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Here Are The Ford Fusion Years To Avoid


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While the selection of mid-sized sedans has been disappearing from the new car market, there are numerous choices available if you’re looking into pre-owned models. One of the more popular options in this area is the Ford Fusion. But, like with most cars, there are good years and not-so-good years. We’ll review what Ford Fusion years to avoid as we look at each Fusion generation.

THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE FORD FUSION

The Ford Fusion is a solid midsize vehicle from the iconic Ford brand, providing excellent selections from 2006 to 2020. If you want one, you must purchase a used option. You might wonder - what is the most reliable Ford Fusion year?

First-Generation Ford Fusion: 2006-2012

2006-2009 Models

Engine Range:

2.3-liter four-cylinder / 166 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque

3.0-liter six-cylinder / 221 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque

Trim Range:

  • Fusion S: The base S offers bare-bones equipment, including a four-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual transmission. An automatic is optional.
  • Fusion SE: The mid-tier model includes upgrades like an automatic transmission and a power driver’s seat. A six-cylinder is optional.
  • Fusion SEL: The top-of-the-line model can be ordered with luxury options like heated seats and leather upholstery. The larger engine is optional.

“Teething problems” are nothing usual for an all-new vehicle. According to carcomplaints.com, the biggest issue for the first few years of the Fusion is most interior components. So, you’ll come across things like a broken door handle or other failing parts. For the 2008 model year, brake issues surface. The good news is this problem is easy to diagnose and repair, so 2008 isn’t necessarily one of the Ford Fusion years to avoid. Brake troubles do surface for 2009 Fusions but to a lesser extent. 

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2010-2012 Models

Ford introduced a refreshed Fusion for 2010 featuring more sophistication with additional engine and trim options.

Engine Range:

2.5-liter four-cylinder / 175 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque

3.0-liter six-cylinder / 240 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque

3.0-liter six-cylinder / 263 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque (Sport trim)

2.5-liter hybrid four-cylinder / 191 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque

Trim Range:

  • Fusion S: The base S continues as the entry-level Fusion.
  • Fusion SE: The mid-range SE offers some equipment upgrades without breaking the bank.
  • Fusion SEL: With premium features like dual-zone automatic climate control and leather seating, the SEL offers an affordable luxury alternative to imports.
  • Fusion Sport: Ford adds some performance credentials with a more powerful V-6 engine and upgraded suspension and steering.
  • Fusion Hybrid: At long last, a Ford sedan joins the hybrid revolution.

We talked earlier about first-year problems, and the refreshed 2010 Fusion is infamous for steering troubles. These are well-known issues. So, 2010 is definitely one of the Ford Fusion years to avoid. Steering problems continued into 2011 and 2012 but to a lesser extent. If you’re considering an ‘11 or ‘12 Fusion, have the steering (along with the other systems) checked out by a mechanic. Interestingly, troubles with interior components resurface for these same years. 

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Unless you’re a mechanic or super-dedicated car enthusiast, you might not know much about the brakes on your car. How long do they typically last?​ How often should you replace your brakes​? We’ve got answers

Second-Generation Ford Fusion: 2013-2020

For the 2013 model year, Ford introduces an all-new Fusion based on the popular Ford Mondeo sold outside the U.S.  

2013-2016 Models

Engine Range:

2.5-liter four-cylinder / 175 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque

1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder / 179 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque

1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder / 181 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque

2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder / 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque

2.0-liter hybrid four-cylinder / 141 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque

Trim Range:

  • Fusion S: The model now includes automatic transmission and the Ford SYNC infotainment system as standard equipment:
  • Fusion SE: Like the previous generation, the mid-level Fusion offers more features while still being a more budget-minded offering. However, an available luxury package offers leather seating and other upscale equipment.
  • Fusion Titanium: This trim replaces the SEL as the top-level Fusion. Luxury features are supplemented with high-tech infotainment gear. 
  • Fusion Hybrid: This hybrid sedan is also available in S, SE, and Titanium trims.

First-year hiccups are a recurring problem with the Fusion, and 2013 is no different. The biggest issue is engine leak troubles that can cause a fire. In fact, Ford issued a recall for this. Other difficulties for this first-year Fusion include transmission and fuel system headaches. Given we’re talking about multiple potential problem areas, make 2013 one of the Ford Fusion years to avoid. 2014 Fusions see their share of the same issues, so use caution here as well.

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2017-2020 Models

Ford launched a refreshed Fusion for the 2017 model year (there were also some minor updates for 2019). 

Engine Range:

2.5-liter four-cylinder / 175 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque

1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder / 181 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque

2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder / 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque

2.0-liter hybrid four-cylinder / 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque

2.7-liter turbo six-cylinder) / 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque

Trim Range:

  • Fusion S: The base Fusion soldiers on.
  • Fusion SE: the mid-tier trim continues as well
  • Fusion SEL: Starting in 2019, the SE Luxury Package option is dropped and becomes this mid-tier trim.
  • Fusion Titanium: You guessed it, the Titanium trim also carries over for the refreshed Fusion.
  • Fusion Platinum: Although short-lived (2017-2018), Ford introduces an ultra-luxury Fusion with a Nappa leather interior, a power moonroof, and other high-end standard features.
  • Fusion Sport: The performance version of the Fusion gets resurrected with a potent turbo V-6 engine.
  • Fusion Hybrid: Think of the hybrid as more of an engine option than a distinct trim; the Fusion Hybrid can be ordered in multiple trims (S, SE or SEL, Titanium, or Platinum).
  • Fusion Energi: The Fusion Energi was one of the first plug-in hybrids you could buy.   

Overall, the refreshed second-gen Fusion is free of major trouble areas with one notable exception, some 2017s (it’s that first-year thing again) have been reported with electrical troubles. It’s not as common as some of the earlier Fusion problems, but electrical issues can be challenging to diagnose and correct. That said, if you’re considering a newer used Ford Fusion, it’s best to skip the 2017 model year and look at more recent examples.

Keep in mind that Ford discontinued the Fusion after 2020, so the second generation is the last of this four-door sedan.

What Reddit Says About the Ford Fusion Years to Avoid:

The Ford Fusion promises American innovation in a sleek midsize sedan package. However, like any vehicle line, some model years may have more drawbacks than others. We’ve scoured Reddit to collect experiences from actual Fusion owners. Which years might raise red flags for potential buyers? Let’s see:

A great breakdown of the Fusion years to avoid:

Comment
byu/JasonK94Z from discussion
infordfusion

Here’s a different summary to check out:

Comment
byu/Extreme-Island-5041 from discussion
infordfusion

Again, maintenance is king for Fusion longevity:

Comment
byu/JasonK94Z from discussion
infordfusion

A concerning remark from a Fusion owner:

Comment
byu/Extreme-Island-5041 from discussion
infordfusion

Ultimately, many Ford Fusion owners have confidence at their car’s reliability, but some years are certainly more reliable than others.

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