The 1999 Lincoln Town Car is a full-size luxury sedan with a long lineage, representing the epitome of American comfort and style for decades. Produced from 1981 through 2011, the 1999 model falls within its third generation (1998-2011). It was primarily available in Executive and Signature trims. Known for its exceptionally plush ride and spacious interior, the Town Car was a favorite among executives, livery services, and those prioritizing comfort over sportiness, often seen as a symbol of understated American luxury.
The Good
The 1999 Town Car excels in supreme comfort, offering a serene, quiet ride. Its V8 engine provides smooth, effortless power, while the spacious cabin caters to practical needs. Emotionally, it evokes a sense of prestige and classic American luxury, offering a tranquil escape from the outside world.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of common issues like air suspension leaks, interior trim wear, and occasional electrical gremlins. Fuel economy is not a strong suit, and handling can feel ponderous compared to more modern vehicles. Rust, especially in colder climates, is also a concern.
1999 Lincoln Town Car: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1999 Lincoln Town Car was exclusively offered with a 4.6-liter V8 engine.
- Horsepower: This V8 engine produced approximately 200 horsepower.
- Torque: Torque output was around 275 lb-ft.
- Fuel Economy: Estimated fuel economy for the 1999 Town Car is around 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration from 0-60 mph typically ranged from 9.5 to 10.5 seconds, depending on factors like vehicle condition and load.
- Towing Capacity: The Town Car was not designed for significant towing. Its towing capacity is generally considered minimal, not a primary feature.
- Key Trims and Features:
- Executive Trim: This was the base model, but still well-equipped. Standard features often included power windows, power locks, cruise control, automatic climate control, an AM/FM/cassette/CD player, leather-trimmed seats, and a power-adjustable steering column.
- Signature Trim: This higher trim level added more luxury amenities. Features typically included power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated front seats, a premium sound system, automatic day/night rearview mirror, and often more sophisticated interior materials and detailing.
- Optional Features: Available options could include a power moonroof, premium sound systems, voice-activated cellular phone, and upgraded wheel designs.
1999 Lincoln Town Car Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Lincoln |
| Model | Town Car |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WIXOM |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.6L V8 |
| Engine Size | 4.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | 2 Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1999 Lincoln Town Car Have?
The 1999 Lincoln Town Car, while generally sturdy, is not immune to common issues that can arise with age. One of the most frequently reported problems is with the air suspension system. The air springs can develop leaks, leading to a sagging rear end and an uncomfortable ride. This can be a costly repair if not addressed promptly. Another area of concern is the power trunk release, which can sometimes become inoperative.
Interior components, particularly the leather upholstery and plastic trim pieces, can show wear and tear over time, especially if the car has been used frequently as a livery vehicle. Owners have also reported issues with the climate control system, including malfunctioning blower motors or AC compressor failures.
Electrically, some owners have experienced problems with the instrument cluster, leading to inoperative gauges or warning lights. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) module is another potential point of failure that can lead to the ABS warning light illuminating.
While there aren't widespread catastrophic engine failures reported for this specific model year, routine maintenance is crucial. The 4.6L V8 is a robust engine, but issues like intake manifold gasket leaks or spark plug blowouts (a known issue on some Ford modular engines of this era) can occur.
Regarding recalls, it's always advisable for owners to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any applicable recalls for the 1999 model year. Long-term reliability is generally considered good if the vehicle has been meticulously maintained. However, components like the air suspension, suspension bushings, and exhaust systems are prone to wear and may require replacement as the vehicle ages and accumulates mileage.
Interior components, particularly the leather upholstery and plastic trim pieces, can show wear and tear over time, especially if the car has been used frequently as a livery vehicle. Owners have also reported issues with the climate control system, including malfunctioning blower motors or AC compressor failures.
Electrically, some owners have experienced problems with the instrument cluster, leading to inoperative gauges or warning lights. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) module is another potential point of failure that can lead to the ABS warning light illuminating.
While there aren't widespread catastrophic engine failures reported for this specific model year, routine maintenance is crucial. The 4.6L V8 is a robust engine, but issues like intake manifold gasket leaks or spark plug blowouts (a known issue on some Ford modular engines of this era) can occur.
Regarding recalls, it's always advisable for owners to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any applicable recalls for the 1999 model year. Long-term reliability is generally considered good if the vehicle has been meticulously maintained. However, components like the air suspension, suspension bushings, and exhaust systems are prone to wear and may require replacement as the vehicle ages and accumulates mileage.
How long will the 1999 Lincoln Town Car last?
