How do I know what transmission my Ford Fusion has?
The quickest way is to check the VIN and decode it, or consult the window sticker or owner’s manual; those sources will tell you the exact transmission in your Fusion. If you have a Fusion Hybrid or Energi, note that it uses an eCVT rather than a traditional automatic.
Ford Fusion generations have used a mix of transmissions depending on year, engine, and trim. Because the transmission type can vary widely, the most reliable method is to read the official documentation or decode the VIN to identify the exact transmission model installed on your specific vehicle. This guide walks you through dependable ways to confirm the transmission in your Ford Fusion, no matter the year.
Identify transmission via official documentation and the VIN
The following steps leverage documents and the vehicle’s VIN to yield a definitive answer.
- Locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It’s usually on the driver's side dashboard where it meets the windshield, and on the driver’s door jamb sticker; you’ll also find it on your registration and insurance cards.
- Decode the VIN. Use a reputable VIN decoder (such as the NHTSA VIN decoder) or Ford’s official VIN lookup to view the vehicle attributes, including the transmission type or code for your exact car.
- Check the original window sticker. If you have access to it, the sticker lists the drivetrain specification, including the transmission.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the official Ford documentation for your model year. Technical specs sections often state the transmission type by engine.
- Ask a Ford dealer or certified mechanic. Provide them with the VIN and they can pull the precise transmission information from Ford’s database.
Using the VIN and official documents typically provides the most reliable confirmation of your Fusion’s transmission. If you own a Fusion Hybrid or Energi, the VIN decode will indicate an eCVT rather than a conventional automatic.
Alternative ways to confirm when VIN details aren’t handy
These methods are useful if you don’t have immediate access to the VIN or documentation, but they may be less definitive than a VIN-based decode or official paperwork.
- Observe the gear selector and driving behavior. Automatic transmissions generally show a PRND (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) layout and offer a manual mode (M or +/-). A traditional automatic will have this setup, whereas a hybrid’s eCVT presentation can differ in how it’s displayed to the driver.
- Look for model-year cues on the shifter or center console. Some trims and generations visually indicate the type of transmission through the gear selector design and available driving modes.
- Inspect available service records or the door jamb sticker for drivetrain notes. While not always explicit, these documents can list the transmission family or code used for parts compatibility.
- For a precise determination, have a dealer inspect the vehicle’s electronics or read the vehicle’s configuration data from Ford’s systems. A technician can confirm the exact transmission type from the VIN in seconds.
These approaches can help you verify the transmission when you lack the VIN or original paperwork, but they’re typically supplementary to VIN decoding and official documentation.
Finding the exact transmission model code (e.g., 6F35, 6F50) when needed
Some owners or technicians need the exact factory transmission model code for parts compatibility or repairs. Here’s how to obtain it reliably.
- Check the transmission itself if accessible. A tag or stamping on the transmission case near the bell housing or pan often carries the model code.
- Ask the dealership to pull the build data. Provide the VIN; Ford’s service tools will return the exact transmission code used on your car.
- Review the original build sheet or window sticker. They sometimes list the transmission model alongside the engine and drivetrain options.
- Use a diagnostic tool or shop with access to Ford’s vehicle configuration data. Some tools can display the transmission model in the Vehicle Information or Module data sets.
The model-code level detail is most relevant for parts orders and specialized service; in most cases, VIN decode or dealer records are sufficient to identify the correct transmission for maintenance or repairs.
Summary
To determine your Ford Fusion’s transmission, rely on the VIN for a definitive answer via a decoder or Ford’s official lookup, and corroborate with the window sticker or owner’s manual. If you own a Fusion Hybrid or Energi, expect an eCVT instead of a traditional automatic. When the VIN isn’t available, use the gear selector layout and service records as supplementary clues, and consult a Ford dealer for a precise confirmation. Having the correct transmission information ensures proper maintenance, compatible parts, and accurate troubleshooting.
Can my VIN number tell me what transmission I have?
Digits in position 4 through 9 make up the Vehicle Description Section (VDS). The fourth through eighth digits describe your vehicle's model, body type, restraint system, transmission type, and engine code.
Can I look up my transmission by VIN number for free?
When available, the Free VIN Lookup will include the vehicle's year, make, model, trim, pricing, horsepower, fuel type, transmission, drivetrain, etc. Key features, installed options, packages, and specifications detailing engine information, and capacities are also provided in the VIN Lookup.
How do I check my car transmission type?
Open the driver's side door and look for a white placard with small black lettering. This card contains specific details about the year the car was made, its transmission, engine specifications and other details.
What transmission does a Ford Fusion have?
The 2020 Ford Fusion boasts power and efficiency. The entry-level trim level is powered by a 2.5L i-VCT engine that offers an impressive EPA-estimated rating of 31 MPG. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
