New for the 2013 MKS is a Lane Keeping System that complements the complete collection of driver assist technologies, in addition to the comprehensive safety package including six airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control and AdvanceTrac® ESC (electronic stability control).

Coupled to the new Lane Keeping System is Lane Keeping Alert and Lane Keeping Aid. Together, these technologies add significantly to the advanced driver assistance features already available on Lincoln MKS, including collision warning and BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert.

Lane Keeping Alert helps drivers avoid leaving their lane unintentionally because of distraction or tiredness. When activated by the driver, Lane Keeping Alert utilizes a forward-facing mono-vision camera mounted behind the rear-view mirror to begin looking for lane markers. A control unit monitors the data and determines when the vehicle is wandering out of its lane. As the vehicle approaches the outer boundary of its lane, the system vibrates the steering wheel, reminding the driver to pay attention.

Lane Keeping Alert is dormant when the turn signal is activated or when the driver is engaged in an evasive maneuver.

Lane Keeping Aid works in concert with Lane Keeping Alert. When activated by the driver, Lane Keeping Aid will gently add torque to the steering wheel to nudge the MKS back into its lane if the driver has drifted too close to the lane's edge. The system includes the ability to sense if a driver is driving hands-free. A warning chime sounds to discourage misuse of the system.

System sensitivity settings are adjustable via the MyLincoln Touch interface. Neither technology actively prevents lane departures. The responsibility for the safe vehicle operation remains entirely the driver's responsibility.

Driver Alert is the third element of the Lane Keeping System. If the system detects a driving pattern typically exhibited by a drowsy driver, a first-level chime will sound and a friendly suggestion of a coffee cup graphic will appear on the left-hand 4.2-inch instrument cluster LCD screen.

If the driver does not respond and the system continues to sense that the driver is fatigued, further warnings and chimes will occur. Conscientious drivers curious about their state of alertness can monitor their performance any time.