Just a note. I was at my local Lincoln dealer a few weeks back, and saw a Mercury Cougar (not the new small ones, the last year of the long coupes with the somewhat vertical back window) with LS 17 inch Sport Wheels. Looked very good, and the offset/fit seemed to be perfect on the Cougar..
Don't make reservations at Embassy Suites yet. Based on some inquiries we may be changing the hotel to the Irvine Spectrum Doubletree Hotel. The rates are cheaper, hotel is better, and it's five minutes from PAG HQ and in the heart of Irvine Spectrum. Think of it as an outdoor Mall of America experience, just smaller. I should have everything finalized by this weekend and will post the info. on LLSOC.
Just discovered this message board. Great info. Two questions: I drive a 2000 LS V8 Sport package, and have a terrible time in the snow, even with (expensive) Pirelli Winter 210 snow tires. Is this a common problem? And second, does anyone else get a click from their steering wheel when turning at low speeds? Sounds like linkage(?) LM service guy thinks I'm crazy. Ned
I don't know if all other drivers that are out there are jerks. Last year while driving out to Vegas with 4 people in the LS and luggage for the weekend, I came upon a C5 Vette. Near Grand Junction on I-70, there is a stretch of road that is nice and twisty. The posted limit drops down to 55 but it's easy to run at or above 100 with the LS without any problem (probably more like 120 without the loud noises coming from all around the interior). Although I am certain the Vette could have whipped me, he just stayed a little behind as we flew through the curves. I ended up having to exit because my buddies' wife started getting car sick, but as I exited, the other driver and I exchanged waves. Both my wife and my friend's wife noticed that the guy driving the Vette waved and asked why he would do that. I, of course, had to explain the rules of having fun on the road with fellow driver's and how it's the courteous thing to do. They both thought that I was crazy, but what can you do.
Ned - I have Advancetrac and have no problems in the snow whatsoever unless it gets above 6 inches and then I can get high centered. I have heard other people complain, but both myself and another owner here in CO have never had any snow issues and we both run the stock 17" Firestones. The steering click is a known problem and there is a TSB on it. I do not remember the details, but your dealer should be able to pull it up. Also, www.LLSOC.com has TSB's posted for club members in case you are interested.
Man, it warms my heart to hear a story of a LS and Vette having a nice run with no road rage and a friendly wave. I used to see that, but now it seems I haven't had that happen for a long time. It's good to know it still happens. Sounds like a good run. I know what you mean about strange high pitched sounds at speed, kind of a whining, which if you use your imagination kind of sounds like someone saying "slow down slow down..." ;-)
But, notice it was a Vette driver, not an Audi/BMW/Mercedes driver. Hmmmmm.....
Mine sounds like "slow down or let me out.....slow down, your daughter is getting sick (to which she replys, HUH?)....you drive like a maniac since you got this car....etc, etc, etc." My fav is the let me out one. I can't imagine the mess if I actually let her out at 100!
Bruno, that's one of my favorite sections of freeway! Not knowing the local constabalry, I kept it <80. It sure would have been more fun faster!
I've had experiences similar to both Bruno's and swauger's. I like to salute the other driver in those situations; once in a while he "salutes" back with his middle finger, but not too often. My favorite was a few years ago, on a twisty stretch of I-40 in No. Carolina in my Triumph TR7, side by side with a Corvette at high speed for maybe 10 minutes. Obviously, he could have run away from me at any time, but he was having as much fun as I was, both of us grinning like idiots. Or maybe he just wanted to see how long a British car could run like that without an electrical fire or parts falling off.:)
Ned, I'm the other Coloradan Bruno mentioned, and, honest, no problems with snow, although I've never had to try deep stuff. And my last daily driver was an AWD Subaru. Maybe I'm giving too much credit to my marvelous driving skills and not enough to AdvanceTrac.:)
re High Speed Whine: My car exhibits no such noise. I've always said being single isn't all it's cracked up to be, but it has a few advantages.:)
You guys aren't going fast enough. I silenced mine by speeding up. Only problem is that now the ceiling hand grip is now anatomically molded to Debbie's hand shape
That is my favorite part of the LS - speed. I had my first WOT of the new year today. The engine likes the cold - it was 34F and at 140 it was pulling stronger than I remember but alas the S bend turn forced me to crank her down a few notches. I've also had fun all week taking a wide sweeping 90 bend at 90. I'm trying for the 4 wheel drift but the end of the bend is a 30 MPH school zone. (no I don't drive like this when anyone else is on the road - I'm out in the boonies and yet only 17 miles from DFW airport. Ray LLSOC charter member
I also have a 2000 LS V8 with only the "traction control" that comes standard. I live in SE North Carolina and we had our every three year snow storm last night. Because of an accident I had to take another route home that involved climbing a hill at a stop light. Of course all the pick-up trucks ahead of me were having trouble climbing but I thought no problem with my "traction control". The reality was the car would not/could not climb the hill! The tires, even with as little pressure on the gas as possible, would spin and then the engine would bog down. After turning the system off I powered right up the hill as the tires could then spin down to the pavement. Again I'm talking about the standard set-up, not the optional system.
My steering clicks also, not bad enough to suffer through the dealer "experience" though.
Thanks Bruno, Scott and EMC3. I also have the standard traction control vs. advancetrac. Not sure advancetrac would make a difference in the standing start on an incline that EMC3 describes. Sandbag weights in the trunk help a bit, as does cutting off the traction control entirely. My wife, who drives a Mountaineer, just smiles. It would be ironic if I had to resort to driving my front wheel drive convertable (Cutlass) in the snow! Living with the steering click... Ned
Actually I have a steering rattle that just resurfaced in mine.. Will have to bring to dealers attention. Also Condensation in headlights again.
By the Way my Clunk woes have not been resolved. Ford Tech will look at it next week.
I have had a few LS rentals a long time ago and one two weeks ago for a weekend. Whenever I turned the steering wheel I heard a pop? Would this be the Click? I noticed it occurred when I put some force on the steering wheel (I.e. turning with a straight arm) Is this the same issue. I have seen it in a few LS Rentals.
The steering wheel pop/clunk that you hear when turning the steering wheel is coming from a bearing in the steering column. Several of us have had it fixed under warranty, and the fix requires complete replacement of the steering column.
I thought I have read that some THX home audio systems are less than stellar performers (give us our royalty, we'll let you use the brand...?) so I'm not impressed with the idea of THX Lincoln systems. Though my '90 T-bird had a JBL system designed for the car and that was a better sounding system than the LS audiophile system.
The press release for the 2003 Navigator has to be the best detailed product release I have ever read. Some very interesting items that I hope carryover to the 2003 LS. Things like side mirrors that tilt when in reverse, heated/cooled seats, nicer interior, adjustable pedals.
Let's hope we don't hear "proven powertrain" which means no extra horsepower.
Hmmmm. Mania III might just answer those questions.
If you miss it you'll be kicking yourselves and be awfully jealous. Not to mention being very curious about what would be discussed in the Restricted Access forum on LLSOC!
Final details will be posted this weekend and also sent out in the LLSOC newsletter. Hotel reservations will need to be done by January 24th to reserve at the great rate we got at the Doubletree. PAG HQ can easily handle a hundred members so don't be shy about letting me know that you're interested in advance, if you haven't already.
The registration form will also go online this weekend and this time we are accepting either check or credit cards, though for credit cards we are forced to charge an additional 5 percent to cover credit card processing fees.
The first winter I had my LS I thought it went very well in the snow. I had no problems even starting from a dead stop on mild inclines. Last winter my LS was almost undriveable in even the slighest amount of snow, giving it the slightest amount of gas would get the rear tires spinning and the rear end kicking right. At first I thought it was the replacement tires my dealer put on, but I've changed tires again. Now I'm beginning to think that my traction control is messed up as I can readily spin the tires on wet pavement (yes the traction control is on, the light on the dash blinks but the engine only mildly looses power if at all). It could be a coincidence but I had my half shafts replaced after the 1st winter, I'm beginning to wonder if the dealer messed up the wheel sensors or something.
Correct me if I misunderstand this, but I think the LS traction control, at least with the AdvanceTrac system, applies the brakes to a wheel that is spinning, forcing the power to transfer to the other drive wheel. This does not guarantee that the wheel with the most traction will have enough traction to move the car forward. It may begin to spin also. What happens then?
I think the AdvanceTrac will apply individual brakes and also modulate the fuel injection to attempt to achieve optimal control. If the brakes alone can't prevent wheel spin, some decrease of power may occur to attempt to eliminate it. However, there are circumstances when the available traction simply isn't sufficient to move the car forward. If that happens, the system has only two choices; (1) reduce power to the point that the engine stalls, (2) allow at least one drive wheel to simply spin.
I assume the latter choice is preferable, and the one used.
Then, consider this. Traction control based upon applying brakes to the spinning wheel has a different effect than a limited-slip differential. A limited-slip differential detects the difference in torque between a spinning wheel and one that is stopped, and it reacts by directing torque to the stopped (or slower) wheel.
This is a subtle difference from having the brake applied to the spinnigng wheel. When the brake is applied to a spinning wheel, the differential action does direct the torque to the other wheel. However, as the other wheel begins to turn, it needs to pull the car forward in spite of the fact that one of the wheels has the brake applied. It seems to me that the braked wheel becomes an additional burdon to pull against.
The 3.0-litre V6 (from £31,400 for the SE) and enlarged 4.2-litre V8 engines have not escaped the revisions; both feature improved three-stage variable-geometry induction and continuously variable cam-phasing systems for quicker engine response and enhanced refinement. Although the output of the 3.0-litre V6 remains unchanged at 240 bhp, the 4.2 V8 (from £36,000 for the SE) has been enlarged from 4.0 litres and had its power upped by 19 bhp to a round 300 bhp; torque is up by 8 per cent, yet fuel economy and emissions are improved.
I've been reading the owners manual trying to find this answer and haven't had any luck. Does anyone know if the A/C compressor runs when it's cold outside but above 35 degrees? I've got the dual automatic system and I'm not sure if the light being lit on the A/C button means it's running, or just that it's available if the system wants it. They make a big deal about the system deciding whether to use outside or recirc air, what fan speed to run, etc. Is there some reason other than humidity control that I would want to run the A/C rather than rely on 40 degree outside air to keep the temp in range? Just curious.
Oh yes, if that green AC LED indicator is lit, the compressor is running. Mine only cuts out by itself when the exterior temp indicator hits 31 degrees F. I have no clue as to why Lincoln engineers designed the compressor to stay on in 32 degree temps, no humidity. I usually hit the AC button to shut mine off, and it stays off unless manually hit the AC button again, or hit the AUTO button again. I usually set my temp to 73 degrees, hit the AC button to keep the compressor off, and never touch the temp again unless its raining, and the interior windows begin to fog up. So, my question is the same as yours. Why does Lincoln feel the AC needs to run so much, particularly when there is no humidity
My friends, YOU are the humidity. If the car is sealed tight and you are constantly exhaling humidity, then it accumulates and must be removed. Ihave found that when I am alone, I can turn off the AC up to about 45F. Add some people though and the windows begin to fog. Of course you could always just hold your breath, or go into what us HVAC guys call free cooling mode and OPEN THE WINDOW. BRRRRRRRRR.....
I don't think that the compressor runs all the time just because the A/C light is lit. It will cycle on and off just like when you are trying to get the car cool in the summer. When the light is off, however, the A/C will not run at all.
Here in Denver, the humidity is usually around 10% so even with more than one person in the car, the windows very seldom fog up unless it gets down below 20 deg. I almost always turn the A/C off.
I'm with Bruno. Intuitively (that means I don't know for sure) the light just means the clutch on the compressor (and other A/C components) are powered, not that the clutch is engaged. No A/C compressor that I know of on a passenger car "runs" all the time. By powering the A/C system, it is available to the automatic system if needed. Here in the Midwest where temps vary from +80 to -20 degees F, I run in automatic mode 98% of the time. I have had six vehicles with auto climate control including three with multi zone in recent years, and this is the most comfortable and quiet system of them all including European and Asian manufacturers.
Would someone please explain what a coil pac is and what it does and how you would know if it needed to be replaced. Also, about a year ago, I think someone mentioned a problem with the fuel fill line or a fuel line problem. After experiencing many problems with my 2000 LS V6 Manual, which I love when it's performing well, my car seems to run much better when the fuel tank is below a quarter full. Any ideas. Thanks and Happy New Year to all.
That's kind of ironic - as, I've noticed that my LS auto w/ V6 seems to always run a lot better AFTER I've filled my tank completely full. (Not that it really runs 'worse' on empty, but it just seems to be more responsive on a full tank.)
So, maybe something is wrong in your system. I'm pretty sure that the LS's fuel system is "returnless" - which means that there is only one fuel line going TO the engine... and none going back to the tank. Not sure of the advantage of this type of layout?
I haven't heard the term "coil pac" before, but the LS doesn't have a conventional-type coil. There are individual coils for each spark plug; they're mounted on top of each plug. That's probably what you're referring to.
In simple terms, the coil is a sort of transformer that generates the voltage needed to fire the spark plug. If one of those individual coils on the LS isn't working, the plug won't fire. (Someone please correct me if this isn't right; I'm not an EE. )
A few owners have reported coil failures that required replacement of an individual coil. The only way I know to tell for sure if you have a bad one is to take it to a Lincoln/Ford dealer and let them run diagnostics.
In the Lincoln looks to the future article, they mention future M and AMG type Lincoln vehicles are being strongly considered. Perhaps they've been listening to this board's wishes ??? Final decision in six months it says.
The last time our Prez was so smug shortly before an Event, . . . well, let's just say he delivered the Goods.
I think our old friend J Rogers popped in on the CTS board with what looked to me like a sincere solicitation of opinions of CTS vs. LS. Sad to report, he was treated rather rudely.
Rene, I'd like to see your post on TC open up a discussion with some knowledgeable tech people. Unfortunately, I'm not one of them. I think you've hit on why we don't see TC and limited slip on the same car. I have experienced braking on what felt like one wheel, even some ABS action with my foot off the brake, going around a very icy turn very slowly. Your analysis of the braked wheel resistance sounds like what I felt.
I'm including a rather lengthy email response that the club received on behalf of one of our members who has a Japanese LS now in Canada. Our member wanted to know how to get a replacement right-hand drive windshield as well as changing the instrument cluster readings from Japanese to English. While I have edited out the email addresses and parts of the Lincoln LS management teams names for obvious reasons, I have left in their titles. For a relatively simple inquiry we received some high-end corporate management responses. I want to emphasize this because it shows the high level of corporate commitment to both the club and to the Lincoln LS customer. I don't see BMW/Lexus/Mercedes-Benz, et al with this dedication.
Brian LLSOC President and proud owner of a LS
-----Original Message-----
FYI - Another issue that customer might want to think about - it's really their responsibility since they apparently brought an imported vehicle into Canada - daylight running lights should be activated - dealership should be able to handle (although Japan lights are different from US).
Amanda Lincoln LS Global Product Marketing Manager
-----Original Message-----
If this is a vehicle that will be driven in Canada, do they have to turn on the DRL to be legal?
Mike
-----Original Message-----
Spoke with Visteon. Should not need to replace the cluster. The gauge graphics should be OK and a Japanese cluster is already KPH so this is OK in Canada. Language can be changed to English by using the SETUP & RESET buttons on the message center.
1) Use SETUP to display current language (Japanese) 2) Use RESET to cycle through language choices 3) Press and hold RESET to set language to English
Full instructions are in the owner guide under "message center". The customer may not have realized this if he only has access to a Japanese owner guide. The message center may end up showing some information in metric (fuel economy as L/100km ilo MPG). If this bothers the customer, he'll need to take the car to the dealer to be reprogrammed. "Should" take less than a half hour.
Markus 2002/2004/2005 Lincoln LS Program Management
-----Original Message-----
Amy and Dave - Need your assistance in determining how/if a 2000 MY Japanese V8 LS which is now in Canada can have it's instrument cluster and message center converted from Japanese to English. Mike's note below indicates Visteon handles IP related parts. Would a UK or Canada module work? Please advise. Thanks.
Amanda Lincoln LS Global Product Marketing Manager
-----Original Message-----
The service part # for the 2001 LS windshield (Japan RHD) is 1W4Z-5403100-CA. The customer should be able to order this part through his local dealership. For other Japan unique service parts, the dealership should be able to get service parts numbers by calling their service parts hotline.
The IP cluster and any other parts that dealerships exchange through the Visteon service centers are the exception to the above comments. You'll have to work something out with Visteon for these types of parts as FCSD does not carry any stock. Maybe the dealer can call their exchange center to see about ordering parts. It's worth a try.
Mike -----Original Message-----
Ralph / Mike,
A customer is requesting a replacement windshield for a 2001 Japan LS. Sounds like he lives in the states. How can we make this happen?
He also would like to update the cluster to English. Amy - Is it possible to "drop in" a UK cluster?
Markus 2002/2004/2005 Lincoln LS Program Management
-----Original Message-----
Markus - please investigate Steve's questions below (from LS owners' club member) - 1) how to get a replacement RHD windshield (Japan vehicle) 2) can instrument cluster for Japanese vehicle be changed to English?
Thanks. Amanda Lincoln LS Global Product Marketing Manager
-----Original Message-----
Need your assistance.
Steve Lincoln LS Vehicle Line Brand Manager Lincoln Brand Group, Lincoln Mercury WHQ - Irvine, CA
-----Original Message-----
Steve,
Here's a new one for you! He's asking for information on obtaining a windshield and changing over the Japanese instrumentation to English. Got anyone I can refer him to?
Thanks, Brian ----- Original Message -----
Brian Is it possible to inform me the e-mail address to buy a front windscreen for a 2001 right hand drive LS also is it possible to change the reading on the instruments from Japanese to English Regards Bill
The post above does show an amazing amount of "commitment". It also led me to wonder, since it appeared that the Japanese model windshield was available through dealer order in Canada, what about those Japanese spec tail lights several owners have asked about? Could those, with the correct part number, be ordered in the USA?
Has anyone else seen the CTS review in the FEB 2002 Road and Track? Interesting article, as they take direct shots at out beloved LS, "The CTS feels more precise and better sorted than the Lincoln LS."
Interesting that they chose to use performance numbers from a V-6 automatic LS vs. a 5-speed CTS. The little Caddy that could ran 0-60 in 7 seconds flat and 15.5 and 91.5 mph in the quarter. They made a big deal about the CTS 700 ft slalom speed of 63.4 mph.
These numbers were helped by a 3.73 rear end with 00.82:1 overdrive 5th gear, which gave the car an epa estimated 18 city 25 highway.
The article went on to say the 3.2 V-6 in the test car will be replaced next year by a more powerful 3.6 V-6. What then, 0-60 in 6.0 to 6.5 seconds, clearly smoking my V-8 automatic? Yes, I am concerned.
I also found it interesting the article failed to mention the miniscule trunk space in the CTS(12.8 cu. ft) and it's failure to achieve 50/50 weight distribution(CTS 55/45).
As far as the CTS's looks, I personally think it is not that great looking, as though the designers were trying too hard to be different, but looks don't help at a stop light or canyon road.
I just hope the L-M designers are watching this development, for our sake.
The full quote about the CTS in the article was, "'Certainly a top contender for the best-handling American sedan; feels more precise and better sorted than the Lincoln LS, a car already at a high level,' said one editor," so they're not exactly damning the LS. They did, however, choose to highlight in large, bold print the portion of the quote that smwls8 cited above.
In all fairness, the CTS SHOULD be better, given that it's three years newer and is intended to compete in the same high-pressure market with the LS. If it wasn't an outstanding handler from the get-go, Cadillac would be in trouble. Remember that when the LS was introduced, its Caddy competition was the Catera, and I don't recall any magazine or tester that thought the Catera was a better car than the LS. Time and sales have proven that one, I think.
I saw a CTS at the Austin Auto Show in November. It was on a rotating platform, so I couldn't get inside; the driver's door was open, but the interior was very dark grey, so it was hard to get a good look at it inside. The exterior styling (this one was silver) is VERY bold when seen in person. It looked like a fairly large car--my impression was that it looked bigger than an LS, even though it isn't--and I liked some aspects of the design.
