Safety advisory. One or more recalls carry a do-not-drive warning, which means owners should stop driving the vehicle until the repair is done. Check your VIN to see whether a specific vehicle is affected and still unrepaired.
Safety score
7/100
High recall-severity risk Lower recall-severity risk than 7% of vehicles we track.

The Lincoln MKZ scores 7 out of 100 (grade F), one of the heavier recall records among the vehicles we track. That score reflects how serious the recalls are rather than how many. 88% involve a critical safety system, 4 carried a do-not-drive warning, and 13% were issued in the last three years. How the score works.

Those 32 campaigns span 11 model years of the Lincoln MKZ. The single largest affected 1,892,343 vehicles, over air bags. Some carry a do-not-drive warning, the most serious class of recall, which means NHTSA advises against driving the vehicle until the repair is done. A recall repair is free at a franchised dealer and most never expire, so an older open recall is still worth fixing. Beyond recalls, you can also see the most common MKZ problems owners report and its crash-test safety ratings.

The full record is below, grouped first by model year and then listed in detail. Each entry gives the defect NHTSA describes, the safety risk it creates, the manufacturer's remedy, the number of vehicles in that campaign, and the dates. A recall covers a whole production run, so a campaign listed for the Lincoln MKZ may not apply to your exact vehicle, and one you have already had repaired will still appear in the history. To see what is actually open and unfixed on a specific car, check its 17-digit VIN.

Lincoln MKZ recalls by model year

Recall activity by model year. Select a year to jump to its recalls below. Older years often carry more recalls simply because defects surface over time.

Lincoln MKZ recalls by affected system

Which vehicle systems the recalls touch, using NHTSA's component groups. Select a system to see how it is recalled across every make and model.

Recalls by model year

2020 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

1 recall affects the 2020 Lincoln MKZ, involving the back over prevention.

2019 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

1 recall affects the 2019 Lincoln MKZ, involving the back over prevention.

2018 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

2 recalls affect the 2018 Lincoln MKZ, involving the service brakes and steering.

2017 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

4 recalls affect the 2017 Lincoln MKZ, involving the power train, service brakes, and steering.

2016 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

6 recalls affect the 2016 Lincoln MKZ, involving the latches/locks/linkages, steering, and service brakes.

2015 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

10 recalls affect the 2015 Lincoln MKZ, involving the steering, service brakes, and seat belts.

2014 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

13 recalls affect the 2014 Lincoln MKZ, involving the latches/locks/linkages, steering, and service brakes.

2013 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

12 recalls affect the 2013 Lincoln MKZ, involving the latches/locks/linkages, steering, and seat belts.

2012 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

5 recalls affect the 2012 Lincoln MKZ, involving the air bags and steering. 2 carry a do-not-drive warning.

  • Air Bags Mar 10, 2021 · 2,602,668 vehicles
  • Air Bags Jan 7, 2019 · 782,384 vehicles · Do Not Drive
  • Air Bags Nov 1, 2018 · 215 vehicles
  • Air Bags Jan 10, 2017 · 654,695 vehicles · Do Not Drive
  • Steering Jun 2, 2015 · 393,623 vehicles

2011 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

5 recalls affect the 2011 Lincoln MKZ, involving the air bags and steering. 2 carry a do-not-drive warning.

  • Air Bags Mar 10, 2021 · 2,602,668 vehicles
  • Air Bags Jan 7, 2019 · 782,384 vehicles · Do Not Drive
  • Air Bags Nov 1, 2018 · 215 vehicles
  • Air Bags May 31, 2016 · 1,892,343 vehicles · Do Not Drive
  • Steering Jun 2, 2015 · 393,623 vehicles

2010 Lincoln MKZ Recalls

7 recalls affect the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, involving the air bags and service brakes. 3 carry a do-not-drive warning.

