2000-2002 Lincoln LS: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2000-2002 Lincoln LS and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Ride/handling
- Acceleration (V8)
- Seat comfort
Cons
- Automatic-transmission performance
- Climate controls
Vehicle Highlights
Lincoln launched an all-new rear-drive near-luxury sedan for 2000, similar to the Jaguar S-Type. The two cars' platforms are related, but the LS was built in Michigan rather than Britain, and they differed in styling and equipment. Base engine was a variant of the 3.0-liter V6 used in Ford's Taurus, but the available 3.9-liter V8 was based on Jaguar's 4.0-liter engine. Both drove a new five-speed automatic transmission (also used by Jaguar), but the V6 model could be equipped instead with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Standard equipment included front side airbags, all-disc antilock braking, wood/leather interior trim, and a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel. Automatic-transmission models had traction control and the option of an AdvanceTrak antiskid system. Manual-shift models got a firmer-suspension Sport Package with 17-inch high-performance tires (replacing the usual 16-inchers). That package was optional with an automatic transmission, including a separate shift gate that facilitated manually selected gear changes. Options included a power moonroof and Lincoln's RESCU cell-phone/satellite assistance system.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Lincoln LS V8 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 55 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2000-2002 Lincoln LS. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2000-2002 Lincoln LS.
Year to Year Changes
2001 Lincoln LS:
Traction control went into all models for 2001, not just those with automatic. The antiskid system was now optional with either transmission. A 6-disc in-dash CD changer joined the options list, but Lincoln dropped its RESCU system. The addition of a Telematics system including e-mail availability was announced, but delayed.
2002 Lincoln LS:
The V6 gained 10 hp in 2002. Base, Sport, and Premium models were joined midyear by an LSE version with a rear spoiler, special wheels, and "aero" lower-body trim. An in-dash CD changer was newly standard.
Our road test for the 2000-2002 Lincoln LS includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2000-2002 Lincoln LS and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2000-2002 Lincoln LS is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
European in flavor, the LS is the dynamic equal of some costly import sedans. Low-speed steering feel could be firmer, but an LS turns crisply, cornering with grippy precision and modest body lean. Highway stability is impressive even in gusty crosswinds. The optional Sport Package controls body motions better than the base suspension, yet the ride remains pleasantly supple. Acceleration with the V8 feels strong. A test LS reached 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. An automatic-transmission V6 takes 9.3 seconds, according to Lincoln--not outstanding, yet the car feels adequately powered except on steep inclines or when real passing punch is required. Lincoln's automatic transmission can delay in responding to throttle inputs, though not as much as the S-Type's, and is slow to kick down for passing. Overall shift smoothness isn't the best, especially compared with BMW and Audi automatics. Lincoln's manual gearbox also lags, with notchy shift action and indistinct clutch movement. A V8 LS averaged 16.3 mpg using premium fuel, while a manual-shift V6 got 19.6 mpg. Engine sounds are muted, but tire noise intrudes on some coarse surfaces, which also yields some minor body drumming. Braking is swift and sure, despite indecisive pedal action. Although the interior feels less cramped than the S-Type's, the practical limit is four adults. Head clearance is so-so, but rear leg space is good even behind tall front occupants. An all-button climate system is not so easy to use. Large mirrors offset visibility lost to thickish rear roof pillars. Inside storage is limited, and only small suitcases stand upright in the trunk, which lacks fore/aft depth and has bulky hinges.
Value for the Money
Highly capable and mannerly on the road, an LS delivers a lot of features for the money. In addition, few near-luxury rivals are available with a V8 engine. Though not perfect, marred by rather ordinary interior furnishings, the LS can easily be compared with cars that cost a lot more.
Highly capable and mannerly on the road, an LS delivers a lot of features for the money. In addition, few near-luxury rivals are available with a V8 engine. Though not perfect, marred by rather ordinary interior furnishings, the LS can easily be compared with cars that cost a lot more.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Lincoln LS V8 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 55 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Lincoln LS includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Lincoln LS .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Engine misfire:
Poor engine performance or a no-start condition may be the result of a loose fuel-hose clamp causing an internal leak. (2000)
Steering problems:
Replacement steering wheels (on cars shipped with the wrong wheel) may have been installed without sufficiently tightening the locking nut. (2000)
Vehicle noise:
A droning noise at highway speeds while in 5th gear was being corrected by replacing the halfshafts. (2000)
Windows:
The rear-window regulator cable may break, making it impossible to open or close the window. (2000-01)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $410 |
| Alternator | $385 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,095 |
| Brakes | $345 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $615 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $900 |
| Exhaust System | $465 |
| Radiator | $450 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,975 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $610 |
Our price chart for this generation Lincoln LS details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2002 | |||
| LS V6 | $6,600-8,000 | $5,800-7,000 | $3,000-3,700 |
| LS V8 | $8,500-9,500 | $7,700-8,600 | $4,400-4,900 |
| 2001 | |||
| LS V6 | $5,400-6,500 | $4,600-5,600 | $2,200-2,700 |
| LS V8 | $7,100-8,100 | $6,300-7,200 | $3,400-3,900 |
| 2000 | |||
| LS V6 | $4,500-5,500 | $3,700-4,600 | $1,600-2,000 |
| LS V8 | $6,000-7,000 | $5,200-6,100 | $2,500-2,900 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Lincoln LS include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 114.5 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 193.9 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.2 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.2 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3593 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.5 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.1 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.4 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.5 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.7 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two distinct engines were offered for the Lincoln LS. The 3.0-liter dual-overhead-cam V6 produced 210 horsepower, working with either a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic. Only automatic was available for the 3.9-liter V8, which developed 252 horsepower. The V6 gained 10hp and 10 pound-feet of torque for 2002.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 210-220 | 205-215 | 5-speed manual: 18/25 4-speed automatic: 18/25 |
5-speed manual: 19.6 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V8 | 3.9 / 235 | 252 | 261-267 | 4-speed automatic: 17/23 | 4-speed automatic: 16.3 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Lincoln LS include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2000 LS |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2000-2002 Lincoln LS directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2000-01:
Front-suspension lower ball joints on some vehicles were not tightened to specifications and could loosen and, ultimately, result in fracture of ball-joint stud.
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