Home · 2017 Lincoln Mkc · Complaints

What 182 owners told NHTSA about the 2017 Lincoln Mkc

These are the actual owner complaints behind this car’s reliability verdict, filed with the federal government, unedited. They’re unverified reports, not confirmed defects: read them as leads for your pre-purchase inspection, not a diagnosis.

All (182)Crash / fire / injury (10)Engine (104)Backup camera & sensors (20)Engine & cooling (20)Electrical system (19)Transmission & drivetrain (10)Fuel system (4)Airbags (3)Brakes (3)Visibility & wipers (3)Wheels (3)

104 of 182 complaints match · Engine · clear filters · page 2 of 5

Jul 25, 2025Engine

Coolant leak intrusion misfire cyl4 and cyl3 smoke vehicle shut down extreme engine shaking and fire check engile lights class action lawsuits manufacturers refusing to help and dealership is refusing to help. Dealership admits vehicle is unrepairable and has held possession for 75 days

NHTSA ODI 11676236

Jul 24, 2025Engine

My 2017 Lincoln MKC has engine coolant leaking in to the #4 cylinder. On start-up the engine runs rough, and the check engine light is on. LINCOLN/FORD has a Technical Service Bulletin #22-2229 covering this issue. I believe this is a common problem involving a large number of these engines. LICOLN/FORD will not pay for any replacement costs. I have spent $1414.08 in an attempt to repair this problem. I believe this also causes my car not to be able to pass the Ohio E-Check.

NHTSA ODI 11675902

Jul 14, 2025Engine

I was told by my Lincoln dealer that I need to replace the engine on my 2017 MKC. This is due to coolant intrusion issue that seems to be a very common problem with this model. I'm really disappointed, it's a very costly repair ($10,000 +) I only had 85,000 on the car. I was driving on a highway and the car completely shut down. They said the only repair is an engine replacement and are not willing to assist in the costs. The check engine light came on when the engine seized.

NHTSA ODI 11673366

Jul 12, 2025Engine

Torque converter failure that has plagued other Ford vehicles of this era having the 2 liter 4 cylinder engines. Please see attached letters to and from Ford and all work orders.

NHTSA ODI 11673011

Jul 10, 2025Engine

The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the engine was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.

NHTSA ODI 11672489

Jul 4, 2025Engine

I took my vehicle to Rainbow Muffler and Brake due to my engine light on. I was told I had an Evap leak and it may just be my gas cap. I don’t have a gas cap. They turned the light off and it stayed off for a while. A few months later I took it in and was told to do a smoke test. Smoke test showed I need a purge valve ($214 for part from dealer) and Rainbow charged $105 to install. A few weeks later light returns, I take it back to Rainbow. I’m told a tune up $$250. A few weeks later light comes back on. I’m told I needed coils $325. A few weeks later light is back on. I immediately called Rainbow to be told, Lincoln knows there a defect but they aren’t acknowledging it. I filed a complaint with The BBB and my States Attorney General Office.

NHTSA ODI 11671240

Jun 30, 2025Engine

The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light and the #4 coil failure indicator warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and coil #2 was switched with coil #4; however, the failure reoccurred. The independent mechanic reset the codes however, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

NHTSA ODI 11670243

May 31, 2025Engine

Within 4 months, I’ve spent $12k on transmission replacement (refurb.) (Metallics in the fluid), Fuel injectors, etc. The check engine light is still on…Now Im told that coolant is leaking into my engine, and the engine needs replaced! (Coolant intrusion) Another $9k for parts and labor! i just paid the car off! Ive kept up with repairs and service! Ive done everything the dealer has suggested…except replace the engine! I’m still recovering from the cost of the transmission! The 2017 Lincoln MKC with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine has a known defect where coolant leaks into the engine cylinders, often causing misfires, overheating, or engine failure. This issue, linked to faulty engine block and cylinder head design, typically requires engine replacement ($5,000-$9,500). Ford issued TSB 22-2229 but no recall. A class-action lawsuit is ongoing. Check warranty status; report to NHTSA.

