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Ford · Known Issues

2017 Ford Fusion Problems: 9 Known Issues

2017 model year · 5,630+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 5,630+ owner reports, the 2017 Ford Fusion has 9 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist ($0-$2,800 repair), 1.5L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders - Internal Engine Block Failure ($0-$7,000 repair), Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Degradation and Failure ($1,500-$7,000 repair), AWD Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Overheating and Fluid Leak Failure ($400-$3,100 repair), Front Brake Hose Rupture - Loss of Brake Fluid and Longer Stopping (Recall 23S12) ($0-$400 repair) and 6F35 6-Speed Automatic Harsh/Delayed Shifting and Torque Converter Shudder ($250-$3,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist with 2,340 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $7,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Fusion Electrical2
  • Fusion Suspension1
  • Fusion Engine1
  • Fusion Drivetrain1
  • Fusion Brakes1
  • Fusion Transmission1
  • Fusion HVAC1
  • Fusion Body/Panels1
  • Recalls18
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical2
  • Suspension1
  • Engine1
Drivetrain
1
  • Brakes1
  • Transmission1
  • HVAC1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Recalls18
  • FAQ
  • All 9 Known Issues

    Filter:
    ALL YEARS202020192018201720162015201420132012201120102009200820072006
    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).

    Common Symptoms

    • Reduced electric-only driving range
    • Decreased fuel economy (gradual decline)
    • "Check Hybrid System" warning on dashboard
    • Slower-than-normal acceleration or power loss
    • Battery charge indicator drops faster than normal
    • Unusual noise from battery compartment area
    • Vehicle fails to start (complete battery failure)
    • 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.

    Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $7,000

    Research This Issue

    Based on 1,400 owner reports

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    Community Reported
    Medium Confidence1,400 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

    On the 2010-2018 Ford Fusion, many Fusion owners report the battery going dead overnight or over a weekend from a parasitic draw. Common culprits are a module that fails to sleep - Body Control Module (BCM), APIM/infotainment, or amplifier - as well as the PATS anti-theft transceiver circuit on earlier cars. A healthy vehicle should draw under ~50mA at rest; failed modules keep the network awake and flatten the battery.

    Common Symptoms

    • Battery dead after sitting overnight or a weekend
    • Frequent jump-starts required
    • Clicking / no-crank no-start
    • Electrical gremlins or flickering
    • Short battery life

    How to Fix

    Measure key-off current draw with a multimeter, then pull fuses one at a time until the draw drops to isolate the offending circuit/module. Repair or replace the module that will not sleep (commonly BCM, audio/APIM, or amplifier); reflash where required. Confirm the battery and alternator test good before condemning a module.

    Typical repair cost:$150 - $1,000

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
    Community reported
    2,340 owners

    On the 2013-2018 Ford Fusion, 2014-2018 Ford Fusions use a different EPS module revision than the 2011-2013 recall (NHTSA 15V340) — but owners still report sudden loss of power steering assist, particularly at higher mileage. Without recall coverage, repairs are owner-paid: rack replacement typically $1,200-$2,000. Symptoms mirror the recalled generation (heavy steering, intermittent warnings, eventual full assist loss). For 2013 specifically, the 15V340 recall applies if the vehicle is without the 3.5L engine.

    Common Symptoms

    • "Service Power Steering" warning message on instrument cluster
    • Sudden heavy steering requiring much more effort, especially at low speeds
    • Steering wheel becomes very difficult to turn
    • "Hill Assist Not Available" and "Service AdvanceTrac" warnings accompanying EPS failure
    • Intermittent loss of power steering that returns after restart
    • Complete steering assist loss at any speed
    • Grinding or clicking from steering column during turns

    How to Fix

    Check safercar.gov with VIN for Recall 15V340/15S18 and 19V632 eligibility - free dealer repair. Out-of-recall: EPS rack assembly replacement ($1,200-$2,800). If experiencing intermittent "Service Power Steering" warning: try restarting vehicle as temporary workaround (does not fix underlying issue). Avoid car washes with high-pressure undercarriage spray aimed at steering gear area (accelerates bolt corrosion on 2013-2015 models).

