2012 Lincoln MKZ Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant safety concerns exist due to a high number of critical recalls, especially for airbags and steering.
- Verify completion of all safety recalls, particularly those affecting the airbag system and power steering.
- The 3.5L V6 engine provides adequate power, and AWD offers enhanced traction.
- Despite numerous recalls, consumer complaints are notably absent, which is unusual and warrants further investigation.
2012 Lincoln MKZ
Critical Failure Risk
A significant number of recalls address potential rupture of the driver and passenger side frontal airbag inflator modules. This poses a severe risk of injury during a crash.
Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing a comfortable, quiet ride over cutting-edge technology.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers unwilling to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Lincoln MKZ Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 19
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Most Common Issues
1. Air Bag Inflator Rupture
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Electric Power Assist System (EPAS) Failure
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Lincoln MKZ reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ is 7.5/10. Reliability score is 7.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 20. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2012 Lincoln MKZ for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 467 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Practicality 5.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag Inflator (estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500 (Recall Service)).
What engine is in the 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2012 Lincoln MKZ use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Lincoln MKZ use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 3/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 5/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
This model year has 20 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Lincoln MKZ?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Cadillac CTS and 2012 Acura TL.