Are Ford Fusions Good Cars? Find Out Here
Is a Ford Fusion a good option? Yes, it offers a mix of dependability, performance, and features. This makes it a strong contender in the midsize car category.
If you’re looking into Ford Fusion reviews or its performance, this car shines with its balance of quality and price.
Let’s dig into why the Ford Fusion might be a smart pick for you. The Ford Fusion was made from 2006 to 2020, covering 15 models.
It’s known for reliable performance and modern features. The car nicely mixes style, tech, and comfort in driving.
It got a reliability score of 57.9 from WithClutch.com, ranking it well among competitors.
When picking a new or used car, reliability is crucial, and the Ford Fusion does well in this area.
It gets a four out of five in reliability, being 18th out of 24 midsize vehicles. This is respectable, especially with its yearly repair cost of $581.
This cost is a bit higher than the average of $526 but is still manageable.
Are Ford Fusions reliable? Absolutely, especially the 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020 models.
These years get high marks for their strong performance and fewer problems.
However, the 2010-2014 models faced more complaints. Issues like power steering failures and engine troubles made their repair costs go up.
By this review’s end, you’ll get a full picture of the Ford Fusion’s history, performance, reliability, and features.
With this info, you can decide if the Ford Fusion is the right car for you.
Overview of The Ford Fusion
The Ford Fusion was launched in 2005 and quickly won over American families and commuters.
Known for its stylish looks, advanced tech, and smooth ride, it met a wide range of needs. This made it a smart pick for many drivers.
Brief History
From 2006 to 2020, the Fusion was a big deal for Ford. It changed how they saw the midsize sedan market, mixing fashion with function.
It had different engines, like the 2.5-liter one, which were both powerful and gas-saving. They even made hybrid models, showing Ford’s innovative side.
Discontinuation in 2020
The Fusion was popular but Ford changed its plans by 2020. They started to focus more on SUVs and crossovers because people wanted them more.
This change meant the Fusion was stopped. It showed Ford’s move towards bigger cars, as those were getting more popular compared to sedans.
This was a significant moment for one of Ford’s most beloved sedans.
Ford Fusion Reliability
Looking into the ford fusion reliability is important. The car gets a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability score. This puts it at 18th out of 24 midsize cars.
It’s a good ranking, but what does it mean for maintenance costs?
Average Reliability Rating
The ford fusion fits well within norms for midsize sedans. A 2014 model, for example, had only 19,000 miles, which is low.
That’s good for reliability. Also, a 2010 Hybrid model only had one issue in five years. Ratings for the Fusion are often between 4 and 5 stars.
Maintenance Costs
The yearly cost to fix a Ford Fusion is about $581. This is a bit more than midsize car average of $526. But, it’s less than the $652 average for all cars.
| Metrics | Ford Fusion | Midsize Cars | All Vehicle Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Repair Cost | $581 | $526 | $652 |
| Unscheduled Repair Frequency | 0.3 times/year | 0.3 times/year | 0.4 times/year |
| Probability of Severe Repairs | 12% | 12% | 12% |
This table shows that owning a ford fusion can be a smart money decision over time.
The car’s repair needs are about equal to other midsize sedans. This makes it a dependable choice in its group.
Most Reliable Years For The Ford Fusion
The Ford Fusion is known as a trustworthy car, especially in some model years. We’re going to talk about the top Ford Fusion years.
These are known for being reliable and making customers happy.
2015 Ford Fusion
The 2015 Ford Fusion is highly praised. It’s known for great performance and not many repair issues.
With zero TSB (Technical Service Bulletins) and just 12 recalls, it’s seen as very dependable. So, it’s one of the top choices for a reliable car.
2018 Ford Fusion
The 2018 Ford Fusion also shines for having few problems and good feedback from owners. It had just one recall and no TSB reports.
So, it’s known as one of the best too. It’s well-built and reliable, making it a great pick for many.
