Are there any problems with a 2018 Ford Fusion?

Yes. The 2018 Fusion has several commonly reported issues—most notably transmission behavior, infotainment glitches, and electric power steering complaints—though many examples remain reliable with proper maintenance.

Common problems reported by owners

Below is a look at the issues most frequently mentioned by owners, including how they manifest and what causes are cited in reports from owners and technicians.

• Transmission and drivetrain concerns: Some drivers report hard or delayed shifts, shuddering at low speeds, and hesitation when accelerating from a stop. These issues are commonly associated with the car’s automatic transmission and may require software updates or transmission service.


• Infotainment and electrical glitches: Sync 3 or earlier MyFord Touch interfaces can freeze, reboot, or become unresponsive, and Bluetooth or smartphone integration can occasionally fail or behave inconsistently.


• Electric power steering (EPAS) failures: Several Fusion models have reported loss of power steering assist or unusually heavy steering, which can affect handling, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers.


• Engine and emissions-related concerns: Some owners report misfires, rough idle, or warning lights related to ignition coils, spark plugs, or sensors on turbocharged engines, which can require diagnostic work and component replacement.


• Braking and suspension concerns: Occasional brake pulsation, rotor wear, or noises from the suspension and wheel assemblies (such as noisy bearings or CV joints) have been noted in some vehicles.

While not universal, these problems appear with enough frequency to warrant attention during inspection, test drives, and ongoing maintenance. Regular service and prompt diagnosis can mitigate many issues.

Recalls and safety advisories

Vehicle recalls address defined safety or reliability defects. For the 2018 Fusion, several recalls have affected various vehicles across model years. The exact status for any given car depends on its VIN, so owners should verify recall status before driving or scheduling service.

• Use the NHTSA recall lookup or Ford’s official recall database to check open recalls by VIN. Recalls can cover airbags, electrical components, software, and other safety-critical systems.


• Dealerships fix recalls at no charge to the owner. If a recall applies to your vehicle, scheduling the repair promptly is advised to maintain safety and performance.

Recalls can be completed at no cost, and addressing them promptly can prevent safety issues or further repairs. Always verify recall status with your VIN and arrange service if needed.

What to check before buying or owning

These checks and considerations can help buyers and current owners minimize risk and catch problems early.

Before buying a used 2018 Fusion

These are quick checks and considerations to assess the car’s condition before purchasing.

• Request a full service history, especially for transmission, engine, and infotainment components.


• Test the transmission: note any delay when shifting, shuddering at low speed, or harsh downshifts.


• Test infotainment: check screen responsiveness, navigation reliability, and Bluetooth/Smartphone integration.


• Inspect for warning lights related to steering or electrical systems; listen for unusual steering effort or noises.

Conclusion: A well-documented service history and a clean diagnostic report are strong indicators of reliability for a used Fusion.

While you own a 2018 Fusion

Ongoing maintenance and vigilance can help prevent or catch issues early.

• Keep up with routine maintenance: oil changes, transmission service if recommended, brake checks, battery health, and software updates.


• Check for open recalls periodically and ensure they’re resolved.


• Monitor for warning lights or unusual performance signals and address them promptly with a dealer or qualified mechanic.


• Consider extended warranty or service plans if mileage is high or if you anticipate potential repairs.

Conclusion: Proactive maintenance and timely repairs are essential to keeping the Fusion performing well over time.

Summary

The 2018 Ford Fusion is generally a capable mid-size sedan, but it has several commonly reported issues that buyers and owners should be aware of. Transmission behavior, infotainment glitches, and steering-related concerns are among the most frequently cited problems. By verifying maintenance history, checking for open recalls, and keeping up with software updates and service, you can mitigate many of these risks. Always rely on official sources like NHTSA and Ford for recall status and service advisories, and consider a professional pre-purchase inspection for used vehicles.

Is 2018 a good year for Ford Fusion?

Reviews for the 2018 Ford Fusion are generally positive, highlighting its comfortable and quiet ride, stylish design, and user-friendly technology, though performance varies by trim. Key strengths include excellent fuel efficiency in hybrid models, impressive acceleration in the Sport trim, and a versatile feature set, including available safety and driver-assist systems. While rear-seat space and some base model performance are noted as average, many reviews praise the value and overall quality of the sedan.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2018 Ford Fusion Sport's performance: 1mTheStraightPipesYouTube · Jun 22, 2018
Positive aspects

• Comfort and handling: The Fusion offers a smooth, quiet ride and precise handling, especially in higher trims with adaptive suspensions. 
• Fuel efficiency: The hybrid models are praised for their excellent fuel economy, and the EcoBoost engines are also noted for their efficiency. 
• Technology and interior: The interior is noted as comfortable, with modern technology features and a well-regarded infotainment system. 
• Performance: The 2018 Fusion Sport, with its twin-turbo V6 engine, is highlighted for its powerful acceleration, which is competitive for its class. 