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $2,800

    Research This Issue

    Based on 2,340 owner reports

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence2,340 owner reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2025Reviewed Feb 2026
    Community reported
    1,890 owners

    On the 2014-2019 Ford Fusion 1.5L EcoBoost, the 1.5L EcoBoost in 2014-2019 Ford Fusion is affected by the same open-deck cylinder block design defect as the Escape. Coolant leaks internally from the block passages into the combustion chambers due to insufficient sealing surface and porous block material that cannot maintain coolant pressure over time. Ford extended warranty coverage to 7 years/84,000 miles for short block replacement per TSB 19-2139 and TSB 19-2375. A consolidated class action lawsuit covers 2013-2019 Fusion and Escape with 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L EcoBoost engines. Some owners have experienced engine failure with no warning - no check engine light before coolant hydrolocked the cylinder.

    This issue also affects: Ford Aerostar

    Common Symptoms

    • White or gray smoke from exhaust, especially on cold starts
    • Engine misfires with P0300-P0303 codes (1.5L is 3 cylinders in newer versions; earlier is 4-cyl)
    • Coolant level dropping without visible external leak
    • Sweet smell from exhaust
    • Coolant reservoir bubbling or pressurizing excessively
    • Engine overheating
    • Rough idle that clears up as engine warms
    • No warning light in some cases before engine fails

    How to Fix

    Ford TSBs 19-2139 and 19-2375 cover short block and head gasket replacement under extended warranty (7 years/84,000 miles from warranty start date). Verify coverage at fordowner.com or call Ford Customer Relations 1-800-392-3673. Class action lawsuit for out-of-warranty reimbursement: lieffcabraser.com/defect/ford-coolant. Post-repair: Ford recommends monitoring coolant level and using only Motorcraft Orange coolant (VC-3-B).

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $7,000

    Research This Issue

    Based on 1,890 owner reports

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence1,890 owner reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2025Reviewed Feb 2026

    On the 2010-2019 Ford Fusion, on AWD Fusions the Power Transfer Unit holds only about a quart of gear oil with no dipstick, service interval, or cooling, sitting next to hot exhaust and transaxle. The fluid cooks and breaks down, becoming thick, gummy, and black, and the seals leak. Owners report a burning smell in the cabin, whining/growling, and eventually PTU seizure that can damage the transmission. Failures often occur relatively early in the car's life.

    Common Symptoms

    • Burning oil smell in cabin
    • Whining, growling, or grinding from center of vehicle
    • Brown/black fluid leak near transaxle/axle area
    • Vibration or shudder under acceleration
    • Loss of AWD function

    How to Fix

    Preventive fluid changes roughly every 30,000 miles greatly extend PTU life even though Ford lists it as filled-for-life. A leaking unit may be resealed for $400-$600 if caught early; a failed PTU requires replacement, which dealers quote from ~$1,600 up to ~$3,100 including labor.

    Typical repair cost:$400 - $3,100

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2013-2018 Ford Fusion, a design flaw in the front brake hoses lets them rupture over time, leaking brake fluid and increasing stopping distance. Ford recalled roughly 1.2-1.28 million Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans (recall 23S12) in 2023 after an NHTSA investigation. A ruptured hose causes a low brake-fluid warning, a change in pedal feel, and a real crash risk from degraded braking.

    Common Symptoms

    • Brake warning light on instrument cluster
    • Longer stopping distances
    • Soft, low, or changed brake pedal feel
    • Visible brake fluid leak at front wheels
    • Low brake fluid reservoir level

    How to Fix

    Under recall 23S12 dealers replace both front brake hoses and, where equipped, modify the hose routing and ride-height sensor at no charge. Owners noticing a soft/low pedal or brake warning light should stop driving and have the hoses inspected immediately.

