LINCOLN MKX · model year

2018 LINCOLN MKX

33 NHTSA complaints, 2 crash reports, and 5 active recalls for this specific cohort.

NHTSA overall rating

5 / 5 ★

New Car Assessment Program

The 2018LINCOLNMKX carries 33 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 2 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injury, and 0 fatalities. For crash performance, NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gave this cohort an overall 5/5 rating, with 5/5 front crash, 5/5 side crash, and 4/5 rollover scores derived from standardized barrier and dynamic tests.

Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2018 MKX is unknown or other with 7 filings, followed by electrical system (4) and service brakes (3). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 5 active recall campaigns, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle — the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.

NHTSA currently has 15 investigation files overlapping the 2018 MKX, and 1 remain open. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page — a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.

33
Complaints
2
Crashes
0
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
2018 LINCOLN MKX — NHTSA crash-test profile NHTSA NCAP crash-test star ratings for the 2018 LINCOLN MKX. Overall composite: 5.0 of 5 stars across 3 safety dimensions. Front CrashSide CrashRollover 5.0 NHTSA NCAP of 5 stars
  • Front Crash 5.0 ★
  • Side Crash 5.0 ★
  • Rollover 4.0 ★
NHTSA overall 5.0/5 stars, with front-crash, side-crash and rollover ratings from standardized NCAP barrier and dynamic tests.

Total Complaints

33 filings

Crashes Reported

2 reports

Source

NHTSA ODI

Federal complaints database

Complaints vs. fleet median (215)

At or below the fleet median complaint volume.

NHTSA NCAP overall: 5/5 — Top NCAP rating · Front: 5/5 · Side: 5/5 · Rollover: 4/5

Complaints by Component

ComponentCount
UNKNOWN OR OTHER7
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM4
SERVICE BRAKES3
EXTERIOR LIGHTING2
WHEELS2
AIR BAGS2
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR2
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC2
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)1
ENGINE1
SEATS1
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING1
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR1
STRUCTURE:BODY1
POWER TRAIN1

Recalls (5)

25V54400022/08/2025

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The rear brake jounce hose may rupture and leak brake fluid.

18V54800020/08/2018

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX, 2019 Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. The power supply cables at the starter and the alternator may not have been properly secured, possibly resulting in an electrical arc.

20V41400017/07/2020

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST

Ford Motor Company, Inc. (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX and 2019-2020 Nautilus vehicles equipped with 16-way electric tilt seats. The seat cushion frame edge may contact the wire harness when the seat occupant uses the tilt function of the seat, potentially damaging one or more w

18V61200011/09/2018

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles. These vehicles may have door striker bolts that are shorter than intended. Vehicles with shorter door striker bolts fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 2

20V46900010/08/2020

SERVICE BRAKES

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Edge and 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture prematurely.

Recent Complaints

20251201SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact's husband owns a 2018 Lincoln MKX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V544000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

20251201ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The rear view camera is intermittent. The camera listed for replacement is F2GZ19G490C. That was a recall item listed for the problem that we are having . It is intermittent and is a safety hazard as indicated in the LINCOLN MKX 2015 THRU 2019. WHY IS IT INDICATED AS NOT HAVING A RECALL TO MY 2018 LINCOLN MKX VIN [XXX] . IT IS THE SAME PROBLEM. THE CAMERA F2GZ19G490C IS THE CAMERA LISTED AS THE REPLACEMENT AND THEY LIST IT AT FORD FOR $560.68. THE REPAIR DEPARTMENT TOLD ME IT WAS OVER $600 AND IT WOULD COST $1300 TO FIX IT. SOMETHING IT IS WRONG HERE BECAUSE i CAN GET THE REPLACEMENT FOR ABOUT $60 DOLLARS. IT LOOKS LIKE A DENIAL OF SERVICE UNDER A RECALL AND A REDICULOUS AMOUNT TO REPAIR THE DEFECTIVE ITEM WITH THE SAME TYPE. i WOULD LIKE TOO GET AN EXPLANATION ON THIS . [XXX] AT [XXX] OR [XXX] THANK YOU FOR LOOKING AT THIS PROBLEM AND GIVING ME A CLARIFYING ANSWER. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

