A-Premium Starter for 2010–2012 Ford Fusion and 2007–2012 Lincoln MKZ 3.5L
The A-Premium starter motor is a direct replacement for select Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ models equipped with the 3.5-liter V6. It features a 12-volt, 1.6-kW motor, counterclockwise rotation and a 22-tooth pinion.
Although the year ranges appear straightforward, engine and VIN verification remain essential. The 2010–2012 Fusion application is limited to models with the 3.5L V6—generally the Fusion Sport—while 2011–2012 Lincoln MKZ applications require VIN engine code
Vehicle Fitment
| Years | Make | Model | Engine | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010–2012 | Ford | Fusion | 3.5L V6 | Verify Sport trim and original starter |
| 2007–2010 | Lincoln | MKZ | 3.5L V6 | Verify original starter number |
| 2011–2012 | Lincoln | MKZ | 3.5L V6 | VIN code C |
The eighth character of the VIN identifies the engine code. For 2011–2012 MKZ applications, it should be C.
Ford Fusion Fitment
The starter is advertised for:
- 2010 Ford Fusion 3.5L V6
- 2011 Ford Fusion 3.5L V6
- 2012 Ford Fusion 3.5L V6
The 3.5L engine was associated primarily with the Fusion Sport. Do not list the starter for every Fusion produced during this period.
It is not automatically compatible with:
- Fusion 2.5L four-cylinder
- Fusion 3.0L V6
- Fusion Hybrid
- 2009-and-older Fusion
- 2013-and-newer Fusion
- Mercury Milan
- Engine-swapped vehicles
Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive compatibility should be confirmed using the OE starter number and vehicle application catalog.
Lincoln MKZ Fitment
Advertised MKZ applications include:
- 2007 Lincoln MKZ 3.5L V6
- 2008 Lincoln MKZ 3.5L V6
- 2009 Lincoln MKZ 3.5L V6
- 2010 Lincoln MKZ 3.5L V6
- 2011 Lincoln MKZ 3.5L V6 with VIN code C
- 2012 Lincoln MKZ 3.5L V6 with VIN code C
Do not assume fitment for:
- MKZ Hybrid
- MKZ models with another engine
- 2013-and-newer MKZ
- Vehicles with a mismatched VIN code
- Modified or swapped powertrains
Original price was: $87.49.$82.99Current price is: $82.99.
Starter Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Rated output | 1.6 kW |
| Pinion teeth | 22 |
| Rotation | Counterclockwise |
| Condition | New |
| Quantity | One starter |
| Packaging | Box |
| Warranty | One year, unlimited mileage |
Rotation is stated according to the supplier’s viewing convention. Always match the original starter’s physical configuration and rotation.
Replacement Part Numbers
This A-Premium starter replaces or cross-references:
1794717947N7H6T11000AC7H6T-11000-AC7H6T11000AD7H6T-11000-AD7H6T11000AE7H6T-11000-AE7H6TAC7H6T-AC7H6TAD7H6T-AD7H6TAE7H6T-AE7H6Z11002A7H6Z-11002-ABE5T-11000-DABE5Z-11002-ABE5Z-11002-CM000T15671M000T15671ZCM000T15671ZCKDM000T15673
Ford part BE5Z-11002-C supersedes BE5Z-11002-A in applicable catalogs. Ford starter reference
Match the complete number whenever possible. Engineering suffixes can indicate supersessions or production changes.
1.6-kW Motor
The starter’s 1.6-kW rating is intended to provide the cranking power required by the 3.5L V6.
Actual starting performance also depends on:
- Battery state of charge
- Battery cold-cranking capacity
- Cable condition
- Ground integrity
- Engine temperature
- Oil viscosity
- Engine compression
- Starter-circuit voltage drop
A properly functioning starter cannot compensate for a weak battery or corroded ground cable. Electricity remains annoyingly committed to basic physics.
22-Tooth Pinion
The starter uses a 22-tooth pinion. Tooth count, pinion diameter and engagement depth must match the vehicle’s ring gear.
An incompatible starter can cause:
- Grinding during engagement
- Starter motor spinning without cranking
- Incomplete pinion engagement
- Ring-gear damage
- Starter kickback
- Delayed disengagement
- Intermittent starting
Stop operating the starter immediately if grinding occurs after installation.
Counterclockwise Rotation
The replacement is listed with counterclockwise rotation. Rotation must be evaluated using the manufacturer’s viewing direction, normally from a defined drive-end perspective.
Do not confirm fitment from rotation alone. Compare:
- Mounting-flange shape
- Bolt-hole spacing
- Starter nose
- Solenoid position
- Electrical terminals
- Pinion tooth count
- Original part number
Direct-Replacement Design
A-Premium markets the starter as a direct replacement. This means it is intended to install at the factory mounting location and connect to the original starter circuit when used on a verified application.
A direct-replacement claim does not mean the starter fits every engine available in the same vehicle.
