2020 Lincoln Mkz
Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data
The 2020 Lincoln Mkz maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Lincoln Mkz.
For oil changes, the 2020 Lincoln Mkz takes 5W-30 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 6 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Motorcraft Gold (OAT), and transmission fluid is Mercon LV. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.
When mounting wheels on the Lincoln Mkz, torque the lug nuts to 150 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.
Owners of the 2020 Lincoln Mkz have reported 5 common issues including "Door Latch Failure (Recall 15S27 / 16S36)", "Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting (6F35/6F50)" and "Push-Button Shifter Malfunction". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.
There is 1 NHTSA safety recall on file for the 2020 Lincoln Mkz. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.
Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.
The 2020 Lincoln Mkz uses 5W-30 Full Synthetic motor oil (6 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 150 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.
Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2020 Lincoln Mkz. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.
Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2020 Lincoln Mkz.
Common problems reported by 2020 Lincoln Mkz owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.
Door Latch Failure (Recall 15S27 / 16S36)
The 2013-2016 MKZ is affected by Ford's massive door latch recall. The pawl spring tab inside the door latch can fracture, preventing the door from latching closed. The push-button door handles on the MKZ make it harder to notice when a door has not fully latched, increasing the risk of doors opening at highway speed.
Ford issued recalls 15S27 and 16S36 to replace all affected door latches. Contact your dealer to verify your VIN. The repair includes replacing each door latch with an updated design and is free of charge.
Est. Cost: Covered under recallTransmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting (6F35/6F50)
The 6-speed automatic transmission develops a noticeable shudder during light acceleration between 25-50 mph, most pronounced in the 2.0L EcoBoost-equipped models. The torque converter clutch material degrades and contaminates the fluid. Harsh 2nd-to-3rd and 3rd-to-4th gear shifts are also common.
Perform a complete transmission fluid flush with Mercon LV fluid. If the shudder returns within a few thousand miles, the torque converter needs replacement. Ford issued TSBs addressing the shift quality on the Fusion/MKZ platform. Regular fluid changes every 30,000 miles help prevent the issue.
Est. Cost: $200 - $400 for fluid flush; $1,200 - $2,500 for torque converter replacementPush-Button Shifter Malfunction
The MKZ's electronic push-button gear selector on the center console can malfunction, failing to engage the selected gear or displaying incorrect gear position on the instrument panel. Some owners report being unable to shift out of Park or the vehicle rolling when Park is selected and displayed.
Have the dealer diagnose the shifter control module with a scan tool. The repair may involve reprogramming the transmission control module or replacing the push-button shifter assembly. Check the wiring harness for loose connections. Always engage the parking brake as a secondary precaution.
Est. Cost: $200 - $500 for reprogramming; $400 - $900 for shifter assembly replacementElectrical Parasitic Drain and Dead Battery
The MKZ suffers from parasitic battery drains caused by modules that fail to enter sleep mode after the vehicle is turned off. The Lincoln Way app, push-button start proximity sensors, and SYNC infotainment system are common culprits. Owners find the vehicle dead after sitting overnight or for a few days.
Have the dealer perform a parasitic draw test to identify the offending module. Ford released software updates for the body control module and SYNC system to improve sleep mode behavior. Replace the 12V battery if it has been repeatedly deep-discharged, as capacity will be permanently reduced.
Est. Cost: $0 for software updates; $200 - $400 for battery; $300 - $800 for module replacementSunroof/Moonroof Water Leak into Cabin
The panoramic sunroof drain tubes can clog or disconnect, allowing water to leak into the headliner, A-pillar trim, and onto the floor. Prolonged water exposure damages interior electronics, causes mold growth, and can corrode wiring harnesses. The issue is especially common in vehicles parked under trees.
Clear the sunroof drain tubes by blowing compressed air through each corner drain. Reconnect any disconnected tubes. Apply silicone sealant to the sunroof frame if the original seal has deteriorated. Have the dealer check for TSBs related to sunroof drainage on the MKZ.
Est. Cost: $100 - $300 for drain clearing; $300 - $800 for seal/tube replacement1 NHTSA safety recall for the 2020 Lincoln Mkz. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.