Lincoln MKX
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.
The right engine for the MKX
The 2.7T gives the MKX II a notably livelier character. 315 hp with strong low-rpm torque — the AWD handles it well. For anyone wanting some enjoyment in a luxury midsize SUV, the 2.7T is the pick.
Engine Weaknesses 6
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.
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.
Direct injection on the 2.7L EcoBoost without port spray; deposits typically begin around 65,000 km and degrade cold start quality and idle smoothness.
Symptoms: Hard cold start, rough idle, mild power loss at low rpm.
The oil pan gasket and valve cover gaskets on the 2.7L EcoBoost are prone to seepage on older builds (2015–2018). Typically a slow drip rather than a critical leak.
Symptoms: Small oil drops under the vehicle, oil smell after driving, slow oil level drop without warning light.
The plastic oil pan on the 2.7L EcoBoost can develop leaks, typically from around 60,000 km. Gasket or pan replacement required.
Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, slight oil consumption, smell of burning oil.
Direct injection without port spray allows carbon deposits to accumulate on valve faces, reducing cylinder fill and increasing fuel consumption.
Symptoms: Light power loss, rough cold start.
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
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.
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.
The 3.7L V6 water pump is internally mounted and chain-driven; failure is highly labor-intensive to address. Dealer repair costs up to $5,000.
Excess factory grease in the sunroof track clogs drain tubes over time. Result: water enters the cabin, footwells, and cargo area. Repair cost $400–$1,300.
The electronic latch on the 2016 MKX liftgate fails frequently and causes a parasitic draw of ~1.4 amps, draining the battery. One dealer reported replacing this latch approximately once per week. Latch alone ~$500.
The APIM module behind the SYNC 3 touchscreen can crash. Black display or frozen image — reset only temporarily helps. APIM replacement runs $800–$2,500.
The 6F50 six-speed automatic in the MKX II can develop fluid leaks through seal failure at high mileage. Transmission replacement is expensive; fluid changes are preventive.
