2010 Lincoln MKS
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Lincoln › MKS › 2010
These records cover every 2010 Lincoln MKS. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
51 complaints8 involved a crash2 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Steering
No power steering and Power steering assist failure warning message. Took to dealer, and they said the epas needed to be replaced. Also, that the oem part was no longer available, so they had to use after market part and would not guarantee the labor. 3 months later same problem. There is a recall…
No power steering and Power steering assist failure warning message. Took to dealer, and they said the epas needed to be replaced. Also, that the oem part was no longer available, so they had to use after market part and would not guarantee the labor. 3 months later same problem. There is a recall for 2011-2013 same car with the same problem, but not for 2010. Defective epas system causing the failure. Spoke to Lincoln concierge and Ford concierge and they would not help with a remedy or with dealer support.
- Air bags · Forward collision avoidance › Warnings
There have been 2 separate incidents involving a front collision at high speeds. Both times, the air bags did not deploy as they should have. The 2nd incident was today. The car is now totaled. The impact Both times should have deployed the air bags. My son was injured today due to this. A truck…
There have been 2 separate incidents involving a front collision at high speeds. Both times, the air bags did not deploy as they should have. The 2nd incident was today. The car is now totaled. The impact Both times should have deployed the air bags. My son was injured today due to this. A truck ran a stop sign and we hit him. None of the bags deployed. Speed was 45 mph. The whole front of the car and hood are completely crushed. There were no alarms during or before impact. This is the 2nd wreck.
- Electrical system · Steering
The 2011 through 2013 Lincoln MKS were recalled for the electric power steering assist suddenly going out and it is the same on this car and could have gotten someone seriously hurt these need to be added to the recall thanks for looking.
- Electrical system · Steering
My car will intermittently (more times than not) lose its power steering assist, making it almost impossible for me to drive. I've had the car looked at, replaced the rack and pinion assembly, put on new tires, ran a diagnostic, and the car still lacks power steering most of the time. When starting…
My car will intermittently (more times than not) lose its power steering assist, making it almost impossible for me to drive. I've had the car looked at, replaced the rack and pinion assembly, put on new tires, ran a diagnostic, and the car still lacks power steering most of the time. When starting the vehicle, the wheel will lock up, and the message "Power Steering Assist Fault" displays, no matter how many times I try to restart the car and allow the computer to reset, the fault does not go away. I rarely have times when I can drive with a power steering assist. The car has become a serious problem because I cannot get to work or school safely; when driving the other day, the power steering went out, and I was almost in an accident. I believe that there is a defect in the 2010 MKS, just like there was with the other years that were recalled, the fact that this issue has cost me so much money (and I cannot get out from under the car, I would if I could), and still puts me at risk for serious injury is seriously concerning.
- Engine
The contact owns a 2010 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated that upon placing her vehicle into park(P), the temperature gauge indicated that the engine was hot. The engine then failed to restart after the failure. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where she was informed that the water pump…
The contact owns a 2010 Lincoln MKS. The contact stated that upon placing her vehicle into park(P), the temperature gauge indicated that the engine was hot. The engine then failed to restart after the failure. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where she was informed that the water pump was defective and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
exhaust manifold leaks gas fumes into the cabin via a/c
- Steering
I started my car and the error "power steering failure" came on, I was completely unable to turn the steering wheel. I turned the vehicle off and back on and it happened again. There was no warning and I can't turn it at all. I can't imagine what would have happened if I were driving it! This IS a…
I started my car and the error "power steering failure" came on, I was completely unable to turn the steering wheel. I turned the vehicle off and back on and it happened again. There was no warning and I can't turn it at all. I can't imagine what would have happened if I were driving it! This IS a known issue and if the 2011's were recalled, and it IS happening to this many people with a 2010, maybe they should do a recall on it as well!
