MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Lincoln Mkt

NHTSA safety across every Lincoln Mkt model year we cover.

Across the 1 model year of the Lincoln Mkt we cover (2019 to 2019), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2019 at 78 on the NHTSA Safety Index. 4 recalls have been issued across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial Reviewed against NHTSA data 2026-07-02

The 2019 Lincoln MKT is a full-size luxury SUV with three-row seating, aimed at buyers who want premium comfort and hauling capacity in a large, Ford-platform package. Positioned as a flagship family hauler in Lincoln's lineup, it appeals to those prioritizing space and refinement over sportiness. By 2019, it was nearing the end of its production run, making its safety profile especially worth scrutinizing for used-car shoppers.

The 2019 Lincoln MKT earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 78 out of 100, placing it squarely in the Average band. That is not a reassuring number for a large luxury SUV where buyers reasonably expect class-leading protection. The rollover rating of 4 out of 5 stars is the one bright spot in the crash-test picture, reflecting the stability that typically comes with a low center of gravity on a wide-track platform. However, frontal and side crash-test results are listed as not rated, meaning NHTSA did not conduct those specific assessments for this model year. That absence of data is itself a caution flag. Shoppers cannot simply assume the vehicle performs well in those categories. On the recall front, the 2019 MKT carries 4 recalls across the single model year we cover. That figure is worth noting for a vehicle in its final production cycle, as late-run models sometimes benefit from resolved engineering issues but can also carry unaddressed carryover concerns. Owner complaints stand at 9 total, with zero reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among them. While that low complaint volume sounds encouraging, these are unverified allegations and the sample size is small enough to limit conclusions. The honest bottom line: the MKT's Average safety index, incomplete crash-test picture, and four recalls make it a vehicle that demands a full recall-clearance check before purchase. Verify all outstanding recalls are resolved.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Lincoln MKT as a spacious and comfortable full-size luxury hauler that prioritizes interior refinement and passenger room over driving dynamics. Most note that by 2019 the design felt dated relative to newer competitors, though the cabin experience and available features remain highlights. Few reviewers focus on the MKT as a performance or technology leader.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The 2019 MKT carries an NHTSA Safety Index of 78 out of 100, landing in the Average band. For a premium-priced large SUV, this is a below-expectations result that shoppers should weigh carefully.
  • Frontal and side crash-test star ratings are listed as not rated by NHTSA for this model year. The absence of those scores means buyers cannot make a complete apples-to-apples safety comparison with competitors that have full test results.
  • Four recalls are on record for the 2019 model year. Before purchasing any used 2019 MKT, run the VIN through the NHTSA recall database to confirm all campaigns have been completed by a dealer.
  • Owner complaints total 9, with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among them. While the numbers appear low, the overall sample is small and these are unverified allegations. They do not replace the missing crash-test data.

Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Lincoln Mkt with 4 recalls.

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