With proper and consistent maintenance, the 1999 Lincoln Town Car is capable of achieving very high mileage, often exceeding 200,000 miles and sometimes even reaching 300,000 miles. Many of these vehicles were used as limousines or executive cars, and their owners often invested heavily in upkeep, demonstrating their potential for longevity. The robust 4.6L V8 engine and sturdy chassis are key to this durability. However, weaknesses tend to manifest in the air suspension system, which can require significant repairs over time. Interior components also show wear. Despite these potential issues, the core mechanicals often remain sound, making it a durable choice if well-maintained.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Lincoln Town Car was designed with comfort and convenience as priorities, offering a solid array of features for its era.
Technology and Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player and a single-CD player. The sound systems were generally competent for the time, with optional upgrades to premium audio systems offering more speakers and enhanced sound quality. Automatic climate control was a standard convenience, allowing for precise temperature management. Power-adjustable seats, power windows, power door locks, and a power-adjustable steering column were also standard, enhancing driver and passenger comfort.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were relatively basic by today's standards. Cruise control was standard. Features like rear parking assist sensors were available as options on higher trims or as aftermarket additions. Antilock Braking System (ABS) was standard, providing improved stopping power and control. Traction control was also available on some models.
Safety Features: Safety was a key consideration. The 1999 Town Car came equipped with dual front airbags. Side airbags were not standard for this model year but might have been available as an option or on specific packages. Seatbelts were three-point inertia-reel belts for all occupants. The vehicle's substantial weight and robust construction contributed to its perceived safety.
Crash-Test Ratings: Specific crash-test ratings for the 1999 Lincoln Town Car from agencies like the NHTSA or IIHS are not as readily available or standardized as they are for modern vehicles. However, vehicles of this size and era generally performed reasonably well in frontal impacts due to their mass. It's important to note that modern safety standards and technologies have advanced significantly since 1999.
Technology and Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player and a single-CD player. The sound systems were generally competent for the time, with optional upgrades to premium audio systems offering more speakers and enhanced sound quality. Automatic climate control was a standard convenience, allowing for precise temperature management. Power-adjustable seats, power windows, power door locks, and a power-adjustable steering column were also standard, enhancing driver and passenger comfort.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were relatively basic by today's standards. Cruise control was standard. Features like rear parking assist sensors were available as options on higher trims or as aftermarket additions. Antilock Braking System (ABS) was standard, providing improved stopping power and control. Traction control was also available on some models.
Safety Features: Safety was a key consideration. The 1999 Town Car came equipped with dual front airbags. Side airbags were not standard for this model year but might have been available as an option or on specific packages. Seatbelts were three-point inertia-reel belts for all occupants. The vehicle's substantial weight and robust construction contributed to its perceived safety.
Crash-Test Ratings: Specific crash-test ratings for the 1999 Lincoln Town Car from agencies like the NHTSA or IIHS are not as readily available or standardized as they are for modern vehicles. However, vehicles of this size and era generally performed reasonably well in frontal impacts due to their mass. It's important to note that modern safety standards and technologies have advanced significantly since 1999.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1999 Lincoln Town Car Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1999 Lincoln Town Car carried a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) typically ranging from around $40,000 to $48,000, depending on the trim level and optional features. Like most vehicles, it experienced significant depreciation in its early years. However, by 1999, much of the steepest depreciation had already occurred.
Today, used 1999 Lincoln Town Cars can be found at very affordable prices, often ranging from $2,000 to $6,000 for models in good condition with reasonable mileage. Factors significantly affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition (especially body rust and interior wear), maintenance history, and whether it was a former livery vehicle. Well-maintained examples, particularly those with lower mileage and desirable options, can command slightly higher prices, but the overall market is driven by its status as a budget-friendly luxury sedan.
Today, used 1999 Lincoln Town Cars can be found at very affordable prices, often ranging from $2,000 to $6,000 for models in good condition with reasonable mileage. Factors significantly affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition (especially body rust and interior wear), maintenance history, and whether it was a former livery vehicle. Well-maintained examples, particularly those with lower mileage and desirable options, can command slightly higher prices, but the overall market is driven by its status as a budget-friendly luxury sedan.
1999 Lincoln Town Car Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1999 Lincoln Town Car is generally economical in terms of initial purchase price and some maintenance aspects. Insurance costs are typically moderate, reflecting its age and safety features. Fuel costs, however, can be substantial due to its V8 engine and less-than-stellar fuel economy, averaging around 18-19 mpg combined. Maintenance is average for a luxury sedan of its era, with routine services being affordable. However, potential repairs, particularly to the air suspension or electrical systems, can be costly. Long-term ownership leans towards being moderately costly, primarily due to fuel consumption and the potential for expensive repairs as the vehicle ages.
1999 Lincoln Town Car Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1999 Lincoln Town Car Safety Rating
NHTSA
1999 Lincoln Town Car Recalls & Defects
Tires
Recall date
2000-12-12
Recall no.