The front end didn't bother me as much as it does some people; I sorta liked it. One element that I found bothersome was the extra-large rear valence; combined with the high trunk, it makes the rear look both porky and abbreviated. That's IMHO, of course. The main thing that bugged me was the appearance of an "extra layer" on the car; the hood seems high, too. If they would eliminate the double-crease on the rear fender, get rid of the crease on the front fender, and lower the hood and trunk a bit, I'd think it would be more attractive. That would, of course, mute the Art & Science thrust and would be counter to the direction that Cadillac wants to head (unless Lutz changes that direction, as is rumored.) I imagine dark colors will be more flattering.
I guess the biggest problem I have with the CTS overall is in the engine department. Starting with a 3.2 liter, 54-degree V6 (with belt-driven cams and 220 hp/218 lb-ft) as the only engine is a mistake to me, but that's what they had to do to get the car to market this month. It's a calculated risk on their part. I stopped by the local Caddy dealer this morning; they haven't gotten a CTS yet, but expect 6-7 cars within the next week. I plan to go by & take a closer look when they arrive.
I for one applaud Cadillac's efforts; competition improves the breed, and only gives Lincoln more incentive to continue to improve the LS. Not that they NEED incentive; it sounds like the LS team is still as enthusiastic as ever and still committed to excellence, as I would expect after attending Mania I.
I can't WAIT to see what's coming in '03 and beyond. The road tests comparing the '03 LS and the CTS should prove to be very interesting; very interesting, indeed!
I have a 2000 LS V8 w/ Sports Pkg with a lease expiring in a few weeks. Went to my dealer in Roseville, CA today and they are trying to tell me that all new LS's with Sports Pkg come fully equipped (except cell phone)and that unless I want to specially order one, I'll have to buy one with things I don't need- namely the chrome wheels and the all seasons package. This sends the price of the car up substantially. I asked him to check other dealers and he called back and said everyone has the cars fully loaded. He also said that Lincoln has reduced the markup between invoice and MSPR so that dealer will not sell the car for less than 6% over invoice. I thought we were in a serious recession. Is everyone fighting to get one of these cars?
I agree that Lincoln should consider the competition. But I also hope that they will stay the course they have set for themselves regarding further development of the LS. Lincoln has been criticized for not improving the LS quickly enough. Yet the car has been in production only three years, and we have good reason to expect significant change for '03. I see no reason for Lincoln to react to the introduction of the CTS. It was a very long time coming, and doesn't break any new ground except within GM's own redundant product line.
0-60 times, again? Oh, nooooo!:)
Most of all, I hope nobody at Lincoln is ever tempted to follow Cadillac's bizarre new styling exercise. I hope the CTS succeeds for the sake of healthy competition, but only after a mass public outbreak of good taste forces Cadillac to re-package the mechanical goodies.
This sounds like typical dealer blather to me. He's telling you that they all come that way because that's what HE has in stock. If I had to guess, I'd bet that he didn't check anything.
As far as the invoice vs. MSRP is concerned, you can check that yourself, right here on Edmunds. Just click on the "NEW" link at the top of the page and follow the links to get all the invoice info on the '02 LS. Edmunds also provides a TMV price, which is a good number to shoot for.
You can find other dealers in your area by going to the Lincoln website at http://www.lincolnvehicles.com and doing a dealer search. There's also an inventory search feature, so you can see what other dealers have in stock.
This dealer might be trying to take advantage of the fact that your lease is running out, so you'll need a car. My advice is to do some more homework, stick to your guns, and get exactly what you want. That's essentially the same advice I got on this forum when I was trying to decide whether to get an '00 LS that the dealer had in stock, with the equipment I wanted but in a color I didn't care for, or order an '01 in my preferred configuration. I ordered the '01 and I'm glad I did.
I completely agree with everything you said; I didn't intend to suggest that Lincoln should react to the CTS, just that it's good for Lincoln to have domestic competition to keep pushing it forward. Should Lincoln stay the course? You bet; I think you're right on the money.
I also concur that Lincoln shouldn't follow Caddy's design path. The CTS will, IMO, be a very polarizing car; some people will love it, some will detest it, and a few will be ambivalent. I don't think it will be reviled the way the Aztek (justifiably) is, but I'm not sure it'll be accepted the way the PT Cruiser was, either. Time will tell.
Lincoln's styling direction will be largely up to Mr. McGovern; it'll be interesting to see what he comes up with. Given that his two major claims to fame pre-Lincoln were the MGF and the Land Rover Freelander, I think the jury's still out. I liked many elements of his Mark 9, but thought it was a bit overdone. His new Continental, judging from the photos, seems quite elegant to me; for a show car, it appears to be very tasteful and evokes some of Lincoln's best historical elements. The '61 Conti is widely considered a classic because of its elegant simplicity, IMO. I'd place the Mark I and Mark II in this same category. If this is the path, then I'm cautiously optimistic. Once again, time will tell.
JLinc, providing opinions at NO cost to you, the Town Hall consumer! (Ya get whatcha pay for.)
Comments
Brian
LLSOC Prez
I drive a 2000 LS V8 Sport package, and have a terrible time in the snow, even with (expensive) Pirelli Winter 210 snow tires. Is this a common problem?
