Fusion (2nd)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Reliability Overview
The 2013-2020 Fusion logged 8,218 NHTSA complaints across eight model years, 34 recalls, 136 fire reports, and 4 deaths attributed to defects after the May 2026 deduplication pass corrected an earlier ODI inflation. The headline reliability story for this generation is concentrated, not diffuse. One short-run engine carries more than half of the fire reports, and the shifter-cable bushing has produced a recall chain that keeps getting expanded.
The 1.6L EcoBoost (2013-2014 only) is the defect of record. It carries 770 complaints, well below the 2.0L and 2.5L volumes, but produced 77 confirmed fire reports in NHTSA's dataset. That is a fire rate near 10% of all complaints filed against the engine, an order of magnitude above any other Fusion powerplant. The root cause is cylinder-head cracking driven by coolant loss, which triggered recall 14V438000 covering 2013-2014 Fusion and Escape models with the 1.6L GTDI. The 2014 manual-transmission clutch-fracture recall on the same engine layered additional risk. A Fusion shopper looking at a 2013 or 2014 car should treat the engine code as a hardline filter.
The 6F35 six-speed automatic and the shifter-cable bushing produced the second pattern. Transmission complaints total 1,586 across the generation, with a 594-record concentration on the 2.5L NA cars. Ford's bushing recall began as 18V471000, expanded as 19V362000 to 2013-2016 cars with the 2.5L engine, and expanded again as 22V413000 to sweep in 2013-2018 Fusion, Escape, C-Max, Edge, and Transit Connect models. The failure mode is the same in each campaign: the bushing degrades, the cable disconnects, and a driver who shifts to Park may walk away from a car still in Drive. The 2017 torque converter weld recall (17V427000) on 2.0L six-speed cars is a separate powertrain issue worth verifying.
Steering and electrical round out the top component categories at 1,208 and 1,041 complaints respectively. Four steering recalls hit this generation, including two electric power steering motor-bolt corrosion campaigns covering Rust Belt and salt-air states and a 2018 recall for steering-wheel retaining bolts that could loosen and detach the wheel. The 2.5L NA four leads the steering complaint count at 461 records, the highest of any single engine for that component. Brake and fuel-system recalls add four more campaigns to the list, and the door-latch series alone produced five separate recall actions between 2014 and 2017.
The engine lineup ran a 2.5L naturally aspirated four (base), 1.5L EcoBoost (2014 onward), 1.6L EcoBoost (2013-2014 only), 2.0L EcoBoost (mid-trim), 2.7L EcoBoost V6 in the Fusion Sport (2017-2020), and 2.0L Atkinson-cycle four in the Hybrid and Energi PHEV. The 2.7L V6 shows only 42 complaints and zero fires, the cleanest record in the lineup, though Fusion Sport volumes were small. The Fusion nameplate was discontinued in North America after 2020, so parts and dealer support will thin over the next decade. Used buyers should treat the NHTSA recall lookup as a non-negotiable step before signing rather than a courtesy check.
Engine Reliability Ratings
3.0-V6-Gas
3.0L 6-cyl / 240 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.7-V6-Gas
2.7L 6-cyl / 325 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.5-I4-Gas
2.5L 4-cyl / 175 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
1.5-I4-Gas
1.5L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0-I4-Gas
2.0L 4-cyl / 185 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Ford Fusion Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0-I4-PHEV
2.0L 4-cyl / 185 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
1.6-I4-Gas
1.6L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Show 2 additional engine variants with limited data
2.3-I4-Gas
2.3L 4-cyl / 96 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
1.8-I4-Gas
1.8L 4-cyl / 127 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Battery & Propulsion Reliability
Hybrid (HEV)
Battery & propulsion complaint analysis for the 2013-2020 Ford Fusion
That's about 3.9x the typical rate for hybrids in this dataset (median 7.0 per year). Above peer average — but high-volume models naturally produce more raw complaints, so check the issue mix below before drawing conclusions.
What kind of battery complaint?
Among the 242 battery-related complaints, here's the type mix. These percentages describe what the complaints are about — not how reliable the vehicle is overall.
Loss of power, drive unit, inverter, traction motor, DC-DC converter.
Propulsion battery defects, capacity loss, BMS faults, replacement claims.
Charge port, cable, mobile connector, or session failures.
Low-voltage battery deaths, common on EVs and hybrids that use a 12V for accessories.
Hybrid system warnings, eCVT, motor-generator, hybrid transaxle.
Battery fires, smoke, thermal runaway. Includes any complaint with fire reported.
Battery & propulsion recalls (1)
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Fusion PHEV vehicles. The battery energy control module (BECM) may become damaged due to excessive voltage and current flow.
