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2016 Lincoln MKZ Report

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

Updated Jun 11, 2026·Ryan Davis·5 Critical Recalls
2016 Lincoln MKZ Report

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Lincoln MKZ has a significant recall history, with 15 campaigns issued. Key areas of concern include door latches, steering components, and brake hoses.
  • Despite zero logged complaints, the vehicle's reliability is rated as below average due to the volume and nature of its recalls and TSBs.
  • The 3.7L V6 engine paired with All-Wheel Drive offers robust performance, but fuel economy is modest at 20 MPG combined.
  • NHTSA safety ratings are strong overall (5 stars), but side and rollover crash tests scored 4 stars.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Lincoln MKZ

The 2016 Lincoln MKZ presents a compelling blend of American luxury and V6 power, aiming for a premium driving experience. However, for the used car buyer, its appeal is tempered by a concerning reliability assessment. While it achieved a strong overall safety rating of 5 stars from NHTSA, the vehicle is subject to a notable number of recalls, including critical ones affecting steering, brakes, and fuel systems. The absence of logged consumer complaints, juxtaposed with a high TSB count, suggests issues may be addressed proactively or that the complaint data is incomplete. Potential buyers should be aware of the significant recall history and its implications for long-term ownership.

Critical Failure Risk

Multiple recalls address door latch issues, where latches may fail to secure or unexpectedly unlatch. This poses a significant safety risk, especially during driving.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls15
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a comfortable, V6-powered sedan with a focus on ride quality.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Lincoln MKZ Reliability Analysis

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

  • 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
20

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Most Common Issues

1. Door Latch Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Steering System Issues

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 and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

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
15 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Lincoln MKZ reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Lincoln MKZ is 7.8/10. Reliability score is 7.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 15. Owner complaints: 0.

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

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

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

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Lincoln MKZ is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Door Latch Assembly (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2016 Lincoln MKZ?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.7.

What transmission does the 2016 Lincoln MKZ use?▾

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

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

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

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

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

What body style is the 2016 Lincoln MKZ?▾

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

What drivetrain does the 2016 Lincoln MKZ use?▾

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

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

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Lincoln MKZ?▾

This model year has 15 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Lincoln MKZ?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Cadillac XTS and 2016 Chrysler 300.

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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