And second, does anyone else get a click from their steering wheel when turning at low speeds? Sounds like linkage(?) LM service guy thinks I'm crazy.
Ned
Ned - I have Advancetrac and have no problems in the snow whatsoever unless it gets above 6 inches and then I can get high centered. I have heard other people complain, but both myself and another owner here in CO have never had any snow issues and we both run the stock 17" Firestones. The steering click is a known problem and there is a TSB on it. I do not remember the details, but your dealer should be able to pull it up. Also, www.LLSOC.com has TSB's posted for club members in case you are interested.
Bruno
LLSOC member
But, notice it was a Vette driver, not an Audi/BMW/Mercedes driver. Hmmmmm.....
Bruno, that's one of my favorite sections of freeway! Not knowing the local constabalry, I kept it <80. It sure would have been more fun faster!
Ned, I'm the other Coloradan Bruno mentioned, and, honest, no problems with snow, although I've never had to try deep stuff. And my last daily driver was an AWD Subaru. Maybe I'm giving too much credit to my marvelous driving skills and not enough to AdvanceTrac.:)
re High Speed Whine: My car exhibits no such noise. I've always said being single isn't all it's cracked up to be, but it has a few advantages.:)
Scott
LLSOC Member
Brian
Ray
LLSOC charter member
http://media.ford.com/events/2002_la_show.cfm
http://www.auto.com/industry/ford3_20020103.htm
My steering clicks also, not bad enough to suffer through the dealer "experience" though.
Living with the steering click...
Ned
By the Way my Clunk woes have not been resolved. Ford Tech will look at it next week.
I have had a few LS rentals a long time ago and one two weeks ago for a weekend. Whenever I turned the steering wheel I heard a pop? Would this be the Click? I noticed it occurred when I put some force on the steering wheel (I.e. turning with a straight arm) Is this the same issue. I have seen it in a few LS Rentals.
Mine does not exhibit this issue.
Regards,
Airwolf
http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=10580
http://media.ford.com/products/presskit_display.cfm?vehicle_id=559&press_subsection_id=421&make_id=93
The press release for the 2003 Navigator has to be the best detailed product release I have ever read. Some very interesting items that I hope carryover to the 2003 LS. Things like side mirrors that tilt when in reverse, heated/cooled seats, nicer interior, adjustable pedals.
Let's hope we don't hear "proven powertrain" which means no extra horsepower.
Hmmmm. Mania III might just answer those questions.
John,
Can't say but you'll be surprised at Mania III ;>
If you miss it you'll be kicking yourselves and be awfully jealous. Not to mention being very curious about what would be discussed in the Restricted Access forum on LLSOC!
Final details will be posted this weekend and also sent out in the LLSOC newsletter. Hotel reservations will need to be done by January 24th to reserve at the great rate we got at the Doubletree. PAG HQ can easily handle a hundred members so don't be shy about letting me know that you're interested in advance, if you haven't already.
The registration form will also go online this weekend and this time we are accepting either check or credit cards, though for credit cards we are forced to charge an additional 5 percent to cover credit card processing fees.
Brian
LLSOC President
#1731 of 1741 New 5er Mod!!! by div2 Jan 02, 2002 (07:13 pm)
The Lincoln LS "enthusiasts" have been fitting their cars with these intakes for a year or so. Now they are finally available for Bavaria's finest:
http://www.bmwm5.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?s=&threadid=11064
I think the AdvanceTrac will apply individual brakes and also modulate the fuel injection to attempt to achieve optimal control. If the brakes alone can't prevent wheel spin, some decrease of power may occur to attempt to eliminate it. However, there are circumstances when the available traction simply isn't sufficient to move the car forward. If that happens, the system has only two choices; (1) reduce power to the point that the engine stalls, (2) allow at least one drive wheel to simply spin.
I assume the latter choice is preferable, and the one used.
Then, consider this. Traction control based upon applying brakes to the spinning wheel has a different effect than a limited-slip differential. A limited-slip differential detects the difference in torque between a spinning wheel and one that is stopped, and it reacts by directing torque to the stopped (or slower) wheel.
This is a subtle difference from having the brake applied to the spinnigng wheel. When the brake is applied to a spinning wheel, the differential action does direct the torque to the other wheel. However, as the other wheel begins to turn, it needs to pull the car forward in spite of the fact that one of the wheels has the brake applied. It seems to me that the braked wheel becomes an additional burdon to pull against.
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2002_la/continental/1.htm
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2002_la/navigator/1.htm
The 3.0-litre V6 (from £31,400 for the SE) and enlarged 4.2-litre V8 engines have not escaped the revisions; both feature improved three-stage variable-geometry induction and continuously variable cam-phasing systems for quicker engine response and enhanced refinement. Although the output of the 3.0-litre V6 remains unchanged at 240 bhp, the 4.2 V8 (from £36,000 for the SE) has been enlarged from 4.0 litres and had its power upped by 19 bhp to a round 300 bhp; torque is up by 8 per cent, yet fuel economy and emissions are improved.
The V-6 also gets a 5-speed manual option.
Enjoy
Here in Denver, the humidity is usually around 10% so even with more than one person in the car, the windows very seldom fog up unless it gets down below 20 deg. I almost always turn the A/C off.
