2013–2020 Ford Fusion Common Problems

The 2013 second-generation Fusion was shown at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. Fusion was an example of Ford’s global car strategy, “One-Ford,” with a design built by Ford of Europe.

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Ford’s new mid-size platform remerges in Europe and the Americas with the newest version of the CDW27 program, which originated from the Ford Contour/Mercury Mystique. 

Common Problems

Transmission Shifting Issues

Transmission issues in an automatic transmission may be resolved by updating its PCM and TCM with newer software. The updates can be particularly useful on lowered-mileage vehicles. As miles add up, the internal transmission itself often disintegrates. Rebuilding the transmission valve body or installing a complete replacement unit could help.

If major transmission repairs are made, it is important to continually update the PCM and TCM with the latest software to prevent these problems from happening in the future.

Oil Leaks

A common problem that affects the Ford Fusion is oil leaks which in most cases are going to originate from the valve cover. To fix this problem, the valve cover gasket needs to be replaced. 

For help with this issue, see this guide on how to replace the valve cover gasket on Ford 2.5L engine. 

Alternator

The battery may die on you when driving down the road, and the battery light indicator flashes on the dashboard due to a bad alternator.

The alternator is located on the backside of the engine, and it’s very tricky to replace. Access it from underneath, and you will still have to remove several components. The four-cylinder engine is easier to repair than the V6. 

Lug Nuts 

Fusion owners complain of the lug nuts swelling, some of which is due to corrosion. There are little caps over the lug nuts, and when that happens, it’s hard to get the socket onto the lug nuts to be able to remove them. This happens on other vehicles, but it’s very common on Ford Fusion.

The recommended repair for this is replacing the lug nuts.

Ignition Switch

When you put the vehicle in park, you can’t take the key out of the ignition. The shifter assembly itself, the internals may wear out or get damaged. The ignition switch may need to be replaced.

Power Steering Fluid Leak

When you’re going down the road and turning the wheel and hearing a whining noise, that’s probably because your power steering is low. A damaged hose could probably end up causing a leak. The power steering pump is located on the passenger side. 

The Ford Fusion uses MERCON V, which is automatic transmission fluid.

Water Pump

Coolant leaking from the engine, behind the AC compressor, or behind the alternator is a typical sign that the water pump must be bad. The weep hole right behind the alternator allows coolant to leak out. If there is a problem with the water pump in this vehicle, it must be driven by a timing change.

If coolant is present in this area, it’s most likely the water pump, and it needs to be replaced.