2017 Lincoln Mkx Safety Report

2017 Lincoln MKX: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Significant Braking, Airbag, and Electrical System Recalls

45Complaints
5Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
55/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Service Brakes, Hydraulic (8)Electrical System (8)Unknown Or Other (6)Service Brakes (3)Wheels (3)Engine (3)Service Brakes, Hydraulic,Service Brakes (3)Seat Belts (2)Back Over Prevention (1)Exterior Lighting (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Lincoln Mkx

The 2017 Lincoln MKX presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with 5-star overall, frontal, and side ratings, and a 4-star rollover rating from NHTSA, its recall history and complaint data highlight significant safety concerns, particularly regarding its braking system. There are 45 total complaints, with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths directly attributed in the summary, which is positive. However, the high number of complaints related to 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' (8 complaints) and 'SERVICE BRAKES' (3 complaints), totaling 11 complaints, directly correlates with two major recalls concerning premature rupture of both rear and front brake hoses, which can extend stopping distances and increase crash risk. Beyond braking, the vehicle has faced recalls for critical safety components such as the driver's frontal airbag (NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000), where the airbag may not fully inflate or detach, increasing injury risk. An electrical system recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V627000) addresses a battery cable harness potentially contacting the transmission shifter cable bracket, leading to an electrical short and fire risk. Furthermore, a recall for the 16-way electric tilt seats (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V809000) indicates a risk of inadvertent airbag deployment or non-deployment due to wire harness contact. Common complaint patterns, aside from the dominant brake issues, include 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (8 complaints), 'ENGINE' (3 complaints), and 'SEAT BELTS' (2 complaints). Several complaints detail instances of brake failure, soft/spongy pedals, and vehicles failing to stop as intended, directly aligning with the brake hose recalls. Other complaints mention engine stalling at highway speeds, battery drain, and seatbelt malfunctions, reinforcing the breadth of issues beyond just the braking system. The fact that several complaints mention parts for recall repairs being unavailable or on back order is also a significant concern for owners.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Lincoln Mkx receives a reliability score of 55 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 Mkx

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Lincoln Mkx:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Brake Hose Rupture/Leak
Rear and front brake hoses may rupture prematurely, leading to brake fluid leaks, extended stopping distances, and increased crash risk. This is covered by two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 20V469000 and 20V414000).		 High Common unknown miles
Driver'S Frontal Airbag Malfunction
Driver's frontal airbag may not fully inflate or the cushion may detach during a crash, increasing the risk of injury (NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000).		 High Occasional unknown miles
Electrical Short/Fire Risk From Battery Cable
Battery positive cable harness may contact the transmission shifter cable bracket, causing an electrical short and increasing the risk of fire (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V627000).		 High Occasional unknown miles
Seat Airbag Wiring Contact
Seat cushion frame edge may contact the wire harness for the side airbag, potentially causing inadvertent airbag deployment or non-deployment (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V809000).		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Engine Stalling/Loss Of Motive Power
Engine may suddenly die while driving, including at highway speeds, leading to loss of motive power and requiring the vehicle to be coasted to the side of the road.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Swollen Lug Nuts
Lug nuts may swell, making them difficult or impossible to remove, which can prevent changing a flat tire.		 Low Occasional unknown 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 Mkx:

Service Brakes, Hydraulic 24% of complaints

Frequent complaints about brake fluid leaks, soft/spongy brake pedals, and extended stopping distances, directly related to brake hose ruptures and associated recalls.

Electrical System 24% of complaints

Issues including battery drain and concerns related to the battery positive cable harness, aligning with a recall for fire risk.

Unknown Or Other 18% of complaints

A notable portion of complaints fall into a general category, indicating various other issues not specifically categorized.

Engine 9% of complaints

Reports of engine stalling, loss of compression, and loss of motive power while driving.

Wheels 9% of complaints

Complaints specifically mentioning swollen lug nuts that are difficult to remove.

Seat Belts 6% of complaints

Issues with seatbelts jamming or not extending properly.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Lincoln Mkx

Is the 2017 Lincoln MKX safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Lincoln MKX received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, side, and 4-star rollover). However, it has 5 recalls addressing critical safety components like brake hoses, airbags, and electrical systems, which pose significant risks if not remedied. There are 45 total complaints, with a notable pattern of brake-related issues.

What are common problems with the 2017 Lincoln MKX?

The most reported issues are related to the SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC (8 complaints) and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints), often linked to recalls concerning brake hose ruptures and battery cable chafing. Other common problems include engine stalling, swollen lug nuts, and seatbelt malfunctions.

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Lincoln MKX?

Yes, there are 5 recalls for the 2017 Lincoln MKX. These include recalls for rear and front brake hose ruptures, driver's frontal airbag malfunction, an electrical system issue with the battery cable, and a seat wiring issue that could affect airbag deployment.

How does the 2017 Lincoln MKX perform in crash tests?

The 2017 Lincoln MKX performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating, 5 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

What should I do if I own a 2017 Lincoln MKX?

If you own a 2017 Lincoln MKX, it is critical to check if all 5 recalls have been addressed. Pay particular attention to the brake system, electrical system, and airbag recalls. Contact a Lincoln dealership immediately if you experience any symptoms related to these recalls or other safety concerns, especially brake issues or engine stalling.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the excellent crash test ratings but significant safety recalls and recurring complaints, prioritize verifying all recall repairs have been completed and thoroughly inspect the braking system and electrical components before purchasing a used 2017 Lincoln MKX.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Lincoln Mkx

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Lincoln Mkx. The data includes 45 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Lincoln Mkx 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.