  • Air Bags Mar 10, 2021 · 2,602,668 vehicles
  • Air Bags Feb 16, 2021 · 1,067 vehicles
  • Service Brakes Dec 18, 2019 · 600,166 vehicles
  • Air Bags Jan 7, 2019 · 782,384 vehicles · Do Not Drive
  • Air Bags Nov 1, 2018 · 215 vehicles
  • Air Bags Jan 11, 2018 · 327,796 vehicles · Do Not Drive
  • Air Bags May 31, 2016 · 1,892,343 vehicles · Do Not Drive

Every Lincoln MKZ recall in detail

Select any recall to read the full defect, risk, and remedy text. Do Not Drive and Park Outside warnings stay visible without opening anything.

Back Over PreventionOct 13, 2025 · 1,448,655 vehiclesNHTSA 25V695000
Affected years
2015 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
1,448,655
Reported
Oct 13, 2025
Owners notified
Jan 2, 2026

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.

Risk: A rearview camera that fails to properly display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA9. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 14, 2025.

NHTSA campaign number 25V695000.

Back Over PreventionJun 27, 2025 · 200,237 vehiclesNHTSA 25V442000
Affected years
2019-2020 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
200,237
Reported
Jun 27, 2025
Owners notified
Sep 4, 2025

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.

Risk: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.

NHTSA campaign number 25V442000.

Latches/Locks/LinkagesNov 17, 2023 · 45,173 vehiclesNHTSA 23V775000
Affected years
2016 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
45,173
Reported
Nov 17, 2023
Owners notified
Dec 20, 2023

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 Fiesta, 2016 Fusion, and 2016 Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A component inside the door latches may break, which can make it difficult to latch or possibly allow the doors to open while driving.

Risk: Vehicle doors opening unexpectedly while driving can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the door latch date codes and if necessary, replace all four side door latches, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S15. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 20V-177.

NHTSA campaign number 23V775000.

Service BrakesMar 10, 2023 · 1,280,726 vehiclesNHTSA 23V162000
Affected years
2013-2018 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
1,280,726
Reported
Mar 10, 2023
Owners notified
Jun 27, 2023

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.

Risk: A brake fluid leak will increase brake pedal travel and extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S12.

NHTSA campaign number 23V162000.

Service BrakesJan 13, 2022 · 199,085 vehiclesNHTSA 22V011000
Affected years
2014-2015 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
199,085
Reported
Jan 13, 2022
Owners notified
Jun 13, 2022

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Fusion, Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 Mustang vehicles originally sold or ever registered, in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Hawaii. Exposure to certain environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, high humidity, and salt air can cause the brake pedal bumper to corrode and separate from the brake pedal.

Risk: A separated brake pedal bumper can cause the brake lights to illuminate continuously, causing confusion to other drivers and increasing the risk of a crash. On automatic transmission vehicles, a missing brake pedal bumper can allow the driver to shift the vehicle out of the "PARK" position without depressing the brake, allowing the vehicle to rollaway, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake pedal bumpers and clutch pedal bumpers, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on March 4, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 13, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S02.

NHTSA campaign number 22V011000.

Air BagsMar 10, 2021 · 2,602,668 vehiclesNHTSA 21V158000
Affected years
2010-2012 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
2,602,668
Reported
Mar 10, 2021
Owners notified
Apr 9, 2021

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2007-2011 Ranger, 2006-2012 Fusion, Lincoln Zephyr, Lincoln MKZ, 2006-2011 Mercury Milan, 2007-2010 Ford Edge, and Lincoln MKX vehicles. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver-side airbag inflator or module with an alternate one, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 9, 2021 for the passenger side, and November 14, 2022 for the driver side. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S12.

NHTSA campaign number 21V158000.

Air BagsFeb 16, 2021 · 1,067 vehiclesNHTSA 21V081000
Affected years
2010 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
1,067
Reported
Feb 16, 2021
Owners notified
Mar 17, 2021

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2005-2014 Mustang, 2004-2011 Ranger, 2009-2011 Mercury Milan, 2006 Ford GT, 2008-2012 Fusion, 2007-2010 Edge and Lincoln MKX, and 2009-2010 Lincoln MKZ vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with a driver or passenger frontal air bag inflator used as a replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the frontal air bag, an inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver and passenger air bag module, and replace either the module or the inflator, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S05.

NHTSA campaign number 21V081000.

Latches/Locks/LinkagesJun 8, 2020 · 2,147,323 vehiclesNHTSA 20V331000
Affected years
2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
2,147,323
Reported
Jun 8, 2020
Owners notified
Jul 27, 2020

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.

