BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability

BMW Group is a leading global manufacturer of premium automobiles and motorcycles, providing a wide range of top-tier financial and mobility services.

Renowned for their exquisite design and uncompromising quality, BMW cars boast luxurious high-end leather seats and state-of-the-art technology, delivering an impressive interior to match their exterior.

The Lincoln Motor Company was founded in 1917 by the Lelands, who left Cadillac to manufacture Liberty motors during World War One.

The company was named after the first president for whom Henry Leland had cast his vote. Around 1922, Ford Motor Company acquired the Lincoln Motor Company, which became a luxury vehicle division of Ford.

With a commitment to delivering exceptional ownership experiences, Lincoln is the luxury automotive brand of Ford Motor Company, dedicated to creating compelling vehicles.

This article will delve into BMW vs. Lincoln's reliability and reveal why BMW is less reliable than Lincoln.

BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability: Detailed Comparison

Which Is the Best Car: BMW or Lincoln?

Answering the age-old question of BMW vs. Lincoln reliability may be more complex than one would hope.

While BMW may boast an impressive track record in performance and design, its Reliability Rating Breakdown paints a slightly different picture.

With a rating of 2.5 out of 5.0, BMW ranks a lowly 30th out of 32 car brands, based on an average across 345 unique models.

On the other hand, Lincoln may not have the same reputation for performance as BMW, but it does fare better in terms of reliability.

Lincoln has a reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0 and ranks 24th out of 32 car brands. While this may not seem like a significant difference, it's worth noting that about 15% of all Lincoln visits to the mechanic are severe, compared to the overall average of 12%.

In fact, in 2021, Consumer Reports named Lincoln the second-most unreliable car brand, just behind Tesla.

Individual experiences are likely to differ, and noting that these ratings are based on various models is also essential.

However, Lincoln may be the better choice for those who prioritize reliability and longevity in their vehicles. For those who prioritize performance and design, BMW may still reign supreme.

1. BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability: Design

Regarding the age-old question of BMW vs. Lincoln, the discussion often centers around reliability and design.

Both automakers have unique approaches when designing their vehicles, and BMW's "form follows function" philosophy has led to some of the most aerodynamically designed cars on the road.

The BMW designers take great care in creating models that move through the air with natural grace.

This is achieved by using aerodynamic principles to shape the car's body, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing and efficient design.

The iconic kidney grille is a prime example of this design philosophy, created initially as two tall ovals to improve aerodynamics at the leading edge of the car, cutting down on drag. Over time, the ovals evolved into the distinctive kidney shape we know today.

On the other hand, Lincoln has focused on creating a sense of American luxury in its vehicles. With its latest slogan, "American Luxury; What a Luxury Car Should Be," Lincoln seeks to embody the classic American luxury style.

The brand's product range consists mainly of luxury crossovers and SUVs, with a history of producing luxury car-based vehicles for limousine and livery use, including several examples that have served as official state limousines for Presidents of the United States.

While BMW may be renowned for its aerodynamic design, Lincoln's emphasis on American luxury has its appeal.

Winner: Both

2. BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability: Repair and Maintenance Cost

The cost of maintaining and repairing a vehicle can be a significant factor when choosing between luxury car brands.

According to industry data, BMW models have an average cost of $19,312 for maintenance and repairs during their first decade of service, exceeding the luxury car brand average by $7,268.

In contrast, Lincoln models have an average cost of $12,099 for maintenance and repairs during their first ten years of service, surpassing the industry average by a modest $55.

However, it is worth noting that there is a 28.03% chance of Lincoln requiring a significant repair during that period.

Based on these figures, it is safe to conclude that the Lincoln is cheaper to repair and maintain than the BMW.

Winner: Lincoln

3. BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability: Durability

Inquiring about the longevity of BMW models, with appropriate maintenance, a BMW has the potential to run for 150-200,000 miles.

Assuming one drives the national yearly average of 13,500 miles, the vehicle may last 10 to 15 years, as reported by MotorAsk.

Regarding Lincoln models, they tend to have an average lifespan of 180,000 to 200,000 miles or roughly 13 to 15 years.

In particular, the Lincoln MKZ stands out as a dependable luxury sedan with relatively low ownership costs for its class.

Considering the similar mileage ranges, the reliability and ownership costs of both BMW and Lincoln models are crucial factors in determining a winner.

Winner: Lincoln

4. BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability: Engine

The latest generation of BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engines has achieved remarkable improvements in fuel efficiency, economy, and power, thanks to BMW's unwavering dedication to developing innovations.

