2015 Lincoln Mks Safety Report

2015 Lincoln MKS: Strong crash test scores but marred by significant recalls and concerning component failures.

17Complaints
3Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
1Fire Reports
1Injuries
Most reported components: Electrical System (2)Steering (2)Power Train,Engine (2)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (1)Air Bags,Structure (1)Engine,Back Over Prevention (1)Service Brakes,Fuel/Propulsion System,Forward Collision Avoidance (1)Engine And Engine Cooling (1)Suspension (1)Fuel System, Gasoline,Structure,Engine (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2015 Lincoln Mks

The 2015 Lincoln MKS presents a mixed safety profile. While it boasts excellent NHTSA crash test ratings with an overall score of 5 stars, and 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, its recall history and complaint data indicate areas of concern. The vehicle has been subject to three recalls, primarily related to the fuel system (pump delivery and tank mounting) and the parking brake. These recalls address potential risks of engine stalling, inability to start, fuel leaks leading to fire hazards, and unintended vehicle roll-away. Complaint data, though relatively low in total numbers (17), highlights issues in critical systems. Notably, there are complaints related to the electrical system, steering, powertrain, and engine cooling. Specific issues mentioned include steering gear failure, coolant leaks from a poorly designed water pump, and power loss while driving. While no crash-related complaints, fires, or deaths are reported, the nature of some complaints, such as steering failure and power loss, points to potential safety risks that could be exacerbated by driving conditions.

Reliability Score

The 2015 Lincoln Mks receives a reliability score of 65 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 2015 Lincoln Mks

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2015 Lincoln Mks:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Fuel Pump Failure
Recall issued for potential loss of power to the fuel pump, causing engine stalling or preventing the vehicle from starting.
High Common N/A miles
Fuel Tank Mounting Failure
Recall for potential fuel tank separation from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a fuel leak and fire.
High Occasional N/A miles
Parking Brake Malfunction
Recall for parking brake that may not fully engage, leading to potential vehicle roll-away when on a slope.
High Occasional N/A miles
Steering Gear Failure
Reports of steering gear power assistance failure while driving, making the vehicle very difficult to steer.
High Occasional 30000+ miles
Water Pump Leak/Failure
Complaints about coolant leaks due to a faulty water pump design, often requiring expensive repairs due to internal placement.
Medium Occasional 23000+ miles
Loss Of Automotive Power
Instances where the vehicle loses power while driving, requiring the engine to be shut off and restarted.
High Occasional 30000+ miles
Backup Camera Failure
Rear camera failures reported, impacting the ability to safely back up and park, with some owners incurring repair costs outside of recall.
Medium Occasional N/A miles
Airbag Warning Light
The airbag warning light illuminates, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system.
Medium Occasional N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2015 Lincoln Mks:

Electrical System 12% of complaints

Multiple complaints related to various electrical system failures, including backup camera, HVAC controls, and general system malfunctions.

Steering 12% of complaints

Reports of steering gear failure, leading to loss of power steering assistance.

Engine And Engine Cooling 12% of complaints

Complaints regarding coolant leaks and potential water pump failures.

Power Train 6% of complaints

Issues related to the powertrain, including hesitation and potential transmission problems.

Fuel System, Gasoline 6% of complaints

Complaints related to fuel leaks and gauge inaccuracies, some linked to recalls.

Air Bags 6% of complaints

Concerns about water leaks affecting side airbags and illuminated airbag warning lights.

Suspension 6% of complaints

Reports of loose suspension components requiring replacement.

Back Over Prevention 6% of complaints

Failures of the backup camera system.

Forward Collision Avoidance 6% of complaints

Issues with front sensors and potential hesitation during acceleration.

Structure 6% of complaints

Concerns about water leaks from drip rail moldings affecting internal components.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2015 Lincoln Mks

Is the 2015 Lincoln MKS safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2015 Lincoln MKS received excellent crash test ratings (5 stars overall). However, it has been subject to three recalls concerning critical safety systems like the fuel pump, fuel tank mounting, and parking brake, and has documented complaints regarding steering failure and power loss while driving.

What are common problems with the 2015 Lincoln MKS?

The most reported issues include problems with the electrical system (e.g., backup camera, HVAC controls), steering gear failure, engine cooling system leaks (water pump), and loss of power while driving. Recalls have also addressed fuel system and parking brake concerns.

Are the recalls for the 2015 Lincoln MKS serious?

Yes, the recalls are serious. They address potential fuel pump failure leading to stalling, fuel tank separation causing fire risk, and parking brake malfunction leading to roll-away risk.

What are the main safety concerns based on complaints?

The main safety concerns from complaints include the potential for steering failure, loss of power while driving, and issues with the backup camera system, which can impact situational awareness.

How does the 2015 Lincoln MKS perform in crash tests?

The 2015 Lincoln MKS performs exceptionally well in crash tests, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2015 Lincoln MKS offers strong crash protection, potential buyers should be aware of its history of significant recalls and reported issues with steering, powertrain, and electrical systems. Thorough pre-purchase inspection and review of maintenance records are highly recommended.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2015 Lincoln Mks

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2015 Lincoln Mks. The data includes 17 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 fire incidents, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2015 Lincoln Mks an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 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.