What makes the Ford Fusion so appealing is that it's a dependable midsize car with a lot of tech features, decent engine options, and good fuel economy. It's perfect for small families and those who want a reliable daily driver.
Plus, it's got a unique look.
While the model was discontinued in 2020, it's still a great car that gets the job done. Let's take a look at what makes the Fusion a reliable car and what you can expect.
Are Ford Fusions Reliable?
Ford Fusions are reliable midsize sedans that are popular as family cars and daily drivers. According to Repairpal.com, ownership costs for the Fusion are average. The frequency and severity of repairs are also average for other cars in the segment.
One downside to the Ford Fusion, however, is the quick depreciation of its value, around 47% in 5 years, according to CarEdge.com.
Cars.com gives the Ford Fusion above-average scores for both the first and second generations. Some of the best points of the first generation (2006-2012) are its boxy look, quiet but spacious cabin, and large trunk space. Meanwhile, the second generation had a more distinctive style and came with sportier handling.
Ford Fusion owners on JD Power also gave the Ford Fusion above-average scores and noted their positive driving experience with it. Some of the key features that these owners appreciated were seat comfort, cabin quietness, audio system, and navigation system.
Other owners noted that the Fusion's trunk space, engine power, and maneuverability could have been improved.
The US News and World Report praised the Ford Fusion for being a well-rounded car with nimble handling, an intuitive infotainment system, and a spacious cabin. However, they also pointed out that in terms of fuel economy and base engine power, competitors have a better advantage over the Fusion.
While some aspects of the Ford Fusion could be better, it's undeniably a midsize car with remarkable utility.
Unfortunately, since the model has been discontinued, new units are scarce. Still, you may be able to get great deals on used units, especially second-generation ones.
What Are the Most Common Issues with Ford Fusions?
Knowing the common issues with the Ford Fusion can help you make a more informed choice, especially if you're in the market to buy a used one.
Here's a quick run-through of some problems you may encounter on specific model years of the Ford Fusion:
Head Gasket Failure
Fusions with 1.5l and 2.0l EcoBoost engines have had quite a few reported head gasket failures with coolant leaking into the cylinders, causing misfires.
Affected Model Years:
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
Throttle Body Problems
Throttle body failures on the affected model years can cause stalling, hesitation, and buck/jerk while driving.
Affected Model Years:
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
Airbag Problems
Ford Fusions in the affected years have had serious airbag-related problems because of the recalled Takata airbags, which are known to explode due to propellant degradation, basically firing off sharp metal fragments.
Evidently, this issue is very dangerous. A related problem is that some faulty airbags that should have been taken out of stock have been inadvertently installed on some models, leading to another recall.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
Transmission Issues
There are some owner reports about transmission-related issues. One of these is delayed or harsh shifting in Fusions with automatic transmission. For more recent model years, a powertrain control module (PCM) and transmission control module (TCM) update may fix the issue, but in some cases, the valve body may need to be replaced.
Other owners have also reported transmission oil leaking from the left side half shaft area. This issue may be caused by a worn axle shaft seal, which will need to be replaced.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
Unusual Sounds While Driving Over Bumps
There are reports of squeaking or creaking sounds from some owners' Fusions as they drove over bumps or turned a corner. There are multiple possible causes of this issue, so getting to the root cause is important.
One possible solution is to get a repair kit for the lower control arms. Another solution is to disassemble and lubricate the strut assembly.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
Swollen Lug Nuts
There are reports that the lug nuts on some Ford Fusions swelled to more than their original size. According to some owners, they needed to drill the lug nuts because they weren't able to use a lug nut wrench.
This issue can be caused by over-tightened lug nuts. Owners are advised to tighten the lug nuts according to the manufacturer's recommendations to prevent this from happening.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2017
Problems with CD Player
A few owners have reported malfunctioning CD players on their Ford Fusions. The CD player reportedly fails to switch on, accept CDs, or even play anything.
One supposed solution to this issue is to remove the radio fuse for 15 minutes and then reconnect it again.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
Key in Ignition Issues
Shift knob or shifter bezel issues can prevent the key from coming out of the ignition, according to some owner reports. A known fix for this issue is to replace the shift knob or bezel as needed.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
Check Engine Light On
A faulty variable camshaft timing (VCT) solenoid can cause the check engine light to turn on. According to some Fusion owners, despite the check engine light, they were able to drive their vehicles normally.
Should you encounter this issue, it's highly recommended that you get to the bottom of the problem because issues with the VCT may cause misfires and negatively impact your engine's performance.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2015
Trunk Latch Problems
In some reported cases, the electric trunk latch solenoid can get stuck in the open position, preventing the trunk from closing properly. Wiring problems can cause this issue. It's often solved by replacing the faulty trunk latch.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
Power Steering Issues
According to some owners, the power steering pump, line or steering rack of some Ford Fusions may leak power steering fluid. This may be due to the improper clamping of power steering fluid lines. New clamps and seals can fix this issue.
Affected Model Years:
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
What Are the Best Model Years for the Ford Fusion?
Based on user and owner reviews, and common problems, we've listed some of the best years for the Ford Fusion. If you're in the market for a used Fusion, you may want to check these models:
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
- 2020
FAQ
How long do Ford Fusions last?
Ford Fusions can last up to 250,000 miles or more with regular care and maintenance. Just follow the recommended service intervals for spark plugs, oil, and engine coolant, among others.
What Ford Fusion model year should I avoid?
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2011 model year is the worst because of a known power steering failure that potentially increases the risk of vehicular accidents. On June 2, 2015, a recall was issued to address this problem. Over 390,000 vehicles were affected by the recall.