20251201BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS

The rear view camera is intermittent. The camera listed for replacement is F2GZ19G490C. That was a recall item listed for the problem that we are having . It is intermittent and is a safety hazard as indicated in the LINCOLN MKX 2015 THRU 2019. WHY IS IT INDICATED AS NOT HAVING A RECALL TO MY 2018 LINCOLN MKX VIN [XXX] . IT IS THE SAME PROBLEM. THE CAMERA F2GZ19G490C IS THE CAMERA LISTED AS THE REPLACEMENT AND THEY LIST IT AT FORD FOR $560.68. THE REPAIR DEPARTMENT TOLD ME IT WAS OVER $600 AND IT WOULD COST $1300 TO FIX IT. SOMETHING IT IS WRONG HERE BECAUSE i CAN GET THE REPLACEMENT FOR ABOUT $60 DOLLARS. IT LOOKS LIKE A DENIAL OF SERVICE UNDER A RECALL AND A REDICULOUS AMOUNT TO REPAIR THE DEFECTIVE ITEM WITH THE SAME TYPE. i WOULD LIKE TOO GET AN EXPLANATION ON THIS . [XXX] AT [XXX] OR [XXX] THANK YOU FOR LOOKING AT THIS PROBLEM AND GIVING ME A CLARIFYING ANSWER. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

20251126ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The 3rd brake light lens has separated from light assembly while in a drive thru carwash.

20250917SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2018 Lincoln MKX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V544000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

20250913SERVICE BRAKES

Was advised by a law enforcement officer the high-mount stop lamp lens had detatched from the lamp housing. Apparently, the adhesive holding the plastic lens had deteriorated and allowed seperation of the components. The LED circuit board is now exposed to the elements. This without a doubt will cause the CHMSL to fail due to water and salt intrusion. Additionally, the non-diffused LED's are blinding drivers behind this vehicle at night. This failure occurred on the highway, and the lens nearly struck a car behind me.

20250913UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Was advised by a law enforcement officer the high-mount stop lamp lens had detatched from the lamp housing. Apparently, the adhesive holding the plastic lens had deteriorated and allowed seperation of the components. The LED circuit board is now exposed to the elements. This without a doubt will cause the CHMSL to fail due to water and salt intrusion. Additionally, the non-diffused LED's are blinding drivers behind this vehicle at night. This failure occurred on the highway, and the lens nearly struck a car behind me.

20250909EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Rear overhead break light ripped off while driving down the road.

20250429ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

The contact owns a 2018 Lincoln MKX. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where the vehicle was scanned, and a fault code for the catalytic converter was retrieved. The local dealer was contacted and referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to an unknown NHTSA Campaign; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Mileage: 75,000

20250119STEERING

Passenger side front wheel fell off the axel.

20250119WHEELS

Passenger side front wheel fell off the axel.

20250119UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Passenger side front wheel fell off the axel.

20240301UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Subject: Urgent Health Risk Due to Mold in Lincoln MKX & Additional Considerations I'm submitting a formal complaint regarding our Lincoln MKX, purchased in 2018 with an extended warranty valid through 2026. A significant water leak has resulted in extensive mold and mildew buildup, posing severe health risks, particularly to my immunocompromised wife. Despite minimal use of the vehicle, exacerbated by reduced mobility during the COVID-19 pandemic declared by the WHO on March 11, 2020, we've discovered this longstanding issue, indicating it likely existed since purchase. The remediation process requires complete removal of the contaminated carpeting and padding, thorough cleaning of the underlying metal, and replacement with new materials to ensure safety. Efforts to resolve this with Ford/Lincoln have been met with inadequate support, not covering the extent of necessary repairs. Attached documentation and photographs outline the severity of the issue, the health implications, and

20240206UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Catalytic converter internally failed on April 12th 2023 based on an initial check engine light Part# F2GZ-5E213-F converter assembly under ESP warranty @ 74,408. Returned back for check engine light 22, 888 miles later on 1/31/24 for check engine light . I was advised that although it was determined a part failure of catalytic converter , that it was my responsibility to pay for 2 catalytic converters, water pump and radiator for cost of $11k. Contacted Lincoln Conceirge they were unable to provide assistance .

