Lynk & Co 02: known problems and reliability

The Lynk & Co 02 is a compact electric SUV focused on urban mobility, with modern design and contemporary technology. The model combines 272 hp of power, a range of up to 445 kilometres and an entry price that is remarkably sharp for a fully equipped electric car. Even so, reliability is a decisive factor for many car enthusiasts when buying. How does the Lynk & Co 02 perform in practice, and what problems are owners running into?

Overall reliability of the Lynk & Co 02

The Lynk & Co 02 is relatively new to the market, so long-term reliability data is still limited. The Lynk & Co brand itself has built up a reasonable reputation with its first models, but electric cars bring specific challenges in terms of electronics and software. Owners report that the 02 is generally reliable in daily use, but there are a few recurring complaints that deserve attention. If you are wondering which problems occur more often with Lynk & Co models, you can find more background information on the page Lynk & Co car problems.

The technology used in the 02 stems from the collaboration between Lynk & Co and parent company Geely, with components shared with other electric models. This can offer advantages in terms of maintenance costs and parts availability, but it also means that any teething problems in the technology can be more widely spread.

Common drivetrain problems

The 02 is equipped with a 200 kW permanent synchronous motor that drives the rear wheels. This motor delivers strong performance and accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in 5.5 seconds. In practice, owners report few issues with the motor itself, which is positive for a relatively new electric platform.

Some users do however experience occasional power loss or irregular power delivery, especially at lower temperatures. In many cases, this appears to be related to battery management and software control, rather than a mechanical defect in the motor. Possible causes include:

• Thermal management temporarily limiting power
• Software decisions to protect battery lifespan
• Sensor faults that transmit incorrect information about motor temperature

Have any complaints about power deviations checked by the dealer, as these can often be resolved with a software update.

Electronic faults and infotainment challenges

The infotainment system in the Lynk & Co 02 is a central part of the user experience, with a 15.4-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch display in the steering column. These systems are driven by advanced software that depends on constant updates and stable hardware. Owners report that electronic issues are among the most common complaints.

Common issues include:

• Sluggishness or freezing of the central touchscreen
• Problems with Bluetooth pairing or wireless phone charging
• Irregular operation of the 360-degree cameras
• Failure of the steering-column display while driving

These problems appear to be mainly software-related. Lynk & Co regularly offers over-the-air updates that can resolve such faults. Some owners report that a factory reset of the infotainment system was needed to fix persistent bugs. Make sure you regularly check if new updates are available, and contact the dealer if problems persist after an update.

Transmission and drivetrain: experiences and problems

The Lynk & Co 02 does not have a traditional gearbox, but uses a single-speed reduction drive typical for electric vehicles. This significantly reduces complexity and the number of moving parts compared with combustion engines. In general, the drivetrain operates without issues.

There are occasional reports of mechanical noises from the drivetrain, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Possible causes are:

• Slight vibrations from the electric motor at specific rev ranges
• Wear to bearings or drive shafts after intensive use
• Cooling water pumps or other auxiliary equipment that are audible when stationary

If you notice unusual noises, check whether they are accompanied by power loss or vibrations. In many cases it turns out to be a normal characteristic of the drivetrain, but still have it checked to rule out wear.

Suspension and brakes: wear and points of attention

The 02’s suspension consists of MacPherson struts at the front and a multilink construction at the rear, combined with monotube dampers. This provides comfortable driving behaviour, especially over irregular surfaces and bumpy Dutch roads. The soft setup contributes to comfort, but does require regular checks of wear-prone parts.

Common points of attention include:

• Tyres wearing out more quickly due to the higher weight of the battery and the instantly available torque
• Rubber bushings in the suspension that may wear out faster because of the soft setup
• Brake discs that can develop surface rust because regenerative braking reduces the use of the mechanical brakes

Check the tyres regularly for uneven wear, especially on the inside. Listen for noises from the suspension when driving over bumps, as these may indicate worn rubber components or bushes. Use the mechanical brakes deliberately from time to time to prevent rust forming on the discs.

Software updates and preventive maintenance

An important feature of the Lynk & Co 02 is the possibility of over-the-air updates. These updates can not only add new functions, but also fix bugs and optimise the performance of various systems. Owners who install updates regularly report fewer problems with infotainment and ADAS systems.

Preventive maintenance for the 02 differs from traditional cars. There is no engine oil to change or spark plugs to replace, but other components still need attention:

• Have the brake fluid checked annually and replaced according to the factory schedule
• Have the coolant for the battery and electric motor inspected
• Ensure the 12V battery, which powers electronics and auxiliary systems, is checked regularly
• Install software updates as soon as they become available

Schedule maintenance according to the prescribed Lynk & Co interval and use approved dealers who are familiar with electric drivetrains.

Warranty and dealer support for the Lynk & Co 02

Lynk & Co provides standard warranty on the vehicle, with duration and coverage depending on the chosen purchase option or lease contract. The battery is generally covered by a separate warranty that runs longer than the vehicle warranty, often up to eight years or a certain number of kilometres. This offers protection against capacity loss below a specified percentage.

Dealer support varies by region. Lynk & Co has a more limited dealer network than established brands, which can sometimes mean longer waiting times for service. Owners report mixed experiences with customer service, depending on the specific dealer. Some dealers have extensive experience with electric technology, while others are still on a learning curve.

When buying, make sure you have clarity about the warranty conditions, the scope of coverage and the nearest approved service partner. Keep all maintenance documentation carefully, as this may be needed for warranty claims.

Tips for owners and potential buyers

If you are considering buying a Lynk & Co 02 or already own one, bear the following practical advice in mind:

• Test the infotainment system thoroughly during a test drive and check whether all functions work as expected
• Ask about the update history of demo or used models to see whether known software issues have been resolved
• Check the range in different conditions, especially in cold weather, to set realistic expectations
• Ask about the charging history of a used example, as frequent rapid charging can affect battery condition
• Arrange a reliable home charging solution of at least 11 kW to simplify daily use
• Have all available software updates installed immediately on purchase

For potential buyers, it is sensible to take note of the polarising design and the relatively limited frunk space. The flat-bottom steering wheel shape takes some getting used to but ultimately offers more legroom.

The Lynk & Co 02 and its place in the problem landscape

The Lynk & Co 02 stands out as an affordable and well-equipped electric SUV with a powerful drivetrain and spacious interior. Reliability is generally reasonable, especially for a relatively new model on a young platform. Most problems are concentrated around electronics and software, areas that are typical for modern electric cars.

Mechanical problems with the motor and drivetrain remain limited, which is a positive sign for the durability of the platform. Suspension and brakes require standard attention, comparable with other electric vehicles in this segment. The biggest challenge lies in the stability of the infotainment system and the availability of dealer support.

For anyone looking for an electric car with a lot of equipment for a sharp price, the 02 is an attractive option. Take the points of attention mentioned into account, ensure regular maintenance and keep up to date with software updates. In this way you minimise the risk of problems and can enjoy the benefits this compact electric model has to offer.