Ensuring your 2016 Lincoln MKS receives the correct maintenance is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. This luxury sedan, powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine, demands specific fluids to handle the stresses of modern driving, from highway commutes to occasional towing. Using the right lubricants helps protect critical components, improve fuel efficiency, and ensure reliable operation across all seasons. Proper fluid selection and regular changes are the most effective ways to preserve the vehicle’s value and performance characteristics.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides up to 25,000 miles of protection with superior wear resistance and horsepower retention.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers 20,000 miles of protection with enhanced cleaning power to keep the engine running smoothly.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective option that outperforms conventional oils and fights sludge and deposits.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines over 75,000 miles with boosted detergents and seal conditioners.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter EAO17-EA – Offers 99% efficiency at 20 microns and reduced restriction to maintain proper oil flow and engine lubrication.
- WIX XP Oil Filter – Features premium media that improves upon original equipment manufacturer standards for capturing contaminants.
- WIX Oil Filter – A reliable standard option designed to work effectively with AMSOIL motor oils for comprehensive filtration.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed 50/50 ethylene glycol formulation that protects cooling system metals and lasts up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated, safer alternative that offers superior temperature protection and extended service intervals.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides OE-level protection with enhanced fuel efficiency and wear prevention for the 6F50 transmission.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the transfer case, controlling thermal runaway and protecting against rust and corrosion.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – The recommended viscosity for the rear differential, meeting Ford specifications for optimal limited-slip performance.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – A versatile alternative for limited-slip differentials requiring high-quality extreme pressure protection.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Another premium option for limited-slip applications, ensuring long equipment life and reduced operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
Starting with the heart of the vehicle, the engine requires a specific viscosity to function correctly. For the 3.7L 6-cylinder engine in your 2016 Lincoln MKS, the recommended oil grade is 5W-20. This viscosity ensures proper lubrication during cold starts while maintaining film strength at operating temperatures. The engine oil capacity is 6.0 quarts when the filter is included. It is crucial to check the oil level after refill and torque the drain plug to 20 ft/lbs to prevent leaks. AMSOIL offers four distinct motor oil choices to suit your driving habits and vehicle age. The AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 provides the highest level of protection with 75% more resistance against horsepower loss and wear, guaranteeing up to 25,000 miles of use. For those seeking extended drain intervals with slightly less premium protection, the Extended-Life 5W-20 offers up to 20,000 miles of performance and enhanced cleaning power. The AMSOIL OE 5W-20 is a budget-friendly option that still outperforms conventional oils while fighting sludge. Finally, for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, the AMSOIL 5W-20 High-Mileage Motor Oil features unique chemistry with boosted detergents and reduced sludge to keep older engines running better.
Alongside the oil, the filtration system plays a critical role in engine health. Contaminants must be removed efficiently to prevent abrasive wear on bearings and other moving parts. The AMSOIL Oil Filter is engineered with a lower restriction design to ensure parts stay lubricated even when the oil is cold. It has a greater capacity for small, wear-causing contaminants compared to competing filters. If you prefer an aftermarket filter from a well-known brand, the WIX XP Oil Filter offers premium media that exceeds OEM standards. The standard WIX Oil Filter is also available as a reliable option. In addition to the oil system, the air intake must be kept clean. The WIX Air Filter ensures that the engine breathes freely, preventing dirt from entering the combustion chamber and causing premature wear.
Moving beyond the engine, the cooling system of the 2016 Lincoln MKS requires attention to prevent overheating and corrosion. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant capacity for this vehicle is substantial at 11.1 quarts. This formulation utilizes a unique poly-organic acid technology that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or five years. It is phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, silicate, and borate-free, making it safe for all engine types. Alternatively, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers a concentrated option that can be mixed with distilled water. This type of coolant is known for its safety profile, as propylene glycol is less toxic than traditional ethylene glycol, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious owners. It provides protection up to 150,000 miles in passenger cars and offers superior thermal properties.
The transmission in this vehicle is a 6-speed automatic (6F50). Maintaining the fluid here is vital for smooth shifting and preventing transmission wear, especially under load. The total fill capacity for a 6F50 transmission is 10.9 quarts. AMSOIL’s AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions. It helps reduce friction for improved fuel economy. The AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid provides a solid alternative that meets original equipment requirements while offering superior synthetic protection. Both fluids are designed to protect against wear and maintain performance in severe driving conditions, ensuring the transmission operates smoothly for years to come.
Drivetrain components, including the differential and transfer case, also rely on high-quality synthetic lubricants. The transfer case, a PTU unit, requires SAE 75W-140 synthetic rear axle lubricant to meet Ford specifications. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 is an excellent choice here, providing advanced protection against wear, thermal runaway, and rust. For the rear differential, which uses SAE 80W-90, the AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the recommended fluid. It contains friction modifiers specifically beneficial for limited-slip differentials, ensuring consistent performance. Other viscosity options like SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 and SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 are also available for specific requirements. These gear lubes are formulated to control operating temperatures and extend the life of seals and equipment.
Essential Maintenance for Brake and Cooling Systems
While often overlooked, the AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is a critical safety component. The 2016 Lincoln MKS utilizes a hydraulic braking system that requires DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid ensures excellent responsiveness for both ABS and traction-control systems. Its stable viscosity over a wide temperature range prevents brake fade and ensures consistent pedal feel. Using a synthetic brake fluid also helps lower the boiling point, reducing the risk of vapor lock during hard stops. Keeping these fluids fresh is essential for maintaining the vehicle’s stopping power and safety profile.
About the Vehicle: 2016 Lincoln MKS
The 2016 Lincoln MKS represents the height of American luxury sedan engineering. Built on the Ford D3 platform, it shares its mechanical underpinnings with the Ford Taurus, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and sophistication. The 3.7-liter V6 engine, often referred to as the Cyclone, is a robust powerplant known for its smooth power delivery and reliability. It produces a respectable output that allows the heavy sedan to move with confidence, making it a popular choice for families and executives alike. The interior is characterized by high-quality materials, quiet cabin insulation, and an array of premium amenities, including advanced infotainment systems and dual-pane panoramic roofs, which became a signature feature of the MKS.
As a full-size luxury sedan, the MKS offers a spacious and comfortable ride, prioritizing passenger relaxation over sporty handling. Its suspension tuning is designed to absorb road imperfections, providing a serene experience even on rougher surfaces. The inclusion of all-wheel drive options on certain trims further enhances its versatility, allowing drivers to navigate through varying weather conditions with ease. The vehicle’s design language is elegant and substantial, reflecting Lincoln’s commitment to traditional luxury values while integrating modern technology. Owners appreciate its blend of traditional sedan styling with contemporary features, making it a distinct choice in a market often dominated by SUVs and crossovers. The MKS stands as a testament to Lincoln’s ability to craft a vehicle that serves as both a comfortable cruiser and a capable daily driver.
Maintaining this vehicle with high-quality synthetic fluids ensures that it continues to perform as the manufacturer intended. Whether you are dealing with long commutes, towing, or simply wanting to extend the service intervals between visits to the shop, using the correct AMSOIL products is a smart investment. The comprehensive range of lubricants and fluids available ensures that every part of your Lincoln MKS, from the engine to the brakes, receives the care it needs. By adhering to the recommended specifications and utilizing these premium fluids, you can maximize the vehicle’s lifespan and enjoy a reliable driving experience for years to come.