How long do struts last on a Ford Fusion?

Struts on a Ford Fusion typically last about 60,000 to 100,000 miles, though actual life can be shorter or longer depending on driving conditions and maintenance. This article breaks down what influences strut longevity, signs of wear to watch for, and what to expect if you need a replacement.

What affects strut longevity

The lifespan of Ford Fusion struts depends on a mix of environmental and driving factors, as well as the quality of parts used and maintenance habits. The following factors commonly influence how long your struts will perform before needing replacement.

• Road quality and terrain (rough roads, speed bumps, potholes).


• Driving style (aggressive steering, frequent hard braking, high speeds over uneven surfaces).


• Vehicle load and suspension wear from carrying heavy cargo or towing.


• Strut leaks or damage from impacts, which can shorten their effective life.


• Age and accumulated mileage, since hydraulic fluid and seals wear over time.


• Parts quality (OEM versus aftermarket) and proper installation.

In practice, harsher conditions or lower-quality components tend to shorten strut life. Proper alignment and timely tire maintenance can help maximize performance between replacements.

Estimated lifespan by setup

Here’s a general ballpark for the Ford Fusion, noting that actual results vary by model year and driving conditions.

• Front struts: typically 60,000–100,000 miles.


• Rear shocks (or rear struts on some configurations): commonly 60,000–100,000 miles.


• Overall replacement approach: many owners replace struts/assemblies in pairs on the same axle; replacing all four is common when one side shows wear.

Ultimately, lifespan is influenced by how you drive and where you drive, plus how well the suspension was built for a given trim year. Inspections during routine service can help establish a more precise replacement timeline.

Symptoms that your struts may need replacement

Be alert for signs that indicate worn or failing struts. Early detection can prevent further wear on other suspension components and maintain handling safety.

• Excessive bouncing after bumps or dips in the road.


• Nose-diving during braking or instability when turning.


• Visible leakage of hydraulic fluid around the strut gland or body.


• Uneven tire wear or changes in ride height on one corner of the vehicle.


• Clunking, knocking, or squeaking noises over rough surfaces.


• Changed steering feel or reduced dampening performance.

If you notice these symptoms, have a professional inspect the suspension promptly. Delaying replacement can lead to further wear on related components and reduced driving safety.

Replacement considerations and costs

When planning a strut replacement, keep in mind several practical factors that affect timing, parts selection, and price. The following guidance helps set expectations for most Ford Fusion owners.

• Replace in pairs on the same axle (front or rear) for balanced handling, unless only one strut is failing and a professional advises otherwise.


• Parts options include complete strut assemblies or individual shock/strut cartridges and mounts; assemblies are often preferred for ease of installation and alignment accuracy.


• Costs vary by region, shop, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts. A typical range might be several hundred dollars per axle for parts plus labor, with all four corners costing more. Always get a written estimate before work.


• Labor time generally ranges from around 2 to 4 hours per axle, depending on the vehicle year, trim, and shop complexity.

Prices can vary widely, so contact local shops for precise estimates. Expect higher total costs if additional items like alignment or mounts are needed after the struts are replaced.

Do Ford Fusion struts wear differently by year or trim?

Strut design can vary somewhat between generations and trim levels, particularly between earlier models with conventional struts and later versions with upgraded assemblies. While the general lifespan (tens of thousands of miles) remains similar, some trims may experience different wear patterns due to suspension tuning or weight distribution. A professional inspection will provide the most accurate assessment for your specific Fusion.

Bottom line

For most Ford Fusion owners, struts last roughly 60,000 to 100,000 miles, with life shorter in tough driving conditions and longer with careful use and maintenance. Pay attention to ride quality and handling signals, and plan replacements in pairs for even suspension performance. Costs vary, so obtain local quotes and consider whether you want OEM or aftermarket parts based on your needs.

Summary

In summary, struts on a Ford Fusion typically endure about 60,000–100,000 miles, influenced by road conditions, driving style, and maintenance. Watch for symptoms such as excessive bounce, nose-diving, fluid leaks, uneven tire wear, or unusual noises. When replacement is needed, replacing struts in pairs is common, with costs that depend on parts choice and labor—always consult a trusted shop for a clear estimate. Regular inspections help keep the Fusion’s ride and handling safe and stable.

Can a Ford Fusion last 300,000 miles?