20240206ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

Catalytic converter internally failed on April 12th 2023 based on an initial check engine light Part# F2GZ-5E213-F converter assembly under ESP warranty @ 74,408. Returned back for check engine light 22, 888 miles later on 1/31/24 for check engine light . I was advised that although it was determined a part failure of catalytic converter , that it was my responsibility to pay for 2 catalytic converters, water pump and radiator for cost of $11k. Contacted Lincoln Conceirge they were unable to provide assistance .

20230318UNKNOWN OR OTHER

When I utilize my ac or heat without pressing a certain button after a while I start smelling a burning smell coming through the vents. When I'm outside the vehicle I smell it as well. The smell is hard to pinpoint. A dealership told me that maybe I needed to change my air filters. However the burning smell still would happen just the same. Then they checked to see if anything(such as plastic or anything) was stuck to any components that get hot to no avail. But something is wrong and it's scary. Also my vehicle has a very rough idle which sometimes can feel like a rumble. A tune up was suggested and complete and I still have the same experience. I love my vehicle but growing tired.

20230314POWER TRAIN

The contact owned a 2018 Lincoln MKX. The contact stated that while parked at an inclined position, the vehicle rolled backward. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 43,000.

Mileage: 43,000

20230102UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Unknown/Uncertain as to why the floor is wet on right rear passenger. Dealer unable to detect why floor board is wet. I need answers because this is a health risk/ lungs risk for my family and myself due to questionable mold May probably grow from the wet carpet and wet spell

20220404STRUCTURE:BODY

Vehicle (SUV) floor board and truck had standing water from unknown source. Suspect rear hatch and/or glass roof design allows for environmental contamination to enter. Water travels down to floor and pools. For example, spare tire was found to be submerged. Rear seat and trunk carpeting were moist (saturated) to the touch. Concern: If water in the vehicle is undetected and is allowed to pool for long periods of time, three things will happen: 1. Accelerated corrosion and loss of function for any electrical wiring. 2. Standing water can develop mold, impacting air quality through long term and repeated exposure. Impact of vehicle occupants health. (In our instance, Mom & newborn) 3. Accelerated corrosion of vehicle internal structure. For example, seat fasteners. Item was discovered by third party service center and dealership is investigating root cause now. Dealer commented this is a problem more common with other models in the same family but not the model of this vehicle. N

20211025AIR BAGS

2018 LINCOLN MKX. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG MALFUNCTION SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN AUGUST OF 2018, WITH A RECTANGULAR HOLE CUT INTO THE CARPET. THE HOLE WAS LOCATED UNDER THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT EXPOSING THE WIRING HARNESS. THE CONSUMER STATED THE CRPET WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED UNEXPLAINED INTERRUPTIONS IN CERTAIN ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS.

Compare 2018LINCOLNMKX to Similar Vehicles

NHTSA Investigations 1 Open

View all investigations

Frequently Asked Questions

How many complaints does the 2018 LINCOLN MKX have?
The 2018 LINCOLN MKX has 33 NHTSA complaints, 2 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, and 0 deaths reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2018 LINCOLN MKX?
The 2018 LINCOLN MKX received an overall NHTSA safety rating of 5/5, front crash rating of 5/5, side crash rating of 5/5, and rollover rating of 4/5.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 LINCOLN MKX?
Yes, the 2018 LINCOLN MKX has 5 recall(s). The most common affected component is SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS. Recalls are issued by NHTSA and manufacturers must provide a free remedy.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 LINCOLN MKX?
The most-complained component for the 2018 LINCOLN MKX is UNKNOWN OR OTHER with 7 complaints. Other frequently reported areas include ELECTRICAL SYSTEM and SERVICE BRAKES.
Is the 2018 LINCOLN MKX safe to buy?
Review the complaint history, crash and fire reports, safety ratings, and recall status on this page to make an informed decision. The 2018 LINCOLN MKX has an NHTSA safety rating of 5/5. Compare with other model years using the links above.
Where does this data come from?
All complaint, recall, and safety rating data is sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Complaints are filed by vehicle owners through NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation.

Vehicle Safety Guides

Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.