- Steering
Electronic power steering went out. Took to local dealer 3 times---computer reset first time; second time came up 'electrical issue'. third time computer said replace rack and pinion. car purchased as cpo in 2013 from rochester, mn dealership with 17000 miles. Seven years later it has 47000…
Electronic power steering went out. Took to local dealer 3 times---computer reset first time; second time came up 'electrical issue'. third time computer said replace rack and pinion. car purchased as cpo in 2013 from rochester, mn dealership with 17000 miles. Seven years later it has 47000 miles. this model was included in a recall starting with 2011 vehicles. Perhaps 2010 vehicles should be as well. very dangerous to have this happen at highway speeds.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. The contact stated while the vehicle was stationary, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact stated that the vehicle maintenance light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer gengras ford (225 new britain ave, plainville…
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. The contact stated while the vehicle was stationary, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact stated that the vehicle maintenance light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer gengras ford (225 new britain ave, plainville, ct 06062, (860) 793-8885). Upon investigation, the dealer associated the failure with nhtsa campaign number: 15v340000 (steering) however, the vin was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to nhtsa to file a complaint. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Power train · Steering
The electrical power assisted steering failed again without warning. when this unit ceases operation, it also affects the vehicle power train by shutting down the traction control and the anti lock braking, it seems. when the electrical assist stop working, the vehicle IS extremely difficult to control as it takes all the effort a person can muster to turn the steering wheel. this IS a very bad steering system.
- Steering
Tire went flat and lost all power steering. I could not even drive it to the nearest service station on the spare tire and had to have it towed. safety recall on 2011 and newer but not on 2010 - this car has a dangerous power steering unit and you shouldn't have a car that's inoperable just because you have a flat tire.
- Exterior lighting › Headlights · Wheels
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. The contact stated that the driver's side headlight flashed intermittently while in operation. In addition, the front driver's side wheel made an abnormal squeaking noise while traveling under 25 mph. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The dealer and manufacturer were not notified. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was 132,000.
- Steering
While driving, on rt. 264 the epas steering turned off without warning. My wife had to fight to get the vehicle to the side of the road. the effort to turn the steering wheel was so great that I had to take over from my wife. It took all my effort to turn the steering wheel, it was so stiff. I…
While driving, on rt. 264 the epas steering turned off without warning. My wife had to fight to get the vehicle to the side of the road. the effort to turn the steering wheel was so great that I had to take over from my wife. It took all my effort to turn the steering wheel, it was so stiff. I took the vehicle to the dealer today and had it checked out. They reported that it was caused by low tire pressure. There were no warnings from the TPMS. I was told that, in the case of a reoccurrance, that simply inflating the tires would not suffice, but that the system would need to be reset by a ford diagnostic computer.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. While driving 60 mph, the power steering completely failed and the steering warning indicator illuminated as the power steering failed. The contact was able to take the vehicle to crescent ford (100 old winston rd, high point, nc 27265, 336-869-2181) where…
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. While driving 60 mph, the power steering completely failed and the steering warning indicator illuminated as the power steering failed. The contact was able to take the vehicle to crescent ford (100 old winston rd, high point, nc 27265, 336-869-2181) where the contact was informed that there was a recall on the vehicle. Upon investigation, the contact found nhtsa campaign number: 15v340000 (steering) that applied to the 2011 and 2012 MKS models; however, a recall was not placed on the 2010 models. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced the same failure with his vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 168,000.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. While driving approximately 70 mph, the power steering seized and the contact was unable to maneuver the vehicle. The power steering assist warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle had to be turned off and restarted several times in order to resume normal…
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. While driving approximately 70 mph, the power steering seized and the contact was unable to maneuver the vehicle. The power steering assist warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle had to be turned off and restarted several times in order to resume normal operation. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired; however, mac haik's southway ford (located at 7979 interstate 35 access rd, san antonio, tx 78224, (210) 922-2222) was informed of the failure. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 110,722.
- Steering
2010 lincoln MKS power steering would not function, did this 5 times . Had to turn car off turn steering very hard a couple times and then restart power steering returned. Last time this happened 10/31/2010
- Air bags
Takata recall. Parts are not available for replacement since may of 2018. Nothing has happened.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. While driving various speeds, the steering wheel seized without warning. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to the side of the road and turn off the engine. The vehicle was restarted and operated normally. The vehicle was taken to cedar city ford…
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. While driving various speeds, the steering wheel seized without warning. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to the side of the road and turn off the engine. The vehicle was restarted and operated normally. The vehicle was taken to cedar city ford lincoln (1010 n main st, cedar city, ut 84721, (435) 586-9435), but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vin was not included in a recall. No further assistance was offered. The approximate failure mileage was 78,000.
