How long will a Ford Fusion last?

Most Ford Fusions will last about 200,000 miles or more with regular maintenance, and many reach 250,000–300,000 miles in real-world use.

To understand what that means for your ownership, this article looks at longevity across the Fusion’s generations, how different powertrains influence durability, and the maintenance habits that help maximize the car’s lifespan.

Durability by powertrain

Gasoline models (non-hybrid)

Gasoline-only Fusions—spanning the 2006–2020 model years—tend to deliver strong longevity when owners stay on top of maintenance. Real-world results commonly place the expected life in the 200,000–300,000-mile range, with variations depending on engine type, transmission health, cooling system upkeep, and climate.

Below is a quick look at the main longevity drivers for gasoline Fusions:

• Regular oil changes with the recommended grade and interval, using synthetic oil if advised, significantly extend engine life.


• Transmission health hinges on following Ford’s service intervals for fluid and filter changes and addressing shifting issues early.


• Cooling-system maintenance—coolant replacement, hoses, radiator, water pump—helps prevent overheating and related damage.


• Rust prevention and underbody care, especially in areas with road salt, protect the frame and critical components over time.


• Brake wear, suspension maintenance, and alignment affect overall drivability and component longevity.

With diligent upkeep, gasoline-only Fusions commonly reach well into the 200,000-mile range, and many owners report 250,000 miles or more.

Fusion Hybrid and Energi versions

Hybrid and Energi plug-in variants combine a gasoline engine with electric drive components. The gasoline portion can enjoy life span similar to their non-hybrid siblings, but the high-voltage battery and hybrid-system hardware introduce different longevity considerations. Battery health is a major factor; many hybrids can function effectively for 8–12 years or longer, but battery replacement can be costly and varies by usage, climate, and charging patterns.

Longevity considerations for hybrid models include the following:

• The high-voltage battery life is a key variable; many owners experience 8–12+ years of useful life, with performance gradually declining as the pack ages.


• Engine and traditional drivetrain components often reach 200,000–300,000 miles when properly maintained.


• Hybrid systems may require specialist maintenance; ensure technicians are trained on Ford's hybrid architecture.


• Battery or inverter replacements, when needed, can be expensive but are not necessarily common in every ownership scenario.

Overall, Fusion hybrids can also reach 200,000–300,000 miles, but the health of the battery and hybrid electronics will largely shape long-term costs and feasibility.

Maintenance habits that maximize lifespan

Keeping a Fusion running for as long as possible hinges on disciplined maintenance, timely repairs, and mindful driving. The checklist below highlights the routines that have the biggest impact on longevity.

Below is a practical maintenance checklist that correlates with longer vehicle life:

1. Follow Ford’s oil-change schedule with the recommended viscosity and switch to synthetic where advised, then monitor oil level regularly.


2. Change transmission fluid at the intervals specified for your model/year (or every 30,000–60,000 miles if Ford recommends it), and address any unusual slipping or hard shifts promptly.


3. Inspect the cooling system regularly, replace coolant as recommended, and replace worn hoses, the thermostat, and the water pump as needed to prevent overheating.


4. Monitor and replace spark plugs at the manufacturer’s recommended interval to avoid misfires and poor fuel economy.


5. Keep the braking system in good order, perform brake-fluid flushes as directed, and ensure proper alignment and tire condition to reduce drivetrain stress.


6. Maintain tire pressure and wheel alignment to minimize rolling resistance and uneven wear, which can indirectly affect engine and transmission life.


7. Protect the battery and electrical system by checking the 12V battery health and replacing aging components; for hybrids, monitor the high-voltage system with qualified service when needed.

Consistent adherence to Ford’s service schedule can push a Fusion toward or beyond the 200,000-mile mark, depending on driving conditions and care.

Summary

The Ford Fusion offers solid longevity across its generations, with gasoline models commonly achieving 200,000–300,000 miles and hybrids facing battery-related variables but still capable of similar engine lifespans. The biggest determinant is maintenance: regular oil changes, timely transmission and cooling-system service, battery health, and careful driving all contribute to a longer, more reliable life. If you’re considering a used Fusion, a detailed maintenance history and records of preventive repairs are strong indicators of future durability.

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 years should I stay away from my 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 vehicle?

The Ford Fusion has an above-average reliability rating, but its dependability varies by model year and engine. While some years like 2020, 2018, 2017, 2010, and 2008 are considered strong performers, other years like 2013, 2014, and 2015 had more recalls and issues. Common problems reported across different model years include power steering failures, engine overheating in certain EcoBoost engines, and transmission shifting issues.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the reliability of different Ford Fusion models: 59sThe Long Last ExpertYouTube · Aug 26, 2024
Reliable model years and engines

• Overall: Years like 2020, 2018, 2017, 2010, and 2008 have generally scored well for reliability. 
• Engine: The 2.5L Duratec engine is considered very reliable, with many owners reporting high mileage from it. 
• Model year 2020: The final model year is noted for having few complaints and a low rate of overall issues. 

Model years and engines to approach with caution

• Model years: 2013, 2014, and 2015 had more frequent recalls and issues. 
• Engines: Smaller EcoBoost engines (especially those in model years 2017-2019) can have issues with engine overheating and coolant intrusion, and some 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L EcoBoost engines can experience head gasket failures. 
• Hybrid/Energi models: The hybrid versions of some second-generation Fusions had reliability issues, and it's recommended to look for 2016 or newer models for improved transmission reliability. 

This video explains the common problems with Ford Fusion models from 2013 to 2020: 57s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Nov 6, 2024
Common problems and maintenance

• Power steering: A common issue is power steering failure, often linked to a faulty steering motor sensor. 
• Engine: Besides the specific EcoBoost issues, check engine lights and oxygen sensor problems have been reported in some years. 
• Transmission: Harsh or delayed shifting can occur. It may be due to a software issue that can be fixed with an update, or it could signal internal problems in higher-mileage vehicles that may require a fluid change or more extensive repairs. 
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, particularly transmission service, is crucial to ensure longevity. 

How many miles can you get out of a Ford Fusion?

A Ford Fusion can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, with many owners reporting over 300,000 miles with proper and consistent maintenance. Factors like regular maintenance, driving habits, specific model year, and quality of repairs significantly influence the vehicle's longevity. 
Factors affecting longevity

• Maintenance: Regular oil changes, transmission fluid changes, and addressing minor repairs promptly are crucial for reaching high mileage. 
• Engine and transmission: The 2.5L engine is often cited as particularly durable, with many reports of it lasting well over 200,000 miles. 
• Model year: Different model years and engine types have varying reliability records, with some owners reporting issues with specific EcoBoost engines. 
• Driving conditions: Exposure to harsh weather or frequent short trips can increase wear and tear. 

How to maximize your Fusion's lifespan

• Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. 
• Change the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. 
• Flush the transmission fluid at recommended intervals to prevent premature failure. 
• Address any issues, such as strange noises or warning lights, as soon as they arise.