2013 Lincoln MKZ Shift System Fault. What Does It Mean?

The 2013 Lincoln MKZ, a luxury sedan from Ford, is a vehicle that combines style, comfort, and technology. However, like any other vehicle, it can encounter issues. One such issue that has been reported by some owners is the "Shift System Fault". This article aims to provide a detailed understanding of this fault, its causes, and potential solutions, using technical information from the Ford service guide.

Understanding the Shift System Fault

The shift system fault is a warning message that appears on the vehicle's information display. It indicates a malfunction in the vehicle's transmission system. The fault can manifest in several ways, as detailed in the Ford service guide. For instance, the message "SHIFT SYS FAULT Confirm Park Brake Apply Before Exiting the Vehicle" suggests a system fault requiring the park brake to be engaged before exiting the vehicle.

Another variant of the fault, "SHIFT SYS FAULT Cannot Shift Trans Use Park Brake to Secure Vehicle", also indicates a system malfunction, necessitating the use of the park brake to secure the vehicle before exiting. In both cases, the vehicle's authorized dealer should be contacted for service.

Potential Causes of the Shift System Fault

The shift system fault can be triggered by various issues within the vehicle's transmission system. These can range from mechanical problems, such as issues with the gear selector or transmission control module, to software glitches that affect the vehicle's ability to correctly interpret or respond to input from the driver.

For instance, the message "SHIFT SYS FAULT Vehicle is Shifting to Park" indicates a system fault occurring while the vehicle is shifting to park. Similarly, "SHIFT SYS FAULT Reverse Unavailable Service Required" suggests a system fault preventing the vehicle from shifting to reverse. In both cases, the vehicle's authorized dealer should be contacted for service.

Addressing the Shift System Fault

When a shift system fault is displayed, it is crucial to contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible. Ignoring these warnings can lead to more severe issues, including potential damage to the vehicle's transmission system, which can be costly to repair.

The dealer will likely perform a series of diagnostic tests to identify the source of the problem. This could involve checking the mechanical components of the transmission system, examining the vehicle's software, or both.

Once the source of the problem has been identified, the dealer will then carry out the necessary repairs or adjustments. This could involve replacing faulty components, updating the vehicle's software, or making other necessary changes to resolve the issue.

Conclusion

While the 2013 Lincoln MKZ is a reliable and technologically advanced vehicle, like any other vehicle, it can encounter issues such as the shift system fault. Understanding what this fault means and how to respond when it occurs can help ensure that your vehicle remains in good working order and prevent more serious issues from developing. Always remember, when in doubt, it's best to consult with an authorized dealer or a professional mechanic.