I’ve had the Ford Fusion for 4 years and had several issues with it. That said, I still believe it’s a good purchase – but it’s important to be aware of these potential issues.
The Ford Fusion, a popular midsize sedan, has been known to experience various issues over the years.
This article will delve into common Ford Fusion problems, addressing concerns from different model years and shedding light on the most prevalent issues.
Table of Contents
From transmission troubles to head gasket failures, Fusion owners have encountered multiple challenges.
As you continue reading, a clearer understanding of these problems will be provided, as well as insights on how owners have dealt with them.
The Main Problems
Make sure to check the best and worst years for Ford Fusion before making a decision.
Head Gasket Failure
One common issue faced by Ford Fusion owners, particularly those with 2013 to 2019 models equipped with the 1.5l and 2.0l EcoBoost engines, concerns head gasket failure.
Symptoms of this problem include coolant leakage and engine misfires, which, if not addressed, can result in engine failure.
Creaks and Leaks
As the mileage on Ford Fusions increases, owners may experience various squeaks, creaks, and leaks. In particular, many individuals report creaking noises while driving over bumps or turning.
In addition, 205 reports highlight transmission oil leaks stemming from the left side half shaft area.
Transmission Slipping
Another concern with the Ford Fusion, specifically with the 2020 model, is severe transmission slipping.
This can result in a delayed and harsh shifting of gears, leading to an unpleasant driving experience and potential safety hazards on the road.
Power Steering Failure
The 2010 Ford Fusion model has become somewhat notorious for power steering failure. Drivers often report losing power steering in mid-motion, which can be frightening, especially when traveling at high speeds.
Crashes have been known to occur as a result of this issue.
However, this wasn’t an issue at all with my 2015 Ford Fusion.
Swollen Lug Nuts
Swollen lug nuts have been reported by 289 Ford Fusion owners, creating challenges when attempting to change a tire or refurbish the wheels on their vehicles.
This issue has not been limited to specific year models, leading to increased frustration among many Fusion owners.
Problem | Affected Models |
---|---|
Head Gasket Failure | 2013 – 2019 EcoBoost engines |
Creaks and Leaks | All models with high mileage |
Transmission Slipping | 2020 Fusion |
Power Steering Failure | 2010 Fusion |
Swollen Lug Nuts | Various year models |
Other Problems
The Ford Fusion, despite its popularity, has faced various issues in different model years. While some problems are common, others are related to specific years or parts.
In this section, we will discuss some lesser-known problems in the form of a bulleted list.
- Transmission Slipping: Some 2020 owners have reported severe transmission slipping, which could affect the car’s performance and safety. This problem may require addressing by a professional mechanic to ensure proper function.
- Battery Discharging: The 2020 Fusion has had some instances of battery discharging in sleep mode, significantly impacting the battery life and reliability of the vehicle.
- Coolant Leaks: Some models, specifically between 2013 – 2019, equipped with 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost engines, have experienced coolant leaks due to failing head gaskets. These leaks can lead to engine misfires and potential engine failure.
- Swollen Lug Nuts: Certain models feature aluminum-capped lug nuts that may swell and delaminate due to high temperatures or excessive force, making wheel removal difficult.
- Creaking Noises: As the mileage builds up, some owners have reported creaking noises when driving over bumps or turning. These noises may indicate problems with the vehicle’s suspension or body.
- Transmission Oil Leaks: Ford Fusion owners have reported transmission oil leaks, which can affect the vehicle’s transmission performance and longevity.
- Power Steering Failure: Some older models have experienced issues with the power steering system, making it difficult to steer the vehicle and posing a safety risk.
- AC Compressor Failure: A few owners have faced issues with the AC compressor failing over time, which may require replacement for proper functioning of the air conditioning system.
- Throttle Body Malfunction: Ford Fusion models from 2010 – 2013 have reported throttle body malfunctions, causing the vehicle to stall during operation, posing a safety risk.
- Blower Motor Issues: Some owners have faced issues with the blower motor not functioning correctly, which could affect the vehicle’s heating and cooling systems.
It is important to note that not every Ford Fusion will encounter these issues, but they are worth considering for potential owners and current owners to stay informed about possible problems.
General Pros and Cons with the Models
The Ford Fusion has attracted the attention of car enthusiasts and buyers with its design and features.
In this section, we will discuss the general pros and cons of the Ford Fusion models without focusing on a specific model year.
Pros:
- User-friendly and intuitive infotainment setup
- High-end cabin features
- Sporty performance and handling
- Tight and responsive steering
- Good reliability ratings in some models
- Excellent safety scores, with a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests
Cons:
- Head gasket failure in 2013 – 2019 models with 1.5l and 2.0l EcoBoost engines
- Coolant leaking and engine misfires
- Transmission oil leaks in some models
- Creaking noises when driving over bumps or turning
- Battery issues in some models
- 2014 models are prone to steering problems
- Fuel economy is average, with up to 27 MPG combined
Each Ford Fusion model comes with its unique set of advantages and drawbacks. Potential buyers should research specific model years to make an informed decision on the best Fusion for their needs.
What’s the Resale Value?
The resale value of a Ford Fusion can vary significantly based on factors such as the model year, mileage, and overall condition of the vehicle.
On average, you can expect your Fusion to retain 44.16% of its value after five years of use. That makes for a five-year depreciation rate of 55.4%.
However, rivals, including the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, have hybrid variants, and these don’t depreciate as fast as the Fusion hybrid.
Depreciation is an important factor to consider when examining resale values. Generally, vehicles lose their value over time, and the Ford Fusion is no exception.
However, some model years may fare better in the resale market than others based on their reputation.
Model Year | Mileage | Price | Depreciation |
---|---|---|---|
2016 | 60,000 miles | $9,180 | Approx. 40% |
2010 | 130,000 miles | $2,500 | Higher |
– | – | – | – |
As seen in the table above, a 2016 Ford Fusion with 60,000 miles on the odometer has an estimated resale value of around $9,180, which represents a depreciation of approximately 40% from its original MSRP.
The 2010 and 2008 models, on the other hand, are likely to experience higher depreciation rates due to their age and potential issues.
Keep in mind that these figures are just general estimates and can vary depending on factors such as location, vehicle condition, and maintenance history.
It’s always a good idea to consult sources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for up-to-date resale values and vehicle-specific information before making a purchase.
What Do the Reviews Say?
Ford Fusion has its share of issues, as seen in many reviews. Some of the commonly reported problems include head gasket failures in 1.5l and 2.0l EcoBoost engines and excessive battery drain.
Reviewers, however, also praise the vehicle’s driving experience and styling. For example:
“In a class generally known for bland styling and a lack of driving excitement, the Fusion is a breath of fresh air with a stylish, fun-to-drive demeanor.”
“The car feels planted in most scenarios, and it isn’t upset by most small imperfections in the road.”
Although Fusion has its problems, it also has attractive features and solid performance in certain aspects.
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ⓘ The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.