Consequence: A damaged BECM can result in a loss of drive power or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Sample complaint excerpts
Electric Propulsion
- [2013] I was driving on 7/26/2023 and the power steering system malfunctioned, resulting in complete loss of power steering. I received a warning message: "Steering Assist Malfunction Service Required" I lost control of the vehicle momentarily until I realized I could still steer, but with great difficulty. I pulled over, turned off the car, restarted it and regained power steering for a few seconds be
- [2013] My vehicle steering has failed/is failing. While driving I had intermittent loss of power steering and a knocking noise when turning the wheel in any direction which has been confirmed by my local ford dealer. They have stated that the electric rack and pinion is the issue. I didn’t receive any notification on my dashboard. It seems this is an ongoing problem with my year vehicle in other state
- [2013] The steering gear failed while driving and I had a total loss of power steering. I had no warning when this fault occurred, and the only warning came after the event. The original part that malfunctioned is not available for inspection, nor was it inspected by any other agency prior to its replacement. Loss of power steering while driving is incredibly dangerous, thankfully no accident occurred du
High-Voltage Battery
- [2013] CAR WOULD NOT START WITH KEY IN IGNITION; JUMPED 12V BATTERY TO TAKE TO DEALER. 12V BATTERY REPLACED 3/20/18 ($210). ON 6/10/2018, AGAIN, CAR WOULD NOT START. WAS TOLD BY DEALER THEY DIDN'T KNOW WHY NEW BATTERY NOT WORKING; REPLACED, 12V AGAIN ($0 UNDER WARRANTY). ON 7/19/2018, AGAIN, VEHICLE NOT STARTING; ABSOLUTELY NO ELECTRONIC DISPLAY IN DASH, THEREFORE, LOOKS TO BE 12V BATTERY PROBLEM, AGAIN.
- [2013] MY WIFE AND I WERE ENTERING A PARKING LOT WITH THE FORD FUSION HYBRID AND SLOWED DOWN, THEN STARTED TO SLOWLY ACCELERATE, THE FFH WOULDN'T GO FORWARD NORMALLY AND SORT OF STALLED. MY HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY STATE WAS LOW (1/8 CHARGED) AND THE CAR HAD ABOUT 3/4 TANK OF GAS. IT BEGAN WITH A SERIES OF SURGES THAT WERE CAUSED BY THE CAR NOT KNOWING WHICH PROPULSION SOURCE TO USE. IT TRIED THE GAS E
- [2013] THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THE 12 VOLT BATTERY HAS DIED WHILE THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING FOR 24 HOURS OR MORE. THE FUSION ENERGI TITANIUM WAS IN THE SHOP FOR 10 DAYS AND THE DEALER FINALLY REPLACED THE BATTERY AFTER RUNNING EXTENSIVE TESTS. EACH TIME THIS HAPPENS, THE CAR IS TOTALLY DISABLED AND HAS TO BE JUMPED. THIS ISSUE TENDS TO HAPPEN WHEN IT IS VERY HOT OUTSIDE OR THE CAR IS SITTING IN THE SUN. TH
Charging System
- [2013] I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO SPRADLEY FORD DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE REGARDING RECALLS 16S42 AND 18S24. THE DEALERSHIP REPORTS RESOLVING 16S42 BY SERVICING THE SEAT BELT TENSIONERS. THE DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO ADDRESS RECALL 18S24 BECAUSE I DID NOT HAVE THE CHARGING CABLE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. I SPOKE WITH SERVICE STAFF ON 3 OCCASIONS PRIOR TO PICKING UP MY VEHICLE AND AT NO TIME DID THEY REQUEST OR INFORM ME T
- [2014] I CURRENTLY HAVE A SAFETY RECALL FOR A FAILED THERMISTOR ON MY CHARGING CABLE FOR MY 2014 FORD FUSION ENERGI PLUGIN HYBRID. SAFETY RECALL STATES THAT THERE IS A CHANCE OF FIRE WHEN PLUGGING IN THE CAR TO MY HOME OUTLET USING THE CHARGING CABLE THAT COMES WITH THE VEHICLE. MY FORD DEALERSHIP IS AWARE AND I HAVE REACHED OUT MULTIPLE TIMES ABOUT A REPLACEMENT BUT THERE ARE NONE IN STOCK. SO AT THIS
- [2014] FORD DENIED MY RECALL ON MY VEHICLE CHARGING CABLE AS IT INDICATED THAT IT IS ONLY WORKING TO REPAIR FORD FOCUS ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING CORDS. MY CORD OVERHEATED, DAMAGING MY GARAGE ELECTRICAL OUTLET. MANUFACTURER RECALL NUMBER18S24 NHTSA RECALL NUMBER18V592
12V Auxiliary Battery
- [2013] CAR WOULD NOT START WITH KEY IN IGNITION; JUMPED 12V BATTERY TO TAKE TO DEALER. 12V BATTERY REPLACED 3/20/18 ($210). ON 6/10/2018, AGAIN, CAR WOULD NOT START. WAS TOLD BY DEALER THEY DIDN'T KNOW WHY NEW BATTERY NOT WORKING; REPLACED, 12V AGAIN ($0 UNDER WARRANTY). ON 7/19/2018, AGAIN, VEHICLE NOT STARTING; ABSOLUTELY NO ELECTRONIC DISPLAY IN DASH, THEREFORE, LOOKS TO BE 12V BATTERY PROBLEM, AGAIN.