NHTSA ODI 11664057

Apr 22, 2025Engine

August of 2024 I took my vehicle to Island Street Automotive in Stoughton Mass because my engine light kept going off and off. The test showed the cylinder one misfire. They change the spark plugs and cylinder. However, I ended up taking the vehicle back 3 times for the same issue and experienced the same results. By now the check engine light was on all the time. I then realized a week or so later that the coolant was empty. For the next couple of weeks I continued replacing the coolant and had an auto shop look to see where the coolant could be going but they could not figure it out. There wasn't any leaking out of the vehicle. Soon my vehicle would begin shaking at the start up with the engine light blinking and then it would go solid. I decided to take the vehicle to Herb Chambers Lincoln of Norwood where I purchased the vehicle. They never mentioned that there was a bulletin out on this vehicle when I purchased it. It took them 3 days to diagnose. I was told the engine had to be replaced and needed a long block assembly. The charge would have been $8,634.31 plus tax. I called CarShield to put in the claim and they denied it because they found a bulletin out on the engine and stated it was a manufacturers error so they would not honor the claim. I called Lincoln directly and spoke about this issue but they blew me off and said there were no programs to help me pay for the cost of fixing the problem. I reluctantly chose to take the vehicle to North End Motors in Canton. They came up with the same conclusion. The engine was built with an open block and they needed to replace it with a closed block engine because the coolant was leaking into the oil. The charge was $7,494.72 plus tax, less than Herb Chambers. I chose to have the vehicle repaired with much anguish. I was not responsible for the issue with this vehicle but had to pay the astronomical cost. Thank you for reading.

NHTSA ODI 11656025

Mar 23, 2025Engine

I have a recurring coolant intrusion problem. Available for inspection. Risk of engine seizing up and running hot. The problem has been identified by a licensed mechanic. The vehicle component has not been inspected by manufactured however this is a known issue by Ford. Check engine light, misfire of cylinder #4 (P0304) and coolant inside cylinder.

NHTSA ODI 11649968

Mar 17, 2025Engine

Known issue with the 2.4L turbo engine and coolant leak resulting in need for engine replacement.

NHTSA ODI 11648871

Mar 5, 2025Engine

Bought this 2017 Lincoln MKC with 75K miles on 2/21/25. Four days later while driving to work an engine light came on. Continuing on to work the car started running poorly while crossing a rail road track. Seemed like it was gonna quit running right there on the track. Then it started running like it did before except now there is a wrench starting blinking on my instrument panel. Had the engine code checked at O’Riley’s and was informed it was number 3 cylinder misfiring as they recommend a new spark plug and coil. While they checked the code I called the dealer where I purchased the vehicle and I have an appointment scheduled for 10 AM tomorrow. I’m sure they will install a new plug and coil and send me on my way knowing my warranty will be ending in a few more hundred miles . I’ve researched the issue and know the motor needs changed and it should be ford to recall them. I’m handicap now and won’t be able to afford to fix it or buy another vehicle. This isn’t right and does needs to step up to the plate and accept responsibility for their mistake.

NHTSA ODI 11646463

Feb 17, 2025Engine

Vacuum pump, 2.3 ecoturbo charger not available for inspection. Dealer in ND replaced vacuum pump twice and car ran worse than when I brought it in so they then decided it was the turbocharger and replaced it. My check engine light and ABS light were on. Could not drive over 55 mph and was on highway when lost power and slowed way down significantly with traffic congested. Had to pull off to side. Thick Smoking from tailpipe they said oil got lnto the catalytic convertor it would eventually wear off and ok to drive. Took to different dealer and they replaced the vacuum pump again (this was the 3rd one)it has 73000 miles on it. I Drove for 20000 without trouble. Now I'm at dealership in TN and they are replacing the entire engine. Without any help from Lincoln and the car has 91000 miles on it

NHTSA ODI 11643115

Jan 31, 2025Engine

Check engine light on and after scan, code P0302 results. Engine feels sluggish. "Coolant level low" displayed on dash, also temperature level rose to high so stopped driving it. Engine temperature elevated may catch fire car. Problem is coolant entering cylinder. Confirmed by two independent mechanics, and today by Lincoln mechanic. Vehicle is at Lincoln service center. Check engine light appeared on dash a few days before the temperature elevation and coolant loss. Got code P0302 a few days before the coolant loss and temperature rise.

