2017 Lincoln Mkc Safety Report
2017 Lincoln MKC: Strong Crash Ratings, but Significant Engine Defect and Fire Recalls Raise Reliability Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Lincoln Mkc
Reliability Score
The 2017 Lincoln Mkc receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Lincoln Mkc
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Lincoln Mkc:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Coolant Intrusion/Failure Coolant leaks into engine cylinders, causing misfires, rough performance, and often requiring full engine replacement due to a manufacturing defect (e.g., cylinder block or head gasket issues). |
High | Common | 60000-90000 miles |
| Battery Monitor Sensor Short Circuit/Fire Battery monitor sensor may short-circuit and overheat, leading to an engine compartment fire while parked or driving, addressed by recall 23V378000. |
High | Occasional | any miles |
| Engine Block Heater Electrical Short/Fire An electrical short circuit in the engine block heater can increase the risk of a fire, addressed by recall 25V572000. |
High | Occasional | any miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Rearview camera displays an inverted, distorted, or blank image, reducing driver's view and increasing crash risk, addressed by recall 25V572000. |
Medium | Common | any miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Lincoln Mkc:
Predominantly related to coolant intrusion leading to misfires, engine damage, and replacement. This accounts for 75 out of 163 complaints.
Further complaints related to the engine's cooling system, often tied to the coolant intrusion issue.
Issues with the rearview camera system, including blank or distorted images, which is also subject to a recall.
General electrical issues, including battery drain and faulty modules, some of which are linked to fire recalls.
Reports of transmission slippage and torque converter failure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Lincoln Mkc
Is the 2017 Lincoln MKC safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Lincoln MKC received strong crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side), indicating good occupant protection. However, it has significant safety concerns due to a high number of engine-related complaints (75 out of 163 total complaints) often leading to engine failure, and three recalls addressing fire risks and rearview camera malfunctions. While it performs well in crashes, its reliability and potential for serious component failures are notable.
What are common problems with the 2017 Lincoln MKC?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Lincoln MKC are overwhelmingly related to the ENGINE, accounting for 75 complaints. This frequently involves coolant intrusion into the cylinders, causing misfires and often requiring engine replacement. Other common problems include rearview camera malfunctions (9 complaints) and various electrical system issues (9 complaints), some of which are tied to fire-related recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Lincoln MKC?
Yes, the 2017 Lincoln MKC has three recalls. These include NHTSA Campaign Number 25V572000 for an electrical short in the engine block heater, NHTSA Campaign Number 23V378000 for a battery monitor sensor that can overheat and cause a fire, and NHTSA Campaign Number 25V572000 for a rearview camera that may display an inverted, distorted, or blank image.
Does the 2017 Lincoln MKC have engine problems?
Yes, the 2017 Lincoln MKC has significant and well-documented engine problems. The ENGINE component category has 75 complaints, making it the most frequent issue. Many reports detail a manufacturing defect causing coolant intrusion into the cylinders, leading to misfires, engine damage, and the need for costly engine replacements. This is a major concern for owners.
How does the 2017 Lincoln MKC perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Lincoln MKC performed well in NHTSA crash tests, receiving an overall 4-star safety rating. It earned 4 stars for frontal crash protection, an excellent 5 stars for side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance. This indicates a strong level of occupant protection in various collision scenarios.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the prevalent and severe engine defect requiring costly replacements, coupled with fire-related recalls, exercise extreme caution; a pre-purchase inspection by a Lincoln specialist is critical, specifically checking for signs of coolant intrusion or engine issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Lincoln Mkc
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Lincoln Mkc. The data includes 163 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Lincoln Mkc an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.