2013-2016 Lincoln MKZ Center Pillar: Solving Rattles, Faded Trim, and Part Variations
This guide covers the common failures of the interior and exterior center pillar trim on the 2013-2016 Lincoln MKZ, and how to choose the correct used replacement part.
- The 'center pillar' consists of three separate parts: the structural frame, the exterior glossy appliqué, and the interior trim panel. Identify which you need before buying.
- The most common failures are cosmetic (faded exterior trim) and annoyance-related (rattling interior trim).
- When buying a used part, you MUST verify the side (left/right), roof type (standard/panoramic), and interior color code to ensure compatibility.
- Check all mounting clips on a used trim piece before purchase. Broken clips are the number one cause of a poor fit and future rattles.
Understanding the Lincoln MKZ Center Pillar Components
When discussing the center pillar on a 2013-2016 Lincoln MKZ, it's important to know there are three distinct parts that are often confused. Identifying which one you need is the first step in any repair.
- Structural B-Pillar: This is the welded steel frame of the car. It is only replaced by a professional body shop after a significant collision. It is not a bolt-on part and is not typically sold as a simple replacement component.
- Exterior B-Pillar Appliqué: This is the glossy black plastic trim piece on the outside of the car, located between the front and rear doors. It is a common point of cosmetic failure.
- Interior B-Pillar Trim: This is the plastic panel inside the car that covers the pillar and the seatbelt mechanism. It is color-matched to your interior (e.g., Ebony, Dune) and can be a source of rattles.
Symptoms of Center Pillar Failure
The symptoms you experience will depend entirely on which part of the pillar is failing.
Exterior Appliqué Failure
- Fading and Discoloration: The glossy black finish can become dull, hazy, or develop a gray, chalky appearance from sun exposure.
- Cracking and Peeling: The clear coat or the plastic itself can develop small cracks or begin to peel away, creating a poor appearance.
- Wind Noise: If the appliqué becomes loose or the seals around it fail, you may hear increased wind noise or whistling at highway speeds.
- Detachment: In severe cases, the adhesive can fail and the trim piece can become loose or even detach from the door frame. While recalls for this issue have affected other Lincoln models like the MKT, none have been issued specifically for the MKZ.
Interior Trim Failure
- Rattling or Buzzing Noises: This is the most common complaint. The noise may come from loose mounting clips, the seatbelt height adjuster mechanism, or wiring harnesses behind the panel. The sound is often more noticeable on rough roads.
- Loose Fit: The panel may not sit flush against the pillar, with visible gaps or movement when touched. This is often due to broken clips from previous removal.
- Scratches or Damage: The plastic can be easily scratched by seatbelts or damaged during airbag deployment.
Safety Warning: A recall (NHTSA #15V436) was issued for 2013-2015 MKZ models because heat from the seat belt pretensioner deploying in a crash could cause the front seat belt anchor cable to fail. While this involves a component in the B-pillar area, it is a separate issue from the trim or structure itself. Ensure this recall has been performed on your vehicle.
Buying a Used Center Pillar: What to Check
Buying a used OEM pillar trim piece is often the best value, as fitment is superior to aftermarket options. However, careful inspection is key to getting a good part.
Key Verification Steps:
- Identify the Correct Part: Are you buying the exterior appliqué or the interior trim panel? They are completely different parts.
- Check the Side: Is it for the driver (left) or passenger (right) side?
- Verify Roof Configuration: The upper interior trim piece may differ between models with a standard roof and those with the large panoramic glass roof. Confirm the donor vehicle's roof type.
- Match Interior Color: For interior trim, you must match your vehicle's color code (e.g., Ebony, Dune, Charcoal/Hazelnut). This code is usually found on the vehicle identification sticker in the driver's door jamb.
Physical Inspection Checklist:
- All Mounting Tabs Intact: This is the most critical check. Flip the panel over and inspect every single mounting tab and clip receiver. If any are broken, the panel will not install securely and will likely rattle.