2019 Ford Fusion
In 2019, the Ford Fusion kept its good reputation for reliability. It had 188 TSB reports but didn’t need any recalls.
This shows it improved a lot, handling small issues well. Owners love it for being dependable and smooth to drive, making it a top year.
2020 Ford Fusion
The 2020 Ford Fusion marks its final year with impressive reliability. With only 95 TSB reports and no recalls, it’s among the best.
This model has fewer issues and offers a consistent, problem-free drive. Ending the Ford Fusion’s run, the 2020 model is one of the best years to get.
Which Ford Fusion Years to Avoid
When picking a Ford Fusion, you should know which years have problems. The years 2010, 2013, 2014, and 2017 have many issues.
These problems can lead to high repair costs and frequent trips to the mechanic. The 2010 model has big problems with steering.
The 2011 and 2012 models also have these issues but they’re not as bad. The 2013 and 2014 models have trouble with engine leaks.
These leaks could cause engine fires. They also have problems with their transmissions and fuel systems.
Ford did recall many of these problems. Yet, people thinking of buying these cars should still be careful.
The 2017 Ford Fusion had some issues with its electrical system. These problems weren’t as common as in older models.
But, they still make the 2017 Fusion a less trustworthy choice.
Here is a comparison of the ford fusion issues through these years:
| Year | Main Issues | Common Complaints | Most Common Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Power Steering | 5,043 | $1,300 |
| 2013 | Engine Leaks, Transmission | 1,841 | $1,500 |
| 2014 | Engine Leaks, Fuel System | 1,200 | $1,400 |
| 2017 | Electrical Issues | 800 | $1,200 |
To avoid spending much on repairs, it’s best to skip these Ford Fusion years. Choosing a more reliable year will give you a better driving experience.
Common Ford Fusion Problems
The Ford Fusion was a favorite for many but had its problems. Issues included transmission failures, steering troubles, swollen lug nuts, and odd noises.
Most problems were in models made before 2013. Knowing these issues helps prepare for possible repairs.
Transmission Issues
Transmission troubles are common with the Ford Fusion. These often come from fluid leaks due to worn seals.
Changing the fluid can cost up to $300, repairs might hit $1,250, and a full replacement can go over $6,000.
Steering Problems
Many Ford Fusions, especially the 2010 model, had steering issues. There were 1,530 complaints for 2010 but only 110 for 2016.
Repairs can cost $400 to $1,600, usually at around 107,000 miles.
Swollen Lug Nuts
From 2006 to 2017, Ford Fusions often had swollen lug nuts, around 65,000 miles. This $200 problem makes it hard to change a tire and needs quick fixing.
Unsettling Noises
Noises from the lower control arms bothered many Ford Fusion owners, especially between 2006 and 2015. Around 477 reports came in, typically at 99,000 miles.
| Problem | Years Affected | Average Mileage | Repair Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Issues | 2006-2012 | Varies | $1,250 to $6,000 |
| Steering Problems | 2010, 2016 | 107,000 | $400 to $1,600 |
| Swollen Lug Nuts | 2006-2017 | 65,000 | $200 |
| Unsettling Noises | 2006-2015 | 99,000 | Varies |
Ford Fusion Performance
The Ford Fusion earned praise for its efficient yet powerful ride. It had different engines to match what drivers wanted.
Engine Options
In 2020, the Ford Fusion came with engines that fit various tastes. It had a standard 2.5-liter engine with 175 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque.
There was also a 1.5L EcoBoost engine with 181 hp. Plus, a 2.0L EcoBoost engine brought it up to 245 hp.
For those who cared about the environment, Ford offered hybrid versions. The Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi mixed a 2.0L engine with an electric motor.
This choice was great for those wanting to drive green.
Driving Experience
The Ford Fusion was known for its smooth ride and firm handling. Its suspension found a sweet spot between being agile and comfy.
This made it perfect for city driving and long trips on the highway. Its accurate steering added to the driver’s confidence.