- Engine
During the first incident, I was driving and heard a loud whirling sound then smoke started coming out the exhaust. I was told the problem was with the turbo charger. Then I had them replaced three months down the road while driving my car lost power. the throttle control light came on and I…
During the first incident, I was driving and heard a loud whirling sound then smoke started coming out the exhaust. I was told the problem was with the turbo charger. Then I had them replaced three months down the road while driving my car lost power. the throttle control light came on and I couldn't move the car. I left the car where it was, then came back the next day and it drove fine I took it to the repair shop in the mechanic couldn't find any problems and today when I went to pick the car up the car started smoking again no check engine light or any type of service light came on.
- Air bags
Takata recall. I got a notice that my 2010 lincoln MKX has takata air bags installed and in case of an accident may kill the persons in the car..
- Air bags
Takata recall - several months ago, took car to dealership (sabine river ford) in orange tx and they didn't perform work, saying they didn't have the parts. called them again today (10/23/17) after receiving notice from tk holdings inc.. notice said to take car to dealership to have work done…
Takata recall - several months ago, took car to dealership (sabine river ford) in orange tx and they didn't perform work, saying they didn't have the parts. called them again today (10/23/17) after receiving notice from tk holdings inc.. notice said to take car to dealership to have work done free of charge. dealership said they need to check on status of takata bankruptcy to see if recall can be done. said they would call back.
- Engine
Lincoln MKS 2010 lost power on highway and started shaking. towed to a mechanic who did a tune-up, checked the turbos and now says it needs the motor replaced due to a bad cylinder. ford needs to fix these ecoboost engines which are failing.
- Engine
Just bought this car about a month ago off the used lot at a ford dealership 59,000 miles now IS at 63,000 and on every start up it makes a loud clicking noise took it back they told me they new right what it was because the f150s and the taurus shos with the 3.5 eco boost I guess they have the…
Just bought this car about a month ago off the used lot at a ford dealership 59,000 miles now IS at 63,000 and on every start up it makes a loud clicking noise took it back they told me they new right what it was because the f150s and the taurus shos with the 3.5 eco boost I guess they have the problem more often then the lincolns. The timing chain tensionor IS losing its prime they told me and will be $3000 to fix sucks being I just paid $15,000 cash for it a month ago.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v154000 (air bags); however, the parts to do the repair were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact called a…
TL* the contact owns a 2010 lincoln MKS. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v154000 (air bags); however, the parts to do the repair were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact called a local dealer (galpin lincoln located 15500 roscoe blvd van nuys, ca 01406) where it was confirmed that the recall parts were not available. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Vehicle speed control
Letter in regards to the investigation of hyundai KIA been conducting which was in the las vegas journal on may 21; seeking comments. *Ld the consumer stated the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration causing a 4 car accident. The vehicle was taken to the dealer prior to the accident…
Letter in regards to the investigation of hyundai KIA been conducting which was in the las vegas journal on may 21; seeking comments. *Ld the consumer stated the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration causing a 4 car accident. The vehicle was taken to the dealer prior to the accident complaining of the problem. The dealer did not find a problem. The consumer found a class action suit pertaining to the same issue , but the manufacturer claims no liability. *js
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10235153For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a different vehicle. Most modules on these affected vehicles are VIN/vehicle specific and hardware variations between modules do exist. Swapping a module from a vehicle or ordering a module using a different vehicle/VIN can cause ineffective repairs and additional vehicle down time. Make sure all appropriate Workshop Manual (WSM) procedures are followed when diagnosing the condition prior to all module replacements and only order modules using the correct VIN.
