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Service bulletins for the 2018 Lincoln MKZ

A bulletin is a manufacturer's communication to its dealers, as NHTSA indexes it. The summary is NHTSA's. The document is the manufacturer's: read it at NHTSA. A bulletin is not a recall, and listing a model year does not mean every vehicle of it is concerned.

137 on file from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

By type

By component

By trouble code

Bulletins, newest first
SSM 476492019-01-07. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2013 2018 C-Max, Fusion, and MKZ Hybrid vehicles using SOBDM-C module connectors do not require electrical/dielectric grease. If used it may induce module communication concerns. Codes present may be U0293 and a P0AA6. The Workshop Shop Manual (WSM) does not state to use it on these module connectors.
SSM 476382019-01-07. Service bulletin. STEERING; STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR. 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a LKS system with customer complaints of steering wheel vibration, steering pull or vehicle drift may be due to an alert and/or steering aid input from the LKS. The LKS system detects unintentional drifting toward the outside of the lane and alerts and/or aids vehicle to stay in the lane. Be sure the customer understands how the lane departure warning feature settings work for Alert (steering wheel vibration) and Aid (steering input toward lane center). Further information on the LKS can be found in the owners manual. If the customers concern is due to the LKS functioning as intended, do not attempt to repair.
SSM 476352019-01-07. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. When connecting the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) to the DLC located on the driver side under the steering column at the GWM, make sure that the ignition is off before connecting the VCM. If the ignition is on or the engine is running during the connection, it can result in various warning lights being illuminated with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), no start, no crank conditions or the IPC inoperative. If a vehicle displays these issues, disconnect the equipment from the DLC and disconnect the vehicle battery. Wait 10 minutes and reinstall with the ignition off. Clear any DTCs present and retest.
SSM 475382018-12-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit the Android Auto Preference menu selection is not present after an update to version 3.0 software. In prior versions of SYNC 3 software this menu was present, however in version 3.0 software the Android Auto Preference menu will only show up once an Android Phone has been initially connected to SYNC. This an operating characteristic of the Android Auto application after the SYNC 3.0 update and no repairs should be attempted.
18B242018-11-19. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY; EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Certain 2018 Model Year Explorer And Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles Key Off Load Battery Drain Certain 2018 Model Year MKZ Hybrid Vehicles Equipped with the Magnetic Appearance Package - Accelerator Pedal and Brake Pedal Cover Replacement
SSM 475022018-09-24. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2017-2018 Fusion, MKZ and C-Max vehicles with 2.0L Gas/Electric engine may exhibit an illuminated MIL with DTC P013A in the Powertrain Control Module(PCM). This may be due to an exhaust system leak. Exhaust leak inspection should be conducted before performing Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnostics PC/ED Manual diagnostic routines. Inspect for carbon soot/moisture witness marks at exhaust connections. Inspect welds including CMS Boss, flex pipe and flanges. Inspect Catalyst Monitor Sensor(CMS) threads and crush washer to confirm sensor is fully seated in pipe boss. Do not use Vacutec smoke machine to diagnose sensor leaks. Applying soapy water solution to exhaust connections including CMS threads, while exhaust flow is restricted at the tailpipe and exhaust system is pressurized at 5 PSI(do not exceed 5 PSI), will increase ability to identify and confirm leaks
SSM 474892018-09-24. Service bulletin. STEERING. When connecting the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) to the DLC located on the driver side under the steering column at the GWM, make sure that the ignition is off before connecting the VCM. If the ignition is on or the engine is running during the connection, it can result in various warning lights being illuminated with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), no start, no crank conditions or the IPC inoperative. If a vehicle displays these issues, disconnect the equipment from the DLC and disconnect the vehicle battery. Wait 10 minutes and reinstall with the ignition off. Clear any DTCs present and retest.
SSM 474622018-09-24. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. 2015-2018 Edge, Fusion, Focus, MKZ, MKC, Escape vehicles equipped with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit coolant consumption, white smoke and/or a runs rough condition. Refer to the extended coolant pressure test and checking for combustion gases in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-03A. If internal coolant loss is confirmed, further investigation of the head gasket interface is required. Carefully inspect the cylinder block and head for erosion, pitting, and flatness defects, primarily between the cylinder to cylinder bore bridges. If defects to the aluminum surface on the cylinder block and/or cylinder head are found, follow the cost cap tool for component replacement. Follow WSM, Section 303-01A for the repair procedures
