2013 Ford Fusion

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2013 Ford Fusion, categorized for clarity and accuracy.

The 2013 Ford Fusion marked a significant redesign for Ford’s mid-size sedan. It was available with a range of engine options, including a 2.5L inline-4 producing 175 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque, a 1.6L EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4 making 178 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4 generating 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain. Transmission options included a 6-speed automatic for most models, and some received a 6-speed manual. Owners often praised the Fusion’s stylish exterior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. Common complaints centered around reliability issues, particularly with electronic components and some engine/transmission combinations.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Engine Misfires/Rough Idle
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by worn or fouled spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs, ignition coils, or repair vacuum leaks as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L EcoBoost

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust. This engine is prone to coolant intrusion into the cylinders due to a weakness in the cylinder head design.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, check engine light. Potential turbocharger failure or wastegate issues.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost

• Coolant Loss/Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 1.6L EcoBoost, this engine can experience coolant loss due to internal leaks. Look for signs of coolant mixing with oil (milky substance on the dipstick).
  • Solution: Diagnostic pressure test to pinpoint leak. Possible cylinder head replacement or engine repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6F35 6-Speed Automatic (Common to Multiple Engines)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, shuddering, or hesitation upon acceleration.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter) - $3,500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete loss of drive, loud clunking noises, inability to shift.
  • Solution: Full transmission replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Noises from Suspension
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking, rattling, or squeaking noises, especially over bumps. Possible causes include worn stabilizer bar links, ball joints, control arm bushings, or struts.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MyFord Touch/MyLincoln Touch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, slow response times, touchscreen malfunctions, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates are the first step. If issues persist, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Ajar Light/Power Door Locks
  • Description/Symptoms: Door ajar light staying on even when doors are closed. Power door locks malfunctioning. Faulty door latch assemblies are a common cause.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty door latch assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after the car has been sitting for a short period. Possible causes include a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks into Trunk
  • Description/Symptoms: Water accumulation in the trunk, often due to faulty trunk seal or taillight seals.
  • Solution: Replace trunk seal and/or taillight seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Warning Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard. Could be caused by a faulty clock spring, seatbelt pretensioner, or other airbag system component.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause with a diagnostic scan and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: 17S17 - Supplement Restraint System (SRS) - Improperly Installed Side Airbag (Issued: May 25, 2017)

Summary

The 2013 Ford Fusion, while stylish and fuel-efficient, can present owners with a range of issues. Engine problems, especially with the EcoBoost variants (coolant intrusion, turbocharger issues), and transmission problems in the 6F35 automatic, tend to be the most costly. Electrical glitches are also a common complaint. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing thousands of dollars. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect any used 2013 Fusion, paying close attention to engine health, transmission performance, and the functionality of all electrical systems. Checking the vehicle’s history for recall completion and past repairs is also highly recommended.