Bruno
LLSOC member
Jim
LLSOC member
That's kind of ironic - as, I've noticed that my LS auto w/ V6 seems to always run a lot better AFTER I've filled my tank completely full. (Not that it really runs 'worse' on empty, but it just seems to be more responsive on a full tank.)
So, maybe something is wrong in your system. I'm pretty sure that the LS's fuel system is "returnless" - which means that there is only one fuel line going TO the engine... and none going back to the tank. Not sure of the advantage of this type of layout?
In simple terms, the coil is a sort of transformer that generates the voltage needed to fire the spark plug. If one of those individual coils on the LS isn't working, the plug won't fire. (Someone please correct me if this isn't right; I'm not an EE.
A few owners have reported coil failures that required replacement of an individual coil. The only way I know to tell for sure if you have a bad one is to take it to a Lincoln/Ford dealer and let them run diagnostics.
I like the fact it is long, sleek and substantial. Not for me now but still nice. Better than the MK9 Concept. IMHO...
Regards,
Airwolf1000
http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?article=4511
I think our old friend J Rogers popped in on the CTS board with what looked to me like a sincere solicitation of opinions of CTS vs. LS. Sad to report, he was treated rather rudely.
Rene, I'd like to see your post on TC open up a discussion with some knowledgeable tech people. Unfortunately, I'm not one of them. I think you've hit on why we don't see TC and limited slip on the same car. I have experienced braking on what felt like one wheel, even some ABS action with my foot off the brake, going around a very icy turn very slowly. Your analysis of the braked wheel resistance sounds like what I felt.
Scott
LLSOC Member
Brian
LLSOC President and proud owner of a LS
-----Original Message-----
FYI - Another issue that customer might want to think about - it's really their responsibility since they apparently brought an imported vehicle into Canada - daylight running lights should be activated - dealership should be able to handle (although Japan lights are different from US).
Amanda
Lincoln LS Global Product Marketing Manager
-----Original Message-----
If this is a vehicle that will be driven in Canada, do they have to turn on the DRL to be legal?
Mike
-----Original Message-----
Spoke with Visteon. Should not need to replace the cluster. The gauge graphics should be OK and a Japanese cluster is already KPH so this is OK in Canada. Language can be changed to English by using the SETUP & RESET buttons on the message center.
1) Use SETUP to display current language (Japanese)
2) Use RESET to cycle through language choices
3) Press and hold RESET to set language to English
Full instructions are in the owner guide under "message center". The customer may not have realized this if he only has access to a Japanese owner guide. The message center may end up showing some information in metric (fuel economy as L/100km ilo MPG). If this bothers the customer, he'll need to take the car to the dealer to be reprogrammed. "Should" take less than a half hour.
Markus
2002/2004/2005 Lincoln LS Program Management
-----Original Message-----
Amy and Dave - Need your assistance in determining how/if a 2000 MY Japanese V8 LS which is now in Canada can have it's instrument cluster and message center converted from Japanese to English. Mike's note below indicates Visteon handles IP related parts. Would a UK or Canada module work? Please advise. Thanks.
Amanda
Lincoln LS Global Product Marketing Manager
-----Original Message-----
The service part # for the 2001 LS windshield (Japan RHD) is 1W4Z-5403100-CA. The customer should be able to order this part through his local dealership. For other Japan unique service parts, the dealership should be able to get service parts numbers by calling their service parts hotline.
The IP cluster and any other parts that dealerships exchange through the Visteon service centers are the exception to the above comments. You'll have to work something out with Visteon for these types of parts as FCSD does not carry any stock. Maybe the dealer can call their exchange center to see about ordering parts. It's worth a try.
Mike
-----Original Message-----
Ralph / Mike,
A customer is requesting a replacement windshield for a 2001 Japan LS. Sounds like he lives in the states.
How can we make this happen?
He also would like to update the cluster to English. Amy - Is it possible to "drop in" a UK cluster?
Markus
2002/2004/2005 Lincoln LS Program Management
-----Original Message-----
Markus - please investigate Steve's questions below (from LS owners' club member) -
1) how to get a replacement RHD windshield (Japan vehicle)
2) can instrument cluster for Japanese vehicle be changed to English?
Thanks.
Amanda
Lincoln LS Global Product Marketing Manager
-----Original Message-----
Need your assistance.
Steve
Lincoln LS Vehicle Line Brand Manager
Lincoln Brand Group, Lincoln Mercury WHQ - Irvine, CA
-----Original Message-----
Steve,
Here's a new one for you! He's asking for information on obtaining a windshield and changing over the Japanese instrumentation to English. Got anyone I can refer him to?
Thanks,
Brian
----- Original Message -----
Brian
Is it possible to inform me the e-mail address to buy a front windscreen for a 2001 right hand drive LS
also is it possible to change the reading on the instruments from Japanese to English
Regards
Bill
Interesting that they chose to use performance numbers from a V-6 automatic LS vs. a 5-speed CTS. The little Caddy that could ran 0-60 in 7 seconds flat and 15.5 and 91.5 mph in the quarter. They made a big deal about the CTS 700 ft slalom speed of 63.4 mph.
