Which Years of Used Lincoln Continentals Are Most Reliable?
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The Lincoln Continental is an incredibly popular luxury vehicle featuring expansive space for passengers and cargo, techy features, and overall fun driving. Some of these used vehicles are especially popular among larger families and small business owners. If you’re looking for the most reliable Lincoln Continental year, you’ve come to the right place. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the different model years of this vehicle, plus certain mechanical problems to watch out for before you buy.
Most Reliable Years for the Lincoln Continental
The Lincoln Continental has a handful of stellar years that have higher-than-average reliability scores. Overall, these include:
- 2017 Lincoln Continental
- 2018 Lincoln Continental
- 2020 Lincoln Continental
THE LINCOLN CONTINENTAL YEARS TO AVOID
Today, we rounded up the least reliable Lincoln Continental years to avoid when buying used. Plus, we offer insights into why you should avoid them.
In some way, this is no big surprise. More recent model years usually have fewer problems and user complaints, and not just for the Lincoln Continental. That’s because vehicle manufacturers learn how to fix any kinks or minor issues that crop up during initial manufacturing, plus have time to implement feedback from the initial or first adopters.
This is also true with the Lincoln Continental. The more recent Lincoln Continentals are much more worth your time and money, particularly if you can find them for affordable prices. Not only will they be easier to maintain and repair through mechanics, but you’ll also find that they are less likely to break down on the road or lead to headaches.
Each of these model years is from the most recent relaunch of the Lincoln Continental.
Are Lincoln Continentals Generally Reliable?
Although the most reliable Lincoln Continental year is a good purchase, what about the rest of the vehicle line?
According to carparts.com, the Lincoln Continental line of vehicles is generally quite reliable. Scores are usually four out of five or equivalent, particularly when it comes to safety reputation. According to the same source, the National Highway Traffic Administration gave the 2020 model of the Lincoln Continental in particular a five-star safety rating, as did earlier models like the 2017 and 2018 Lincoln Continental.
Other sources back up this general rating trend. Copilotsearch.com indicates that the Lincoln Continental is quite reliable and trustworthy, extending to the Lincoln brand overall. However, this source also knows that certain model years of Lincoln Continentals are less than stellar and are known for factory recalls or major mechanical faults.
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Which Lincoln Continentals Are the Least Reliable?
You’ll be wise to avoid certain unreliable Lincoln Continental models, particularly if you want additional peace of mind and overall smooth sailing. The least reliable Lincoln Continentals include:
- 1990-2002 Lincoln Continental, which are older vehicles known for corrosion inside the water pump, plus other issues that may lead to engine overheating
- 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental. These vehicles are prone to PCV grommet vacuum leaks
- 1998 and 1999 Lincoln Continental. These cars are known to have issues with power steering and additional components
Are Lincoln Continentals Expensive to Maintain?
Once you buy a used Lincoln Continental, don’t forget that you’ll also need to pay to maintain it. Repairpal.com indicates that the average annual maintenance cost for a Lincoln Continental is $513. That’s far from exorbitant, and it’s about what you can expect for similar vehicles of the same size and type.
Certain repairs may also be fairly cheap. For example, ignition coil replacement should be less than $200. Just be sure to take your used Lincoln Continental into a mechanic’s shop if you notice something wrong; otherwise, you might have to pay for a more expensive repair, like a fuel pump replacement, which can cost up to $1000 or so.
WHAT TO DO IF A DEALER REFUSES TO CANCEL EXTENDED WARRANTY
Car buying can occasionally be frustrating, especially if you’re purchasing your vehicle through a dealership. We’re here to tell you how to navigate a situation in which a dealer refuses to cancel your extended warranty.
Which Lincoln Continental is Most Reliable?
In terms of overall value for money, the most reliable Lincoln Continental year is the 2017 or 2018 model. According to hotcars.com, either one of these models will be perfect if you want overall dependability and reliability.
That’s partially because both of these vehicle models were constructed with durable materials and an emphasis on safety features. Therefore, if you’re in the market for a luxury sedan you can trust, one of these more recent Lincoln Continentals could be right up your alley, particularly considering the fact that they won’t be as expensive as a more recent model year.
What Are the Most Common Lincoln Continental Problems?
All that said, be on the lookout for major mechanical problems or other issues that could compromise your Lincoln Continental. According to lincolnproblems.com, the most common Lincoln Continental problems include:
- The door ajar like never turning off
- Transmissions needing to be replaced
- Other transmission failures
- Loud road noises heard from inside the vehicle
- Engine problems
Naturally, even a small flaw can eventually develop into something much bigger. With that in mind, have your Lincoln Continental repaired and examined by a trained mechanic regularly. That’s the best way to avoid more pricey repairs later down the road, plus provide you and your family members with peace of mind.
THE BEST SEDANS WITH HIGH GROUND CLEARANCE
There are plenty of vehicles on the market that let you tower over obstacles without losing the convenience of a compact car. Therefore, we’ve put together a list of our favorite new sedans with high ground clearance.
Is the Lincoln Continental Worth It?
All in all, a used Lincoln Continental might very well be worth it, especially if you find a great car for a stellar price. Many of the best Lincoln Continentals can be purchased at very cheap prices, and they don’t cost a fortune to maintain every year, either.
That said, it’s also true that the majority of Lincoln Continentals are a bit older than average, so you won’t want to spend your time on them. Instead, you’ll want to aim for more recently manufactured Lincoln Continentals. These will be closer to what you expect in a modern car, plus better in terms of reliability.
Final Thoughts
All in all, a used Lincoln Continental is a perfect car for commuting and small family trips. Consider one of these classic, streamlined vehicles if you’re in the market for something steady, agile, and overall fun to drive. Plus, if you maintain it well, there’s a good chance that your used Lincoln Continental may last you for over a decade to come, depending on how many miles you put on it after purchasing it!
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