Lincoln MKZ
The 3.0L TT V6 in the Aviator is a more heavily cooled variant of the Cyclone block with reinforced main bearings. Pre-May 2020 builds had a 10R60 A-clutch snap ring issue — resolved by summer 2020. Recall 24S55 for brittle Silchrome intake valves covers June–October 2021 build dates. The PHEV Grand Touring pairs the V6 with a 47-kWh battery pack and a rear electric axle.
A sleeper performance machine
300 hp twin-turbo V6 in a midsize luxury sedan — the MKZ's surprise option. AWD plus strong mid-range thrust make this an impressively capable car in understated clothing. If you can find the 3.0T variant, it delivers genuine performance value.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The AC compressor pulley can cut through wire harness insulation and cause a vehicle fire. Affects ~41,000 Aviators (2020–2021, 3.0L gas). Free repair at dealer.
Symptoms: Burning smell from engine bay, warning lights, visible scorching on wire harness.
The 3.0L EcoBoost in the Aviator can develop cam phaser rattle at cold startup. Less severe than in the 3.5L Navigator, but worth monitoring.
Symptoms: Brief rattling immediately after a cold start, disappears once oil reaches operating temperature.
The 6F35 in the 3.0T MKZ can develop torque converter shudder and delayed shifts at high mileage. Regular fluid changes extend service life.
Symptoms: Shudder between 40–65 mph, jerky upshifts, hesitation from a stop.
Direct injection without port spray means intake valves accumulate carbon deposits over time. Cleaning every 80,000–100,000 km is recommended.
Symptoms: Poor cold starts, rough idle, mild power loss.
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
2017 MKZ with 2.0L / 6F35: converter studs may be inadequately welded and detach, causing sudden complete loss of drive. Ford replaces converter free of charge. NHTSA campaign 17V427000.
In hot-climate states, the pawl spring tab in door latches can fracture. Doors may not latch securely and could open while driving. Affects 2014–2016 MKZ. Ford replaces all four door latches at no charge.
The 6F35 six-speed in the MKZ II develops torque converter shudder in lock-up mode at high mileage. Fluid changes every 60,000 km are recommended as a preventative measure.
The APIM module behind the touchscreen in 2013–2016 MKZ can crash, leaving the screen black or frozen. Ford ran Customer Satisfaction Program 12M02 with a 5-year warranty extension on affected APIMmodules.
Aluminum body panels (particularly the hood) can develop corrosion bubbles beneath the clear coat, accompanied by white powder dust. A recognized Ford/Lincoln issue with a TSB. Panel replacement often needed.
Soft-touch surfaces on door panels and dashboard in 2013–2016 MKZ peel and delaminate over time. Faux leather trim also separates from substrates. A typical luxury material aging issue.
Early 2013–2015 MKZ models showed unusually rapid tire wear, often tied to suspension alignment issues. Documented at around 40,000 km on multiple units.
The integrated LEDs in the MKZ II door handles — the model's signature visual feature — can fail prematurely. The entire door handle assembly must be replaced, not just the LED.