- 10180428Some 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare for a turbocharger to leak oil. To isolate the source of the leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 General Information > Diagnosis and Testing > Engine > Engine Oil Leaks - Fluorescent Oil Additive Method procedure. When an oil leak is present at a turbocharger oil supply or drain tube, remove the affected oil tube and inspect for damage, and replace the O-ring seals, pedestal gasket or oil tube as required. Refer to WSM, Section 303-04. For claiming, use the affected oil tube or pedestal gasket as the causal part and applicable labor operations in Sections 6 and 9 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
- 10164508Some 2010-2020 vehicles may exhibit distorted glass with a subtle orange peel pattern or streaking etched into the surface. This is caused by hydrofluoric acid which is used in some car wash solutions as a cleaning agent. Hydrofluoric acid can attack the glass and cause visual distortion and/or discoloration on the outer surface which cannot be removed by further cleaning. If this type of distortion is found, inspect the area of the glass that is covered by the cowl and/or molding. The portion of glass that is covered by the cowl or molding will not be affected by the acid. Hydrofluoric acid damage is not a defect in material or workmanship and is not a warrantable condition.
- 10160931On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission it is imperative that the converter pilot hub be greased with Motorcraft Multi-Purpose Grease Spray XL-5-A even if grease was not applied from the factory. Also verify that the engine/transmission alignment dowel pins are present as well as the engine crankshaft dowel pin, if equipped, when installing the transmission. Failure to adequately lubricate the converter hub greatly increases the likelihood of the flexplate cracking in the future. Missing dowels may cause a misalignment issue also resulting in a premature failure. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 307-01.
- 10159494SSM 47948 - 2010-2019 Various Vehicles - Turbocharged Engines - Oil Supply Filter Replacement When Replacing The Turbocharger Or The Turbocharger Oil Supply Tube For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts. When specified in the WSM, the turbocharger oil supply filter must be replaced whenever the turbocharger or the turbocharger oil supply tube are replaced. Turbocharger bearing failure may occur if oil starvation occurs due to a restricted filter.
- 10152473For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts. For all turbocharged engine applications, the turbocharger oil supply filter (6C683 gas engine/6L625 connector style or 6A968 diesel engine) must be replaced whenever the turbocharger or the turbocharger oil supply tube are replaced. Turbocharger bearing failure may occur if oil starvation occurs due to a restricted filter.
- 10137131Some 2007-2016 Edge/MKX/Flex/MKT/MKZ/MKS/Taurus/Police Interceptor Sedan/Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with AWD and built on or before 30-Jun-2016 may exhibit a propane or natural gas odor during idle or low speed driving. This may be due to break down of the power transfer unit (PTU) fluid caused by excessive heat. If the source of the odor is identified as originating from the PTU, an idler bearing repair kit is available to repair the PTU. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-07. If the PTU is determined to be repairable, utilize kit GB5Z-7P258-A and the included instruction sheet. For claiming use causal part 7P258 and applicable labor operations in section 07 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
- 10137113Replacing the original equipment SYNC/Navigation system with either an aftermarket SYNC/Navigation kit or modifying original SYNC/Navigation parts to provide additional features is not recommended nor supported on any Ford, Mercury or Lincoln vehicle. Only approved Genuine Ford accessories or originally installed systems are supported and certified to function correctly with other vehicle systems. If you suspect a system has been modified, the following resources can be used to verify original equipment: Monroney Label (Window Sticker), Professional Technician Society (PTS) OASIS tab select SYNC or HVBOM. For Genuine Ford accessories use: PTS Workshop Tab select Dealer Installed Accessory or Accessory Installation.
- 101365972010-2018 various vehicles equipped with SYNC or SYNC 3 may not function when attempting to find or use the Spotify app via AppLink. As of an update released on 1/15/2018 Spotify will no longer be supporting their AppLink integration. No repair attempts should be attempted to correct this concern.
- 10109070The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies (ETBs). The ETC_ACT and ETC_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB concerns. The IDS has a limited refresh rate when reading these PIDs and cannot display quickly enough to validate a concern. The PCM automatically monitors these inputs more accurately and will set diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) when appropriate. Using these PIDs for diagnostics will lead to inaccurate results and improper ETB replacements. If a concern is intermittent and no DTCs are present, refer to historical DTCs and the PC/ED, Section 3 No DTCs Present Index chart for further information.
- 10095995Some 2010-2016 epas equipped vehicles may exhibit steering related noises. The workshop manual (wsm) diagnostic procedures have been updated in section 211-02. When diagnosing and repairing epas steering noises use the updated procedures.
