Lincoln MKX 2
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Engine Overview
The Lincoln MKX 2 is available with 2 engine variants — from 286 to 316 hp.
The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 in the Nautilus is the strongest non-hybrid option and shares its architecture with the Bronco and Ranger. Recall 24S55 for brittle Silchrome intake valves covers units built May–October 2021. After remediation, a reliable everyday engine with strong low-rpm torque. Follow the 10,000-km oil change interval to protect the turbos.
- !! Recall 24S55: Brittle Intake Valves (Silchrome Lite)
Over-hardened Silchrome Lite intake valves can fracture causing engine damage. Affects Nautilus 2021–2022 with 2.7L V6 built May–October 2021. Ford recall 24S55 — free engine replacement.
Symptoms: Engine misfires, power loss, loud knocking noise, possible engine failure. - !! Cam Phaser Cold-Start Rattle (2.7L EcoBoost) from 80,000 km
The 2.7L EcoBoost cam phasers in the MKX II rattle for several seconds on cold starts. Early 2015–2016 builds are more affected. Similar to the 3.5L EcoBoost issue with Ford TSB coverage; replacement of all four VCT units possible.
Symptoms: Loud rattle on cold start lasting 2–5 seconds, disappears when oil warms up. Possible P000A/P000B codes in severe cases. - !! 8F35 Transmission: Shift Shudder from 30,000 km
Even with the 2.7L V6, the 8F35 automatic shows shift shudder behavior. TSB 25-2154 PCM reflash fixes the issue in most vehicles.
Symptoms: Lurch when upshifting 1-2-3, especially in cold weather with light throttle.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The 3.7L naturally aspirated V6 in the MKZ II is the more straightforward choice — no turbo complexity, solid long-term durability. The main weakness is the internally mounted chain-driven water pump: failure requires extensive disassembly. Post-2012 redesigned cam phaser sprockets made this engine significantly more reliable. Regular oil and coolant checks are essential.
- !! Chain-Driven Water Pump Failure (Internal) from 110,000 km
The 3.7L V6 water pump sits in the engine valley and is driven by the timing chain. Failure requires extensive disassembly. Coolant-oil contamination is possible when seals fail.
Symptoms: Rising coolant temperature, coolant level drop, milky oil, squealing from engine bay. - !! Cam Phaser Rattle on Cold Start from 100,000 km
Variable cam timing phasers on the 3.7L V6 can rattle on cold start until oil pressure builds. Post-2012 redesigned sprockets are significantly better; earlier units more prone.
Symptoms: Brief cold-start rattle disappearing within seconds, occasional P0011/P0021 codes.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Recall 16B32: Electronic Throttle Body Contamination The electronic throttle body motor contacts can become contaminated, triggering FMEM mode with reduced power and fixed RPM. Affects 2016 MKX built Sep 2015–May 2016. Ford replaces ETB free of charge. Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced power mode, P2111/P2112 codes, engine stuck at fixed RPM. | Low | |
| Sudden Engine Stall and Power Loss While Driving 2016–2017 MKX units showed sudden engine shutdown or loss of throttle response while driving, in some cases at very low mileage (under 20,000 km). ETB failure is the primary cause on 2016s; throttle body replacement resolves it. Symptoms: Engine shuts off while driving, vehicle shifts to neutral, accelerator pedal unresponsive. from 20,000 km | Medium |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 16 weaknesses have been documented for the Lincoln MKX 2 (2016–2018) — 9 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Other, Body, Electronics, Gearbox.
MKX (Duratec-37, 2016–2018) — Be Careful: Chain-Driven Water Pump Failure (Internal), Cam Phaser Rattle on Cold Start. Power: 282 PS.
MKX (EcoBoost-2.7-V6-Gen1, 2016–2018) — Be Careful: Recall 24S55: Brittle Intake Valves (Silchrome Lite), Cam Phaser Cold-Start Rattle (2.7L EcoBoost), 8F35 Transmission: Shift Shudder. Power: 315 PS.
What to watch out for with the Lincoln MKX? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Lincoln MKX 2 have? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee