2015 Lincoln MKX Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issue in 2015 Lincoln MKX and Resolution Steps

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2015 Lincoln MKX has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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.

How much does it cost to fix a 2015 Lincoln MKX has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2015 Lincoln MKX?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2015 Lincoln MKX, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify and resolve the issue efficiently. Start by checking the spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can often trigger the check engine light. If the spark plugs appear to be in good condition, the next step is to locate the onboard diagnostics (OBD) plug, typically found under the dashboard, to read any trouble codes that may provide insight into the problem. Before using a scanner to retrieve these codes, ensure that the vehicle is turned off and the ignition key is removed to avoid any electrical issues. Once you have the codes, you can research their meanings to pinpoint the underlying issue. Remember, it's crucial to address the root cause of the check engine light rather than simply resetting it, as this could lead to further complications down the line. By following these initial steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the check engine light issue on your Lincoln MKX, saving time and money in the process.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2015 Lincoln MKX?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2015 Lincoln MKX, it signals potential issues that require immediate attention to maintain vehicle performance and safety. One of the most common reasons for this warning is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened to prevent fuel evaporation. Another frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions, making it crucial to address this issue promptly. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, indicating a failure that may affect engine performance. Engine misfires, often stemming from worn spark plugs or ignition coils, can also activate the check engine light, resulting in rough idling and decreased power. Lastly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, further impacting engine efficiency. To avoid further complications and ensure the longevity of your Lincoln MKX, it is essential to diagnose and resolve these issues as soon as the check engine light illuminates, ideally with the assistance of a qualified mechanic who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and necessary repairs.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2015 Lincoln MKX?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2015 Lincoln MKX, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it serves as a critical indicator of potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Ignoring this signal can lead to minor problems escalating into significant malfunctions, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Moreover, a persistent check engine light may negatively impact your vehicle's performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions output, which can have broader implications for both your wallet and the environment. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing the check engine light promptly allows for the identification of the root cause of the issue, enabling you to take corrective action before it spirals into a more severe problem. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a qualified mechanic as soon as the light appears, ensuring your Lincoln MKX remains in optimal condition and safe to drive.

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2015 Lincoln MKX Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions