Overview & Reviews

When the Lincoln LS was first introduced, it was heralded as the domestic answer to the premium midsize sedans from Europe's luxury brands. At the time, the rear-drive LS had the look and the technology to compete with Europe's best in a way few American cars could. Early reviews pegged it as a 10 in terms of fun to drive, and some described it as a car that offered the roominess of a BMW 5 Series at the price of a 3 Series.

The LS had the option of a V6 or V8 and, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive configuration and well-tuned suspension, was reasonably entertaining on a back road. But as good as the LS seemed initially, the car became less appealing over the years as the ranks of newer, more competent and more luxurious entry-luxury sedans grew. With sales slowing, Lincoln discontinued the LS after the 2006 model year.

Though lacking a little in terms of prestige and refinement, the Lincoln LS is still a respectable choice for a used luxury sedan with sporting tendencies. Its pricing is lower than many competing models, and maintenance costs should also be slightly lower than those of some European cars, but don't expect the LS to be as trouble-free as its competitors from Japan.

Most Recent Lincoln LS

A midsize entry-luxury sedan, the Lincoln LS was produced for the 2000-'06 model years. Originally, the LS was available in just two trim levels differentiated by the engine equipped. The Lincoln LS V8 came with a 252-horsepower, 3.9-liter engine that moved the sedan from zero to 60 in 7.5 seconds. A five-speed automatic transmission was standard.

The less expensive choice was the LS V6. Its 3.0-liter engine provided just 210 hp but slightly better fuel economy. For this engine, Lincoln initially offered either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic.

Standard features for both cars included dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, alloy wheels, foglights and ABS. However, a few upscale items, such as a navigation system, weren't initially offered.

At the time, we found that V8 versions of the Lincoln LS delivered smooth and acceptable acceleration. The ride was comfortable and compliant, and the LS was at its best when being used as a touring sedan rather than an all-out sport sedan. Notably, it was roomy enough to provide comfortable quarters for four adults. The interior materials were lacking in terms of quality, though, and storage space was minimal in the cabin.

Early models had automatic transmission problems, so it might be wise to avoid them on the used market. Even when that issue was addressed by Lincoln, shifts from the automatic were not exactly smooth and many customers still complained. For this reason, we'd advise any prospective LS buyer to do a thorough test-drive before making a purchase.

For 2003, Lincoln did its first major update on its midsize luxury sedan. Output for the V8 was raised to 280 hp, and the V6 added 12 hp for a total of 222. The five-speed manual that was available with the V6 was dropped due to lack of consumer interest.

Other changes that year included retuned steering (resulting in better feel), a retuned suspension (resulting in a slightly softer ride) and improved interior materials and storage. New features were also added, such as a navigation system, side curtain airbags and a THX sound system. To make the most of your used-car dollar, we suggest looking at 2003 or newer LS models.

A few other changes occurred before the Lincoln LS was discontinued. Satellite radio was added as a dealer-installed option for 2004, and Lincoln made additional improvements to the automatic transmission to improve shift quality. For the final year, the V6 version was dropped from the LS lineup.

User Reviews:

• 

  Half a loaf - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By disappointed - June 10 - 12:10 am

  I have always owned Fords. Generally like em. Stepped up with this one and what a disappointment. Lincoln forgot to pay attention to detail. The transmission takes weeks to downshift so the V-8 power is squandered. The "automatic rain sensitive" wipers are a constant irritant. Throttle tip-in acts more like a 4-cylinder turbo than a V8. The dumb "all windows down and sunroof open" feature activates if the button on the fob is accidentally pushed so the car filled with rain one night. In general, a great potential that has been wrecked by lack of attention to detail. Should have gotten an Impala and saved the money.

• 

  My LS - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Lincoln JC - June 4 - 9:46 pm

  Bought the LS V8 three years ago and loved it in the begining. Start by saying I will never by a lincoln LS again. With a small block V8 didnt think the milage would be this horrible. The K&N filter did help out with more horse power and gas milage. Had to return the car the first week I had it cause of faulty power packs whatever replaced the spark plugs. That cost the dealer over 500 dollars. Transmission is HORRIBLE! after the warrenty company replaced it with brand new trans. Im still having problems. Cost me over 700 to replace alternator. 1200 in tires and window brackets 280 for only one door I have yet to replace the second rear window. would not recommend the Lincoln LS people.

• 

  Very satisfied with the Car - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By MF - June 2 - 3:43 pm

  We use this car for trips and Church mostly, no problems since weve had it. The pick and power are a joy from start to finish of the trip. One knock is the cheep center console Linciln used which cries every time you lean on it with your elbow. Other than that no complaints at all.

• 

  05 LS V6 Update - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By 2005ls1 - June 2 - 10:00 am

  I now have 179,000 kms on this POS and its still "nickel and diming" me to death. The front end is rattling again after it had front struts, sway bar links, and tie rod ends installed at 145,000 Kms. The E-brake light is on and beeping. I dont use it so I dont understand why it would need service. The traction control switch fell through the hole in the console for no apparent reason. I had to replace the power steering pump because it was leaking badly. The oil pan is leaking again, at least I think its the oil pan. The coil packs (5th set) are due to be changed again because the car stutters at times and that lets me know the coil packs will need changing soon. FORD - you suck!!!

• 

  No Real Problems - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Ducsman - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had the LS since new almost two years and have had no problems. It in the V6, black (yes, it is a pain to keep clean) w/17 chrome wheels. I rarely go anywhere that someone does not comment about how good the car looks. I would purchase another one. It is just fun to drive.

• 

  I LOVE IT BUT I WILL HAVE TO MOVE ON - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By KELLYMC - May 2 - 2:06 am

  I must say that I love love love my car. It is stunning to look at and comming from a background of sports cars it is a super fun car to drive. Heads turn when people see this car comming down the road. There is a huge "but" in the midst of all of the things I love about this car! I have had to replace the window motor on the drivers side twice and the passenger side once. I have had gaskets replaced, coils 1,3,5 & 8 replaced and still have 4 more to go but can only get them replaced as they go out. The sun roof leaks but the crazy twist is that it fills up the pocket on the passenger door! I truly hate to get rid of the car but the repair costs are killing me!!!!!

• 

  Nuther satisified owner - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By stevenwglauser - April 26 - 4:36 pm

  Its not a BMW. It doesnt cost what I BMW does. I didnt want a BMW. I did want an American car that follows the formula - good size, great handling, decent acceleration, etc. etc. I got it. One of the best cars Ive owned (12 in the last 16 years.)

• 

  Last Lincoln - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By scott5 - April 24 - 2:00 am

  We liked the appearance of the new Lincoln LS so after years of repeat Toyota purchases we decided to try the Lincoln. A big mistake. We have the same problems with the headlight that everyone has mentioned in other reviews. The day we brought the car home as a new vehicle the remote door opener did not work. Plus, the windows will not roll down in the back and the power door lock on a back door is stuck so the door will not open.Of course the dealer wants a fortune to fix these defects. I expect better quality for a car of this price. Dont waste your money on this overpriced Ford product. Buy the Lexus or the Avalon.

• 

  02 LS Ohio - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By craig - April 23 - 6:06 am

  Ive been pretty happy with this car. One problem that worries me is the transmission, however. We had problems at approx. 20k miles with it, and the dealer rebuilt it (warranty). We now have 44K miles and the tranny is acting funny again. It "clunks" when you shift from park to drive (occasionally, maybe once every other day). There is no tranny dipstick to verify fluid level or color. Changing fluid looks like an ordeal, requiring special tools (read, costly). Other than the tranny, the car has been good, and fun to drive. This is the sport edition with V8.

• 

  2004 LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Jersey Guy - April 19 - 10:00 am

  Have had our LS appearance package 6 cyl for just about a month. Got an excellent deal and so far the car is performing up to expectations. Build quality appears to be first rate, paint is flawless(vivid red). My first experience with Lincoln (or Ford for that matter). Been driving Audis for 2 decades and most recently a Cadillac. If the LS holds up over time it will have been a good decision. Already looking at the 06 Zeypher as a possibility for me as the LS is my wifes car.