2005 Lincoln LS V6 from North America
Summary:
The best US-made sport coupe or sport sedan I've ever owned
Faults:
COPS have had to be replaced twice - seems to be fairly typical based on other owner comments. The 5R55 transmission has had problems, primarily with the solenoid pack for the lower gears. Even after a complete rebuild it has never worked quite right. Other than those 2 problems, the LS has been a joy to own and drive. Annual maintenance cost me considerably less in adjusted dollars compared to my 2 Pontiac Firebirds (1968 and 1977 models).
Since the COPS (coil on plug) and the 5R55 tranny were basic design flaws, there's really nothing that could be done about them other than regular checks and repairs as required. In 10 years and 84,000 of driving, I've had no other problems with this BMW killer. As with any vehicle, you have to have routine maintenance completed on the manufacturer's schedule.
One other factor is the capability of the mechanics assigned to work on your car. I found 2 dealers (both Lincoln only) who really knew the car and always returned it to me in tip top condition. 2 other dealers (Ford only) worked on the car and just didn't seem to really know what they were doing.
General Comments:
I've belonged to the Lincoln LS Sports Owners Club (LLSOC) since before buying my 2005 LS. Of course, all the members are enthusiasts who love their LSes and are really into driving performance vehicles. We routinely discuss problems we've encountered and offer each other suggestions on how to address those problems. Being actively involved with LLSOC and participating in their forums has helped me maintain my LS and keep it running at peak efficiency.
I believe this Lincoln model has an undeserved reputation for poor reliability. There were problems with the 2000-2003 models - no question. But Ford kept working on the LS till they got it right. The 2004-2006 models were very much the BMW killer that Ford intended the LS to be. I wish they were making a comparable model today. I'd buy it when my current LS finally gives up the ghost. So far, I see no indication that will happen before 200,000 miles!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 8th September, 2015
17th Jun 2017, 03:34
For context, what other US-made sport coupes and/or sedans have you owned?