- [2013] THE REGENERATIVE BRAKING WILL CUT OUT UNDER SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES AND THE CAR WILL FEEL LIKE IT IS LURCHING FORWARD INSTEAD OF SLOWING DOWN. THE SITUATION IS: BRAKING USING ONLY REGEN BRAKES, NO FRICTION BRAKES; STEADY PEDAL PRESSURE; GOING 15-20 MPH; TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL AT LEAST 90 DEGREES LEFT OR RIGHT; DRIVING ON SMOOTH PAVEMENT. DATA I HAVE LOGGED FROM THE SOBDMC INDICATES THAT THE TRA
- [2013] THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THE 12 VOLT BATTERY HAS DIED WHILE THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING FOR 24 HOURS OR MORE. THE FUSION ENERGI TITANIUM WAS IN THE SHOP FOR 10 DAYS AND THE DEALER FINALLY REPLACED THE BATTERY AFTER RUNNING EXTENSIVE TESTS. EACH TIME THIS HAPPENS, THE CAR IS TOTALLY DISABLED AND HAS TO BE JUMPED. THIS ISSUE TENDS TO HAPPEN WHEN IT IS VERY HOT OUTSIDE OR THE CAR IS SITTING IN THE SUN. TH
Hybrid Drivetrain
- [2013] WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT 45 MPH THE CARS BESIDE US BEGAN HONKING AND FLASHING LIGHTS AT US. WE BEGAN TO SLOW FOR A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND SMOKE BEGAN TO POUR OUR FROM UNDERNEATH THE CAR. THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND WE PULLED LEFT INTO THE TURN LANE TO STOP. WE THEN TURNED ON THE FLASHERS AND TURNED OFF THE CAR AND EXITED TO THE MEDIAN. WE CALLED 911 AND LUCKILY, THERE WAS AN ACCIDENT
- [2014] THE VEHICLE WAS SITTING ABOUT 24 HOURS AND I GO TO GET IN IT TO GO TO WORK AND IT DOESN'T IMMEDIATELY START LIKE IT NORMALLY DOES, ONCE IT STARTED THE SERVICE BRAKE LIGHT WAS NOW ON ALONG WITH THE MAINTENANCE WRENCH AND MY BRAKES WERE PRACTICALLY NON EXISTENT SINCE I DON'T LIVE FAR I DROVE IT TO THE DEALER WITH A ESCORT VEHICLE JUST IN CASE AND THE DEALER REPLACED THE BATTERY RETESTED AND IS NOW B
- [2015] THE AFFECTED VEHICLE IS A 2015 FORD FUSION ENERGI WITH 80,350 MILES. VIN: 3FA6P0SU1FR I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM KELLER FORD IN HANFORD CALIFORNIA ON 11JAN2021, AT 79,902 MILES. ON MY WAY TO WORK WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY, SYMPTOMS STARTED WITH A HIGH PITCH NOISE, FOLLOWED BY, A BURNING SMELL, MOTOR OVER TEMP WARNING, AND FINALLY A COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER AND A "PULL OVER SAFELY" WARNING. I HA
Thermal Events
- [2013] The contact's granddaughter owned a 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid. The contact stated that while her granddaughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver looked in the rearview mirror and noticed black smoke coming from the rear seats of the vehicle. The contact stated that the driver's sons were in car seats in the rear seats of the vehicle. The driver immediately pulled over to the side of th
- [2014] It has been reported that the battery in the trunk of the vehicle caught fire and melted down. It is unknown if the vehicle was being operated at the time of the incident. It is unknown if there is a fire or police report available. This is a U.S. Government vehicle owned by GSA and the vehicle is self insured by the government. There was an estimate written by a repair facility and the vehicle
- [2014] THE CHARGE MELTED, ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE THE ELECTRICAL 110 VOLT GFI REPT IN MY GARAGE. I CREATED A CASE WITH FORD AND THEY SAY TOO BAD CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY. MY WIFE AND 20 MONTH OLD SON WERE IN THE HOUSE WHEN THE REPT STARTED SMOKING. I COULD HAVE LOST MY FAMILY AND MY HOME. FORD SAYS NO ISSUES AND THEY CANNOT HELP OR DO ANYTHING. IF YOU GO TO MYFORD MOBILE AND TYPE IN FUSION MELTING REPTS TO
Source: classified from NHTSA complaint and recall data. "Battery-related" includes high-voltage propulsion battery, charging system, hybrid drivetrain, electric propulsion, regenerative braking, 12V auxiliary battery, and thermal-event complaints. Other complaints (suspension, steering, brakes, infotainment) appear in the engine and vehicle-level sections. Rates are absolute counts, not normalized per-VIN — high-volume models naturally produce more raw complaints than low-volume ones. Self-reported death and injury counts are capped per complaint to limit form abuse.
