The Best Year For The Ford Fusion
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The trusty Ford Fusion has served sedan shoppers for more than a decade. In fact, according to carsalesbase.com, the automaker built more than 3.1 million examples between the 2006 and 2020 model years. But, Ford no longer makes passenger cars (except the Mustang) due to a decision to focus on SUVs and trucks. As a result, buyers seeking this four-door will have to rely on the used car market for a selection. With this in mind, let’s review the best year for the Ford Fusion.
We’ll start with a brief overview of the fundamentals to understand and then get into a year-by-year reliability assessment. We’re using data from carcomplaints.com and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The Basics: Best Year For The Ford Fusion
Our look at each model year of the Ford Fusion takes into account owner-reported issues and technical service bulletins (TSBs). TSBs are manufacturer-issued service guidelines that are sometimes called “secret recalls.” But a TSB doesn’t have the same legal ramifications as an official recall.
And it’s guidance that can involve a minor issue, such as correcting an owner’s manual, or something significant, like a major engine or transmission problem. TSBs aren’t a definitive measurement of vehicle quality (some cars may be subject to hundreds of these bulletins), but they at least give a prospective buyer awareness of potential problems.
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Similarly, owner-generated complaints aren’t the be-all and end-all for determining the best year of the Ford Fusion. Instead, it’s feedback that can red-flag specific trouble areas and help shoppers spot opportunities for trouble. Here’s a summary of owner reports from carcomplaints.com.
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We’ll also include summary information about applicable recalls for a particular model year. Standard practice before buying any used car should involve checking for recalls. Just visit the NHTSA recall website to confirm if the vehicle under consideration is subject to a recall (or check if recall repairs have been completed).
Lastly, our search for the best year of the Ford Fusion covers just the models with a conventional gas-fueled powertrain. These Fusions are far more popular than the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions.
First-Generation Ford Fusion: 2006-2012
2006 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 41
Recalls: 5
In general, we recommend avoiding the purchase of the first year of an all-new or substantially redesigned model. And this rings true with the 2006 Ford Fusion, thanks to more than 1,000 owner complaints and dozens of technical service bulletins. In short, put your money and effort toward another Fusion model year.
2007 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 5
Things improved dramatically for the 2007 Fusion, with significantly fewer complaints and zero TSB reports. Given these improvements, putting this model year on your shopping list is OK. However, keep in mind this is a 15-year-old car. So have a mechanic conduct an inspection before signing any paperwork.
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2008 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 7
The 2008 Fusion has an increase in recalls, but complaint levels are modest, and there are no TSBs. Given these details, it’s fine to shop for this Ford, but remember to get an inspection.
2009 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 40
Recalls: 8
While 40 TSBs and eight recalls are something to pay attention to, the 2009 Fusion’s 1,000-plus complaints are a real cause for concern. Numerous reports of brake problems, which can involve expensive repairs, are a solid reason to take a pass on this model year.
2010 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 87
Recalls: 13
Things get even worse with the 2010 Fusion, as more than 7,000 owners tell of troubles with everything ranging from the engine and transmission to the steering. It all adds up to a Fusion model year to run away from.
2011 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 9
Complaints are way down with the 2011 Fusion, but steering troubles still emerge as the most-reported issue. We suggest treading lightly for this model year. Take it on a case-by-case basis when shopping, and get an inspection before making a purchase.
2012 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 6
2012 wraps up the final year of the first-generation Fusion, but a steady stream of owner reports regarding steering, engine, and transmission issues is something to be worried about. We won’t say take a pass on every 2012 Fusion; just be careful.
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Second-Generation Ford Fusion: 2013-2020
2013 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 18
Don’t let the sleek looks of the all-new 2013 Ford Fusion fool you. Instead, follow our advice about skipping a new model and check out another year for this sedan. There are too many reports of engine and transmission problems to worry about.
2014 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 18
While owner complaints are down, it doesn’t appear that the 2014 Fusion hasn’t completely shaken off the first-year gremlins of its predecessor. Therefore, proceed with caution if you’re checking out a Fusion from this model year.
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2015 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 12
Winner, winner. Chicken dinner. We’ll give the 2015 Fusion the nod for the model year to buy. Sure, it’s not perfect (no car is), but complaints about major systems (like the engine and transmission) have dropped significantly. Plus, 2015 is a sweet spot when it comes to car buying. It’s old enough to benefit from depreciation but is still relatively new.
2016 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 9
Despite a slight uptick in reports about engine problems, we’ll also give a thumbs up to the 2016 Fusion (for the same reasons we like the 2015 model year).
2017 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0
Recalls: 3
A significant jump in owner complaints has us wondering what happened with the 2017 Fusion, mainly because the two previous years have come off well. Drilling down into the details reveals a majority of issues center on electrical troubles, which can be particularly challenging to diagnose and repair. Don’t take the risk; instead, shop for a different Fusion.
2018 / 2019 / 2020 Ford Fusion
TSB Reports: 0 /188 / 95
Recalls: 1 / 0 / 0
It’s too early to pass judgment on the last three model years of the Ford Fusion, as these cars are too new to suffer from problems. With luck, you might find a late-model Fusion with the remains of the factory warranty or coverage via Ford’s certified pre-owned program.
Worst Years of the Ford Fusion
The Ford Fusion is a well-rounded sedan that offers spirited performance and a spacious interior. However, some model years leave a lot to be desired in terms of reliability. Below are the years to avoid:
2010 Ford Fusion:
- Transmission issues: Widespread reports of rough shifting and slipping gears.
- Power steering failure: This model had received reports of power steering assist failure, making the vehicle difficult to steer, especially at low speeds.
- Premature brake wear: Some owners had to replace brake pads and rotors earlier than expected due to excessive wear.
2011 Ford Fusion:
- Engine issues: Widespread reports of stalling, overheating, and misfiring engines.
- Dashboard and infotainment malfunctions: Some Fusions had issues with dashboard displays not working correctly or the infotainment system freezing or not responding.
2012 Ford Fusion:
- Overheating: Problems with the radiator, water pump, or other cooling system components led to engine overheating.
- Fuel pump issues: Some owners faced problems with the fuel pump, leading to engine stalling or reduced performance.
2013-2016 Ford Fusion:
- Transmission problems: Some owners reported a delay in acceleration, especially when trying to merge onto highways or pass other vehicles.
- Engine concerns: Issues with the fuel system, ignition system, or electronic components led to engine stalling or a noticeable loss of power.
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