2018 Ford Fusion

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2018 Ford Fusion, categorized by major components and engine/transmission options.

The 2018 Ford Fusion offered a range of engine choices, including a 1.5L EcoBoost I4 (181 hp, 185 lb-ft of torque), a 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (245 hp, 275 lb-ft of torque), a 2.5L Duratec I4 (175 hp, 175 lb-ft of torque), and a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (325 hp, 380 lb-ft of torque in the Sport trim only). A hybrid and plug-in hybrid version were also available, which are excluded from this list. Transmission options included a 6-speed automatic, and a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters (Sport trim only). People generally appreciate the Fusion’s stylish design, comfortable ride, and available technology. Common dislikes include the sometimes-sluggish performance of the base engine and reported reliability issues.

Engine

1.5L EcoBoost I4

• Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant can leak into the cylinders due to a design flaw in the engine block or cylinder head. This leads to white smoke from the exhaust, rough idling, engine misfires, and potentially catastrophic engine failure.
  • Solution: Engine replacement or a short block replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: 19V795000
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbo, loss of power, and potentially engine damage.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost I4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warnings, needing to add oil frequently between changes, blue smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, this can range from replacing PCV valve, valve stem seals, or piston rings to replacing the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant can leak into the cylinders due to a design flaw in the engine block or cylinder head. This leads to white smoke from the exhaust, rough idling, engine misfires, and potentially catastrophic engine failure.
  • Solution: Engine replacement or a short block replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: 19V795000

2.5L Duratec I4

• No Issues Found

2.7L EcoBoost V6

• Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant can leak into the cylinders due to a design flaw in the engine block or cylinder head. This leads to white smoke from the exhaust, rough idling, engine misfires, and potentially catastrophic engine failure.
  • Solution: Engine replacement or a short block replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: 19V795000

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6F35)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, and difficulty engaging gears. Can be accompanied by a “wrench” light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Could be a valve body issue, needing replacement or rebuild. In severe cases, a full transmission replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or clunking noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear suspension bushings or stabilizer bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use for extended periods, leading to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Could be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or aftermarket accessories. Requires electrical diagnostics to isolate the source.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response times, connectivity problems with smartphones, and failure to recognize voice commands.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the SYNC module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, specifically the driver and front passenger door handles, become loose or difficult to use over time. The handles may also break off entirely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, doesn’t open or close properly, or makes excessive noise.
  • Solution: Sunroof track cleaning and lubrication, or replacement of the sunroof motor or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford Fusion presents a mixed bag of potential issues. The most concerning and potentially expensive are engine-related problems, particularly coolant intrusion and turbocharger failure in the 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost engines. The transmission issues are also a point of concern. Electrical and interior issues, while less severe, can be annoying. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major engine or transmission work, so careful inspection and maintenance are crucial.