LOCKS AND UNLOCKS ITS SELF, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO PULL TO THE LEFT AND DISPLAYING DIFFICULTY TO STEER WHEEL TO THE RIGHT OR STRAIGHT AHEAD. BRAKES SEEM TO LOCK OR SLIP IN CERTAIN ENVIROMENTS AT MODERATE SPEEDS.

Reported
May 2015
Incident date
Apr 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10721926 at NHTSA →
SteeringDec 2014 · ODI 10658476Details +

2011 LINCOLN MKS. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO POWER STEERING LOCKING UP PERIODICALLY. *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE POWER STEERING ISSUE, OCCURRED AT START UP. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO FIND A PROBLEM. *JB

Reported
Dec 2014
Incident date
Dec 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10658476 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesNov 2014 · ODI 10652437Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN MKS. WHILE DRIVING DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER AT 60 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE LOCKED WHENEVER THE BRAKES WERE ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,000.

Reported
Nov 2014
Incident date
Apr 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10652437 at NHTSA →
SteeringAug 2014 · ODI 10627690Details +

POWER STEERING WENT OUT AND HAD POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT ERROR. INCIDENT OCCURRED AFTER BACKING OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND PUTTING THE CAR INTO DRIVE. *TR

Reported
Aug 2014
Incident date
Aug 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10627690 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlJul 2014 · ODI 10616372 · crashDetails +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN MKS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A COMPLETE STOP ON AN INCLINE, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE SURGED UNEXPECTEDLY. IN ADDITION, THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION OCCURRED WHEN DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT ON A SEPARATE OCCASION THE VEHICLE SURGED AND CRASHED INTO A DOG. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS, WHO WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE A REMEDY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,000.

Reported
Jul 2014
Incident date
Jan 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 10616372 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2014 · ODI 10563543Details +

WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ABOUT TO MERGE ONTO THE FREEWAY WHEN I NOTICED THE "POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT" MESSAGE IN THE DISPLAY CENTER AND MY ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING HAD SHUT OFF. IT WAS A 20 MILE DRIVE HOME WITH NO POWER STEERING IN BELOW FREEZING TEMPERATURES. HAD I BEEN DRIVING AT A MORE BUSY TIME, I MIGHT HAVE HAD A COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. *TR

Reported
Feb 2014
Incident date
Feb 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10563543 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingAug 2013 · ODI 10536290Details +

NON CONNECTED DAY TIME RUNNING LIGHTS. I AVOIDED A TOTAL OF THREE HEAD ON COLLISIONS WITHIN THE PAST THREE WEEKS (THE MOST RECENT WAS 08/19/2013). MY CAR IS SILVER AN APPARENTLY DRIVERS HAVE COMPLAINED TO ME, THEY HAVE GREAT DIFFICULTY SEEING MY CAR IN DAYLIGHT HOURS. IN MY CASE I MADE THREE TRIPS TO MY CLOSEST LINCOLN DEALER, PRESENTS A WEBSITE WHICH INFORMED THEIR STAFF HOW TO CONNECT THE DRL FROM THEIR SERVICE MANUAL. MY PROBLEM WITH THESE DRL SEEMS TO BE A MAJOR CONCERN TO OTHER 2011 LINCOLN MKS OWNERS!. THIS MORNING, THE SERVICE MANAGER HAD HIS STAFF CONNECT MY DRL, *TR

Reported
Aug 2013
Incident date
Aug 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10536290 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesFeb 2013 · ODI 10496102Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN MKS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE VIBRATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE REAR ROTORS WERE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND THEY OFFERED TO ASSIST WITH THE REPAIR EXPENSES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 17,000. UPDATED 03/20/13*LJ

Reported
Feb 2013
Incident date
Nov 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10496102 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2012 · ODI 10465950Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN MKX. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, A MESSAGE ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL ASKING TO PERFORM A HEALTH REPORT SCAN OF THE VEHICLE. ONCE THE CONTACT AGREED TO THE SCAN THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 13,000. UPDATED 8/31/12 *CN UPDATED 09/11/2012 *JS

Reported
Jul 2012
Incident date
Jul 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10465950 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJun 2012 · ODI 10462061Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN MKS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH WITH THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS ACTIVATED, OTHER DRIVERS WERE COMPLAINING OF THE LIGHTS BEING EXTREMELY BRIGHT. THE DEALER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO WAY THE LIGHTS COULD BE ADJUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 800.

Reported
Jun 2012
Incident date
Jun 2011
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10462061 at NHTSA →
Fuel SystemAug 2011 · ODI 10422762Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 LINCOLN MKS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ANOTHER DRIVER INFORMED HIM THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING FROM THE ENGINE AND HE SMELLED A STRONG ODOR IN THE VEHICLE. UPON EXAMINING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT A FUEL LINE WAS PUNCTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT A RODENT CHEWED THROUGH THE PLASTIC FUEL LINES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND SENT AN INVESTIGATOR TO EXAMINE THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000.

Reported
Aug 2011
Incident date
Aug 2011
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10422762 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2011 · ODI 10392532Details +

THE 2011 LINCOLN MKZ HYBRID DRIFTS TO THE LEFT WHILE DRIVING. LINCOLN SAYS IT IS NOT A PROBLEM. I HAVE OWNED OVER 75 CARS AND WAS A FLEET MANAGER FOR THE GSA FLEET. I NEVER HAD A VEHICLE THAT HAD A DRIFT THAT DID NOT HAVE A PROBLEM. THIS IS 2011 AND VEHICLES SHOULD NOT DRIFT UNDER ANY CONDITIONS. IT CAN OCCUR WHEN BOTH HANDS ARE ON THE WHELL. HOW IS THIS NOT DANGEROUS? *TR

Reported
Mar 2011
Incident date
Mar 2011
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10392532 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2011 · ODI 10384447Details +

DEALERS PAMPHLETS AND OWNERS MANUAL LISTS PERIMETER LIGHTS AS A FEATURE ON 2011 LINCOLN MKZ BUT THE VEHICLES DO NOT HAVE THEM (HEADLIGHTS COMING ON WHEN YOU UNLOCK VEHICLE AT NIGHT WITH FOB. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT SAFETY FEATURE. FORD SAYS IT IS A MISPRINT ALTHOUGH PAST YEARS MODEL DO HAVE THE FEATURE. *TR

Reported
Feb 2011
Incident date
Dec 2010
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10384447 at NHTSA →

Recalls(3)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

SteeringFeb 2015 · 15V340000Details +

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Ford Fusion vehicles without a 3.5L engine and Lincoln MKZ hybrid electric vehicles, 2011 Mercury Milan vehicles, 2011-2012 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with a 3.5L GTDI engine and 2013 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with any available engine. The affected vehicles have electric power steering assist systems that may shut down as a result of a steering motor sensor fault.

Risk: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC). If dealers find any loss of steering assist DTCs, the steering gear will be replaced, free of charge. If, no codes are found during the PSCM inspection, the PSCM software will be updated, free of charge. The recall began on July 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S18.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Structure · 15V040000Details +

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Ford Taurus vehicles manufactured December 1, 2009, to July 31, 2010, and 2011-2013 Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured June 1, 2011, to October 31, 2011. In the affected vehicles, the interior door handle return spring may unseat, resulting in interior door handle that does not return to the fully stowed position after actuation.

Risk: If the interior door handle return spring is unseated, the door may unlatch in the event of a side impact crash, increasing the risk of personal injury.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four of the interior door handles and either repair or replace them, free of charge. The recall began March 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S02.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 16V247000Details +

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Ford Flex, 2008 and 2010-2012 Ford Taurus, 2008-2009 Ford Taurus X, 2008 Mercury Sable, 2009 and 2011 Lincoln MKS vehicles. The driver frontal air bag may improperly inflate during second-stage deployment in the event of a high speed crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Risk: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the driver's frontal air bag module, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on June 13, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16C06.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2011 Lincoln MKS 4 DR FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover

2011 Lincoln MKS 4 DR AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
MKS AWD3.5L 6-cylAll-Wheel Drive172520
MKS FWD3.7L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive172419
MKS AWD3.7L 6-cylAll-Wheel Drive162219

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2011 Lincoln MKS: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2011 Lincoln MKS?

Owners filed 43 NHTSA complaints about the 2011 Lincoln MKS. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2011 Lincoln MKS?

The most-reported problem areas are Steering (49% of complaints) and electrical system (7%).

How many recalls does the 2011 Lincoln MKS have?

3 recalls have been issued that affect the 2011 Lincoln MKS, covering components such as steering. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2011 Lincoln MKS get?

The EPA rates the 2011 Lincoln MKS between 19 and 20 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.