00v356000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Certain Limousines Stretched Over 60 Inches Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 109, "new Pneumatic Tires," and NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
THE Vehicle Weight Could Exceed THE Maximum Load Rating FOR THE Tire, Increasing THE Risk OF Premature Tire Wear or Blowout.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace All 5 Tires (Including THE Spare Tire) With Michelin Tires (225/70r16 107t Reinforced White Sidewall) With A Sufficiently Higher Load Rating. Owner Notification Began January 10, 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-248-0186.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment:mechanical:integrated Jack/Leveler/Stabilizer
Recall date
2000-07-18
Recall no.
00v200000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. These Vehicles Have Jacking Instructions Which, IF Followed, Could Cause THE Vehicle Operator TO Place THE Jack ON A Frame Weld When Attempting TO Raise A Rear Wheel. IF THE Vehicle IS Jacked UP With THE Jack Placed ON THE Frame Weld and IF THE Vehicle IS Free TO Roll (Wheels NOT Blocked or Chocked), THE Jack Could Yield and THE Vehicle MAY Drop Suddenly.
Consequence
IF This Occurs and ANY Portion OF THE Operator's Body IS Under THE Vehicle, THE Potential FOR Personal Injury Exists.
Remedy
Owners Will BE Provided With A Revised Jack Instruction and Stowage Card and Jack Warning Label, AS Well AS A Supplement TO THE Owner Guide.
Notes
Owner Notification Began August 3, 2000.owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Instructions and Label Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Recall date
2000-06-12
Recall no.
00v157002
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Using Aftermarket Front Passenger Side Seat Belt Assemblies That Were Sold BY Ford Parts Departments From January 1, Through June 13, 2000. These Seat Belt Assemblies Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 209, "seat Belt Assemblies." THE Equipment Involved IS Service Stock Seat Belt Assemblies, Model Nos. H 9977, H 9979, T 9063, and T 9217, Built BY TRW Vehicle Safety Systems, Inc. (Trw) Manufactured From June 1, 1998 Through MAY 21, 2000. Some OF These Seat Belt Assemblies MAY Have Been Installed AS Service Replacement Equipment ON THE Vehicles Involved IN THE Recall.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Collision, These Seat Belts MAY NOT Restrain AN Occupant Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect These Vehicles and Replace THE Service Seat Belt Assemblies That Were Installed IN These Vehicles From January 1 Through June 13, 2000.
Notes
Owner Notification Began September 28, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Recall date
2000-06-12
Recall no.
00v157001
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Using Aftermarket Driver's Seat Belt Assemblies That Were Sold BY Ford Parts Departments From January 1, Through June 13, 2000. These Seat Belt Assemblies Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 209, "seat Belt Assemblies." THE Equipment Involved IS Service Stock Seat Belt Assemblies, Model Nos. H 9977, H 9979, T 9063, and T 9217, Built BY TRW Vehicle Safety Systems, Inc. (Trw) Manufactured From June 1, 1998 Through MAY 21, 2000. Some OF These Seat Belt Assemblies MAY Have Been Installed AS Service Replacement Equipment ON THE Vehicles Involved IN THE Recall.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Collision, These Seat Belts MAY NOT Restrain AN Occupant Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect These Vehicles and Replace THE Service Seat Belt Assemblies That Were Installed IN These Vehicles From January 1 Through June 13, 2000.
Notes
Owner Notification Began September 28, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
Recall date
1998-12-16
Recall no.
98v322000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Certain 1996-1999 Ford Crown Victoria Police, Fleet, Natural Gas, and 1996-1999 Lincoln Town Car Limousine Vehicles That Were Produced With A Lower Control ARM Ball Joint Containing A ONE Piece Bearing; and 1990-1996 Ford Crown Victoria Police, Fleet, and NGV Vehicles and 1990-1996 Lincoln Town Car Limousine Vehicles That Have Been Serviced With Either A Ball Joint Containing THE One-piece Bearing or A Front Lower Control ARM Containing A Ball Joint With A One-piece Bearing. THE One-piece Bearing Within THE Lower Control ARM Ball Joint CAN Weaken Slowly During USE and Eventually Crack. This Could Result IN Separation OF THE Ball and CAP OF THE Joint, Allowing THE Control ARM TO Drop TO THE Ground.
Consequence
IF This Occurs While THE Vehicle IS Moving, Reduced Steering Control Could Occur, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Lower Control ARM Ball Joints (2).
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin January 18, 1999.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering
Recall date
2015-10-06
Recall no.
15e082000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) IS Recalling Certain Model Dorman Steering Shafts, Part Number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, Part Number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, Part Number 425-359, Manufactured April 17, 2014, TO September 28, 2015. These Aftermarket Replacement Steering Shafts ARE Sold FOR USE IN 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car Vehicles. These Steering Shafts MAY Separate During Operation IF THE Integral Fastener IS Loose or Missing and IF THE Interfacing Vehicle Shaft IS Compressed IN Length.