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    Typical repair cost:$0 - $400

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2010-2019 Ford Fusion, the 6F35 six-speed automatic is prone to harsh, banging, or delayed shifts (most often 2-3 and 3-4) plus a shudder/vibration when the torque converter clutch locks up at a steady 40-60 mph cruise. Root causes are worn valve-body separator-plate O-rings and bores that can no longer hold clean line pressure, clogged/worn shift solenoids, and torque-converter clutch degradation. Many units develop symptoms well before 100,000 miles. A 2019 class-action lawsuit accused Ford of concealing the 6F35 defect on Fusion and Escape.

    This issue also affects: Ford Aerostar

    Common Symptoms

    • Hard/banging upshifts especially 2nd-to-3rd
    • Shudder or vibration cruising at 40-60 mph
    • Delayed engagement into drive or reverse
    • Slipping or flaring between gears
    • Transmission overheating warning

    How to Fix

    Start with a full fluid-and-filter service using the correct Mercon LV. For confirmed harsh shifts, reman or updated valve body with new solenoids is the durable fix; TCC shudder that survives a flush usually requires torque-converter replacement. Verify the transmission calibration is up to date (Ford released updated shift-strategy PCM/TCM reflashes). Severe internal wear = rebuild or reman transmission.

    Typical repair cost:$250 - $3,500

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2006-2020 Ford Fusion, the plastic gears inside the HVAC blend-door actuator strip out, so the door can no longer move to route air correctly. The classic symptom is a repeated clicking or knocking noise from behind the dash (often at startup or when changing temperature), along with air stuck on one temperature, wrong vent output, or one side blowing hot while the other blows cold. It is one of the most common Fusion comfort complaints across all generations.

    Common Symptoms

    • Repeated clicking/knocking noise behind dashboard
    • No heat or no cold air from vents
    • Temperature stuck on hot or cold
    • Different temperature from left vs right vents
    • Air blows from wrong vents

    How to Fix

    Replace the failed blend-door actuator (driver side of the HVAC housing, accessed by dropping the glove box). After replacement, perform the actuator calibration: reconnect the battery, turn ignition to On without starting, and let the system self-learn its range for at least a minute. Parts are inexpensive; labor rises sharply if a deeper actuator requires dash removal.

    Typical repair cost:$156 - $400

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2013-2018 Ford Fusion, fusion owners frequently find water pooling in the trunk/spare-tire well and wet rear carpet. Sources include leaking taillight gaskets/plastic rivet pass-throughs, deteriorated trunk and rear-window seals, and split spot-welds in the channel under the rear glass. Standing water risks rust and corrosion of trunk-mounted electronics (on hybrids the high-voltage battery and electronics sit in this area), plus musty odor and mold.

    Common Symptoms

    • Water in spare-tire well
    • Wet or musty rear carpet
    • Water dripping near taillights
    • Foggy/condensation in trunk
    • Rust or corroded connectors in trunk

    How to Fix

    Water-test to locate the entry point, then reseal or replace the taillight gaskets/rivet grommets, trunk weatherstrip, and rear-window seal; seal split spot-welds with seam sealer. Clear any blocked trunk/quarter-panel drain holes and dry the carpet/insulation thoroughly to prevent corrosion and mold.

    Typical repair cost:$50 - $600

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
    NHTSA Recalls18 recalls

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM)

    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Fusion PHEV vehicles. The battery energy control module (BECM) may become damaged due to excessive voltage and current flow.

    Campaign #23V44000023/06/2023

    BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.

    Campaign #25V44200027/06/2025

    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

    + 13 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the most common Ford Fusion problems?

    According to Au7o's analysis of 5,630+ owner reports, the 2017 Ford Fusion has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist, 1.5L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders - Internal Engine Block Failure, Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Degradation and Failure. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

    Is the Ford Fusion reliable?

