Avoid: 2013, 2010 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2018
15 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 15 model years, the Ford Fusion has 43,049 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 129 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are steering and engine. 2010 drew the most complaints (5,923), 2020 the fewest (233).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Ford Fusion vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $9,178–$13,824.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 233 |
| 2019 | 771 |
| 2018 | 505 |
| 2017 | 3,223 |
| 2016 | 4,629 |
| 2015 | 3,051 |
| 2014 | 4,125 |
| 2013 | 5,591 |
| 2012 | 5,174 |
| 2011 | 5,655 |
| 2010 | 5,923 |
| 2009 | 1,022 |
| 2008 | 1,353 |
| 2007 | 1,064 |
| 2006 | 730 |
Highest: 2010 (5,923 complaints). Lowest: 2020 (233).
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific powertrain and generation.
Rough shifting (especially 1-2, 2-3), laggy throttle response, premature failure requiring replacement. Sensitivity to incorrect or degraded fluid.
Higher incidence of issues compared to the 2.5L and hybrid powertrains. Carbon buildup on direct-injection engines (2014+ non-turbo?).
The water pump is located inside the engine timing cover. Failure can lead to coolant mixing with oil and catastrophic engine damage. A noted maintenance item around 100,000+ miles.
Can overheat and fail if not serviced; fluid changes are recommended.
Can stick in the locked position, requiring a tow and dealer repair.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Fusion. Individual model years are broken down above.
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