Risk: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S30.

NHTSA campaign number 20V331000.

Latches/Locks/LinkagesMar 23, 2020 · 288,110 vehiclesNHTSA 20V177000
Affected years
2014-2016 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
288,110
Reported
Mar 23, 2020
Owners notified
Sep 21, 2020

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Fiesta, 2014-2016 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.

Risk: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and Ford or Lincoln dealers will replace the side door latches, free of charge. The recall began September 21, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S15.

NHTSA campaign number 20V177000.

Service BrakesDec 18, 2019 · 600,166 vehiclesNHTSA 19V904000
Affected years
2010 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
600,166
Reported
Dec 18, 2019
Owners notified
Apr 1, 2021

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln Zephyr and MKZ vehicles. The valves within the ABS Hydraulic Control Units (HCU) may react with brake fluids containing specific corrosion preventative additives. This reaction may cause the valves to not close properly.

Risk: If the valves do not properly close, additional brake pedal travel may be required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will flush the brake system with DOT 4 fluid and install a new brake fluid reservoir cap. In addition, the HCU will be tested to detect a possible stuck valve condition, replacing the HCU as necessary. All services will be performed free of charge. The recall began April 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S54.

NHTSA campaign number 19V904000.

SteeringAug 29, 2019 · 116,160 vehiclesNHTSA 19V632000
Affected years
2013-2016 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
116,160
Reported
Aug 29, 2019
Owners notified
Oct 18, 2019

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 Ford Edge, and 2016 Lincoln MKX vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Road salt or other contaminants may corrode the electric power steering gear motor attachment bolts.

Risk: If the bolts corrode, the steering gear motor may detach from the gear housing resulting in a loss of power steering assist, requiring a greater steering effort, especially at lower speeds, and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gear motor bolts and apply a wax sealer. If any of the steering gear motor attachment bolts are broken or missing, a new steering gear will be installed in the vehicle. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began October 18, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S26.

NHTSA campaign number 19V632000.

Seat BeltsAug 12, 2019 · 103,374 vehiclesNHTSA 19V590000
Affected years
2015 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
103,374
Reported
Aug 12, 2019
Owners notified
Sep 9, 2019

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. In the event of a crash, heat from the deployment of a seat belt pretensioner may cause a front seat belt anchor cable to fail.

Risk: A failed seat belt anchor cable cannot properly restrain the front seat occupants, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will apply a protective coating to the seat belt cable, free of charge. The recall began September 9, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S25. Note: This recall is an expansion of a recall 16V-875.

NHTSA campaign number 19V590000.

Air BagsJan 7, 2019 · 782,384 vehiclesDo Not DriveNHTSA 19V001000
Affected years
2010-2012 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
782,384
Reported
Jan 7, 2019
Owners notified
Feb 13, 2019

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Ford is recalling certain 2011 Ford Ranger and Mercury Milan vehicles, 2011-2012 Ford Fusion and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ vehicles and 2011-2014 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Ford is also recalling certain 2010 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles, 2010-2011 Ford Ranger and Mercury Milan vehicles, 2010-2012 Ford Fusion and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ vehicles, and 2010-2014 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall 19S01.

NHTSA campaign number 19V001000.

Air BagsNov 1, 2018 · 215 vehiclesNHTSA 18V775000
Affected years
2010-2012 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
215
Reported
Nov 1, 2018
Owners notified
Nov 21, 2018

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2010 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and 2010-2012 Lincoln MKZ vehicles that previously received a replacement passenger air bag under recall 16V-384, 17V-024 or 18V-046. In the event of a crash requiring deployment of the passenger air bag, the bracket that secures the air bag inflator to the module housing may deform, allowing the gas that inflates the air bag to leak out.

Risk: If the air bag does not inflate as intended, there is an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began November 21, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S34.

NHTSA campaign number 18V775000.

Power TrainJun 11, 2018 · 25 vehiclesNHTSA 18V390000
Affected years
2017 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
25
Reported
Jun 11, 2018
Owners notified
Jul 5, 2018

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford Edge and 2017 Lincoln MKZ vehicles. On vehicles with 2.0L gas engines and six-speed automatic transmissions, the torque converter weld studs may have been inadequately welded.

