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2016 Lincoln MKS Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 11, 2026·Ryan Davis
2016 Lincoln MKS Report

Overall Score

7.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 MKS earned top marks in NHTSA crash tests, indicating a robust safety structure.
  • With an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined, expect average fuel costs for a large sedan.
  • While no recalls or complaints were logged, 63 TSBs point to potential, albeit minor, issues that may require dealer attention.
  • The 3.7L V6 engine and all-wheel drive powertrain are generally durable, but TSBs suggest attention to powertrain control systems.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Lincoln MKS

The 2016 Lincoln MKS presents a compelling package for those seeking a large, comfortable sedan with a premium feel. It boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, achieving 5 stars overall, in frontal, and side crash tests, with a respectable 4 stars for rollover. Under the hood, a 3.7-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provides smooth, if not particularly spirited, motivation. Fuel economy is rated at 19 MPG combined, which is typical for its class. While the absence of recalls and complaints is a positive sign, the significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests potential underlying issues that warrant attention.

Critical Failure Risk

TSBs suggest potential issues with the PCM, which can affect engine performance, transmission shifting, and overall vehicle operation. This is a common area for concern in vehicles of this era, even without direct complaints.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers prioritizing a comfortable and quiet ride for daily commuting or long trips.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford potential unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Lincoln MKS Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Lincoln MKS.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Issues

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Infotainment System Glitches

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Lincoln MKS reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Lincoln MKS is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Lincoln MKS for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Lincoln MKS?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Lincoln MKS is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Lincoln MKS?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2016 Lincoln MKS?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.7.

What transmission does the 2016 Lincoln MKS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lincoln MKS, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Lincoln MKS?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Lincoln MKS?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Lincoln MKS?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lincoln MKS, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Lincoln MKS use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Lincoln MKS, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Lincoln MKS?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Lincoln MKS?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Chrysler 300 and 2016 Buick LaCrosse.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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