Yes, a Ford Fusion can last 300,000 miles, with many owners on forums and social media reporting their vehicles reaching this milestone or higher. The key to achieving this mileage is consistent and proper maintenance, including regular oil changes, and addressing issues like transmission care and potential engine problems promptly. 
You can watch this video to learn more about Ford Fusion reliability and lifespan: 58sAxleWiseYouTube · Aug 28, 2023
Factors influencing longevity

• Consistent maintenance: Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and keeping up with the recommended service schedule are crucial for a Fusion to reach its highest mileage potential. 
• Driving habits: How a vehicle is driven significantly impacts its lifespan. A mix of highway and city driving, along with avoiding harsh driving, helps preserve the engine and other components. 
• Transmissions: While many Fusions last long, some transmission issues, such as hard shifting, have been reported, and these should be addressed to prevent further damage. 
• Engine-specific issues: Certain engines, particularly the 1.5L and 1.6L EcoBoost, have known issues like coolant loss that require early detection and repair to prevent catastrophic engine damage. 

This video explains the reliability guide for Ford Fusion from 2013-2020: 50sThe Long Last ExpertYouTube · Aug 26, 2024
Tips for a long-lasting Fusion

• Stay on top of routine maintenance, especially oil and coolant changes. 
• Address any shifting problems with the transmission immediately. 
• Pay close attention to engine performance, particularly if you have an EcoBoost model, and watch for signs of coolant leaks. 
• Consider an undercoating for rust protection, especially if you drive on gravel roads frequently. 

What are the signs of a bad strut?

Symptoms of a bad strut include a bouncy or uncontrolled ride, excessive vehicle body roll or sway when cornering, and the vehicle nose-diving during braking. Other signs are visible fluid leaks from the strut, unusual noises like clunking or grinding, and uneven tire wear (cupping or scalloping).
 
Ride quality 

• Excessive bouncing: The vehicle continues to bounce up and down more than once after hitting a bump. 
• Body roll: The car leans or sways excessively when making turns. 
• Nose-diving: The front end dips down significantly during hard braking. 
• Rear squat: The back end of the vehicle squats or dips down when you accelerate. 

Handling and performance

• Poor handling: The vehicle feels unstable or wobbly, especially at higher speeds. 
• Longer stopping distance: It takes longer for your car to come to a complete stop. 
• Vibrating steering wheel: A slight vibration may be normal, but a noticeable shake when driving on bumpy roads can indicate bad struts. 

Visual and auditory signs 

• Fluid leaks: Look for oil or fluid leaking from the strut's exterior, which can cause dirt and debris to accumulate around it. 
• Unusual noises: Listen for sounds like clunking, knocking, grinding, or creaking, especially when going over bumps or turning. 
• Uneven tire wear: Check your tires for signs of "cupping" or "scalloping," which can be caused by the tire bouncing on the road. 
• Visible damage: Inspect for any visible dents or damage to the strut itself. 

How much does it cost to replace struts on a Ford Fusion?

The cost to replace the struts on a Ford Fusion typically ranges from $790 to over $2,700, depending on the model year and whether it's a front or rear replacement. A reasonable estimate is between $1,000 and $1,500, but prices can vary based on parts and labor. Struts are a critical safety component that should always be replaced in pairs.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the average cost of replacing a car strut: 48sStudent LessonYouTube · Jun 7, 2024
Cost breakdown

• Parts: The cost of the parts themselves can vary, with a premium strut assembly (including the coil spring) costing around $238 for a front replacement, as shown in an example for a 2018 Ford Fusion. 
• Labor: Professional installation is necessary and adds to the total cost. The average shop/dealer price for strut assembly replacement can be significantly higher than the parts alone, as seen in the examples. 
• Additional costs: Other components like wheel alignment may be needed after replacing the struts to ensure proper handling, which adds to the final price. 

What to consider

• Always replace in pairs: Struts are critical suspension components and should be replaced in pairs (front or rear) to maintain balanced handling and safety. 
• Symptoms of bad struts: Common symptoms include a bouncy or bumpy ride, fluid leaks from the strut body, uneven tire wear, and a "nose-diving" sensation when braking. 
• Impact on safety: Driving with worn-out struts can be dangerous as it affects vehicle control, handling, and braking distance. 

How long do Ford struts last?

50,000 to 100,000 miles
Shocks and Struts Lifespan
Like most car systems, the lifespan of your vehicle's shocks and struts depends on many variables, including road condition, payload, and how fast you drive over speed bumps and potholes. However, they typically last from 50,000 to 100,000 miles.