- 10095858Some 2007-2016 edge/mkx/flex/mkt/mkz/mks/taurus/taurus police/explorer/explorer police equipped with all wheel drive (AWD) and built on or before 30-jun-2016 may exhibit a ticking and/or knocking noise coming from the driveline area. To identify this noise, refer to workshop manual (wsm), section 100-04, and follow the symptom chart. If the source of the noise IS identified as the ptu and/or internal to the ptu, disassemble ptu assembly. Refer to updated wsm, section 308-07. If the ptu IS determined to be repairable, utilize kit gb5z-7p258-a and the included instruction sheet. For claiming, use causal part 7p258 and applicable labor operations in section 07 of the service labor time standards (slts) manual.
- 10095184Replacing the original equipment sync/navigation system with either an aftermarket sync/navigation kit or modifying original sync/navigation parts to provide additional features IS not recommended nor supported on any ford, mercury or lincoln vehicle. Only approved genuine ford accessories or originally installed systems are supported and certified to function correctly with other vehicle systems. If you suspect a system has been modified, the following resources can be used to verify original equipment: monroney label (window sticker), professional technician society (pts) oasis tab select sync or hvbom. For genuine ford accessories use: pts workshop tab select dealer installed accessory or accessory installation.
- 10058460Lincoln/ford: an overhaul transmission motorcraft kit, available for some vehicles, contains an incorrect valve bode separator plate and would need to discard 7z490 part and use bt4z-7z490 to prevent harsh downshifts. Model 2010-12 edge, MKX, flex, MKS, MKT, taurus.
- 10058076Ford 2010-2014 flex, taurus, 2013-2014 explorer, lincoln 2012-2014 MKS, MKT vehicles equipped with a 3.5L gasoline turbocharged direct injection enginewith an aluminum valve cover may exhibit excessive oil consumption and excessive engine smoking from the tailpipe during normal engine temperatures.
- 10057834Ford: no service action IS recommended for this condition. Please use at your discretion. Various 2010-2015 vehicles may experience a turbulence noise, similar to an helicopter noise, at highway speeds when the rear door window(s) or sunroof are open.
- 10057395Lincoln/ford: on some vehicles, the moon roof sunshade binding IS experiencing issues such as retaining clips/tabs are broken and its hard to open or close. Model 2009-14 MKS, 2011-15 explorer, 2013-14 escape.
- 10056170Lincoln/ford: on some vehicles and trucks, there IS a popping, squealing, binding or grinding noise come from power seats when moving backwards or forward. Model 2009-2015 F-150, taurus, flex, MKT, MKS, f-super duty, explorer.
- 10056147Ford/lincoln: some vehicles, with aluminum valve cover, will experience an excessive condition of smoking engine oil and/or consumption of oil, from tail pipe, during normal engine temperature operation. Model 2010-2014 flex, taurus, explorer, MKS, MKT.
- 10053459Ford/lincoln: long block engines shipped with cam sensors, crank sensor, crank sensor tone wheel, coolant inlet tube, the components must be swapped over engine being replaced to replacement engine before engine IS installed.
- 10053274Ford/lincoln: on some vehicles, transmission 5TH gear start at stop, speed control drops or inoperative, backup camera on in drive, 5TH gear start from stop and transmission slipping or neutral out, due to digital transmission range (tr) sensor high resistance. Models 2009-11 edge, taurus, flex; 2009-11 MKS, MKX, MKT.
- 10039159Ford: the idle speed drops lower than desired and may fluctuate. There may be two possible trouble codes stored.
- 10039121Ford: there may be a sluggish acceleration or hesitation feeling when rolling to a stop. This will be followed by a harsh bump.
- 10039119Ford: the tire pressure warning light IS on due to low pressure of one of the tires. There may be corrossion in the tire bead seat area. 2009-2011 edge/mkx.
- 10039108Ford: 2010-2011 taurus. There may be an oil leak from the turbocharger oil feed lines or a seal.
- 10034629Ford/lincoln: transmission built before 6/1/10 with 4TH gear start, delay/hesitation on acceleration from a stop-no dtcs. This may be caused by a sticking multiplex shift valve in the valve body.
Every Lincoln MKS model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.