What year fusion to stay away from?
The Ford Fusion has been a popular midsize sedan for years, known for its sleek design, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, not all model years are created equal. If you're considering purchasing a used Ford Fusion, it's essential to know which years have had significant issues to avoid costly repairs and headaches down the road. In this article, we’ll explore the Ford Fusion years you might want to steer clear of and why.
Why Some Ford Fusion Years Are Problematic
While the Ford Fusion has generally been a reliable car, certain model years have been plagued by recurring issues. These problems often stem from manufacturing defects, design flaws, or subpar components. Common issues reported by owners include transmission failures, engine problems, and electrical malfunctions. Understanding these issues can help you make an informed decision when shopping for a used Fusion.
Ford Fusion Years to Avoid
Based on owner complaints, expert reviews, and repair data, the following Ford Fusion model years are considered problematic:
- 2010 Ford Fusion: This model year is notorious for power steering failures, which can lead to expensive repairs. Many owners also reported transmission issues, including slipping and complete failure.
- 2012 Ford Fusion: The 2012 model has been criticized for engine stalling and transmission problems. These issues often occur at relatively low mileage, making it a risky choice for buyers.
- 2013 Ford Fusion: While this year introduced a redesign, it also brought a host of problems, including electrical system malfunctions and engine troubles. Many owners reported issues with the MyFord Touch infotainment system as well.
- 2014 Ford Fusion: This model year saw recurring complaints about transmission failures and engine overheating. Additionally, some owners experienced issues with the vehicle's interior quality and durability.
These years stand out due to the frequency and severity of reported problems. While not every vehicle from these years will have issues, the risk is significantly higher compared to other model years.
Tips for Buying a Used Ford Fusion
If you’re set on purchasing a Ford Fusion, here are some tips to ensure you get a reliable vehicle:
- Research Vehicle History: Use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to review the car’s history, including accidents, maintenance records, and previous ownership.
- Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before buying to identify any potential issues.
- Look for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Models: CPO vehicles often come with extended warranties and have undergone thorough inspections.
- Avoid High-Mileage Vehicles: While high mileage doesn’t always mean trouble, it can increase the likelihood of wear-and-tear issues.
- Check for Recalls: Verify if the vehicle has any outstanding recalls and ensure they’ve been addressed by the previous owner.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of purchasing a problematic Ford Fusion and enjoy a reliable driving experience.
Conclusion
The Ford Fusion is a solid choice for a midsize sedan, but some model years are best avoided due to recurring issues. Specifically, the 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2014 models have been flagged for significant problems. If you’re in the market for a used Fusion, do your homework, inspect the vehicle thoroughly, and consider opting for a model year with a better reliability track record. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs—feel free to reach out for expert advice or a pre-purchase inspection!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best engine for the Ford Fusion?
You're better off springing for one of the more potent engine options, which you can get in anything beyond the base trim. Those options are a 181-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder and a 245-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four. These engines are more energetic and deliver noticeably quicker acceleration.
Which year is the Ford Fusion the most reliable?
But all of the second-generation models (2013-2020) are fairly reliable machines save for the eary Fusion Energi and hybrid models. We'd stick to 2016 or newer if you're interested in one of those, as there were some mechanical updates that improved transmission reliability on them.
What year are Ford Fusions recalled?
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles.
What years of Ford Fusion to avoid?
Worst Ford Fusion Models to Buy
| Model Year | Number of Complaints | Most Prevalent Issue |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 2,860 (Fusion Hybrid) | Power Steering |
| 2011 | 2,676 (Fusion) | Power Steering |
| 2012 | 2,461 | Transmission |
| 2013 | 1,841 | Power Steering |
How long will a Ford Fusion engine last?
The lifespan of these engines is around 100,000 to 140,000 mi. So a car with such an engine should only be considered if it has low mileage or a recently replaced engine.
What mileage do Ford Fusions last?
around 250,000 miles
What Is High Mileage for the Ford Fusion? We've discussed that a typical Ford Fusion will last around 250,000 miles. Thanks to this information, high mileage for a Ford Fusion lands at about 200,000 miles. Once the vehicle hits this point, it's much closer to experiencing mechanical troubles thanks to its old age.
What is the life expectancy of a Ford Fusion?
is152,000 miles
The estimated lifespan of a Ford Fusion is152,000 miles, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Factors such as ULEZ compliance and BHP are major when looking into a vehicle's lifespan/life expectancy.
What years did Ford Fusion have transmission problems?
Ford Fusion Transmission Issues
In the time we have been taking Fusion cases, we have become aware of the following alarming issues with models Fusion models 2010 through 2016: Jerking, shuddering, or jolting when shifting gears. RPM malfunctions. Electrical malfunctions.
What is the most reliable car model?
Consumer Reports' 10 most reliable car models
- Toyota RAV4. CR reliability score: 86. Overall CR score: 76.
- Toyota Corolla. CR reliability score: 84.
- Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. CR reliability score: 84.
- Mazda MX-5 Miata. CR reliability score: 84.
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. CR reliability score: 83.
- BMW i4. CR reliability score: 82.
What year do Fords have bad transmissions?
Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.