Risk: If the torque converter weld studs fail, the torque converter will not be connected to the engine flexplate and the vehicle will lose the ability to move, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the torque converters, free of charge. The recall began on July 5, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S16 (S2). Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 17V-427.

NHTSA campaign number 18V390000.

SteeringMar 12, 2018 · 1,301,986 vehiclesNHTSA 18V167000
Affected years
2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
1,301,986
Reported
Mar 12, 2018
Owners notified
Apr 30, 2018

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion vehicles. The steering wheel retaining bolt may loosen allowing the steering wheel to detach while driving.

Risk: A steering wheel detachment can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering wheel bolt with a longer bolt, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S08.

NHTSA campaign number 18V167000.

Air BagsJan 11, 2018 · 327,796 vehiclesDo Not DriveNHTSA 18V046000
Affected years
2010 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
327,796
Reported
Jan 11, 2018
Owners notified
May 21, 2018

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Ford is recalling certain 2010 Ford Edge, Fusion, Mustang and Ranger, Lincoln MKX and Zephyr/MKZ, and Mercury Milan vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Ford is also recalling certain 2009 Ford Edge, Fusion, Mustang and Ranger, Lincoln MKX and Zephyr/MKZ, and Mercury Milan vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S01.

NHTSA campaign number 18V046000.

Power TrainJul 6, 2017 · 6,026 vehiclesNHTSA 17V427000
Affected years
2017 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
6,026
Reported
Jul 6, 2017
Owners notified
Aug 25, 2017

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Edge and Fusion vehicles. On vehicles with 2.0L gas engines and six-speed automatic transmissions, the torque converter weld studs may have been inadequately welded.

Risk: If the torque converter weld studs fail, the torque converter will not be connected to the engine flexplate and the vehicle will lose the ability to move, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford or Lincoln will notify owners, and dealers will replace the torque converters, free of charge. The recall began August 25, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S16.

NHTSA campaign number 17V427000.

Latches/Locks/LinkagesMar 27, 2017 · 191,432 vehiclesNHTSA 17V210000
Affected years
2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
191,432
Reported
Mar 27, 2017
Owners notified
May 1, 2017

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Ford Fiesta, 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ vehicles. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.

Risk: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace all four door latches, free of charge. The recall began May 1, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S16.

NHTSA campaign number 17V210000.

Air BagsJan 10, 2017 · 654,695 vehiclesDo Not DriveNHTSA 17V024000
Affected years
2012 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
654,695
Reported
Jan 10, 2017
Owners notified
Feb 14, 2018

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012 Ford Fusion and Mustang and Lincoln Zephyr and MKZ vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Ford is recalling certain 2009 Ford Ranger, Edge, Fusion and Mustang, Lincoln MKX, MKZ and Zephyr and Mercury Milan vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Ford is recalling certain 2007-2008 Ford Ranger, Edge and Lincoln MKX, 2006-2008 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln Zephyr and MKZ, 2005-2008 Ford Mustang and 2005-2006 Ford GT vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the recall and that parts are not yet available began mailing March 1, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S01.

NHTSA campaign number 17V024000.

Seat BeltsDec 5, 2016 · 603,392 vehiclesNHTSA 16V875000
Affected years
2013-2015 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
603,392
Reported
Dec 5, 2016
Owners notified
May 16, 2017

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured November 2, 2012, to July 31, 2014, and 2013-2015 Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured November 14, 2012, to July 31, 2014. In the event of a crash, heat from the deployment of a seat belt pretensioner may cause a front seat belt anchor cable to fail.

Risk: If the driver or front passenger seatbelt cables cannot properly restrain the front seat occupants, they would be at an increased risk of injury.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will apply a protective coating to the seat belt cable, free of charge. The recall began May 16, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S42.

NHTSA campaign number 16V875000.

