A Guide to Replacing Shocks and Struts on the 2007-2012 Lincoln MKZ
Eliminate clunks and bounciness to bring back your Lincoln's smooth, controlled ride.
- A clunking noise over bumps is the most common sign of failure for the MKZ's struts.
- Always replace struts and shocks in pairs (front set or rear set) to maintain balanced handling.
- Choose complete strut assemblies ('quick struts') for the front to make installation easier and replace the failure-prone strut mount.
- A four-wheel alignment is required immediately after replacing front struts to prevent tire damage and ensure safety.
Is Your MKZ's Ride Not What It Used to Be?
The shocks and struts on your 2007-2012 Lincoln MKZ are designed for a comfortable, quiet ride. Over time, they wear out. This wear is usually gradual, so you might not notice it at first. Common complaints for this vehicle include a bouncy ride and distinct clunking or knocking noises from the suspension when going over bumps. 🎬 Watch the Car Wizard isolate suspension noises on an MKZ. These sounds are often a sign that the internal parts of the struts or the upper strut mounts have failed.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Shocks & Struts
You don't need to buy expensive dealership parts to fix your suspension. Aftermarket parts offer a wide range of quality and price points. For the 2007-2012 MKZ, which shares its platform with the Ford Fusion, you have many choices. We can group the available brands into three tiers.
Premium Brands (Best Performance)
- Bilstein: If you want to improve handling, Bilstein is a top choice. Their B6 series shocks are designed to be a performance upgrade over the original parts, offering better control and stability.
- Sachs: Often an original equipment manufacturer for European brands, Sachs provides high-quality struts and shocks that meet or exceed factory performance.
OEM-Quality Brands (Balanced Choice)
- KYB: This is a very popular and respected brand. KYB parts are often used as original equipment by carmakers. They are known for providing a ride that is slightly firmer than stock, restoring the vehicle's original handling characteristics. Many owners prefer KYB for their durability compared to other aftermarket options.
- Monroe: Monroe is another huge name in suspension parts and supplies original equipment to Ford. Their OESpectrum line is designed to give you a ride similar to how the car felt when it was new. Some users feel they are softer than KYB and may not last as long.
Economy Brands (Budget-Friendly)
- FCS and PRT: These brands offer a cost-effective solution to get your car back on the road safely. They are a good choice if your main goal is to fix a failed part on a budget.
Pro Tip: Buy Complete Strut Assemblies
For the front struts, it is highly recommended to buy a "complete strut assembly" (also called a "quick strut"). This part includes the strut, coil spring, and a new mount all in one piece. This makes the installation much faster and safer because you don't need a special tool to compress the old spring. Given that clunking noises are often related to the mount, a complete assembly solves multiple potential problems at once.
🎬 See how easy it is to install complete strut assemblies.Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace shocks and struts can vary. The parts themselves have a wide price range, and labor costs differ by shop.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Parts (Full Set) | $150 - $650 |
| Professional Shop Labor | $280 - $420 |
| Wheel Alignment (Required) | $80 - $150 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $510 - $1,220 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location, the specific parts chosen, and your mechanic's labor rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace all four shocks and struts at once?
It is always recommended to replace shocks and struts in pairs (both fronts or both rears). This ensures that your vehicle's handling is balanced and predictable. If one shock has failed due to age and mileage, the other on the same axle is likely worn out too.
Is a wheel alignment necessary after replacement?
Yes. A four-wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing the front struts. The struts are a key part of your steering and suspension geometry. Skipping the alignment will cause poor handling and rapid, uneven tire wear.
Are there any recalls on the 2007-2012 MKZ suspension?
No, as of early 2026, there are no specific NHTSA safety recalls for shock or strut failure on the 2007-2012 Lincoln MKZ. There was a TSB related to the SYNC system that could incorrectly flag a suspension problem, but this was not a mechanical issue.
What's the difference between a shock and a strut?
A strut is a structural part of the suspension that also supports the vehicle's weight, combining a shock absorber and a coil spring into one unit. A shock absorber is a simpler part that only dampens spring movement and does not support the vehicle's weight. Your MKZ has struts in the front and shocks in the rear.
🎬 Follow this step-by-step guide to replace your rear shocks.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: AE5Z-18124-F AST-178
The 2007-2012 Lincoln MKZ uses a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension with separate shock absorbers and coil springs. Parts may differ between Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Lincoln MKZ:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your MKZ's Ride Not What It Used to Be?
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Shocks & Struts
- Premium Brands (Best Performance)
- OEM-Quality Brands (Balanced Choice)
- Economy Brands (Budget-Friendly)
- Pro Tip: Buy Complete Strut Assemblies
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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