If you’re thinking about buying a Ford Fusion, you should be aware that some model years are known for having a lot of problems.
Specifically, the 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013 models have a bad reputation because of issues with power steering, transmission, and the engine. These problems can be expensive to fix and can pose safety risks.
So, why are these years particularly problematic, and are there other years to avoid? Let’s look into the details so you can make a smart choice and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Key Takeaways
- The 2010 Ford Fusion has big problems with the transmission and airbags, and there have been multiple recalls.
- The 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013 models have issues with the power steering that can be dangerous.
- The 2010, 2013, and 2014 Fusion models often have problems with the engine stalling and shifting roughly.
- The brakes are a serious issue in the 2010, 2008, and 2011 Ford Fusion models.
- The 2010-2013 Ford Fusion models have a lot of complaints and are not very reliable.
2010 Ford Fusion Issues
Looking into the 2010 Ford Fusion shows a lot of complaints about power steering problems and transmission issues, pointing to major reliability concerns.
Common problems include issues with the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which often fails and causes a loss of steering control. This is a big safety risk.
Engine failure is also common, usually due to coolant leaking into the engine, which leads to overheating and eventually the engine seizing up.
Transmission problems are also reported, with erratic shifting and complete transmission failure being frequent issues.
With 4,986 complaints on NHTSA and 436 on CarComplaints, it’s clear that these problems are serious and happen often, making the 2010 model a year to steer clear of.
2006 Ford Fusion Problems
When looking at the main problems with the 2006 Ford Fusion, it’s important to note the ongoing issues with the power steering, engine, and transmission that have hurt the car’s reliability.
Engine failures often lead to stalling and poor performance. Power steering problems, especially in older models, can cause a loss of steering control, making it a serious safety concern.
Brake issues, like wearing out too soon and malfunctioning parts, add to the reliability problems. Other issues include faulty airbags, a failed throttle body, and transmission problems that cause rough shifting and loss of acceleration.
These problems highlight the need to carefully check out a Ford Fusion before buying one.
2008 Ford Fusion Concerns
When looking at the Ford Fusion, you should watch out for a few key problems. These include frequent brake troubles, recalls for the airbag system, and issues with the lights.
These problems not only affect safety but can also lead to higher repair bills. Knowing about these issues can help you decide which Ford Fusion models to steer clear of.
Common Brake Issues
Over the years, the Ford Fusion has had a lot of brake problems, such as soft brakes, ABS system failures, and issues with exterior lights. These problems are especially common in models from 2010 to 2013.
In 2008, the Fusion had seven recalls because of brake issues, showing how serious these problems are. The 2011 Fusion had nine safety recalls and also had frequent brake problems.
The 2010 model had many complaints about its brakes, as well as issues with power steering and transmission. It’s important to check these model years carefully before buying, as these ongoing brake problems can affect the safety and performance of the car.
Airbag System Recalls
Besides brake problems, Ford Fusion models from 2010 and 2013 also had major recalls because of airbag issues. These recalls happened because the airbags mightn’t work properly in an accident, which is a big safety risk.
If the airbags don’t deploy as they should, the car can’t protect its passengers well, so fixing this problem was urgent. Owners of these cars were told to get their airbags fixed right away to stay safe.
These recalls show how important it’s to fix airbag problems quickly to keep everyone safe. It’s a good reminder to keep an eye on recalls and act fast to make sure your car is safe to drive.
Lighting Problems Overview
The 2006 and 2008 Ford Fusion models had significant problems with their exterior lights, making them less reliable.
For the 2008 Fusion, 1,344 complaints were filed with the NHSTA, often mentioning issues with the car’s exterior lights. Similarly, the 2006 Fusion had 728 complaints, many of which were about lighting problems.
These issues included malfunctioning headlights and taillights, flickering lights, bulbs burning out too soon, and even complete loss of exterior lighting.
These lighting defects not only created safety hazards but also led to high repair costs, making these model years less appealing to those looking for dependable cars.
2011 Ford Fusion Failures
The 2010-2013 Ford Fusion models have a lot of problems, making them years to avoid if you’re thinking about buying one. These cars often have engine issues, like engine cylinder problems in the 2013 model, which can be expensive to fix.
The 2013 Fusion also has a lot of steering problems, especially with the steering gear motor, which can make the car harder to control and less safe to drive. Transmission problems are common too, showing up as jerky shifting and transmission slips.
The 2010 model alone has 4,986 complaints reported to the NHTSA, showing just how many issues it has. All these problems make the 2010-2013 Ford Fusion models a poor choice for long-term ownership.
2012 Ford Fusion Troubles
If you’re thinking about buying a 2010 or 2013 Ford Fusion, you should know they have a lot of problems. Both models often have engine and steering issues.
