Maintaining your 2009 Lincoln MKS with the 3.7L V6 engine requires precision when it comes to selecting the right fluids. This vehicle is engineered for smooth performance and luxury, but those goals are best achieved when the internal components are protected by high-quality synthetic lubricants. Using the correct viscosity and formulation helps ensure optimal fuel economy, reduces wear on the engine’s timing chain and bearings, and maintains the efficiency of the complex cooling and transmission systems. Below, we explore the specific lubrication needs for this model to help you keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top-tier choice offering unmatched engine protection against wear and horsepower loss for up to 25,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides 37% more cleaning power and extends service intervals for up to 20,000 miles.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An affordable option that fights sludge and deposits while outperforming conventional oils.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated with enhanced additives to reduce sludge and oil consumption in engines with over 75,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns to trap contaminants and protect critical engine parts.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands extreme heat and heavy towing while ensuring smooth, shudder-free shifts.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix formulation designed to protect cooling system metals and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Essential for the transfer case, this fluid controls thermal runaway and reduces operating temperatures.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the rear differential, providing advanced protection against wear in a GL-5 application.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS responsiveness and stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans fuel injectors to improve economy and prevent knock.
Understanding the Engine Oil Requirements
The 3.7L V6 engine in your Lincoln MKS operates efficiently with a SAE 5W-20 viscosity grade for all temperature conditions. The manufacturer specifies a total oil capacity of 5.5 quarts when including a filter change. After the refill, it is crucial to check the oil level to ensure it is within the safe operating range. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 20 ft-lbs to prevent leaks without damaging the threads. For owners looking for the absolute best in protection, the AMSOIL Signature Series is designed to offer 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear compared to the highest industry standards. This oil can last up to 25,000 miles or one year under normal driving conditions, making it an excellent choice for those who want to extend the time between services.
If you prefer a balance of performance and value, the AMSOIL Extended-Life formula offers 37% more cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoother for longer. It guarantees protection for up to 20,000 miles. For vehicles that have accumulated significant mileage, specifically those over 75,000 miles, the AMSOIL High-Mileage 5W-20 features a unique chemistry with boosted detergents and dispersants. This formulation reduces sludge by 67% and is designed to help engines with higher mileage maintain better performance. The standard AMSOIL OE synthetic motor oil also provides a reliable option that fights sludge and deposits, performing effectively for typical consumer use cases.
Protecting the Cooling and Transmission Systems
Keeping the engine at the correct operating temperature is vital for the longevity of the 3.7L powerplant. The cooling system requires a total capacity of 11.1 quarts of antifreeze. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an excellent choice as it is a phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free formulation that is compatible with all other coolant colors. It is a 50/50 pre-mix ready to use, providing protection against corrosion for up to 150,000 miles or five years. Alternatively, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze is a concentrated option that requires mixing with distilled water, offering extended protection and excellent low-temperature performance.
The automatic transmission, specifically the 6F50 unit, is a complex component that benefits greatly from high-quality lubrication. A total fill of this transmission requires 10 quarts of fluid. The AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid is engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain. It remains fluid even in sub-zero temperatures and provides reserve protection during heavy use. For a more budget-friendly option that still offers superior synthetic protection, the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid resists sludge and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts while guarding against leaks.
Gear Lube and Brake Fluid Needs
Differentials and transfer cases in the Lincoln MKS operate under high stress. The transfer case requires 1.1 pints of SAE 75W-140 synthetic gear lube to meet Ford specifications. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 is specifically recommended for this application, as it contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications and helps control thermal runaway. For the rear differential, which holds 2.4 pints of 80W-90 gear lube, the AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 offers advanced wear protection and rust resistance.
Brake safety should never be compromised. The Lincoln MKS requires a DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. The 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 helps maintain consistent pedal feel in both freezing winter conditions and hot summer driving.
Additional Maintenance and Protection
Beyond the critical lubrication points, maintaining a clean air intake and a fresh fuel supply can enhance the overall performance of your vehicle. The WIX Air Filter is recommended to ensure the engine breathes efficiently, filtering out contaminants before they enter the combustion chamber. For fuel system maintenance, AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver is a potent gasoline additive. It restores fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, improves fuel economy, and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel by controlling pre-ignition knock. It is also compatible with capless fuel systems.
For vehicle owners who store their cars seasonally or use them infrequently, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup. Additionally, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil can be used to protect internal engine components from rust during periods of inactivity. These additives and care products ensure that your Lincoln MKS remains in top condition regardless of how often it is driven.
About the Vehicle
The 2009 Lincoln MKS stands as a testament to American luxury automotive engineering, serving as a flagship sedan that rivaled the best in its class from German manufacturers. Built on the Ford D4 platform, the MKS shared its mechanical underpinnings with the Ford Taurus but offered a more upscale interior and refined ride quality. This model year is particularly notable for the introduction of the 3.7L Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing) V6 engine, a modern powerplant designed to deliver a strong balance of power and efficiency without the need for the larger V8 options found in previous Lincoln sedans.
Known for its spacious cabin and comfortable ride, the MKS was marketed towards drivers who wanted the convenience of a sedan with the presence of a traditional luxury car. It features a front-wheel-drive layout that provides stable handling in various weather conditions, making it a practical choice for families and commuters alike. The vehicle’s design emphasized a quiet, serene cabin environment, utilizing sound-deadening materials to minimize road and wind noise. Owners of the 2009 MKS often appreciate its blend of technology available at the time, including advanced audio systems and climate controls, all housed in a well-appointed interior.
While the MKS was eventually discontinued to streamline the Lincoln lineup, the 2009 model year remains a popular choice for used car buyers looking for a reliable, large sedan. Its robust 3.7L engine is capable of towing moderate loads and handling highway merging with ease, provided it is maintained with the correct fluids. The MKS represents a significant step forward in Lincoln’s evolution towards more efficient and technologically advanced vehicles, offering a driving experience that is both comfortable and engaging for long-distance travel.