Air BagsMay 31, 2016 · 1,892,343 vehiclesDo Not DriveNHTSA 16V384000
Affected years
2010-2011 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
1,892,343
Reported
May 31, 2016
Owners notified
Feb 2, 2018

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Ford Ranger vehicles, 2006-2011 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ vehicles, 2007-2010 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX vehicles, 2005-2006 Ford GT vehicles, and 2005-2011 Ford Mustang vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Ford is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 Ford Ranger, Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles, 2006-2008 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ vehicles, 2005-2006 Ford GT vehicles and 2005-2008 Ford Mustang vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Any vehicle not included in "Zone A", or "Zone B" is not included in the safety recall. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. Ford mailed interim letters informing owners that parts are not yet available on July 15, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S01.

NHTSA campaign number 16V384000.

Fuel SystemOct 1, 2015 · 658 vehiclesNHTSA 15V618000
Affected years
2016 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
658
Reported
Oct 1, 2015
Owners notified
Oct 19, 2015

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured September 3, 2015, to September 13, 2015, and 2016 Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured September 3, 2015, to September 12, 2015. The affected vehicles have a fuel tank that may have insufficent wall thickness. As a result, the fuel tanks may crack in the event of a crash and thus the vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."

Risk: A fuel tank that cracks may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began on October 19, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C11.

NHTSA campaign number 15V618000.

SteeringJun 2, 2015 · 393,623 vehiclesNHTSA 15V340000
Affected years
2011-2012 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
393,623
Reported
Jun 2, 2015
Owners notified
Jul 21, 2015

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Ford Fusion vehicles without a 3.5L engine and Lincoln MKZ hybrid electric vehicles, 2011 Mercury Milan vehicles, 2011-2012 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with a 3.5L GTDI engine and 2013 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with any available engine. The affected vehicles have electric power steering assist systems that may shut down as a result of a steering motor sensor fault.

Risk: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC). If dealers find any loss of steering assist DTCs, the steering gear will be replaced, free of charge. If, no codes are found during the PSCM inspection, the PSCM software will be updated, free of charge. The recall began on July 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S18.

NHTSA campaign number 15V340000.

SteeringApr 28, 2015 · 487,301 vehiclesNHTSA 15V250000
Affected years
2013-2015 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
487,301
Reported
Apr 28, 2015
Owners notified
Jun 24, 2015

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to March 20, 2015, and 2015 Ford Edge vehicles manufactured February 26, 2015, to February 28, 2015, and originally sold, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. In the affected vehicles, snow or water containing road salt or other contaminants may corrode the electric power steering gear motor attachment bolts.

Risk: If the bolts corrode, the steering gear motor may detach from the gear housing resulting in a loss of power steering assist. Loss of power steering assist would require a higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will apply sealer and replace the steering gear motor bolts as required. If one or more of the steering gear motor attachment bolts are broken or missing, a new steering gear will be installed in the vehicle. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on June 24, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S14.

NHTSA campaign number 15V250000.

Exterior LightingApr 27, 2015 · 21,435 vehiclesNHTSA 15V248000
Affected years
2015 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
21,435
Reported
Apr 27, 2015
Owners notified
May 8, 2015

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured February 17, 2014, to March 19, 2015, and equipped with daytime running lights (DRL). In the affected vehicles, the parking lights do not reduce their light output from a DRL level when used in conjunction with the headlights. As such, the light output may exceed the the permissable amount allowed by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: If the light output is excessive, oncoming traffic may be temporarily blinded, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford has notified owners, and dealers will update the lighting control software, free of charge. The recall began on May 8, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for the recall is 15C02.

NHTSA campaign number 15V248000.

Latches/Locks/LinkagesApr 24, 2015 · 456,440 vehiclesNHTSA 15V246000
Affected years
2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
456,440
Reported
Apr 24, 2015
Owners notified
Dec 18, 2015

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on April 23, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured July 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013, and 2012-2014 Fiesta vehicles manufactured February 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013. On April 30, 2015, Ford expanded the recall to cover an additional 119,567 vehicles, including certain model year 2011 Ford Fiestas manufactured from November 11, 2009, to May 31, 2013 and certain model year 2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured from February 1, 2012, to June 30, 2012. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.

Risk: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace all four door latches with an improved part, free of charge. Interim notifications were mailed to owners on June 5, 2015. The recall began on December 18, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S16.