SSM 474462018-09-24. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an oil leak from the engine oil pan RTV seal. Replace the oil pan following the procedure in Workshop Manual (WSM) Section, 303-01. After removing the oil pan it is suggested to allow the crankcase to drain overnight to minimize the chance of residual oil contaminating the crankcase sealing rail. Remove all traces of old RTV and clean the engine sealing surface using only Motorcraftù Metal Brake Parts Cleaner, then wipe with Motorcraftù Metal Surface Prep Wipes and allow to air dry. Refer to WSM, Section 303-00 > RTV Sealing Surface Cleaning and Preparation. If possible, allow the new RTV sealant to cure for 4 hours before refilling the engine with oil. Skipping or improperly completing steps may result in repeat oil pan leaks.
SSM 474442018-09-24. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 not at the latest software level may exhibit Various Performance Related concerns such as Display Operation, Navigation, Voice Recognition, Phone Pairing, Applink, Travel Link, Slow System Response, etc. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update the APIM software. After Installation, complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
TSB 18-22552018-09-24. Service bulletin. ENGINE. Some 2013-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L/1.6L/2.0L EcoBoost, 2013-2018 Fusion vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost, 2013-2018 MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.0L EcoBoost, 2017-18 MKZ vehicles equipped with 3.0L EcoBoost, 2015-2018 MKC vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L EcoBoost, 2015-2018 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.0L and 2.7L EcoBoost, 2016-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L EcoBoost, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost and 2016-2018 Focus RS equipped with 2.3L EcoBoost may exhibit a dark black fluid leak from the right side transfer case intermediate shaft seal. Follow the Service Procedure to correct the condition.
SSM 474242018-09-10. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2018 Continental, MKC, MKX, MKZ, and Fusion vehicles with an instrument panel center mounted speaker and 2017-2018 Escape vehicles with Sony audio systems may exhibit an inoperative speed compensated volume feature. This may be due to the calibration in the audio control module (ACM). To correct the concern, reprogram the ACM to the latest calibration using the appropriate Ford scan tool release 110.03 or higher. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. For claiming, use causal part 18C869 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 473802018-07-23. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may exhibit an intermittent blue or black screen. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM software. After Installation Complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 473792018-07-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Various 2016-2018 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then turn the key back on before testing the touch screen. If the software is at a later version than 2.2, proceed with normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 470002018-06-11. Service bulletin. ENGINE; POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE). Some 2013-2018 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.5L or 1.5L/2.0L/3.0L Ecoboost engine, 2015-2018 MKC/Edge/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L/2.7L EcoBoost engine, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.7L Ecoboost engine, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost, and AWD may exhibit a fluid leak from the PTU intermediate shaft seal. Replacement of the intermediate shaft seal seal does not require removal of the PTU and does not require the use of the cover seal and bolt kit (CV6Z-7275-K) to perform the repair. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-07.
SSM 470002018-05-29. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2013-2018 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.5L or 1.5L/2.0L/3.0L Ecoboost engine, 2015-2018 MKC/Edge/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L/2.7L EcoBoost engine, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.7L Ecoboost engine, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost, and AWD may exhibit a fluid leak from the PTU intermediate shaft seal. Replacement of the intermediate shaft seal seal does not require removal of the PTU and does not require the use of the cover seal and bolt kit (CV6Z-7275-K) to perform the repair. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-07.
SSM 472652018-05-21. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engines may exhibit an oil leak from the engine oil pan RTV seal. Replace the oil pan by performing the published Workshop Manual (WSM) service procedures. After removing the oil pan, it is suggested to allow the crankcase to drain overnight to minimize the chance of residual oil contaminating the crankcase sealing rail. Remove all traces of old RTV, clean the engine sealing surface with only Motorcraftù Metal Brake Parts Cleaner then wipe with Motorcraftù Metal Surface Prep Wipes, and allow to air dry as directed in WSM, Section 303-00, RTV Sealing Surface Cleaning and Preparation. If possible, after the new oil pan is installed, allow the new RTV sealant to cure for 4 hours before refilling the engine with oil. Ford is investigating this concern. Monitor OASIS for future updates.