For the engine, people report stalling and rough shifting, which can be dangerous. The 2010 Fusion often has problems with the power steering assist, and the 2013 model has similar steering issues. The 2010 Fusion also has frequent transmission problems, leading to jerky driving.
Because of these issues, it’s crucial to inspect these cars thoroughly and read reviews and feedback from other users before making a decision.
2013 Ford Fusion Flaws
When looking at the Ford Fusion, know that it often has problems with the engine stalling and the transmission breaking down.
These issues can make the car less reliable and more expensive to fix.
Knowing about these problems can help you decide if this car is right for you and save you from future trouble.
Frequent Engine Stalling
Engine stalling is a big problem in some Ford Fusion models, especially the 2010, 2011, and 2013 versions. Many people have complained about this issue to the NHTSA and carcomplaints.
For the 2010 Ford Fusion, there were 4,986 reports of engine stalling. The 2011 model had 268 similar complaints, and the 2013 Ford Fusion had 1,790 complaints.
Engine stalling can be very dangerous and might cause accidents or leave you stranded. If you own one of these models, it’s important to fix engine stalling problems right away. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to keep your Ford Fusion running reliably and safely.
Recurring Transmission Issues
The 2010 Ford Fusion has had ongoing transmission problems, which hurt its reliability and overall experience for owners. These issues show up as hard shifting, slipping gears, and sometimes complete transmission failure. Not only do these problems make the car perform worse, but they also lead to expensive repairs and lower resale value.
The 2013 Ford Fusion has its own set of issues, mainly with its electronic system. Problems include erratic dashboard displays and sudden loss of power, which also affect how well the car performs and its reliability.
Because of these recurring problems, it’s wise for potential buyers to be cautious when considering either the 2010 or 2013 Ford Fusion models, as these issues can seriously impact long-term satisfaction and dependability.
2014 Ford Fusion Drawbacks
Looking at the downsides of the Ford Fusion, certain model years have notable issues like power steering failures, transmission problems, engine troubles, and brake issues. The 2010 Ford Fusion is particularly problematic, with major complaints about engine overheating and steering wheel malfunctions. It received 4,986 complaints on NHTSA, mainly due to power steering assist failures and faulty airbags.
The 2013 Ford Fusion also faced a lot of criticism, with 1,790 complaints on NHTSA about engine stalls and rough shifting. The 2011 and 2012 models had recurring problems with power steering and transmissions, leading to frequent dissatisfaction among owners. These problems mean that potential buyers should be careful when considering these models.
Power Steering Failures
When looking at the common problems with some Ford Fusion model years, power steering failures stand out for the 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013 models.
These issues often show up as harder steering, a stiff steering wheel, or even a complete loss of power steering.
The 2010 model year, in particular, has received many complaints about power steering assist problems. This usually happens because the steering gear motor can fail, causing the steering wheel to jerk or lock up while driving.
These failures aren’t only dangerous but also expensive to fix.
If you’re thinking about getting a Ford Fusion, be careful with these specific model years.
Transmission Problems
Transmission problems, especially in the 2010 Ford Fusion, are a major concern because they can really mess up how the car drives and your overall experience owning it. This model year is known for having issues with its automatic transmission, with many reports of failures that can make the car difficult to drive.
If you’re thinking about buying a 2010 Ford Fusion, it’s important to carefully check the transmission. Knowing about these potential issues can help you make a better decision. Looking at detailed vehicle history reports can also show if there have been past transmission problems, helping you avoid expensive repairs.
Checking the transmission’s condition and history closely can save you from the hassle of dealing with these common issues in the 2010 Fusion.
Engine Failures
Look out for common engine problems like frequent stalling, rough shifting, and the engine completely shutting down if you’re thinking about getting a Ford Fusion from 2010, 2013, or 2014.
Fixing these issues quickly can save you from expensive repairs and keep you safe.
Knowing these warning signs is key to keeping your car running well and reliable.
Common Engine Failure Signs
Spotting common engine problems in Ford Fusion models can help you avoid expensive repairs and serious damage. Here are some engine trouble signs to watch for: unusual knocking or tapping noises, a lot of exhaust smoke, losing power, and the check engine light turning on. These issues can be caused by overheating, oil leaks, or worn-out parts, which are common in some Ford Fusion models.
| Engine Problem | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Knocking/Tapping Noises | Worn-out parts |
| Excessive Exhaust Smoke | Oil leaks |
| Losing Power | Overheating |
| Check Engine Light On | Various underlying problems |
| Sudden Acceleration Loss | Potential engine issues |
Fixing these problems quickly can help prevent serious engine damage in certain Ford Fusion models.