Latest models got better with advanced stability and traction control. These upgrades improved the ride making it safer and more fun on the road.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is also key in performance. The 1.5L EcoBoost engine model was notable, with 23 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
But, the Fusion Hybrid did even better at 43 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.
The Fusion Energi stood out for its fuel use. It got 42 mpg combined and could go 26 miles using only electric power. This made it perfect for short trips and saving on gas.
Interior and Tech Features
The 2020 Ford Fusion offers an exceptional mix of quality and tech in its interior. This car stands out in its category, thanks to a well-crafted interior.
Each model, from the basic S to the fancy Titanium, caters to different tastes and budgets. They all offer comfort and modern features effortlessly.
Quality of Materials
Inside the Ford Fusion, the quality is obvious. It has soft materials and optional leather seats for a high-end look.
The SEL and Titanium models come with heated seats and a driver’s seat that adjusts in 10 ways, including lumbar support, for the best comfort.
The cabin is spacious, with 39.2 inches of headroom up front, and has dual-zone climate control.
In the back, the Fusion keeps impressing with plenty of headroom and flexible seating.
There’s 37.8 inches of space above and a rear seat that folds in parts to make more room in the trunk.
Although some find the seats a bit hard on long trips, the back offers a generous 44.3 inches of legroom, making sure everyone is comfortable.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front Headroom | 39.2 inches |
| Rear Headroom | 37.8 inches |
| Front Legroom | 44.3 inches |
| Trunk Space | 16 cubic feet |
| Upholstery | Leather available on higher trims |
| Power Driver’s Seat | 10-way power with lumbar support |
| Temperature Control | Dual-zone electronic automatic |
Infotainment System
The 2020 Ford Fusion features an easy-to-use infotainment system called SYNC 3.
It allows voice commands and touch screen use, so you can stay connected with ease. Yet, some have noticed the touch screen can sometimes be slow.
The base model has the standard SYNC system and FordPass Connect for more tech.
Moving up to the Titanium gives you a Sony® sound system with 12 speakers, and HD Radio™ Technology for top-notch audio.
The instrument cluster has a display that the driver can set up, making it easier to see important car info.
Higher trims also offer a voice-activated navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link®, making trips easier to plan.
The Fusion’s tech also focuses on safety, featuring Ford’s Co-Pilot360. This includes blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking, emphasizing the importance of keeping everyone safe.
Ford Fusion Safety Ratings
The Ford Fusion is known for its strong safety features and high ratings. This vehicle has received praise and high scores from trusted organizations.
NHTSA Ratings
The 2013 Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid got a five-star score from the NHTSA. This shows they perform well in safety tests.
- Five stars in front crash test
- Four stars in side crash and rollover testing
Before, older Fusion models got three stars in the frontal crash test. They also received four stars in the side crash and rollover tests.
IIHS Ratings
The IIHS gave the 2013 Ford Fusion the Top Safety Pick+ title. This was due to its strong safety features.
- Small Overlap Front: Driver-Side Rating – Good
- Small Overlap Front: Passenger-Side Rating – Good
- Moderate Overlap Front Rating – Good
- Side Impact Rating – Good, structure rated Acceptable
- Roof Strength Rating – Good
This shows the Ford Fusion’s dedication to keeping passengers safe. It received high marks in all key safety areas.
Safety Features
The Ford Fusion comes with many safety features. These features help prevent accidents and keep you safe.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert
- Active Park Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Rearview Camera
- Hill Start Assist
- Electronic Parking Brake
With its advanced safety technologies, the Ford Fusion is a great pick for those who value safety. It’s made to protect you and your passengers.
Is The Ford Fusion Worth It?
To decide if the Ford Fusion is a good buy, we should look at its value and how well it holds up over time.
It’s known for a good mix of features, how it performs, and how reliable it is. These details help us choose wisely.