Consequence
IF THE Shafts Separate During Vehicle Operation, A Loss OF Steering Control Would Result, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dorman Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Steering Shaft, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 28, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Dorman Customer Service AT 1-800-523-2492, Option 5.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
1999 Lincoln Town Car Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Lincoln Town Car is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Lincoln Town Car Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1999 Lincoln Town Car competed in the large luxury sedan segment against vehicles like the Cadillac DeVille, Chrysler LHS, and to some extent, the Toyota Avalon (though the Avalon was slightly smaller).
Performance: The Town Car's 4.6L V8 offered smooth, competent power, prioritizing comfort over outright speed. The Cadillac DeVille, especially with its Northstar V8, often offered a bit more spirited acceleration and a sportier feel. The Chrysler LHS also featured a V8 and aimed for a similar balance of power and luxury. The Toyota Avalon offered a strong V6 that was more fuel-efficient but less powerful than the American V8s.
Features: All these cars offered good levels of luxury for their time. The Town Car was renowned for its exceptionally comfortable ride, spacious interior, and plush seating. Cadillac often led in technology and innovative features. Chrysler's LHS also provided a rich interior and a comfortable experience. The Avalon focused on reliability and a quiet cabin.
Reliability: The Toyota Avalon generally held the crown for long-term reliability and lower maintenance costs. The Town Car's reliability was good if well-maintained, but its air suspension could be a point of concern. Cadillac's reliability could be more variable, especially with the Northstar engine.
Price: In 1999, the Town Car was competitively priced within the luxury segment. Today, used prices for all these models are quite affordable.
Recommendations:
* Similar Alternatives: The 1999 Cadillac DeVille is a very similar alternative, offering a slightly more contemporary feel and potentially sportier performance. The 1999 Chrysler LHS is another strong contender for plush comfort at a similar price point.
* Potentially Better Alternatives (depending on priorities): For those prioritizing absolute reliability and lower running costs, a 1999 Toyota Avalon would be a wiser choice, though it sacrifices some of the opulent luxury and V8 power of the American sedans. If modern safety and tech are paramount, looking at newer, less luxurious sedans might be more appropriate.
Performance: The Town Car's 4.6L V8 offered smooth, competent power, prioritizing comfort over outright speed. The Cadillac DeVille, especially with its Northstar V8, often offered a bit more spirited acceleration and a sportier feel. The Chrysler LHS also featured a V8 and aimed for a similar balance of power and luxury. The Toyota Avalon offered a strong V6 that was more fuel-efficient but less powerful than the American V8s.
Features: All these cars offered good levels of luxury for their time. The Town Car was renowned for its exceptionally comfortable ride, spacious interior, and plush seating. Cadillac often led in technology and innovative features. Chrysler's LHS also provided a rich interior and a comfortable experience. The Avalon focused on reliability and a quiet cabin.
Reliability: The Toyota Avalon generally held the crown for long-term reliability and lower maintenance costs. The Town Car's reliability was good if well-maintained, but its air suspension could be a point of concern. Cadillac's reliability could be more variable, especially with the Northstar engine.
Price: In 1999, the Town Car was competitively priced within the luxury segment. Today, used prices for all these models are quite affordable.
Recommendations:
* Similar Alternatives: The 1999 Cadillac DeVille is a very similar alternative, offering a slightly more contemporary feel and potentially sportier performance. The 1999 Chrysler LHS is another strong contender for plush comfort at a similar price point.
* Potentially Better Alternatives (depending on priorities): For those prioritizing absolute reliability and lower running costs, a 1999 Toyota Avalon would be a wiser choice, though it sacrifices some of the opulent luxury and V8 power of the American sedans. If modern safety and tech are paramount, looking at newer, less luxurious sedans might be more appropriate.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Lincoln Town Car a Good Sedan?
The 1999 Lincoln Town Car is ideal for buyers prioritizing supreme comfort, a smooth and quiet ride, and classic American luxury at an accessible price point. It's perfect for those who value relaxation over performance, such as retirees, drivers who do long highway commutes, or those seeking a comfortable vehicle for occasional use. It's generally worth buying, but only if purchased used, as new examples are no longer available.
When buying, thoroughly inspect the air suspension system and check for rust. Opting for a well-maintained Executive or Signature trim with a documented service history is recommended. Avoid vehicles that were heavily used as limousines unless they have been impeccably maintained and are priced accordingly. For its price, it offers exceptional value in terms of comfort and presence.
When buying, thoroughly inspect the air suspension system and check for rust. Opting for a well-maintained Executive or Signature trim with a documented service history is recommended. Avoid vehicles that were heavily used as limousines unless they have been impeccably maintained and are priced accordingly. For its price, it offers exceptional value in terms of comfort and presence.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.