The 3, 4, and 6-cylinder engine variants have been built with cutting-edge turbocharger technology, fully-variable VALVETRONIC valve timing with double VANOS valve control, and high-precision direct injection.

The Plug-in hybrid range is also another excellent innovation from BMW. Like most hybrids, it combines a powerful petrol engine with an electric motor powered by lithium-ion batteries.

This makes an all-electric driving range at low speeds possible, while the combustion engine provides flexibility for longer journeys.

Lincoln vehicles are proudly made in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The plant in Ontario, Canada, is responsible for assembling the Lincoln Nautilus, while the Lincoln Aviator is built in Chicago, Illinois.

The Lincoln Corsair and Navigator are both manufactured in Louisville, Kentucky.

The 2023 Lincoln Nautilus has a twin-turbocharged 2.7L V6 that delivers up to 355 HP and 380 lb-ft of torque. The MKX has a sole powertrain of an all-aluminum, 3.7 L Duratec DOHC V6, coupled with Ford's 6F50 6-speed automatic transmission.

Winner: BMW

5. BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability: Gas Mileage

BMW offers a range of vehicles with impressive fuel efficiency ratings for drivers who value economy without sacrificing luxury. The 2022 BMW 3 Series leads the pack, delivering up to 36 MPG on the highway.

The BMW 5 Series is also popular, with the 2022 BMW 530i estimated to achieve up to 33 MPG. The 2022 BMW 230i Coupe is the clear winner for drivers seeking the best gas mileage.

This sleek coupe runs on a 2.0L I-4 cyl engine, offering an impressive 35 MPG on the highway and 26 MPG in the city.

The 2022 Lincoln Aviator AWD PHEV is a strong contender, with a combined gas and electric rating of 56 MPG and a gas-only rating of 23 MPG in the city and on the highway.

However, the ultimate champion of Lincoln SUV fuel efficiency is the 2022 Lincoln Corsair, which can travel up to 22 miles on a single gallon of fuel in the city and up to 29 miles on the highway.

With a combined EPA rating of 25 MPG, the Lincoln Corsair is a fuel-sipping SUV that doesn't skimp on style or performance.

Winner: BMW

6. BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability: Technology

BMW's iDrive offers drivers complete control over various functions such as navigation, entertainment, climate control, and communication.

The system comprises a central screen and a control knob or touchpad in the center console.

With its user-friendly interface, the iDrive system allows drivers to control various functions through simple gestures and voice commands, making it highly intuitive and convenient.

BMW's Gesture Control is another advanced technology feature available in select models that allows drivers to control certain infotainment functions using hand gestures.

With cameras and sensors, drivers can adjust the volume, skip songs, accept or reject phone calls, and perform other functions without touching the controls.

On the other hand, Lincoln offers some impressive technology features as well. An available head-up display lets drivers customize important driving data, such as adaptive cruise control settings and lane-keeping system information, making it easy to stay aware of critical information while on the road.

SYNC 3 allows drivers to sync their compatible smartphones, while a series of considerate prompts can guide drivers to their destination or the nearest gas station if the vehicle is low on gas or the tire pressure is low.

The Lincoln Corsair also features rear USB ports, making it easy for second-row passengers to stay connected, while the hands-free liftgate allows drivers to load the vehicle quickly.

The wireless charging pad and phone key are additional luxuries that help make life more convenient.

Finally, Corsair's stunning jeweled LED headlamps serve a practical function while giving the vehicle a sense of presence and significantly increasing its curb appeal.

Winner: Lincoln

7. BMW vs. Lincoln Reliability: Safety

BMW takes a comprehensive approach to safety with its safety body shell design. It uses reinforced materials and sturdy construction to create a rigid safety cage that helps preserve the occupants' survival space during a collision.

The BMW Restraint System combines three-point seat belts with integral tensioners and force limiters to keep passengers safely seated.

The 2022 Lincoln Corsair prioritizes collision avoidance with standard features like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, which can automatically brake to avoid a frontal collision.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Lincoln Nautilus boasts various standard safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, front-impact airbags, side-impact airbags, overhead airbags, knee airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners.

Lincoln emphasizes occupant protection in the event of an accident with features like the Safety Canopy system with side-curtain airbags and the SOS Post-Crash Alert System.

Winner: Lincoln

Final Verdict

The BMW and Lincoln brands boast multiple luxurious features that are eye-catching and pleasant to experience.

But at the end of the day, Lincoln appears more reliable than BMW. In this BMW vs. Lincoln reliability contest, Lincoln comes out tops.