Before ordering, confirm:
- 3.5L V6 engine
- Applicable VIN code
- Automatic transmission configuration
- FWD or AWD application
- Original Ford or Mitsubishi starter number
- Production date where relevant
Diagnosing Starter Failure
Common starter-related symptoms include:
- A single click without cranking
- Rapid clicking
- Intermittent no-crank
- Slow cranking with a tested battery
- Starter spinning without engagement
- Grinding
- Burning odor
- Abnormal starter noise
Similar symptoms can be caused by:
- Discharged battery
- Corroded battery terminals
- Damaged battery cable
- Poor engine ground
- Faulty starter relay
- Ignition-switch problem
- Transmission range-switch fault
- Passive Anti-Theft System issue
- Damaged ring-gear teeth
- Internal engine damage
Test the battery and starting circuit before replacing the starter.
Ford PATS Considerations
Fusion and MKZ models use Ford’s Passive Anti-Theft System. A key-recognition or immobilizer problem can prevent normal starting.
Check for:
- Rapidly flashing security indicator
- Unrecognized key
- Damaged transponder key
- PATS-related diagnostic codes
- Communication problems
- Starter-inhibit command
A new starter will not correct an immobilizer fault.
Battery and Voltage-Drop Testing
Before installation, inspect:
- Battery open-circuit voltage
- Battery load-test result
- Positive-cable voltage drop
- Negative-cable voltage drop
- Starter trigger voltage
- Engine-to-chassis ground
- Battery-terminal condition
- Starter relay
- Main fuses
High cable resistance can cause slow or intermittent cranking even with a healthy starter.
Installation Preparation
Before removing the original starter:
- Confirm the 3.5L V6 engine.
- Check VIN code C where required.
- Record the original starter number.
- Verify the replacement’s 22-tooth pinion.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Photograph the electrical connections.
- Compare the mounting flange and solenoid position.
- Obtain the correct torque specifications.
- Confirm whether mounting hardware is included.
Mounting hardware is not identified in the supplied package contents.
Installation Overview
A typical installation includes:
- Disconnecting the negative battery cable.
- Raising and safely supporting the vehicle if required.
- Removing underbody panels or intake components that restrict access.
- Labeling the starter wires.
- Disconnecting the battery cable and trigger connection.
- Supporting the original starter.
- Removing the mounting bolts.
- Comparing the old and new starter assemblies.
- Inspecting visible ring-gear teeth.
- Installing the new A-Premium starter.
- Torquing the mounting hardware correctly.
- Reconnecting the electrical terminals.
- Securing wiring away from exhaust and moving components.
- Reinstalling all removed parts.
- Reconnecting the battery and testing operation.
Disconnecting the battery is mandatory. The main starter cable is constantly powered and has no objection to converting a misplaced wrench into a welding demonstration.
Post-Installation Checks
After installation, verify:
- Strong, consistent cranking
- Immediate pinion engagement
- Immediate disengagement after startup
- No grinding or clicking
- Secure electrical terminals
- Proper cable routing
- No warning indicators
- Normal charging-system voltage
If the vehicle still cranks slowly, perform another voltage-drop test instead of immediately blaming the new starter.
One-Year Unlimited-Mileage Warranty
A-Premium advertises a one-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.
Before purchasing, confirm:
- Warranty start date
- Proof-of-purchase requirements
- Labor reimbursement
- Return-shipping responsibility
- Diagnostic requirements
- Commercial or fleet exclusions
- Consequential-damage coverage
The warranty applies to the starter; it does not guarantee correct installation or vehicle compatibility.
Package Contents
The package includes:
- One new starter motor
- Protective retail box
The listing does not identify the following as included:
- Mounting bolts
- Electrical cables
- Starter relay
- Battery terminals
- Installation tools
- Ring gear
- Technical labor
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicles does this starter fit?
It fits the 2010–2012 Ford Fusion with the 3.5L V6 and the 2007–2012 Lincoln MKZ with the 3.5L V6. The 2011–2012 MKZ requires VIN code C.
Does it fit every 2010–2012 Ford Fusion?
No. It is limited to the 3.5L V6 application, generally the Fusion Sport.
Does it fit the Fusion 3.0L V6?
No confirmed 3.0L compatibility is provided.
Does it fit the Fusion Hybrid?
No. Hybrid fitment should not be assumed.
Does it fit a 2011 Lincoln MKZ?
Yes, when equipped with the 3.5L V6 and VIN engine code C.
Does it fit the MKZ Hybrid?
No confirmed Hybrid compatibility is provided.
Does it fit a Mercury Milan?
Mercury Milan fitment is not listed and should not be assumed.
What are the starter specifications?
It operates at 12 volts, is rated at 1.6 kW and uses a 22-tooth pinion with counterclockwise rotation.
Is the starter new?
Yes. It is advertised as a brand-new replacement.
What warranty is included?
A-Premium advertises one-year, unlimited-mileage coverage.
Final Verdict
This A-Premium starter provides a direct replacement for select 3.5L-powered Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ models. Its 1.6-kW motor, 22-tooth drive and extensive Ford/Mitsubishi interchange list provide several useful ways to verify compatibility.
Do not treat it as a universal Fusion or MKZ starter. Confirm the 3.5L engine, original part number and drivetrain configuration. For 2011–2012 MKZ models, require VIN code C.
Visit My Pro Street for additional starter diagnostics, Ford repair information and automotive electrical guides.
Specification: A-Premium Starter for 2010–2012 Ford Fusion and 2007–2012 Lincoln MKZ 3.5L
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