Most Common Problems in a 2013-2020 Ford Fusion
The 2013 second-generation Ford Fusion was first revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. Fusion was an example of Ford’s global car strategy, “One-Ford,” developed in Europe.
This new mid-size platform emerged in Europe and the Americas with the latest version of the CDW27 program, which originated from the Ford Contour/Mercury Mystique.
Common Problems
The most common problems with the first-generation Ford Fusion are:
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- Oil leaks. Typically, from the valve cover or transmission oil pan.
- Swollen lug nuts that are hard to remove.
- The radio stops working.
- The check engine light is on.
- The key is getting stuck in the ignition.
- The trunk is not closing.
Let’s take a look a deeper look at these issues:
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 handy on lower-mileage vehicles. As miles add up, the internal transmission itself often degrades. Rebuilding the transmission valve body or installing a complete replacement unit will help if that is the case.
If significant transmission repairs are performed, it is essential to continually update the PCM and TCM with the latest software to prevent these issues from recurring.
Oil Leaks
Oil leakage, which usually starts from the engine valve cover, is a frequent problem affecting Ford Fusions. To resolve this issue, the valve cover gasket must be replaced.
For help with this issue, see this guide on replacing the valve cover gasket on the 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. Sometimes, this is because your battery is old and is no longer able to hold a charge, or it is because the alternator is faulty.
The alternator is located on the backside of the engine, and it’s very tricky to replace. Access it from underneath; you will still have to remove several components. The four-cylinder engine is much easier to repair than the V6.
Lug Nuts
Fusion owners often report swelling in the lug nuts, which is sometimes due to corrosion. These lug nuts have small caps that make it harder to get the socket onto them for removal. This happens on other vehicles, but it is very common in Ford Fusions.
To remedy this, install different lug nuts.
Ignition Switch
If you can’t remove the key from the ignition when you put the vehicle in Park, the shifter assembly and its internal components may wear out or be damaged, and the ignition switch may need to be replaced.
Power Steering Fluid Leak
When you’re going down the road, turning the wheel, and hearing a whining noise, your power steering is probably low. A damaged hose could cause a leak. The power steering pump is located on the passenger side.
The Ford Fusion uses MERCON V automatic transmission fluid.
Water Pump
A coolant leak from the engine, behind the AC compressor, or the alternator is a typical sign that the water pump is 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, which must be replaced. When buying a used Ford Fusion, consider fuel economy and safety ratings.
Fuel Economy
Safety
If you own a Ford Fusion, we have published many repair guides on this model to help you save money on car maintenance.
We hope you find the 2013+ Ford Fusion Common Problems guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Ford.