    The 2017 Ford Fusion has 9 known issues documented across 5,630+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist and 1.5L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders - Internal Engine Block Failure and Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Degradation and Failure and AWD Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Overheating and Fluid Leak Failure and Front Brake Hose Rupture - Loss of Brake Fluid and Longer Stopping (Recall 23S12) and 6F35 6-Speed Automatic Harsh/Delayed Shifting and Torque Converter Shudder. 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 $0 to $7,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist, typically costs $0-$2,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

    What is the 2013-2018 Ford Fusion Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure - Sudden Loss of Assist?

    2014-2018 Ford Fusions use a different EPS module revision than the 2011-2013 recall (NHTSA 15V340) — but owners still report sudden loss of power steering assist, particularly at higher mileage. Without recall coverage, repairs are owner-paid: rack replacement typically $1,200-$… Repairs typically run $0-$2,800. Severity: high.

    What is the 2014-2019 Ford Fusion 1.5L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders - Internal Engine Block Failure?

    The 1.5L EcoBoost in 2014-2019 Ford Fusion is affected by the same open-deck cylinder block design defect as the Escape. Coolant leaks internally from the block passages into the combustion chambers due to insufficient sealing surface and porous block material that cannot maintai… Repairs typically run $0-$7,000. 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.

    What is the 2010-2019 Ford Fusion AWD Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Overheating and Fluid Leak Failure?

    On AWD Fusions the Power Transfer Unit holds only about a quart of gear oil with no dipstick, service interval, or cooling, sitting next to hot exhaust and transaxle. The fluid cooks and breaks down, becoming thick, gummy, and black, and the seals leak. Owners report a burning sm… Repairs typically run $400-$3,100. Severity: high.

    What is the 2013-2018 Ford Fusion Front Brake Hose Rupture - Loss of Brake Fluid and Longer Stopping (Recall 23S12)?

    A design flaw in the front brake hoses lets them rupture over time, leaking brake fluid and increasing stopping distance. Ford recalled roughly 1.2-1.28 million Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans (recall 23S12) in 2023 after an NHTSA investigation. A ruptured hose causes a low brake-f… Repairs typically run $0-$400. Severity: high.

    What is the 2010-2019 Ford Fusion 6F35 6-Speed Automatic Harsh/Delayed Shifting and Torque Converter Shudder?

    The 6F35 six-speed automatic is prone to harsh, banging, or delayed shifts (most often 2-3 and 3-4) plus a shudder/vibration when the torque converter clutch locks up at a steady 40-60 mph cruise. Root causes are worn valve-body separator-plate O-rings and bores that can no longe… Repairs typically run $250-$3,500. Severity: high.

    What is the 2006-2020 Ford Fusion HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure - Clicking/Knocking Behind Dash, No Heat or AC?

    The plastic gears inside the HVAC blend-door actuator strip out, so the door can no longer move to route air correctly. The classic symptom is a repeated clicking or knocking noise from behind the dash (often at startup or when changing temperature), along with air stuck on one t… Repairs typically run $156-$400. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2010-2018 Ford Fusion Parasitic Battery Drain - Dead Battery / No Start (BCM & Modules)?

    Many Fusion owners report the battery going dead overnight or over a weekend from a parasitic draw. Common culprits are a module that fails to sleep - Body Control Module (BCM), APIM/infotainment, or amplifier - as well as the PATS anti-theft transceiver circuit on earlier cars. Repairs typically run $150-$1,000. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2013-2018 Ford Fusion Water Intrusion into Trunk/Tire Well - Wet Carpet and Corroded Modules?

    Fusion owners frequently find water pooling in the trunk/spare-tire well and wet rear carpet. Sources include leaking taillight gaskets/plastic rivet pass-throughs, deteriorated trunk and rear-window seals, and split spot-welds in the channel under the rear glass. Standing water… Repairs typically run $50-$600. Severity: medium.

    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.

    Data sourced from 5,630+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.