Are Ford Fusions expensive to maintain?
Generally, Ford Fusions are not expensive to maintain; routine upkeep tends to be in line with other mid-size sedans. This article breaks down why costs vary, how the model year and engine choice matter, and practical tips to keep maintenance affordable.
The Ford Fusion was discontinued in 2020, which affects parts availability and service options for older examples. Despite that, a large existing owner base and broad aftermarket support help keep parts accessible, and many maintenance tasks are straightforward and competitively priced compared with peers in the segment.
What drives maintenance costs on a Fusion
Below are the primary factors that influence how much you’ll spend over the life of a Fusion. Understanding these helps explain why some owners pay more or less than others.
- Model year and engine type: Older Fusions, or those with less common engines, can incur higher parts costs or longer lead times for certain components.
- Mileage and wear: As with any car, higher mileage increases the likelihood of needing brakes, tires, belts, and suspension parts replaced.
- Maintenance history and driving conditions: Regular, timely service lowers the risk of major failures; aggressive driving or harsh conditions accelerate wear.
- Hybrid vs gasoline variants: Fusion Hybrid and Energi models have different maintenance needs (notably battery and electric-drive components) that can add to repair costs if problems arise.
- Parts availability and labor costs: Since production ended, some parts may come from the aftermarket or independent shops, which can influence pricing and availability.
In practical terms, keeping a Fusion well-maintained—with timely oil changes, tire care, and system inspections—keeps ownership costs predictable and typically within the range for its class.
Cost benchmarks and typical repairs
Before listing typical cost ranges, it helps to set expectations about what you’ll pay for routine upkeep versus major repairs on a Fusion.
- Routine maintenance: Regular oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, and inspections generally run in the low hundreds per year if you follow the recommended schedule.
- Wear items: Tires and brakes are common recurring costs; tires can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per set, while brake service may add a few hundred dollars per axle over time.
- Electrical and battery components: A standard 12V battery replacement is usually modest, while hybrid batteries or specific electrical components can cost more, particularly if replacement is required outside of warranty.
- Major repairs: When a significant component fails (such as a transmission-related issue or water pump), costs can vary widely but may fall in the hundreds to several thousands of dollars depending on the part and labor.
- Hybrids vs gas: Hybrid variants tend to have maintenance costs that mirror gas models for routine work, but battery-related issues can add costs if problems arise; long-term battery life is often strong, and warranties can mitigate risk.
Overall, maintenance costs for a Fusion are typically moderate for its class. The discontinued status introduces some variability in parts pricing, but widespread aftermarket support and many independent shops help keep ownership affordable for most owners.
Living with a Fusion today: tips to save on maintenance
Practical steps can help keep costs down for aging Fusions still on the road today.
- Adhere to the manufacturer’s service schedule and use the recommended fluids and parts to maximize longevity.
- Shop around for parts and labor; independent shops often offer lower labor rates than dealer service centers for routine maintenance.
- Monitor tires for even wear and rotate regularly to maximize lifespan and fuel efficiency.
- If you own a Fusion Hybrid or Energi, follow battery-care guidelines and factor in potential battery-replacement costs into long-term budgeting.
- Keep a documented maintenance history; a clear service record can improve resale value and reduce surprises for future owners.
With proactive maintenance and a careful approach to service providers, Fusion owners can manage ownership costs effectively, even as the model ages.
Summary
In general, the Ford Fusion offers maintenance costs that sit in the middle of the mid-size sedan field. Its discontinuation in 2020 introduces some variability in parts availability and pricing, particularly for older or hybrid variants, but broad aftermarket support and access to independent shops help keep ongoing upkeep affordable. Regular maintenance, sensible tire and brake budgeting, and smart service choices are the keys to keeping the total cost of ownership reasonable for most Fusion owners.
What is the most common problem with Ford Fusion?
Top Ford Fusion Problems
- Harsh or Delayed Shifting of Automatic Transmission.
- Squeaks and Creaks Over Bumps and Turning.
- Swollen Lug Nuts.
- Ford Fusion brake issues leading to spongy pedal and repeated replacements of calipers, pads, and ro...
- Transmission Oil Leaks from Left Side Half Shaft Area.
Is Ford Fusion expensive to insure?
The average annual premium for a Ford Fusion is $336 for minimum coverage and $1,674 for full coverage.
What year to stay away from Ford Fusion?
The Ford Fusion years to avoid are primarily 2010-2012 due to widespread power steering issues. The model years 2013-2016 should also be approached with caution due to potential head gasket problems with the EcoBoost engines and transmission issues, including recalls for certain transmissions.
You can watch this video to learn more about the worst years for Ford Fusion and their issues: 1mAutoMotivateYouTube · Aug 24, 2022
Years to avoid
- 2010–2012: These model years are frequently cited as the worst for the Fusion, with power steering failure being the most common complaint. The 2010 model had the highest number of complaints, followed closely by 2011 and 2012.
- 2013–2016: These years are associated with engine issues in EcoBoost models (1.5L, 1.6L, 2.0L), primarily head gasket failure, which can lead to expensive repairs. Some models from this range also had transmission problems and were subject to recalls.
Specific problems
- Power Steering: A major issue in the 2010-2012 models, often resulting in a complete failure.
- Engine: Head gasket failure in 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L EcoBoost engines from 2013-2016 can cause coolant leaks and overheating.
- Transmission: Some 2013-2016 models experienced shifting problems and leaks, leading to recalls and potential replacement.
- Rust: In snowy climates, earlier models may have a higher susceptibility to rust.
- Hybrid Batteries: The early hybrid versions had less robust batteries compared to some competitors.
Is a Ford Fusion a reliable car?
Yes, the Ford Fusion is generally considered a reliable car, especially the later model years (2016-2020), but some engines have known issues. Reliability can vary by model year and specific engine, with smaller EcoBoost engines being less dependable and some hybrid/EcoBoost models from earlier in the second generation (2013-2015) requiring caution.
Factors affecting reliability
- Model year: Newer models, particularly 2019 and 2020, have good reliability records.
- Engine type:
- EcoBoost: The smaller EcoBoost engines have a poor reputation and are less dependable.
- Hybrid/Energi: These are generally solid, but the early models (2013-2015) can be less reliable. Mechanical updates improved transmission reliability on 2016 and newer hybrid models.
- Non-turbos: Some models with non-turbo engines have been reliable, with some even lasting over 200,000 miles.
- Maintenance: Regular and frequent maintenance, especially for hybrid models, can improve longevity and performance.
- Common issues: Some reported issues include crankshaft sensor failure and transmission problems, though these are not universal across all models.
How to ensure reliability
- Research specific models: Before buying, research the specific year and engine you are considering to understand its particular reliability history.
- Perform regular maintenance: Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule, especially for engine oil and filter changes.
- Consider a pre-purchase inspection: A mechanic can check for any potential issues before you buy the car.