Overall Value
The Ford Fusion shines among midsize sedans, offering a lot for its price. It’s praised for its reliability and the features it offers.
It has a reliability score of 57.9 from withclutch.com and RepairPal ranks it at four out of five. This puts it in 18th place out of 24 midsize cars for dependability.
Owning a Ford Fusion means you’ll likely pay about $581 a year on repairs. This cost is a bit higher than the average for this type of car, but it’s not too bad.
The chance of needing major repairs is about the same as other cars. Plus, Fusions don’t need a lot of trips to the mechanic, showing they run smoothly.
| Aspect | Ford Fusion | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Reliability Rating | 57.9 | ||
| Annual Repair Cost | $581 | ||
| Repair Frequency | 0.3 times/year | ||
| Severe Repair Probability | 12% | ||
| Fuel Economy (1.5L EcoBoost) | 23 mpg city / 34 mpg highway | Trunk Space | 16 cubic feet |
Long-Term Ownership
The Ford Fusion is a great pick for keeping for a long time. The best years to buy are 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020 because they have fewer problems.
It also has great safety features, like help for staying in your lane and spotting cars in your blind spot.
If you’re looking at the 2020 Fusion, there are several engines to choose from, including ones that save a lot of fuel.
The 1.5L EcoBoost engine is especially good on gas, making it a smart choice. Owning a Fusion means saving on gas and repairs in the long run.
The Ford Fusion is a smart pick if you want a car that’s reliable, safe, and doesn’t cost too much to keep up.
It’s got a solid reputation for reliability and won’t break the bank when it comes to upkeep. This makes it a great car for both individuals and families.
Ford Fusion Fuel Efficiency
The Ford Fusion stands out for its fuel savings. Its base engine balances power and efficiency well. Hybrid versions improve fuel efficiency even more.
The 2013 Ford Fusion SE has a 1.5-liter engine. It gives 181 horsepower and 185 lb.ft of torque.
It gets 27 mpg in the city, 43 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg overall. On the other hand, the 2013 Ford Fusion SE Hybrid offers more power.
It has a combined 188 horsepower. The hybrid gets a stunning 59 mpg in the city, 57 mpg on the highway, and 42 mpg overall.
| Model | City | Highway | Average | Base Price | Total Price as Tested |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 Ford Fusion SE 1.5 | 27 mpg | 43 mpg | 24 mpg | $24,599 | $35,154 |
| 2013 Ford Fusion SE Hybrid | 59 mpg | 57 mpg | 42 mpg | $29,999 | $39,639 |
The Fusion line is known for its good performance and low fuel costs. This makes it great for those who care about the environment or want to save on fuel.
Owner Reviews of Ford Fusion
The Ford Fusion is praised for its solid performance and comfy ride. Owners share their thoughts on the car’s pros and areas needing work. This car stands out in the midsize sedan class.
Positive Experiences
Owners often cheer for the Fusion’s great gas mileage. This is especially true for the hybrid models.
The 2020 Fusion offers engines that mix power with fuel savings well. People like how it drives, its comfort, and its tech.
When upgraded to SYNC, the infotainment system gets even better. A Fusion Hybrid from 2010 proved reliable over five years. It had few issues, which Ford fixed swiftly.
Negative Experiences
Yet, some reviews point out repeated mechanical problems. The 2006-2010 and 2012-2013 models had transmission issues.
The 2010-2012 and 2014 models faced power steering failures. The 2014 Titanium AWD had problems with swollen lug nuts and its front alignment.
In spite of these problems, the Fusion’s yearly upkeep cost is $581. This is quite low compared to similar cars.
| Model Year | Reported Issues |
|---|---|
| 2010-2012 | Frequent reliability issues, transmission problems, power steering failures |
| 2013-2014 | Front-end issues, alignment problems |
| 2006-2010 | Transmission problems |
| 2012-2013 | Transmission problems, swollen lug nuts |
| 2014 | Power steering failures |
Expert Reviews of Ford Fusion
Top car magazines have deeply explored the Ford Fusion, looking at its performance, trustworthiness, and owner happiness.
