Ford Fusion Common Problems and Years to Avoid

Each row links to the full specification for that generation, including trim-by-trim breakdowns and the part numbers. Where engines within a generation differ, that page separates them.

The problems and recalls on a Ford Fusion is set by its generation, not its model year, so each generation has one page carrying the complete figures, part numbers and fitment notes for every year it covers.

What are the most common problems with the Ford Fusion?

The recurring ones are: 1.6l ecoboost coolant loss / cracked cylinder head fire risk; shift cable bushing failure. transmission can slip out of park; steering gear motor bolt corrosion, loss of power steering assist; door latch failure (multi-model ford campaign); myford touch infotainment freezes and slow response (pre-2017). Each is detailed above with symptoms, affected years, and typical cost.

Which Ford Fusion years should you avoid?

The years to be most careful with are those affected by 1.6l ecoboost coolant loss / cracked cylinder head fire risk (2013-2014 (1.6L EcoBoost only)) and shift cable bushing failure. transmission can slip out of park (2013-2016 (2.5L with 6F35 automatic)) and steering gear motor bolt corrosion, loss of power steering assist (2013-2016). A documented problem is not automatically a reason to walk away. Service records showing the repair was done change the picture entirely.

Are there recalls on the Ford Fusion?

4 of the issues listed carry a recall or technical service bulletin: NHTSA 12V-551 (original, Dec 2012); NHTSA 17V-209 / Ford 17S09 (expanded, 2017) (1.6l ecoboost coolant loss / cracked cylinder head fire risk), NHTSA 19V-362 / Ford 19S16 (2019); expanded by NHTSA 22V-413 / Ford 22S43 (2022) (shift cable bushing failure. transmission can slip out of park), NHTSA 19V-632 / Ford 19S26 (steering gear motor bolt corrosion, loss of power steering assist), NHTSA 20V-177 / Ford 20S15 (door latch failure (multi-model ford campaign)). Recall work is free at a franchised dealer regardless of age or mileage. Check your VIN on the NHTSA site to see what is outstanding.

How much do Ford Fusion repairs typically cost?

Typical figures for the issues above: 1.6l ecoboost coolant loss / cracked cylinder head fire risk, Free under recall; shift cable bushing failure. transmission can slip out of park, Free under recall; steering gear motor bolt corrosion, loss of power steering assist, Free under recall; door latch failure (multi-model ford campaign), Free under recall.