Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2012 Lincoln MKX Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable luxury SUV offering great value, but be prepared for potential electrical frustrations and a significant AWD risk.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2012 Lincoln MKX

  • Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2013 Lincoln MKX earns a 85.
  • The system most likely to surface first: myford touch infotainment system (moderate severity).
  • Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the power train:axle assembly:axle shaft.

2012 Lincoln MKX: Buy or Avoid?

The 2012 Lincoln MKX offers a compelling blend of luxury and value, but it's not without its known quirks. While the core powertrain is generally robust, potential buyers must scrutinize the notorious MyFord Touch infotainment system and, on AWD models, the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) for expensive issues. This is a vehicle that rewards careful pre-purchase inspection and diligent maintenance, making it a 'proceed with caution' recommendation.

Biggest Strengths

  • Robust 3.7L Duratec V6 engine
  • Smooth and comfortable ride quality
  • Luxury features and quiet cabin for the price

2012 Lincoln MKX — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2012 Lincoln MKX. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
MyFord Touch Infotainment Systemmoderate
2
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (AWD models only)major
3
Water Leaks (Sunroof Drains/Taillights)moderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 2012 Lincoln MKX

1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles manufactured September 2, 2010, to November 30, 2013; 2013-2014 Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured August 25, 2011, to November 30, 2013; and 2013-2014 Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured September 12, 2011, to November 30, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the halfshaft retention circlip may not have been properly installed, and as a result, the halfshaft may move outward and disengage from the linkshaft while driving and without prior warning.

What breaks on the 2012 Lincoln MKX?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Lincoln MKX — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Lincoln MKX. Click any year for its full report.

Competing 2012s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

Relevant Products for Your 2012 Lincoln MKX

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2012 Lincoln MKX

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair cost projections, buyer checklist, and expert verdict.

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Complete Owner's Guide

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