A Guide to Ignition Coils for the 2007-2020 Lincoln MKZ
Solve common engine misfires and restore your Lincoln's smooth performance by choosing the right ignition coils.
- For V6 engines, always replace all six coils and spark plugs at once due to the labor involved in removing the intake manifold for the rear bank.
- A known issue on 2007-2010 V6 models involves a failing coil damaging the engine computer (PCM), requiring replacement of the PCM, coils, and plugs.
- Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket are a common cause of coil failure; inspect for oil in the spark plug wells during replacement.
- Stick with OEM (Motorcraft) or reputable OES brands (Bosch, Delphi, NGK) for the best reliability and performance.
Understanding Ignition Coil Failure in Your MKZ
Ignition coils are wear-and-tear items that operate in a high-heat environment. Over time, the internal windings can break down, or the housing can crack, leading to failure. A common issue, especially on V6 models, is oil leaking from the valve cover gaskets onto the coils and spark plugs. This oil contamination can destroy the coil boot and cause the coil itself to fail. On some 2007-2010 V6 models, a failing ignition coil could even cause damage to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the main engine computer.
Engine Differences Affect Replacement
The replacement process varies significantly based on your MKZ's engine.
- 4-Cylinder Engines (2.0L, 2.3L, 2.5L): The ignition coils are located directly on top of the engine and are easily accessible after removing the plastic engine cover. This is a straightforward DIY job. 🎬 Video tutorial for replacing coils on hybrid and 4-cylinder models.
- V6 Engines (3.0L, 3.5L, 3.7L): The front three coils are easy to access. However, the rear three are located under the upper intake manifold. This manifold must be removed to access them, which adds significant time and complexity to the job.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coils
When shopping for new ignition coils, you'll find a wide range of brands and prices. Here’s how to break them down:
Tier 1: OEM and OES Brands
These brands are either the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or supply parts directly to automakers (OES). They offer the best fit, performance, and longevity, making them the most reliable choice.
- Motorcraft: This is Ford and Lincoln's official parts brand. It is the direct OEM replacement and is widely considered the safest bet for quality and compatibility.
- Bosch, Delphi, NGK: These are highly respected OES brands known for their quality ignition components. They often manufacture the original parts for many vehicles and are considered equivalent to Motorcraft in terms of performance and reliability.
Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket Brands
These brands focus on providing a balance of quality and value. They are a solid choice for a reliable repair without the premium price of OEM parts.
- Standard Ignition (SMP), Hitachi, Walker Products: These companies have a long-standing reputation in the aftermarket for producing dependable parts that meet or exceed original specifications.
Tier 3: Value-Oriented Brands
These brands offer the most budget-friendly options. They can be a practical choice for older, higher-mileage vehicles or if you're on a tight budget. However, their long-term durability may not match that of the higher-tier brands.
- DriveWire, True Tech, Skyward, Global Parts: While functional, these coils may use less robust materials, potentially leading to a shorter service life.
A Note on Aftermarket Performance Coils
Some brands claim to offer more energy or better performance. While this may be true in some cases, many professional mechanics recommend sticking with OEM or OES brands, as factory ignition systems are highly tuned for specific coils. Using an "upgrade" coil can sometimes cause more issues than it solves.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Coil) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $65 - $115 | Highest quality and guaranteed fit. |
| New Aftermarket (OES) | $40 - $75 | Excellent quality from brands like Bosch, Delphi, NGK. |
| New Aftermarket (Value) | $18 - $40 | Budget-friendly option, longevity may vary. |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $500+ | Cost varies greatly by engine. V6 rear coils require intake manifold removal, increasing labor significantly. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace all ignition coils at once?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Ignition coils operate under the same conditions, so if one fails, others are likely to fail soon. For V6 engines, it is critical to replace all six coils (and spark plugs) at the same time, since the labor to remove the intake manifold for the rear bank is significant. Doing the job once saves you money and future headaches.
What are the common fault codes for a bad ignition coil?
A failing ignition coil will trigger the Check Engine Light. Common codes include a general misfire code (P0300) or cylinder-specific misfire codes (P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306). You may also see codes for the coil's primary/secondary circuit, such as P0351 through P0356.
🎬 See how to diagnose and fix these specific engine codes.How do I know which ignition coil is bad?
An OBD-II scanner will tell you which cylinder is misfiring (e.g., P0303 for cylinder 3). A simple way to confirm a bad coil is to swap the suspected bad coil with a coil from a known good cylinder. Clear the codes and run the engine. If the misfire code moves to the new cylinder, you have confirmed the coil is faulty.
Do I need to replace my spark plugs with the ignition coils?
Yes, it is best practice to replace the spark plugs at the same time. Worn spark plugs can put extra strain on the new ignition coils, causing them to fail prematurely. Since you already have everything disassembled, replacing the plugs adds minimal extra cost or effort.
🎬 Watch a step-by-step guide to replacing spark plugs and coils.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: CM5Z-12029-K 7T4Z-12029-E 9E5Z-12029-A 6E5Z-12029-AA DG520 UF553
Coil-on-plug design. Number of coils depends on engine: four for I4 engines, six for V6 engines.
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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: