According to Au7o's analysis of 4,200+ owner reports, the 2011 Ford Fusion has 2 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Electric Power Steering Rack Failure (Recall 15V340) ($1,200-$3,500 repair) and Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Degradation and Failure ($1,500-$7,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Electric Power Steering Rack Failure (Recall 15V340) with 2,800 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $1,200 to $7,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2011-2013 Ford Fusion, nHTSA recall 15V340 covers 2011-2013 Ford Fusion (and Lincoln MKZ) without the 3.5L engine. An intermittent electrical connection in the steering gear can cause sudden loss of electric power steering assist while driving. Owners notice heavier steering effort especially at low speeds, increasing crash risk. Dealers check the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) for DTCs; if any loss-of-assist codes are stored, the steering gear is replaced free. Note: 2010 Fusions had the same parts but were excluded from the recall — feds closed the probe without expanding scope. 2010-owner symptoms are real but uncovered by recall.
Complete loss of power steering (requires significant force to turn)
Steering assist comes and goes unpredictably
Check engine light or power steering fault code stored
How to Fix
Check if your vehicle is covered under Ford recall (2011-2012 Fusion/MKZ power steering failure recall - free repair). For non-recall vehicles, the electric power steering rack must be replaced as a complete unit since the motor and control electronics are integrated. RepairPal estimates $1,958-3,362 installed. Remanufactured racks from PWR Steer or Cardone are available at $800-1,500, significantly cheaper than new OEM ($2,000+). Have the alignment performed after rack replacement.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 2,800+ owners who fixed this issue
NoteIf your Fusion suddenly loses power steering assist, you can still steer the car but it requires significant effort. Pull over safely and do not drive at highway speeds without power assist. Complete loss of EPAS is a safety hazard, especially in emergency maneuvers.
TipRemanufactured electric steering racks from PWR Steer or Cardone are $800-1,500 vs $2,000+ for new OEM. Independent shops can install them for $400-600 labor. This can save $1,000+ over dealer pricing. Always get an alignment after rack replacement.
UpgradeInner and outer tie rod ends for steering precision restoration (Moog Tie Rod End)
Medium Confidence2,800 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
1,400 owners
On the 2010-2020 Ford Fusion, ford Fusion Hybrid spans two generations with different high-voltage batteries — degradation patterns differ. 1st-gen 2010-2012 (NiMH, ~1.4 kWh): typical degradation appears at 100,000-150,000 miles with reduced EV-mode range and increased ICE intervention. Replacement runs $2,500-$4,000 at independent hybrid specialists. 2nd-gen 2013-2020 (Lithium-ion, ~1.4 kWh): better thermal management has led to longer life on average but cell imbalance issues appear at 150,000+ miles. 'Stop Safely Now' warnings often precede full failure. 2013-2020 Energi PHEV variants share the architecture but with larger 7.6 kWh batteries — separate degradation curve. Owners should check cell balance via OBD-II scanner with hybrid module support (Forscan recommended).
Hybrid system shuts down and runs on gasoline only
How to Fix
Check warranty first - Ford covers 8yr/100k miles (10yr/150k in CA, CT, MA, ME, MD, NJ, NY, OR, PA, RI, VT, WA states). If out of warranty, aftermarket/remanufactured battery packs from GreenTecAuto ($1,550-2,950 installed) are significantly cheaper than dealer replacement ($4,000-7,000). Individual cell replacement at specialized hybrid shops ($800-2,000) is an option if only specific cells have failed. Battery reconditioning is a temporary fix that may restore 60-80% of capacity for $300-800.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 1,400+ owners who fixed this issue
TipGreenTecAuto and BestHybridBatteries offer remanufactured Fusion Hybrid battery packs at $1,550-2,950, roughly half the dealer cost. These come with 3-5 year warranties. They also offer mobile installation in many areas.
NoteFord hybrid battery warranty is 8yr/100k (10yr/150k in CARB states). Check your state emissions warranty laws - you may have more coverage than you think. A "Check Hybrid System" warning within the warranty period should be a no-cost dealer repair.
UpgradeHigh-performance AGM battery with excellent cold cranking amps and deep cycle capability (Optima RedTop AGM Battery)
Medium Confidence1,400 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
⚠️NHTSA Recalls17 recalls
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Campaign #25V68500010/10/2025
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
Campaign #23V16200010/03/2023
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion vehicles. The steering wheel retaining bolt may loosen allowing the steering wheel to detach while driving.
Campaign #18V16700012/03/2018
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Edge and Fusion vehicles. On vehicles with 2.0L gas engines and six-speed automatic transmissions, the torque converter weld studs may have been inadequately welded.
Campaign #17V42700006/07/2017
SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured September 27, 2016, to September 28, 2016. The left rear seat backs pivot pins may have been improperly welded.
According to Au7o's analysis of 4,200+ owner reports, the 2011-2011 Ford Fusion has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Electric Power Steering Rack Failure (Recall 15V340), Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Degradation and Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ford Fusion reliable?
The 2011-2011 Ford Fusion has 2 known issues documented across 4,200+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Electric Power Steering Rack Failure (Recall 15V340) and Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Degradation and Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Ford Fusion problems?
Repair costs for known Ford Fusion issues range from $1,200 to $7,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Electric Power Steering Rack Failure (Recall 15V340), typically costs $1,200-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2011-2013 Ford Fusion Electric Power Steering Rack Failure (Recall 15V340)?
NHTSA recall 15V340 covers 2011-2013 Ford Fusion (and Lincoln MKZ) without the 3.5L engine. An intermittent electrical connection in the steering gear can cause sudden loss of electric power steering assist while driving. Owners notice heavier steering effort especially at low sp… Repairs typically run $1,200-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2010-2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Degradation and Failure?
Ford Fusion Hybrid spans two generations with different high-voltage batteries — degradation patterns differ. 1st-gen 2010-2012 (NiMH, ~1.4 kWh): typical degradation appears at 100,000-150,000 miles with reduced EV-mode range and increased ICE intervention. Replacement runs $2,50… Repairs typically run $1,500-$7,000. Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