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Ford Fusion regardless of engine variant.
Buyer's Guide
The conservative used pick in this generation is a 2015 or later Fusion with the 2.5L NA four-cylinder. That powertrain combination sidesteps the 1.6L EcoBoost fire risk entirely, has the cleanest engine-complaint record per year of any high-volume option, and avoids the early-production wave that triggered the 2013-2014 door-latch and seat-belt anchor recalls. Avoid the 1.6L EcoBoost on any 2013 or 2014 car unless the seller can document recall 14V438000 closure and a recent cooling-system inspection. The 2.7L EcoBoost Sport (2017-2020) is the cleanest engine record in the lineup but carries the thinnest parts supply chain.
Three inspections matter most before signing. Pull the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm the shifter-cable bushing campaign (18V471000, 19V362000, 22V413000) is closed, then test the shifter on a slight incline and confirm Park engages and holds. Verify the four steering recalls are remedied and drive the car on broken pavement listening for power-steering whine or clunk. On 1.5L EcoBoost cars, ask for coolant-system service records; the engine shows 294 cooling-related complaints concentrated on coolant loss, the same failure family that took down the 1.6L.
This is used-market territory now. The youngest examples are four years old, the Fusion is out of production in North America, and Ford has no successor sedan to feed the dealer parts pipeline. Budget for ongoing recall remediation rather than treating recalls as a one-time cleanup, because Ford continues to issue and expand campaigns on this generation. A clean Carfax does not equal a closed recall list, and a dealer-prep sticker does not equal a VIN-verified remedy.
Recalls (34)
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 Fiesta, 2016 Fusion, and 2016 Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A component inside the door latches may break, which can make it difficult to latch or possibly allow the doors to open while driving.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Fusion PHEV vehicles. The battery energy control module (BECM) may become damaged due to excessive voltage and current flow.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Fusion, Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 Mustang vehicles originally sold or ever registered, in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Hawaii. Exposure to certain environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, high humidity, and salt air can cause the brake pedal bumper to corrode and separate from the brake pedal.
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. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Fiesta, 2014-2016 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 Ford Edge, and 2016 Lincoln MKX vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Road salt or other contaminants may corrode the electric power steering gear motor attachment bolts.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Fusion Energi Hybrid models. The affected vehicles may not adequately protect against direct and indirect contact of high voltage sources during normal operation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 305, "Electric-Powered Vehicles: Electrolyte spillage and electrical shock protection."
