2019 Lincoln MKZ Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in Your 2019 Lincoln MKZ

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2019 Lincoln MKZ 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 2019 Lincoln MKZ 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 2019 Lincoln MKZ?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 Lincoln MKZ, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, pay attention to any additional dashboard indicators or messages that may offer further insights into the issue. Utilizing an OBD-II diagnostic scanner is a crucial step; this tool connects to your vehicle's onboard system and retrieves error codes that can help identify the specific problem. Additionally, take note of any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be experiencing, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these can provide valuable context for your diagnosis. Finally, consulting the owner's manual can offer guidance on what the check engine light signifies and suggest appropriate next steps. By following this structured approach, you can effectively gather the necessary information to address the check engine light issue in your Lincoln MKZ.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Lincoln MKZ?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 Lincoln MKZ, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which is an easy fix that can save you from unnecessary trips to the mechanic. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in managing fuel efficiency and emissions; replacing it can improve your vehicle's performance. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can lead to significant engine issues, so it's essential to address any inefficiencies promptly. The mass airflow sensor is another component that can malfunction, affecting the engine's air-fuel mixture. Worn-out spark plugs or a defective ignition coil can also trigger the check engine light, often resulting in engine misfires that can be diagnosed with a simple inspection. Lastly, issues with the EGR valve can contribute to the light illuminating, indicating a need for maintenance. By understanding these common problems, you can take proactive steps to diagnose and potentially fix the issues, ensuring your Lincoln MKZ runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Lincoln MKZ?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 Lincoln MKZ, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, including extensive engine damage and costly repairs. The onboard diagnostics system in modern vehicles is designed to identify specific problems, making it easier for DIY enthusiasts to troubleshoot issues. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency but also contribute to reducing harmful emissions. Delaying action can exacerbate the problem, leading to diminished vehicle reliability and increased environmental impact. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the cause of the check engine light as soon as it appears, ensuring your Lincoln MKZ remains in optimal condition and operates safely on the road.

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