NHTSA ODI 11640004

Jan 22, 2025Engine

The engine failure in my 2017 Lincoln MKC was caused by coolant intrusion, a known design flaw affecting thousands of 2015-2019 models. This serious issue presents a severe safety risk to drivers and passengers. Symptoms Engine light illumination Shakiness and sputtering at startup Misfire on cylinder #3 Rapid coolant loss Intermittent engine light warnings Battery-like symptoms (vehicle not starting, clicking sounds) Violent shaking during 1 startup Diagnosis and Repair Attempts Replaced component for cylinder #3 misfire Installed new spark plugs Refilled coolant reservoir Battery checked and jumped Final diagnosis: Engine replacement required due to coolant intrusion Issue confirmed as a known design flaw in Lincoln MKC Safety Risks The coolant intrusion problem poses significant safety risks: Potential for sudden engine failure while driving, especially at high speeds Risk of losing control of the vehicle due to engine seizure Danger to occupants and other road users in case of unexpected breakdown Confirmation and Inspection The issue was reproduced and confirmed by both Monro Auto and the Lincoln dealership. The vehicle was inspected by the Lincoln dealership, which determined the need for a complete engine replacement The warranty company approved the engine replacement, acknowledging the severity of the problem Warning Signs Intermittent Check engine light illumination Occasional shaking and sputtering at startup Rapid coolant loss without visible leaks Intermittent starting issues resembling battery problems One episode of violent shaking at startup All of these symptoms appeared sporadically Manufacturer Responsibility Despite being aware of this design flaw and even developing a new engine to address the issue, Lincoln has not issued a recall. This lack of action raises serious concerns about the manufacturer's commitment to customer safety. The problem is widespread, as evidenced by numerous reports on Lincoln MKC forums, indicating a systemic iss

NHTSA ODI 11637703

Dec 29, 2024Engine

The coolant intrusion into cylinder #2 . Very well known problem with Ford EcoBoost engines. This car has the 2.0L engine and there hasnt been a recall on it yet. It becomes a safety concern when the problem gets bad enough to allow oil to leak , causing a engine fire. The problem was diagnosed by a Lincoln dealer. No, it was not inspected by the manufacturer but my dealer did communicate the issue to Ford. There were check engine lights because this causes a cylinder misfire as the coolant leaking into the cylinders is burned. We already had the problem repaired by replacing the engine long block assembly which cost $8176.93 .

NHTSA ODI 11632990

Dec 26, 2024EngineFire

The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that while driving, a burning odor was detected as the vehicle lost power. Upon the contact's arrival at home, her fiancé called AAA service. Where upon inspection the AAA technician diagnosed the vehicle with a battery issue stating that the was about to explode. No warning lights were illuminated. The battery was replaced by the however the contact stated that the vehicle continued to have electrical problems. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V378000 (Engine) however the VIN was not included. The manufacturer or dealer was not notified of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

NHTSA ODI 11632421

Oct 19, 2024Engine

Coolant leaking into cylinders 2 and 3 needs engine block replacement causing smoke and misfire

NHTSA ODI 11620776

Sep 13, 2024Electrical systemEngine

The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was later informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but was offered no assistance. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.

NHTSA ODI 11614394

Sep 6, 2024Engine & coolingEngine

The contact owns a 2017 Lincoln MKC. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle failed to start while pressing the Start button on the key fob. The contact was able to start the vehicle while pressing the Push to Start button inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the vehicle was experiencing excessive coolant consumption. The mechanic diagnosed that there was coolant intrusion in cylinder #2. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where the same assessment was made, and the dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 107,000.

NHTSA ODI 11613071

Sep 3, 2024Engine

There is a huge problem with my vehicle it started leaking coolant into the cylinder. The vehicle is using coolant and burning it through the exhaust. This defect in the engine block causes catastrophic failure if occuring during driving on highway can cause accident and fire.

NHTSA ODI 11612283

Aug 28, 2024Engine

Lincoln/Ford knowingly designed an engine where the head gasket is unable to properly seal and overtime causes intrusion of coolant into the cyclinder causing overheating. This results in the need to replace the ENTIRE engine block. They are aware of the issue and continued to build these engines with the KNOWN safety issue from 2017 - 2020 on not only Lincolns but Fords. The dealerships are aware of the issues, the corporate companies are aware of the safety issues and still there is no recall on these. They wont even help pay for the new engine. My car only has 43,000 miles on it! I should not be replacing an engine already for this known safety issue. This should be recalled immediately. I was driving my young children 3 and 1 around when the coolant overheated and it could have or ceised as I am driving or caught on fire. Someone should not have to die in order for a recall to happen. Lincoln/Ford need to make this right before someone dies. They knew of this issue when they designed it and continued to make them until 2020.

NHTSA ODI 11611329

Aug 11, 2024Engine

Started with a rough start in the morning. Check engine went on and took to Advanced Auto to have code checks: P0302 1/3 Stored Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected DTC Severity 2 of 3. Repair immediately if drivability issues are present. Threat to essential. I immediately went to our Ford Dealer who has been maintaining our vehicle. First thing they did was open the hood and told me to keep an eye open for the antifreeze level. He then told me that they have problems from 2017-2019 with these 2.0L Ecoboost engines - Coolant, white exhaust smoke and/or Illuminated MIL. He stated that they do not fix this engine, and provided me a 13 page report and wrote and estimate for $6,500 + tax to have the engine replaced. I have 60,000 miles on my 2017 Lincoln MKC. I drive 14 miles to work and back 3 times a week. I baby this car. This engine should not need to be replaced after 60,000. I bought the car in 2020. On December 19, 2019, Ford has technical service bulletin #19-2346 and it appears that do not disclose this to avoid fixing under their 6 year or 70,000 mile warranty. This is really unacceptable on Ford's part. Shame on Ford for not creating a recall for this engine failure. We customers should not have to pay for a newly designed engine after Ford knew that this engine was a failure. I am demanding Ford to look into this engine problem. This is unacceptable!!! I am requesting for Ford to pay for my newly redesigned engine. Bill Ford has a statement on Ford Motor Company's website: We see no conflict between business goals and social and environmental needs. I believe the distinction between a good company and a great one is this: A good company delivers excellent products and services. A great one delivers excellent products and services and strives to make the world a better place. Bill Ford Executive Chair, Ford Motor Company I DO NOT SEE THAT THIS IS AND EXCELLENT PRODUCT OR SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE FORD MOTOR CO.

NHTSA ODI 11607857

Jul 25, 2024EngineCrash

I purchased 2017 Lincoln MKC new almost immediately had electrical issues with it that has stayed throughout the vehicles life. At about 55,000 miles my car started acting up like it was misfiring. I took it to Lincoln and twice they said they couldn’t feel anything. I left the car over night because it mainly happened in morning starting up and going a certain speed. Lincoln called me and said it was something with transmission and they would fix it. The problem did not get better. At approximately 70,000 miles my engine light came on and I took it to be read. It read cylinder 1 misfire. I changed out my plugs and coils and had light reset. Light came back on at 71,000 engine over heating. I added/filled engine coolant. Light came on off and it was chalked up to an electrical issue they couldn’t find. I have had to refill my coolant several times as it drains quick in sumner heat and I have had to change my plugs and coils again. My car was recently at a Lincoln and they noted my spark plug and coils on the floor. They asked me about the radiator fluid and I explained what has been happening to my car since 55,000 miles. I was told that Lincoln is well aware that this is a problem with the MKC with radiator fluid leaking causing it to leak into out plugs, cause misfire and eventually seize the engine but there has not been a recall, leaving buyers stuck. My issue is that I went to dealership with these problems but was ignored and told it was something else. Lincoln purposly blamed the issue on something else so my warranty would be done and they wouldn’t have to cover the cost. They knew about this issue and purposely pushed it off so they would not be responsible.

NHTSA ODI 11604535

Jul 19, 2024Engine

Car was misfiring, so I took the car to the dealership. There is coolant leaking into the engine cylinders and there is white exhaust smoke. They tell me that this is a known manufacturer defect. There is even a Technical Service Bulletin by ford recognizing the defect. TSB-19-2346. The repair requires the engine block to be replaced. Cost is over 6K.

NHTSA ODI 11603303

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Working with the data? Download all 182 complaints as CSV · fetched from NHTSA July 25, 2026

How to use these: a complaint is one owner’s report, filed voluntarily and published unverified. Patterns matter more than any single story. If several owners describe the same failure at similar mileage, put that system at the top of your pre-purchase inspection list. Back to the full 2017 Lincoln Mkc verdict →