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Fusion vehicles equipped with 2.5 liter engines. The bushing that attaches the transmission shifter cable to the transmission may degrade over time and cause the bushing to detach from the transmission. The condition could allow the driver to move the shift lever to Park and remove the ignition key, while the transmission may not be in Park, with no warning message or audible chime.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. In the event of a crash, heat from the deployment of a seat belt pretensioner may cause a front seat belt anchor cable to fail.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Ford Escape, and 2013-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles, equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions. The bushing that attaches the transmission shifter cable to the transmission may degrade over time and cause the bushing to detach from the transmission. The condition could allow the driver to move the shift lever to Park and remove the ignition key, while the transmission may not be in Park, with no warning message or audible chime.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Ford Fusion vehicles equipped with a 1.6L GTDI engine and 6-speed manual transmission and 2015-2016 Ford Focus vehicles equipped with a 1.0L GTDI engine and 6-speed manual transmission. Also included are four 2017 Ford Focus vehicles that had clutch replacements with potentially affected parts. The clutch may fracture, resulting in damage to the transmission assembly and possibly a transmission fluid leak.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion vehicles. The steering wheel retaining bolt may loosen allowing the steering wheel to detach while driving.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 120V Convenience charge cords that were supplied with and sold for use with 2013-2015 Ford C-Max Energi and Fusion Energi vehicles and 2012-2015 Ford Focus Electric vehicles. Cords with part numbers FM58-10B706-AA, FM58-10B706-AB, FM58-10B706-AC, FM58-10B706-AD, FM58-10B706-AE and FM58-10B706-AF were manufactured without thermistors, and during vehicle charging, increased resistance in the house's outlet or wiring can cause the cord to overheat and melt.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Ford Fiesta, 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ vehicles. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Escape, 2014-2015 Fiesta ST, 2013-2014 Fusion and 2013-2015 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 1.6L GTDI engines. If the vehicle is started and driven with an insufficient level of coolant within the engine cooling system, the engine cylinder head may overheat, crack and leak oil.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Edge and Fusion vehicles. On vehicles with 2.0L gas engines and six-speed automatic transmissions, the torque converter weld studs may have been inadequately welded.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured from March 10, 2016, through March 16, 2016. The front driver seat track assembly's rear riser may have been improperly welded to the seat track rail, and as a result, the driver may not be adequately restrained in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 207, "Seating Systems" and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured November 2, 2012, to July 31, 2014, and 2013-2015 Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured November 14, 2012, to July 31, 2014. In the event of a crash, heat from the deployment of a seat belt pretensioner may cause a front seat belt anchor cable to fail.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured September 27, 2016, to September 28, 2016. The left rear seat backs pivot pins may have been improperly welded.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to March 20, 2015, and 2015 Ford Edge vehicles manufactured February 26, 2015, to February 28, 2015, and originally sold, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. In the affected vehicles, snow or water containing road salt or other contaminants may corrode the electric power steering gear motor attachment bolts.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on April 23, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured July 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013, and 2012-2014 Fiesta vehicles manufactured February 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013. On April 30, 2015, Ford expanded the recall to cover an additional 119,567 vehicles, including certain model year 2011 Ford Fiestas manufactured from November 11, 2009, to May 31, 2013 and certain model year 2013 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured from February 1, 2012, to June 30, 2012. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured September 3, 2015, to September 13, 2015, and 2016 Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured September 3, 2015, to September 12, 2015. The affected vehicles have a fuel tank that may have insufficent wall thickness. As a result, the fuel tanks may crack in the event of a crash and thus the vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of the Restraint Control Module (RCM) may crack, and when exposed to humidity, circuits on the printed circuit board may short.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured July 27, 2013, to October 31, 2014, 2015 Ford Fusion Hybrid vehicles manufactured February 24, 2014, to October 31, 2014, and 2015 Ford Fusion Energi vehicles manufactured July 14, 2014, to October 31, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the key may be able to be removed even while the transmission is not in Park. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured August 15, 2012, through September 10, 2013, 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured June 5, 2012, through August 12, 2013, and 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured from July 23, 2012, through May 28, 2013. The driver and passenger seatback assemblies may have been produced with sub-standard weld joints used to attach the seat back recliner mechanism to the seat frame. The affected seat backs may have insufficient strength to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Fusion vehicles manufactured April 19, 2013, through April 23, 2013. The steering gears may be missing an internal retaining clip. If the clip is missing, components inside the steering gear may become dislodged inside the gear assembly.
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Taurus, Flex, Fusion, Police Interceptor Sedan and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles; and certain model year 2013 Lincoln MKS, MKT, and MKZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may develop a crack, allowing fuel to leak.
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Fusion vehicles, manufactured from February 3, 2012, through October 20, 2012, for failing to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." The affected vehicles may not have had the low beam headlamp projector coating properly cured during its manufacturing process.
This is an update to a recently announced recall. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through November 26, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines, as well as certain model year 2013 Fusion vehicles manufactured from February 3, 2012, through November 29, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines. Coolant system leaks may cause the engines to overheat and leak flammable engine fluids.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2013-2020 Ford Fusion problems?
The 2013-2020 Ford Fusion has accumulated 8,218 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Transmission, Steering. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Ford Fusion engine is most reliable?
The 2013-2020 Ford Fusion was offered with 10 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.0L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2013-2020 Ford Fusion a good used car?
The 2013-2020 Ford Fusion can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 8,218 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2013-2020 Ford Fusion have?
The 2013-2020 Ford Fusion has 8,218 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2013-2020 Ford Fusion?
There are 34 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2013-2020 Ford Fusion vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Ford Fusion?
Before buying a used Ford Fusion, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Transmission, Steering, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Fusion?
The 2020 Ford Fusion received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (10.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 8,218 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.