Avoiding Costly Repairs
To avoid expensive engine problems, be careful with certain Ford Fusion model years like 2010, 2012, and 2013, which have a history of serious repair issues. These models are known for engine failures that can lead to high repair bills and reliability problems. Steering clear of these years can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure a more reliable driving experience.
Here are the key issues for these models:
- 2010 Ford Fusion: Many complaints and recalls about engine failures.
- 2012 Ford Fusion: High repair costs due to engine problems.
- 2013 Ford Fusion: Ongoing engine failures, making it a year to avoid.
Faulty Airbags
The 2010 Ford Fusion has had major problems with its airbag system, which has led to many complaints and recalls. There were 4,986 complaints on the NHTSA and 436 on CarComplaints, mostly about the airbags. These issues made the car unsafe, putting both drivers and passengers at risk.
Because of this, seven recalls were issued to fix these airbag problems. The defects included airbags not deploying during crashes and deploying unexpectedly, showing that the system was unreliable. If you’re thinking about getting a 2010 Fusion, you should know about these airbag safety issues.
The many recalls and documented failures show why it’s best to avoid this model year if you care about safety.
Brake Issues
Several Ford Fusion models, especially from the years 2010, 2008, and 2011, have had serious brake issues that pose major safety risks. These problems often show up as weak brakes, which can greatly reduce braking performance and create dangerous situations. It’s important to know about these issues, especially if you’re thinking about buying a used model.
- Soft Brake Pedal: This happens when the brakes don’t respond quickly or strongly.
- ABS Failure: The anti-lock braking system can stop working, making it take longer to stop the car.
- Brake System Leaks: Leaking brake fluid can lead to a total loss of braking power.
These problems highlight the need for a thorough check-up on these specific model years to avoid any brake-related safety risks.
Throttle Body Failures
Moving on from brake problems, throttle body issues in Ford Fusion models can cause big problems like stalling, rough idling, and poor acceleration. If the throttle body starts to fail, you’ll probably see the engine light come on, experience less power, and find it hard to start the car.
These problems can lead to sudden power loss while driving, which is dangerous. It’s important to fix these issues quickly to avoid more engine damage and keep your car safe to drive. Replacing a throttle body can be costly, usually between $500 to $800 for parts and labor.
Regular maintenance and catching symptoms early can help reduce the negative effects of throttle body issues, keeping your engine running well and ensuring your safety on the road.
Electronic System Malfunctions
In 2013 Ford Fusion cars, electronic system problems happen a lot, affecting important features like the audio, navigation, and climate control systems. These problems are usually due to faulty sensors and wiring issues, raising big concerns about the car’s reliability.
Many owners have complained about the SYNC system not working properly, which messes up hands-free calling and playing music. Also, failures in the electronic stability control can be a safety risk.
Main electronic system problems include:
- Audio Issues: Problems with the sound system that affect how users enjoy their music.
- Navigation Failures: Issues with route guidance and map accuracy.
- Climate Control Problems: Broken controls that make it hard to keep the cabin comfortable.
These ongoing electronic problems in the 2013 Ford Fusion highlight serious reliability issues and can lead to expensive repair bills.
Avoiding Problematic Fusions
Watch out for the big problems with the 2010, 2012, and 2013 Ford Fusion models. They often have issues with the transmission and power steering. Lots of people have complained and there have been many recalls.
If you avoid these models, you can save money on repairs and keep your car running longer.
Common Issues Overview
Spotting common problems in certain Ford Fusion model years, like power steering issues and transmission glitches, can help you avoid costly repairs and reliability headaches. To make sure you pick a reliable Ford Fusion, it’s key to know about the recurring problems that affect some models.
Some common issues are:
- Transmission problems: These can lead to rough shifting, loss of power, and high repair bills.
- Engine troubles: Issues like stalling, misfiring, and using too much oil can hurt reliability.
- Power steering issues: These can make the car hard to handle and raise the risk of accidents.
Risky Year Models
If you’re looking for a reliable Ford Fusion, it’s best to avoid the 2010 to 2013 models. These cars have a lot of issues with their transmissions, engines stalling, and power steering problems. Many people have complained about these problems on sites like the NHTSA and carcomplaints, showing that these models aren’t very reliable.
Common issues like power steering failures and engine stalls are frequent in these years. Plus, there have been seven recalls for these models, which include important safety parts like airbags, brakes, and steering systems.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Ford Explorer, Ford F 150, Ford Escape and Ford Expedition. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to buy a Ford Fusion, it’s best to avoid the 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013 models.
Imagine driving without worrying about sudden power steering issues or transmission problems. Steering clear of these years means you won’t have to deal with expensive brake repairs or unreliable engine performance.
Choose a model with a good reputation, and you’ll enjoy a smoother, safer ride.