Let’s see what Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and MotorBiscuit think about this well-liked sedan.
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports praises the Ford Fusion for being reliable, easy to use, and comfy to drive.
They say it performs well in different situations, making it great for everyday use and longer trips.
Their review includes a survey from more than half a million car owners, showing many people love this car.
J.D. Power
J.D. Power gives the Ford Fusion high marks for quality and reliability, with a score of 87 out of 100 in 2020.
This score considers things like expected reliability and how satisfied customers are. They note the Fusion is a good deal compared to similar cars.
MotorBiscuit
MotorBiscuit cheers for the Ford Fusion’s solid build and exciting drive.
They talk about the car’s different engines, including efficient hybrids and a powerful 2.0L EcoBoost.
They also mention its high safety scores, making it a top pick for buyers who want a safe and sturdy car.
| EPA MPG | Price Range | Number of Recalls | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Ford Fusion | 27 mpg | $7,125 – $14,825 | 4 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Malibu | 30 mpg | $9,100 – $12,175 | |
| 2017 Chrysler 200 | 23 mpg | $9,200 – $12,650 | |
| 2017 Honda Accord | 30 mpg | $13,525 – $17,850 |
Conclusion
The Ford Fusion has really made its mark in the used car world. It shines with its cool tech, great safety features, and strong performance.
Even though not all years are perfect, picking the right ones makes for a great car experience.
Looking at the Ford Fusion, the years from 2018 to 2020 are the best picks. They have less trouble, better quality, and are really reliable.
The older models had some issues with transmission and steering. But the newer ones have improved a lot.
They’re good on gas and safe, even if some models have less trunk space. To choose the best Fusion for you, think about what you need and like.
Maybe you want good gas mileage, or the latest tech or top safety. The Fusion has lots to offer for different tastes. This way, you can find the perfect match for you.
FAQs
Are Ford Fusions good cars?
Yes, Ford Fusions are seen as good cars. They balance quality, price, and features well. They are known for being reliable, having the latest tech, and being comfortable to drive. This makes them a top pick for people wanting a midsize car.
What are the most reliable years for the Ford Fusion?
The best years for the Ford Fusion are 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020. These models have fewer issues reported by customers. They are known for their strong performance and dependability.
Which Ford Fusion years should I avoid?
You should steer clear of Ford Fusion models from 2010 to 2014. These cars have had a lot of complaints about their power steering and engines. Fixing these problems can be expensive and make the car less trustworthy.
What are common Ford Fusion problems?
Ford Fusions often face issues with their transmissions and steering. You might also find swollen lug nuts and annoying noises in models made before 2013. These cars might need more repairs than newer ones.
How is the Ford Fusion’s fuel efficiency?
The Ford Fusion is pretty good on gas, especially the EcoBoost and hybrid models. These versions are great for saving on fuel. They make the Fusion a smart choice for people wanting to spend less on gas.
How do Ford Fusion owners rate their cars?
People who own a Ford Fusion usually say it’s reliable and comfy. But, some mention problems with the transmission in certain years. Overall, owners tend to like their Fusions.
What is the average annual maintenance cost for a Ford Fusion?
On average, it costs about 1 a year to keep a Ford Fusion running. This is a bit higher than other midsize cars. Still, it’s seen as a cost-effective choice for those planning to keep their car for a while.
How does the Ford Fusion perform in safety ratings?
The Ford Fusion has done very well in safety tests. It gets top marks from safety organizations. It comes with features like BLIS, lane-keeping assist, and automatic braking. These add to its safety.
What engine options are available for the Ford Fusion?
The Ford Fusion comes with several engine choices. There’s a standard 2.5-liter engine, a stronger 2.0L EcoBoost engine, and hybrids. These give drivers options between power and fuel economy.