NHTSA campaign number 15V246000.

Air BagsSep 26, 2014 · 746,842 vehiclesNHTSA 14V597000
Affected years
2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
746,842
Reported
Sep 26, 2014
Owners notified
May 26, 2015

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of the Restraint Control Module (RCM) may crack, and when exposed to humidity, circuits on the printed circuit board may short.

Risk: The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.

NHTSA campaign number 14V597000.

SeatsApr 2, 2014 · 43,135 vehiclesNHTSA 14V164000
Affected years
2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
43,135
Reported
Apr 2, 2014
Owners notified
May 30, 2014

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured August 15, 2012, through September 10, 2013, 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured June 5, 2012, through August 12, 2013, and 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured from July 23, 2012, through May 28, 2013. The driver and passenger seatback assemblies may have been produced with sub-standard weld joints used to attach the seat back recliner mechanism to the seat frame. The affected seat backs may have insufficient strength to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."

Risk: The back of the subject seats may become loose or lean while driving and potentially increase the risk of injury in certain crashes.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seatback, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14C03.

NHTSA campaign number 14V164000.

Power TrainNov 25, 2013 · 7,153 vehiclesNHTSA 13V594000
Affected years
2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
7,153
Reported
Nov 25, 2013
Owners notified
Jan 9, 2014

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid vehicles manufactured April 26, 2012, through September 24, 2013. Due to a manufacturing error, the transmission range sensor may not function properly allowing the affected vehicles to be shifted out of the Park position without first applying the brake pedal. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 114, "Theft Protection."

Risk: Without requiring the brake to be pressed, the vehicle may be unintentionally shifted out of Park, allowing it to roll which may result in a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software, free of charge. The recall began on January 2014. Customers may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 13C09.

NHTSA campaign number 13V594000.

Electrical SystemMay 31, 2013 · 107 vehiclesNHTSA 13V230000
Affected years
2013 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
107
Reported
May 31, 2013
Owners notified
Jun 28, 2013

Defect: Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, through March 15, 2013 and equipped with an engine block heater. During use, the engine block heater cords may be bent and in certain temperatures, the wire insulation may crack, exposing the electrical wires.

Risk: Exposed electrical wires increase the risk of electric shock.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the block heater cord, free of charge. The recall began on June 28, 2013. Ford's recall number is 13S05. Owners may contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.

NHTSA campaign number 13V230000.

Fuel SystemMay 31, 2013 · 390,783 vehiclesNHTSA 13V227000
Affected years
2013 Lincoln MKZ
Vehicles in this recall
390,783
Reported
May 31, 2013
Owners notified
Jul 20, 2013

Defect: Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Taurus, Flex, Fusion, Police Interceptor Sedan and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles; and certain model year 2013 Lincoln MKS, MKT, and MKZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may develop a crack, allowing fuel to leak.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S04.

NHTSA campaign number 13V227000.

Common questions about Lincoln MKZ recalls

Does the Lincoln MKZ have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA has 32 recall campaigns on record for the Lincoln MKZ across the 2010 to 2020 model years. The most common areas are the air bags, latches/locks/linkages, and steering.
How many times has the Lincoln MKZ been recalled?
The Lincoln MKZ has 32 recall campaigns from the 2010 to 2020 model years. A single campaign often covers several model years at once, so the number of recalls is not the same as the number of years affected.
What is the most serious Lincoln MKZ recall?
The most serious recall on record involves the air bags, affecting 1,892,343 vehicles. NHTSA flagged it as do-not-drive, meaning owners should stop driving the vehicle until the repair is done. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Which Lincoln MKZ model year has the most recalls?
The 2014 Lincoln MKZ has the most, with 13 recall campaigns on record. Older model years often pick up more recalls over time, since defects can surface years after a car is built.
How do I check if my Lincoln MKZ has an open recall?
Enter your 17-digit VIN on the recall check page. It returns the recalls tied to your exact vehicle straight from NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer, with no expiration on most safety recalls.

Recall data comes from NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation. For how it is sourced and how the safety score is built, see the methodology and data sources. This page is a reference, not legal or safety advice.