2016 Lincoln MKS Heater Isn't Working

Common Causes of Heater Issues in Your 2016 Lincoln MKS and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
31% chance it's the
Heater Blower Motor
0%
18% chance it's the
Heater Blower Motor Resistor
0%
51% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Lincoln MKS heater isn't working are a broken heater blower motor, a problem with the thermostat, or a failed heater blower motor resistor.
  • Heater Blower Motor: A faulty heater blower motor can result in inadequate airflow or no air circulation in the cabin, affecting the heating system's performance.
  • Heater Blower Motor Resistor: A faulty heater blower motor resistor can cause inconsistent fan speeds or complete failure of the blower motor.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

What are the steps to diagnose the heater issue in a 2016 Lincoln MKS?

To effectively diagnose a heater issue in your 2016 Lincoln MKS, start by checking the thermostat, as it plays a crucial role in regulating the vehicle's heating system. A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent the engine from reaching the optimal temperature, leading to inadequate heating. Next, inspect the coolant level; low coolant can hinder the heater's ability to generate warmth. If the coolant is sufficient, examine the heater core for any signs of clogs or leaks, as these can significantly impact heating performance. Following this, assess the heater control valve to ensure it is functioning properly, allowing hot coolant to flow into the heater core. Additionally, test the blower motor to confirm it is operational, as a faulty motor can restrict airflow and reduce heating efficiency. Finally, verify the blend door actuator's functionality, as issues here can disrupt temperature control within the HVAC system. By systematically following these steps, you can identify and resolve heater issues in your Lincoln MKS, ensuring a comfortable driving experience.

What are the common problems that could cause the heater to stop working in a 2016 Lincoln MKS?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning heater in a 2016 Lincoln MKS, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a malfunctioning thermostat, which can prevent the engine from reaching the optimal temperature needed for the heater to operate effectively. Additionally, coolant leaks can significantly impact the heating system; if coolant is leaking, there may not be enough warm fluid circulating through the heater core, leading to inadequate heating. Another potential issue is a clogged or faulty heater core, which can obstruct the flow of hot coolant and result in a cold cabin. Furthermore, if the blower motor is not working correctly, it won't be able to push warm air into the vehicle, leaving passengers feeling chilly. Lastly, air pockets in the cooling system can disrupt coolant flow, further complicating the heating process. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify and resolve the issue, restoring warmth to your Lincoln MKS.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning heater in a 2016 Lincoln MKS?

When faced with a non-functioning heater in your 2016 Lincoln MKS, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. A malfunctioning heater not only compromises your comfort during cold weather but also poses significant safety risks. In freezing temperatures, the inability to generate heat can lead to fogged-up windows, severely impairing visibility and increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, the heater plays a vital role in defrosting your windshield, which is essential for safe driving in various weather conditions. Ignoring this issue could also indicate deeper problems within the vehicle's heating system, which may escalate if left unaddressed. Therefore, it is advisable to prioritize the repair of your heater to ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience, as well as to prevent potential damage to your vehicle's heating components.

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