Potential drawbacks

• Rear-seat space: Rear headroom and overall legroom are noted as average and potentially cramped for taller passengers. 
• Performance for base models: Base models are described as less athletic than the Sport version, though still comfortable for daily driving. 

This video reviews the 2018 Ford Fusion SE, highlighting its interior and features: 53sHeritage FordYouTube · Jan 15, 2025
Key features by trim

• Fusion Hybrid/Energi: Praised for fuel economy and a comfortable driving experience. 
• Fusion Sport: Offers powerful acceleration with a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, standard all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned suspension with pothole mitigation technology. 
• Fusion Platinum: Offers a more luxurious and upscale experience with high-end materials and features. 
• SE Trim: Considered a great value, especially when equipped with optional safety features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. 

What problems do 2018 Ford Fusions have?

Common problems for the 2018 Ford Fusion include transmission issues like harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and leaks, as well as swollen lug nuts. Other frequently reported problems involve engine cooling system issues, electrical problems (like the check engine light or CD player not working), and power steering noises or leaks. Some EcoBoost models may also be prone to coolant loss, often due to a faulty head gasket.
 
This video discusses some of the common problems in Ford Fusion sedans and how to diagnose them: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Nov 6, 2024
Transmission

• Harsh or delayed shifting: This can be due to low or dirty transmission fluid, a faulty torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid, or a software issue. 
• Leaks: Some models may experience transmission oil leaks from the half-shaft area. 
• Slipping and poor acceleration: This can be a sign of worn clutch packs or faulty solenoids. 

Engine and cooling 

• Coolant loss: Models with 1.5L and 1.6L EcoBoost engines can be susceptible to coolant loss, leading to overheating and potential engine damage. 
• Check engine light: This can illuminate for a variety of reasons, sometimes without a clear fault. 
• Fuel system problems: Issues can arise with the high-pressure fuel pump or other sensors. 

Electrical and other systems

• Swollen lug nuts: This is a very common issue that can prevent wheels from being properly removed. 
• Power steering problems: This includes noises and fluid leaks. 
• Sunroof and door issues: Some owners report problems with the sunroof not closing properly and issues with the trunk or door latches. 
• Brake issues: Reports include spongy brake pedals, requiring repeated replacement of calipers, pads, and rotors. 
• Electrical accessories: Problems can affect features like the CD player, keyless entry, and gauges. 

You can watch this video to learn about some DIY repairs for common issues in Ford Fusion: 1mThe Driver ModYouTube · Jun 18, 2024

What is the best year of Ford Fusion to avoid?

The Ford Fusion years to avoid are 2010–2012, which had a high number of complaints for power steering, transmission, and electrical issues. Additionally, avoid certain engine models in later years, specifically the 1.5L and 1.6L EcoBoost engines and the 2.0L EcoBoost engines from late 2017 to early 2019 due to potential coolant intrusion problems. 
Years to avoid

• 2010–2012: These model years are considered the worst due to significant issues with power steering, which was a very common problem. The 2012 model also had more transmission complaints. 
• 2017–2019: Avoid the 2.0L EcoBoost engines from this period because of a risk of coolant intrusion, which can cause severe engine damage. The 1.5L and 1.6L engines from 2013-2019 are also prone to this issue. 

Why these years are problematic

• Power Steering: The 2010 model year had a particularly high number of steering-related complaints, with issues continuing into 2011 and 2012. 
• Transmission: The 2012 model year saw a spike in transmission complaints. The 6F35 transmission, used in various years, is also a known point of concern for some owners. 
• Engine Coolant Intrusion: The 1.5L and 1.6L EcoBoost engines, as well as the 2.0L EcoBoost engines built between late 2017 and early 2019, are known to have a coolant intrusion problem that can lead to expensive engine failure. 

This video explains the common issues with Ford Fusion engines from 2013 to 2020: 52sThe Long Last ExpertYouTube · Aug 26, 2024
What to look for in a good year

• Generally reliable years: 2008, 2018, 2020 are often cited as more reliable model years. 
• Reliable engines: The 2.5L engine and the 2.0L hybrid engine are generally considered more reliable than the EcoBoost engines, though the 2.5L is less powerful. 
• Later 2.0L EcoBoost engines: After early 2019, Ford updated the engine block to address the coolant intrusion problem, making later 2.0L EcoBoost models a safer bet. 

This video discusses the best and worst Ford Fusion models: 50sThe Driver ModYouTube · Feb 21, 2025

What year fusions have transmission problems?

The recall affected 2013 – 2016 Fusions. In addition to the official recall, many Ford Fusion owners have reported serious transmission issues at relatively low mileage.