LS (1st)
Engine Reliability Ratings
Lincoln LS Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
3.0-V6-Gas
3.0L 6-cyl / 220 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
3.9-V8-Gas
3.9L 8-cyl / 252 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Show 3 additional engine variants with limited data
4.0-V6-Gas
4.0L 6-cyl / 207 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
4.6-V8-Gas
4.6L 8-cyl / 225 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
3.8-V6-Gas
3.8L 6-cyl / 150 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Lincoln LS regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (3)
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL TANK MAY HAVE A LOCALIZED THIN WALL SECTION IN THE LOWER HALF OF THE TANK. THE FUEL TANK MAY CRACK CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR A FUEL LEAK AND FUEL ODOR. THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" INDICATOR MAY ILLUMINATE.
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 17 INCH CHROME WHEELS, THE CHROME WHEELS WERE NOT HEAT-TREATED. THESE WHEELS MAY CRACK AT THE LUG-NUT HOLES, WHICH COULD RESULT IN THE LOSS OF THE LUG-NUT TORQUE.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS WERE NOT TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATIONS WHEN THEY WERE ATTACHED TO THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS.
Alternatives in Midsize Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2000-2006 Lincoln LS problems?
The 2000-2006 Lincoln LS has accumulated 975 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Suspension, Engine, Cooling System. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Lincoln LS engine is most reliable?
The 2000-2006 Lincoln LS was offered with 6 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.0L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2000-2006 Lincoln LS a good used car?
The 2000-2006 Lincoln LS can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 975 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2000-2006 Lincoln LS have?
The 2000-2006 Lincoln LS has 975 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2000-2006 Lincoln LS?
There are 3 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2000-2006 Lincoln LS vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Lincoln LS?
Before buying a used Lincoln LS, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Suspension, Engine, Cooling System, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Does the LS have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2000-2006 Lincoln LS. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 975 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.