- No Cracks: For both interior and exterior pieces, check carefully for stress cracks, especially around screw holes or clip locations.
- Exterior Appliqué Finish: Look at the glossy finish from an angle. Check for deep scratches, swirl marks, or signs of fading or peeling clear coat. A part from a low-mileage, garage-kept vehicle is ideal.
- Interior Trim Condition: Check for deep gouges from the seatbelt buckle, discoloration from sun exposure, or stains.
Pro Tip: Many aftermarket options for the exterior appliqué are simple stick-on covers, not full replacements. These can be a cheap, easy fix for a faded panel, but they will not fix a piece that is loose or physically broken. A full OEM replacement part will always provide the best fit and finish.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
While there are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the 2013-2016 Lincoln MKZ center pillar trim, several other issues are relevant:
- Door Latch Recall: Multiple recalls were issued for faulty door latches that could prevent the door from closing securely. This affects the B-pillar area as the latch striker is mounted there.
- Seat Belt Anchor Recall (#15V436): Affects 2013-2015 models where the seat belt anchor cable could fail in a crash.
- Rattles: Rattles from the B-pillar area are a common complaint across many car models. Technicians often diagnose these by applying felt tape to contact points or securing loose clips and wiring behind the trim panel.
Cost of Replacement
Prices can vary based on condition and source. The structural pillar is a collision-only part costing over a thousand dollars, so it is excluded from this typical repair cost breakdown.
| Part Type | New OEM | New Aftermarket | Used OEM | Shop Labor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Trim Panel | $150 - $230 | Not Common | $50 - $120 | $75 - $150 |
| Exterior Appliqué (Full) | $80 - $150 | $50 - $90 | $40 - $100 | $100 - $200 |
| Exterior Appliqué (Stick-On Cover) | N/A | $30 - $60 | N/A | DIY |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it difficult to replace the center pillar trim myself?
For a DIYer, replacing the interior trim is a 2/5 difficulty. It requires trim removal tools to avoid breaking clips. The exterior appliqué is a 3/5 difficulty, as it often requires removing weatherstripping and carefully prying off the old part, which will likely break the original clips. Stick-on covers are a 1/5 difficulty and only require a clean surface.
My B-pillar is rattling. What's the most likely cause?
The most common cause is a loose interior trim panel due to a broken clip. It can also be the seatbelt height adjustment mechanism. A technician would typically remove the panel and use felt tape or foam to insulate any contact points between the panel, the body, and the seatbelt mechanism.
Will a center pillar from a Ford Fusion fit my Lincoln MKZ?
No. Although the Lincoln MKZ is based on the Ford Fusion platform, the interior and exterior trim, body panels, and design elements are unique to the MKZ. You must use a part specifically for a 2013-2016 Lincoln MKZ.
How do I fix my faded or peeling black exterior pillar trim?
You have three options: 1) The cheapest and easiest is to buy an aftermarket stick-on glossy black vinyl or plastic cover. 2) The best cosmetic repair is to replace the entire appliqué with a new or used OEM part. 3) You can attempt to sand, prep, and paint the existing piece, but achieving a durable, glossy finish is difficult.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DP5Z-5424301-A DP5Z-5424301-D DP5Z-5424357-LD HP5Z-5424301-D DP53-F243W06-LGW DP5Z-5424356-LC DP5Z-5424356-LD DP5Z-5424356-LE FP5Z-5424356-MB
Part types include structural reinforcement, exterior appliqué (gloss black), and interior trim panels. Interior trim is color-coded (e.g., Ebony, Dune). Compatibility varies based on standard vs. panoramic roof options.
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 MKZ:
- Understanding the Lincoln MKZ Center Pillar Components
- Symptoms of Center Pillar Failure
- Exterior Appliqué Failure
- Interior Trim Failure
- Buying a Used Center Pillar: What to Check
- Key Verification Steps:
- Physical Inspection Checklist:
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Cost of Replacement
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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