A Guide to Replacing Ignition Coils on a 2007-2020 Lincoln MKZ
Fix engine misfires and rough idling by understanding the specific needs of your MKZ's ignition system.
- For V6 engines (3.0L, 3.5L, 3.7L), always replace all six coils and spark plugs at once to avoid paying for expensive labor to remove the intake manifold a second time.
- Before replacing coils, check the spark plug wells for oil, which indicates a leaking valve cover gasket that must also be replaced.
- OEM-equivalent brands like Denso and Beck Arnley offer a reliable, cost-effective alternative to more expensive Motorcraft parts.
- A failing ignition coil can cause damage to the catalytic converter over time, so it's important to address the issue promptly.
Is Your Lincoln MKZ Running Rough? It Could Be an Ignition Coil.
A failing ignition coil is a common issue that can cause a range of noticeable engine problems. Because the coil is essential for igniting the fuel, a bad one can make your Lincoln feel sluggish, shaky, or just plain wrong. Addressing the issue quickly is important, as driving with a misfire can lead to more expensive damage down the road, particularly to your catalytic converter.
A Special Warning for V6 Owners
If you own an MKZ with a 3.0L, 3.5L, or 3.7L V6 engine, this job is more complex. The front three coils are easy to access, but the rear three are buried under the upper intake manifold. This manifold must be removed, adding significant time and labor cost. 🎬 Watch this walkthrough on removing the intake manifold for V6 engines. For this reason, it is highly recommended to replace all six ignition coils and all six spark plugs at the same time. The extra cost in parts is minimal compared to paying for the same labor twice if another rear coil fails later.
Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
When an ignition coil starts to go bad, your car will usually let you know. Here are the most common signs:
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first sign. The car's computer will detect a misfire and trigger the light. Common codes include P0300 (random misfire) or P0301-P0306 (misfire on a specific cylinder). 🎬 See how to diagnose a P0304 misfire code on a 3.7L engine.
- Rough Idle: Your engine may shake or vibrate noticeably when you're stopped.
- Engine Misfiring: The car may hesitate, jerk, or sputter during acceleration.
- Reduced Power: A bad coil means less power from the engine, making the car feel slow.
- Poor Fuel Economy: When a cylinder isn't firing correctly, unburnt fuel is wasted, and you'll find yourself at the gas station more often.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
While the original Motorcraft parts are always a safe bet, several aftermarket brands offer a good balance of quality and price. Here’s how to choose:
OEM-Equivalent Brands:
- Denso: Denso is a massive, highly-respected parts manufacturer that often makes the original parts for Ford/Lincoln. Many mechanics consider Denso coils to be the same quality as Motorcraft, sometimes at a lower price.
- Beck Arnley: This brand specializes in sourcing parts that match the original equipment (OE) form, fit, and function. They often re-box parts from the original manufacturers, meaning you can sometimes get an OEM part in a Beck Arnley box for less.
- Hella: A well-regarded German brand known for quality electronics and ignition components.
Performance Brands:
- Accel & Granatelli: These brands are known in the performance and racing world. While they may claim higher energy output, this can sometimes be unnecessary or even problematic for a stock engine's computer. For a daily driven MKZ, sticking with an OEM-equivalent brand is usually the more reliable choice.
Standard/Budget Brands:
- Prenco & Karlyn STI: These brands offer a more budget-friendly option. While they can get your car back on the road, their long-term durability may not match that of premium brands. Always check the warranty and recent customer reviews before purchasing.
Check for Oil Leaks!
A very common cause of ignition coil failure on the MKZ is a leaking valve cover gasket. Oil drips down into the spark plug tubes, soaking the coil boot and causing it to fail. When you remove the old coils, inspect the spark plug wells for oil. If you see any, you must replace the valve cover gasket to prevent your new coils from failing prematurely.
Cost to Replace Lincoln MKZ Ignition Coils
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Coil) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $60 - $115 | Highest quality and guaranteed fit. |
| New Aftermarket | $22 - $317 | Price varies widely by brand quality. Brands like Denso offer great value. |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $600 | Cost depends heavily on the engine. 4-cylinders are on the low end; 🎬 Watch: How to replace coils and plugs on a 2.0T engine. V6 engines are much higher due to intake manifold removal. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all ignition coils at once?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Coils are wear items, and if one has failed, others are likely to follow. For V6 engines, it is almost essential to replace all six at once to avoid paying for the expensive labor of removing the intake manifold again. It's also best practice to replace the spark plugs at the same time.
How do I know which coil is bad?
An OBD-II scanner will give you a code like "P0304," which points to a misfire in cylinder 4. To confirm, you can swap the suspected bad coil with a coil from a working cylinder. If the misfire code moves to the new cylinder, you've confirmed the coil is faulty.
What's the difference between an ignition coil and a spark plug?
The ignition coil is the transformer that creates the high voltage. The spark plug is what receives that voltage and creates the physical spark inside the cylinder. They work together, and it's best practice to replace them together.
Can I use an ignition coil from a Ford Fusion?
Often, yes. The Lincoln MKZ shares its engines and many parts with the Ford Fusion, Ford Edge, and other models. However, you must always verify the exact part number for your specific engine and model year to ensure compatibility.
Is there a recall on MKZ ignition coils?
As of late 2023, there are no widespread recalls from the NHTSA for ignition coil failure on the 2007-2020 Lincoln MKZ. However, a known issue on some earlier 2007-2010 V6 models could cause a failing coil to damage the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the engine's main computer.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DG520 UF553 7T4Z12025A AA5Z-12029-A DG-522 DG-562
The Lincoln MKZ uses a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system. The specific coil part number varies depending on the engine (2.0L I4, 2.3L I4, 2.5L I4 Hybrid, 3.0L V6, 3.5L V6, 3.7L V6). Always verify the correct part for your specific engine and year before ordering.
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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 Lincoln MKZ Running Rough? It Could Be an Ignition Coil.
- A Special Warning for V6 Owners
- Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Check for Oil Leaks!
- Cost to Replace Lincoln MKZ Ignition Coils
- Frequently Asked Questions
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