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

2013 Lincoln MKZ Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: B-

A comfortable cruiser with notable weaknesses that can lead to costly repairs if unaddressed.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2013 Lincoln MKZ

  • Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2011 Lincoln MKZ earns a 88.
  • The system most likely to surface first: power transfer unit (ptu) (awd models) (major severity).
  • Has 13 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the steering:electric power assist system.

2013 Lincoln MKZ: Buy or Avoid?

The 2013 Lincoln MKZ offers compelling luxury for its price point, making it an attractive used car prospect. While generally a comfortable and capable sedan, buyers absolutely must scrutinize the vehicle's service history for known high-cost weaknesses to avoid significant financial surprises. This car can be a smart buy, but only with diligent pre-purchase inspection and a clear understanding of its potential pitfalls.

Biggest Strengths

  • Comfortable and quiet ride quality
  • Generally robust powertrains (especially 2.5L Hybrid)
  • Well-appointed interior for its class

2013 Lincoln MKZ — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2013 Lincoln MKZ. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (AWD models)major
2
Infotainment/Electrical (MyFord Touch/SYNC)moderate
3
Engine (3.7L V6 Water Pump)critical
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 2013 Lincoln MKZ

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

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

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.

SEAT BELTS:FRONT

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.

What breaks on the 2013 Lincoln MKZ?

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

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Lincoln MKZ — Year-by-Year Comparison

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

Competing 2013s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

Relevant Products for Your 2013 Lincoln MKZ

Parts and accessories matched to your 2013 Lincoln MKZ

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2013 Lincoln MKZ

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

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Complete Owner's Guide

Already own one? Get the 13-chapter owner's guide with specs, service schedules, and fluid capacities.

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Final Step

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