Lincoln MKT Ignition Coil Guide (2010-2019): Symptoms and Replacement
Experiencing engine misfires or a rough idle in your Lincoln MKT? A failing ignition coil could be the culprit.
- A flashing check engine light indicates a severe misfire; stop driving to prevent catalytic converter damage.
- Always replace all six spark plugs when replacing coils to ensure longevity and performance.
- If replacing a rear ignition coil, replace all three rear coils and plugs at once to save on future labor costs.
- Stick with OEM (Motorcraft) or premium aftermarket brands (Denso, Delphi, Hella) for the best reliability on MKT engines.
Is Your Lincoln MKT's Ignition Coil Failing?
A bad ignition coil can cause very noticeable problems with your engine's performance. Because each cylinder has its own coil, the failure of just one can make your luxury crossover run poorly. The symptoms are often clear and should not be ignored, as driving with a misfire can allow unburned fuel to damage the expensive catalytic converters.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When shopping for new ignition coils, you will find many brands available. While OEM Motorcraft parts are a safe choice, quality aftermarket parts can offer excellent value. They generally fall into tiers based on quality and reputation.
Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
These brands are known for either being the original equipment supplier or having a reputation for equivalent quality and reliability. For the Lincoln MKT's sensitive 3.5L EcoBoost and 3.7L engines, sticking to this tier is highly recommended to avoid performance and compatibility issues.
- Motorcraft: This is the OEM parts brand for Ford and Lincoln. It is the safest bet for guaranteed fit, performance, and longevity. Many mechanics and owners strongly advise using Motorcraft ignition parts on these engines.
- Denso, Delphi, NGK: These are top-tier aftermarket brands that are also major OEM suppliers. They are widely considered reliable, high-quality alternatives to Motorcraft and are often more affordable.
- Hella: A well-regarded German brand with positive reviews for quality and fitment.
Tier 2: Performance & Quality Aftermarket
These brands often focus on enhanced performance or offer a balance between cost and quality.
- Accel, Granatelli: These brands are marketed towards performance enthusiasts, sometimes claiming smoother idling and improved throttle response. User reviews are often positive but can be mixed, with some users not noticing a significant performance gain. 🎬 Watch a performance test of Granatelli Pro Series coil packs.
Tier 3: Economy Brands
This tier includes various budget-friendly brands. While the low price is appealing, quality can be inconsistent. For the MKT's engines, especially the turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost, using economy coils is not recommended as they may fail prematurely and cause frustrating, persistent misfire issues.
A Critical Known Issue: PCM Failure
On the Ford 3.5L and 3.7L engines, a failing ignition coil can send a voltage spike back to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), damaging the internal driver for that coil. If you replace a bad coil and spark plug but the misfire stays on the exact same cylinder, your PCM is likely damaged and will need repair or replacement. It is crucial to address a misfire quickly to prevent this more expensive repair.
🎬 See why a misfire might persist after replacing your coils.Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost depends on who does the work and which parts you choose. The V6 engine has three easily accessible coils in the front (Bank 1: cylinders 4-5-6) and three in the back (Bank 2: cylinders 1-2-3) that require removing the intake manifold to access. Labor costs will be much higher if a rear coil needs replacement.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Ignition Coil (Single) | $39.77 - $95.14 |
| New Aftermarket Ignition Coils (Set of 6) | $159.95 - $570.82 |
| Shop Labor (Front Coils) | $32 - $75 |
| Shop Labor (Rear Coils) | $150 - $300+ |
Pro Tip: Replace Spark Plugs at the Same Time
Worn spark plugs put extra strain on ignition coils, causing them to fail sooner. It is essential to replace all six spark plugs whenever you replace one or more ignition coils. For the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, regular spark plug changes are critical for performance.
🎬 Learn how to replace ignition coils on the 3.5L EcoBoost.Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all six ignition coils at once?
It's a good practice, especially if your vehicle has over 80,000 miles. Coils are subjected to the same heat and wear, so if one fails, others may soon follow. If a coil on the rear bank fails, you should absolutely replace all three rear coils and their spark plugs at the same time to avoid paying for the same difficult labor again in the near future.
How do I know which ignition coil is bad?
An OBD-II scanner will give you a code like 'P0304', which means cylinder #4 is misfiring. You can confirm the coil is the problem by swapping the suspected bad coil with a known good one from another cylinder. Clear the codes, run the engine, and scan again. If the misfire code 'moves' to the new cylinder (e.g., now shows P0302 after moving the coil from cylinder 4 to 2), the coil is definitely bad.
Is this a DIY job?
Yes, for the front three coils, it is a very simple DIY job requiring only basic tools like an 8mm socket. Replacing the rear three coils is more advanced because you must remove the upper intake manifold, but it is still achievable for an experienced DIYer.
Is there a difference between coils for the 3.5L EcoBoost and 3.7L engines?
Yes, the part numbers can be different. The 3.5L EcoBoost engine is particularly sensitive to spark and ignition quality. Always use your vehicle's specific year and engine to verify you are buying the correct part. Using the wrong coil can lead to poor performance or misfires.
Are there any recalls for the ignition coils?
There are no specific recalls found for ignition coils on the 2010-2019 Lincoln MKT. However, it's always a good idea to check the NHTSA website for any open recalls on your specific vehicle's VIN.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DG549 BL3Z-12029-C UF646 DG520 UF553
The Lincoln MKT uses a Coil-on-Plug (COP) ignition system. The V6 engine has six individual coils, one for each cylinder. The coils for the 3.5L EcoBoost and 3.7L naturally-aspirated engines may have different part numbers.
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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 MKT:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Lincoln MKT's Ignition Coil Failing?
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Tier 1: OEM & Premium Aftermarket
- Tier 2: Performance & Quality Aftermarket
- Tier 3: Economy Brands
- A Critical Known Issue: PCM Failure
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Pro Tip: Replace Spark Plugs at the Same Time
- Frequently Asked Questions
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