2000 Lincoln LS review from North America

When I bought this 2000 Lincoln LS V8 I thought I was getting the deal of the century. I drove 800 miles to pick it up and it handled the road like a charm, rode exceptionally well, and the power was awesome. In addition to this it is absolutely beautiful. However, the problems started a couple of months later when it repeatedly overheated when the A/C was turned on (this is LA and who doesn't turn on the A/C when it's 95deg with 100% humidity?) Well, it was taken into the shop and I was told it needed a new thermostat, A/C filter, and intake valves (due to the placement of the thermostat) at the low, low price of $750. Two months later the driver side window fell down because of a broken 50cent plastic piece, but being the car that it is, I had to replace the whole window motor at a cost of $550. Next came the wheel bearings at another $500 plus a $75 towing fee. Brakes for $750, and last, but not least..it's overheating again!

This car moves seriously fast and is a dream to drive when it's running correctly. Though, I would warn anyone that considers buying it that it WILL hit you in the pocketbook hard. I have put off repairing many items purely because of the cost. This car is put together in such a way that it is extremely expensive to fix. A tail light bulb that goes out will cost you far more than a 35cent bulb because you have to replace the whole rear light unit. You cannot replace the bearing in the wheel, you have to buy the whole unit. You can't change out a $16 thermostat easily like in other vehicles because it's placed beneath the intake valves. EVERYTHING in this car is a consumer's nightmare and a mechanic's delight!