2011 Lincoln MKZ - Opinions?

[NorthernTaurus]

Hey folks,

I'm considering a 2011 Lincoln MKZ with 15,000 original miles. The dealership selling the car says that it's never been involved in any accidents and was originally a US car (the car is now in Canada). They are selling it for under $20,000 which is pretty good when compared to other ones on the market which are going for $23,000 and up. Although I prefer the MKS over the MKZ.... I do have a budget and trying to stick to it. This particular car still has just over 2 years left on the warranty.

What are these cars like in terms of reliability?. It's got a V6 motor. Are they the same as the current generation Fusion?. They look similar in a lot of ways.

I've always had difficulty fitting into these smaller cars and my dad's 08 Fusion is a bit tight. But from what I understand, these newer ones have telescopic steering wheels which might help.

My 03 Taurus is still in good shape bodywise and runs great. The only problem is that it's got a coolant leak in the front timing cover which is a $1000 fix. Power locks that aren't working right. $300 fix. A oil pan gasket leak. $300. A recently discovered water leak in the trunk. I suppose I could keep driving this car until it bites the dust.... but I'm thinking it might just be better to sell it while I still can.

Appreciate any feedback.

[1991glforever]

Originally Posted by NorthernTaurus

Are they the same as the current generation Fusion?

The MKZ is the Lincoln version of the Fusion.

Originally Posted by NorthernTaurus

I've always had difficulty fitting into these smaller cars and my dad's 08 Fusion is a bit tight. But from what I understand, these newer ones have telescopic steering wheels which might help.

If I were you I'd test drive one of them to see if you actually fit. However it seems like you'd rather have a MKS, so if I were you, I'd just wait till they come down in price.

[durasel]

The 3.5 cyclone engine comes in the MKZ, as it does in the Fusion Sport.
It's a smooth engine and fast car, 263 HP, milage around 18 -22 depending on your driving.

The 3.5 engine in the MKZ and Fusion Sport has the aisin transmission, which is much more reliable than the 6F35 that comes with the 4 cyl and 3.0 engine in the Fusion.

Consumers Reports has the 10 MKZ above average ranked in all areas.

Sounds like a very good price.
Are there any options on it?

Be sure to get a carfax and autocheck on it!
Good luck and let us know what happens!!

[mjhpadi]

Originally Posted by durasel

The 3.5 cyclone engine comes in the MKZ, as it does in the Fusion Sport.
It's a smooth engine and fast car, 263 HP, milage around 18 -22 depending on your driving.

I would expect the MKZ to get better mileage then this, since I am getting better then this in my SHO. I would think that 28-29 is more realistic, since I am experiencing 24-26 in the SHO (of course unless I get into the turbos).

[04 SEL]

Originally Posted by mjhpadi

I would expect the MKZ to get better mileage then this, since I am getting better then this in my SHO. I would think that 28-29 is more realistic, since I am experiencing 24-26 in the SHO (of course unless I get into the turbos).

Wow, that's good. Is that highway? I only get around 20 in my Tec, but thats with only a little bit of highway miles.


I like the MKZ, luxury in a smaller package, with the same power of the big-boys. Me Gusta!

[mjhpadi]

That's combined mileage, both town and highway driving, although in order to maintain that mileage I try to drive to maximize the mileage. However, I must say when I have done just highway driving I have seen 28-30 mpg. I am really impressed with the mileage from the SHO. Must add that it did improve slightly with the Livernois Motorsports tune.

[durasel]

The 18-22 MPG was mostly city driving and a bit of highway, say 70%/30%.

[Dave SES]

My Mom has a 2010 MKZ. Never had a problem.

[behlinla]

With the 3.5L and the Aisin tranny, it's a very reliable car. Yes, the steering wheel does telescope which will help if you're tall. If you're 6'2" or less you should fit.

[NorthernTaurus]

Thanks for the great advice!. I really do appreciate it

I'm 6'1" so I'm glad to hear it's got the telescopic steering wheel.

I guess the fuel consumption can't be any worse then what I'm getting in the 03 Taurus. I do have to question whether these fuel mileage ratings are accurate. Just look at what's happening over at Hyundai. Some of the ratings were not accurate, so they have offered customers money back based on mileage and current gas prices. How many other companies would do the same?.

The other nice thing about this Lincoln is that it's got the 4 year warranty where as the Ford counterpart has 3 year warranty.

Would there be anybody here who could do a history check on this MKZ?.