2012 Lincoln MKXProblems, recalls & complaints

NHTSA has logged 84 owner complaints about the 2012 Lincoln MKX, most often about the service brakes. It is covered by 1 safety recall, and for recall 14V-393 the manufacturer reports only 90% of affected cars repaired.

Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through September 1, 2025. Updated daily.

Complaints by system

Where the 2012 Lincoln MKX has problems

84 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.

Box size = number of complaints naming that system. Darker = larger share. One complaint can name more than one system.
Complaints by system
SystemComplaintsCrash, fire or injury
Service brakes261
Electrical system170
Power train111
Structure102
Engine80
Service brakes, hydraulic70
Air bags40
Back over prevention30
Fuel/propulsion system30
10 other systems120

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.

1 recall

2012 Lincoln MKX recalls and how many were fixed

Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.

90%repaired · 2015 Q4

Axle assembly: axle shaft

Recall 14V-393 · Jul 2, 2014 · 83,250 vehicles · 75,189 repaired

Risk. If the halfshaft and linkshaft become disengaged while driving, power will no longer be transmitted to the wheels, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Problem, fix and repair progress →

Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with Lincoln.

Best & worst years

2012 vs. every other MKX year

Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the MKX median. How we score

'07'08'09'10'11'12'13'14'15'16'17'18'19'20
  • Avoid
  • Caution
  • Solid
  • Best
  • Not rated
NHTSA crash tests

2012 Lincoln MKX safety ratings

2012 Lincoln MKX SUV AWD in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program. Photos are from NHTSA's crash tests.

★★★★★Overall rating
  • Rollover: 4 stars (14.0% risk)
  • Stability control: Standard
  • Forward collision warning: Optional
  • Lane departure warning: No
In owners' words

What MKX owners report

Recent service brakes complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.

Recalled master cylinder brake booster was repaired at the dealership under the recall approx 4 or 5 years ago. The same issue has began again. Out of nowhere while braking, the pedal will become soft and press to the floor. During this time, the car will not slow down. This is resembling a…
Complaint 11684240 · Sep 1, 2025
What system Failed: Hydraulic Control Unit within the braking system. Brake Pedal and Master cylinder in good working order. Safety Concern: Vehicle failed to stop. Peddle completely to the floor. Accident avoided. Problem Reproduced or confirmed by Service Center: Yes, at a cost of $1,699.00…
Complaint 11591518 · May 30, 2024
While leaving out my driveway my brakes went straight to the floor before stopping. After I put the car in park and put my foot on the break again it was hard to push the brake pedal. I also hear air coming from the break pedal area. I had no warning and still do not have any warnings. I’ve noticed…
Complaint 11502644 · Jan 19, 2023

Own a 2012 MKX?

Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.