Standard Electronic Stability Control (AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags for front and second rows
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, front seat pretensioners, load-limiters
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Available SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system, MyLincoln Touch (on later models, though this manual is for Mercury MKX, the transition to Lincoln MyFord Touch happened around 2011-2012 for the Lincoln sibling).
Audio Options:
Premium audio systems (e.g., Sony branded) available, satellite radio (SiriusXM).
Driver Assistance
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors standard on many trims, optional rearview camera.
Visibility:
Available HID headlamps, rain-sensing wipers.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming (with SYNC).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic blend 5W-20), or 10,000 miles/12 months if using full synthetic 5W-20 and driving under normal conditions. Consult manual for severe driving conditions.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (approx. 30,000 miles)
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on conditions
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles (using Ford Premium Gold Coolant)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect fluid condition regularly, service as needed. Recommended service interval: 100,000 miles or as indicated by maintenance minder/conditions.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid (or specified equivalent)
Fluid Capacities
Coolant Capacity:
11.5 Quarts (10.9 Liters) with engine oil cooler (approx.)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 10.9 Quarts (10.3 Liters) for a complete refill
Known Issues
Powertrain Reliability:
Generally reliable 3.5L V6 and 6-speed transmission. Potential for occasional transmission 'clunking' or shifting issues that may require software updates or valve body inspection.
Electrical Issues:
Some reports of issues with climate control modules, power liftgate actuators, and infotainment system glitches.
Suspension Wear:
As with many SUVs in this class, front suspension components like control arm bushings and ball joints may wear over time, leading to clunking noises or alignment issues.
Water Pump:
The water pump is integrated into the engine and can be a significant repair if it fails prematurely.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mercury Brand Era:
Founded by Edsel Ford in 1939, Mercury was positioned as a mid-tier brand between Ford and Lincoln.
Model Evolution
Mkx Introduction:
The Mercury MKX was introduced for the 2007 model year, effectively replacing the Mercury Mountaineer in some aspects as a more car-like SUV. The Lincoln MKX debuted concurrently.
Mkx 2011 Update:
While this manual covers 2011-2014, the MKX itself received a significant facelift for the 2011 model year, marking the second generation. This update included revised styling, interior upgrades, and powertrain enhancements. The manual covers this updated generation.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Oakville Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Production End Date:
Mercury brand production ceased in early 2011, with the last Mercury vehicles rolling off the assembly line in January 2011. However, the MKX model continued production under the Lincoln brand for the 2011 model year and beyond. This manual covers the Mercury MKX for the 2011 model year (which might be the very last of the Mercury badged models or an overlap with the Lincoln brand transition) and subsequent Lincoln MKX models up to 2014.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
The Ford Edge/Lincoln MKX platform (which the Mercury MKX is based on) has received various safety accolades over its production run from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA.
Design Awards:
While specific awards for the Mercury MKX itself might be scarce due to its limited production run and brand discontinuation, its design contributed to the overall upscale image Mercury aimed for.