SSM 472292018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition, remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 472192018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Various 2018 vehicles equipped with SYNC or SYNC 3 automatic system updates via WI-FI are unable to connect to the vehicles 4G WI-FI Hotspot. SYNC/SYNC3 with automatic system updates do not support connecting SYNC to the vehicles internal 4G WI-FI Hotspot if equipped. The SYNC automatic update feature must be connected to an external Wi-Fi source to function properly. No repairs should be made in attempt to correct this concern.
SSM 472042018-05-21. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2015-2018 Fusion/MKZ/MKC/Escape/Edge vehicles equipped with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a runs rough condition with DTCs P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304 and/or P0316. This may be due to coolant intrusion due to corrosion on the engine block. To diagnose this concern, with the engine at normal operating temperature, pressurize the cooling system to 138 kPa (20 psi) and hold for 5 hours. If the coolant pressure drops 27.57 kPa (4psi), remove the spark plugs and inspect for coolant in the cylinders. If coolant is found in any of the cylinders, replace the engine long block assembly. Follow normal prior approval process for your Dealership. However, follow the diagnostic repair procedure in this article to determine correct repair. For claiming, use causal part 6006 and applicable labor operations in Section 6 of the SLTS Manual.
SSM 472012018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Replacing the original equipment SYNC/Navigation system with either an aftermarket SYNC/Navigation kit or modifying original SYNC/Navigation parts to provide additional features is not recommended nor supported on any Ford, Mercury or Lincoln vehicle. Only approved Genuine Ford accessories or originally installed systems are supported and certified to function correctly with other vehicle systems. If you suspect a system has been modified, the following resources can be used to verify original equipment: Monroney Label (Window Sticker), Professional Technician Society (PTS) OASIS tab select SYNC or HVBOM. For Genuine Ford accessories use: PTS Workshop Tab select Dealer Installed Accessory or Accessory Installation.
SSM 471942018-05-21. Service bulletin. BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING. Some 2017-2018 Fusion vehicles equipped with 2.7L and MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.0L or 3.0L Ecoboost vehicles without painted calipers and built on or before 5-Mar-2018, may exhibit a brake moan noise from the rear when backing up on the first application in the morning. To resolve this concern, replace the rear brake pads with a new brake pad kit part number JG9Z-2200-A. The brake pad kit contains a unique grease packet which must be used in conjunction with the new brake pads to resolve the concern. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 206-00 for installation. For claiming, use causal part 2200 and applicable labor operations in section 2 of the service labor time standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 471712018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 and connected to an iPhone recently upgraded to iOS 11.2.5 may exhibit functional concerns where USB audio playback and App Link will not operate. This may also include, under certain conditions, no Bluetooth streaming. Apple has released iOS 11.2.6 to address this concern. Advise the customer to update the device to iOS 11.2.6 and re-evaluate before performing any diagnosis or repairs for this condition. To check the iOS software level on an Apple iOS device, select Settings > General > About on the device.
SSM 471702018-05-21. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. Some vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick. Before attempting any component diagnosis or replacement of the VCT solenoid, refer to Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) pinpoint test HK11 to cycle the affected VCT solenoid 10 times to attempt to clear the debris. For claiming, use causal part 6M280 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 471292018-05-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2013-2017 C-MAX Energi, 2013-2018 Fusion Energi, 2013-2018 C-MAX/Fusion Hybrid/MKZ Hybrid may exhibit a no start with battery energy control module (BECM) diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0AE5. For 2015-2017 C-MAX Energi refer to the 2014 MY C-MAX Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 414-03A for normal diagnostics. For all vehicles, if WSM pinpoint testing for BECM DTC P0AE5 finds the DC/DC converter control module (14B227), cabin coolant heater (18K463) or A/C compressor (19703) has low high voltage circuit internal resistance, only replace the component found with low internal resistance. It is not necessary to replace the high voltage battery junction (10C666) along with the low resistance high voltage component. The WSM is currently under revision.

The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.