1992 Lincoln Continental Problems & Reliability

If you’re a car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good ride, you’ve probably heard of the Lincoln Continental. This iconic vehicle has been a staple in the luxury car market for decades, offering a blend of style, comfort, and performance. But like any car, it’s not without its quirks and challenges. Today, we’re diving into the 1992 Lincoln Continental, a model that has its fair share of both admirers and critics. Whether you’re considering buying one or just curious about its history, understanding the common problems and overall reliability of this classic can help you make an informed decision. The 1992 Lincoln Continental is a car that embodies the early ’90s automotive spirit, with its sleek design and plush interiors. However, it’s also known for some mechanical issues that have left owners scratching their heads. From air suspension woes to electrical gremlins, this model has its list of common problems that can affect its reliability. But don’t let that scare you off just yet! Many owners have found ways to keep their Continentals running smoothly with a bit of TLC and regular maintenance. In this post, we’ll explore these issues in more detail and discuss how they impact the car’s overall reliability, so you can decide if this classic ride is worth the investment.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Compressor Failure Due to Air Leaks From Air Suspension Struts and Drier

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental has some reliability issues, particularly with the compressor failing due to air leaks from the air suspension struts and drier. This problem can lead to a bumpy ride and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. While the car has its charm, these air suspension issues are something to keep an eye on if you’re considering owning one.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Problems With EGR System are Common in High Dust Areas

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental tends to have some issues with the EGR system, especially if youre driving in high dust areas. This can lead to performance problems and might require more frequent maintenance to keep things running smoothly. Overall, while the car has its quirks, staying on top of these common issues can help maintain its reliability.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Overheating Due to a Damaged Impeller

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental seems to have some issues with overheating, often due to a damaged impeller. This problem can lead to engine performance issues and might require frequent maintenance to keep things running smoothly. While it’s a classic ride, keeping an eye on the cooling system is key to maintaining its reliability.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Turn Off Suspension Switch Before Jacking/Lifting Vehicle With Air Suspension

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental’s air suspension system can be a bit finicky, especially when it comes to maintenance tasks like jacking or lifting the vehicle. It’s crucial to remember to turn off the suspension switch before doing so, as failing to do this can lead to issues with the suspension system. Overall, while the car has its quirks, staying on top of these small but important details can help maintain its reliability.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Install insulator kit to prevent vibration caused by air compressor

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental has had its share of issues, but installing an insulator kit to prevent vibration caused by the air compressor can help improve the ride quality. This simple fix addresses one of the common annoyances, making the car a bit more reliable and comfortable for daily use. While it doesn’t solve all the problems, it’s a step in the right direction for those looking to maintain their classic ride.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Service power steering fluid regularly

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental is known for a few quirks, and one of the key maintenance tips is to service the power steering fluid regularly. Keeping up with this routine can help prevent steering issues and maintain smooth handling. Overall, with regular attention to the power steering system, the Continental can remain a reliable ride.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Adjusting AC Clutch Air Gap

Analysis:

Adjusting the AC clutch air gap on the 1992 Lincoln Continental can be a bit of a hassle, as it’s a common issue that can affect the overall performance of the air conditioning system. While it’s not the most complex fix, it does require some mechanical know-how and the right tools to get it just right. Once adjusted properly, though, it can significantly improve the reliability of the AC system, keeping you cool on those hot days.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Incorrect starter relay can cause poor running/low fuel economy

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental has its share of quirks, and one notable issue is the incorrect starter relay, which can lead to poor running and low fuel economy. While this problem can be a hassle, it’s not uncommon for cars of this age to have some mechanical hiccups. Overall, if you’re considering this classic ride, just be prepared for a bit of maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Replace fuel filter every 30,000 to prevent fuel pump failure

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental is generally a solid ride, but one thing to keep an eye on is the fuel system. It’s recommended to replace the fuel filter every 30,000 miles to help prevent any fuel pump issues. Staying on top of this maintenance can go a long way in keeping your Continental running smoothly.

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Exhaust Leak Prior to Catalytic Converter Must be Repaired Immediately

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental has a notable issue with exhaust leaks occurring before the catalytic converter, which is something that needs immediate attention to prevent further damage. While this problem is a significant concern, addressing it promptly can help maintain the car’s overall reliability. It’s important for owners to keep an eye on this and get it fixed as soon as possible to ensure the vehicle runs smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Corrosion on Battery Cable Ends

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental seems to have some issues with corrosion on the battery cable ends, which can be a bit of a hassle. This kind of corrosion can lead to poor electrical connections and might cause starting problems or other electrical issues. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s something to keep an eye on to maintain the car’s overall reliability.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Ensure battery height is correct when replacing battery

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Inspect transmission/fluid every 30,000 miles

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental is known for having some transmission issues, so it’s a good idea to inspect the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles to keep things running smoothly. Regular checks can help catch potential problems early and maintain the car’s overall reliability. While the car has its quirks, staying on top of maintenance can make a big difference in its performance.

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

  • Oil coated air filer causing mass air flow sensor failure

Analysis:

The 1992 Lincoln Continental seems to have a recurring issue with oil-coated air filters leading to mass air flow sensor failures. This problem can affect the car’s performance and reliability, as the mass air flow sensor is crucial for proper engine function. If you’re considering this model, it’s worth keeping an eye on the air filter and sensor to avoid potential headaches.

Conclusion

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