These numbers were helped by a 3.73 rear end with 00.82:1 overdrive 5th gear, which gave the car an epa estimated 18 city 25 highway.
The article went on to say the 3.2 V-6 in the test car will be replaced next year by a more powerful 3.6 V-6. What then, 0-60 in 6.0 to 6.5 seconds, clearly smoking my V-8 automatic? Yes, I am concerned.
I also found it interesting the article failed to mention the miniscule trunk space in the CTS(12.8 cu. ft) and it's failure to achieve 50/50 weight distribution(CTS 55/45).
As far as the CTS's looks, I personally think it is not that great looking, as though the designers were trying too hard to be different, but looks don't help at a stop light or canyon road.
I just hope the L-M designers are watching this development, for our sake.
In all fairness, the CTS SHOULD be better, given that it's three years newer and is intended to compete in the same high-pressure market with the LS. If it wasn't an outstanding handler from the get-go, Cadillac would be in trouble. Remember that when the LS was introduced, its Caddy competition was the Catera, and I don't recall any magazine or tester that thought the Catera was a better car than the LS. Time and sales have proven that one, I think.
I saw a CTS at the Austin Auto Show in November. It was on a rotating platform, so I couldn't get inside; the driver's door was open, but the interior was very dark grey, so it was hard to get a good look at it inside. The exterior styling (this one was silver) is VERY bold when seen in person. It looked like a fairly large car--my impression was that it looked bigger than an LS, even though it isn't--and I liked some aspects of the design.
The front end didn't bother me as much as it does some people; I sorta liked it. One element that I found bothersome was the extra-large rear valence; combined with the high trunk, it makes the rear look both porky and abbreviated. That's IMHO, of course. The main thing that bugged me was the appearance of an "extra layer" on the car; the hood seems high, too. If they would eliminate the double-crease on the rear fender, get rid of the crease on the front fender, and lower the hood and trunk a bit, I'd think it would be more attractive. That would, of course, mute the Art & Science thrust and would be counter to the direction that Cadillac wants to head (unless Lutz changes that direction, as is rumored.) I imagine dark colors will be more flattering.
I guess the biggest problem I have with the CTS overall is in the engine department. Starting with a 3.2 liter, 54-degree V6 (with belt-driven cams and 220 hp/218 lb-ft) as the only engine is a mistake to me, but that's what they had to do to get the car to market this month. It's a calculated risk on their part. I stopped by the local Caddy dealer this morning; they haven't gotten a CTS yet, but expect 6-7 cars within the next week. I plan to go by & take a closer look when they arrive.
I for one applaud Cadillac's efforts; competition improves the breed, and only gives Lincoln more incentive to continue to improve the LS. Not that they NEED incentive; it sounds like the LS team is still as enthusiastic as ever and still committed to excellence, as I would expect after attending Mania I.
I can't WAIT to see what's coming in '03 and beyond. The road tests comparing the '03 LS and the CTS should prove to be very interesting; very interesting, indeed!
Jlinc, opinionated LLSOC charter member ;-)
0-60 times, again? Oh, nooooo!:)
Most of all, I hope nobody at Lincoln is ever tempted to follow Cadillac's bizarre new styling exercise. I hope the CTS succeeds for the sake of healthy competition, but only after a mass public outbreak of good taste forces Cadillac to re-package the mechanical goodies.
Scott
LLSOC Member
As far as the invoice vs. MSRP is concerned, you can check that yourself, right here on Edmunds. Just click on the "NEW" link at the top of the page and follow the links to get all the invoice info on the '02 LS. Edmunds also provides a TMV price, which is a good number to shoot for.
You can find other dealers in your area by going to the Lincoln website at http://www.lincolnvehicles.com and doing a dealer search. There's also an inventory search feature, so you can see what other dealers have in stock.
This dealer might be trying to take advantage of the fact that your lease is running out, so you'll need a car. My advice is to do some more homework, stick to your guns, and get exactly what you want. That's essentially the same advice I got on this forum when I was trying to decide whether to get an '00 LS that the dealer had in stock, with the equipment I wanted but in a color I didn't care for, or order an '01 in my preferred configuration. I ordered the '01 and I'm glad I did.
For what it's worth,
JLinc, LLSOC member
I also concur that Lincoln shouldn't follow Caddy's design path. The CTS will, IMO, be a very polarizing car; some people will love it, some will detest it, and a few will be ambivalent. I don't think it will be reviled the way the Aztek (justifiably) is, but I'm not sure it'll be accepted the way the PT Cruiser was, either. Time will tell.
Lincoln's styling direction will be largely up to Mr. McGovern; it'll be interesting to see what he comes up with. Given that his two major claims to fame pre-Lincoln were the MGF and the Land Rover Freelander, I think the jury's still out. I liked many elements of his Mark 9, but thought it was a bit overdone. His new Continental, judging from the photos, seems quite elegant to me; for a show car, it appears to be very tasteful and evokes some of Lincoln's best historical elements. The '61 Conti is widely considered a classic because of its elegant simplicity, IMO. I'd place the Mark I and Mark II in this same category. If this is the path, then I'm cautiously optimistic. Once again, time will tell.
JLinc, providing opinions at NO cost to you, the Town Hall consumer! (Ya get whatcha pay for.)