It is the Ford Fusion, a beloved mid-sized sedan that has been a staple on the road for more than a decade, has had many lows and highs through its many generations. We look into the diverse world of Ford Fusion models to determine the Best & Worst Ford Fusion Years for this iconic car.
If you’re looking to buy a reliable car for your daily commute or looking for a fashionable upgrade knowing what Ford Fusion years to avoid and which ones are the most suitable Ford Fusion years can make an enormous differences in your car purchase.
Join us for an in-depth look at every generation of Ford Fusion.
Ford Fusion Generations
In the year 2005, Ford revolutionized the auto industry with the launch to the Ford Fusion. This mid-sized car wasn’t just a pretty looker It brought a new blend of fashion and practicality that made heads turn and attracted the attention of people.
Let’s make a brief pit stop to take a look at the journey of the Fusion through the decades:
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation (CD3) | 2006 2012 |
| 2nd generation (CD4) | 2013 2020 |
What’s the point? Simple. Generational shifts, along with their recent updates to style tech, mechanics, and style, are often the main sauce that separates the top of the crop from the lemons of the Ford Fusion lineup.
Ford Fusion Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
Let’s go with brass screws. How did we distinguish the good from the bad? We did not leave a piece of ground unturned, taking into account:
- Reliability of the owner as reported by the horse (straight directly from the mouth of the horse)
- Annual maintenance costs (because nobody likes surprise bills)
- Ratings for safety (because that your existence is worth it)
- Consumer Reports score on reliability (the the gold-standard)
- Consumer Reports Owner satisfaction scores (happy drivers do not lie)
- NHTSA recalls, investigates as well as complaints (the official term)
- Edmunds owner reviews (real conversations with real owners)
- JD Power owner ratings (because they give power to the people)
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings (the blue book isn’t a tell the truth)
- Ratings of owners of VehicleHistory (history has much to teach us)
- Cars.com Owner ratings (because car owners know the best)
Are you ready for an eye-catching feast? Look at this graph which will bring all of this data to life:
But wait! There’s more! We’ve separated every Ford Fusion model year into the good, bad, as well as”meh “meh” in this handy table:
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation (CD3) | 2008 2009 | 2006 2007 | 2010 2011 2012 |
| 2nd generation (CD4) | 2017/ 2018 2019 2020 | 2015 2016 | 2013 2014 |
What’s the matter regarding “neutral” years, you might ask? They’re those that are the Goldilocks of Fusions that are not too hot, but not too cold. They didn’t set the globe on fire with incredibleness however, they didn’t explode and cause a fire.
Prepare yourself for a flurry of numbers. Do you want to know more NHTSA recalls and complaints? It’s one-way entry into the doghouse of reliability for the year model.
Let’s get rid of the teasing and look at the in-depth details of Ford Fusion’s greatest neutral, worst, and best years!
Best & Worst Ford Fusion Years In 1st Generation (2006-2012)
First generation Ford Fusion, produced from 2006 to 2012, featured the most successful times to date for Ford Fusion and Ford Fusion years to steer clear of.
Best Ford Fusion Years: 2008, 2009
Ford Fusion had standout years in 2008 and 2009 with both models achieving top user satisfaction ratings as well as positive NHTSA scores.
In 2008, the Fusion offered the 2.3L inline-4 engine that produced 160hp and a stronger 3.0L V6 engine that produced 221hp. accommodating different preferences in performance.
The year 2009 was the first time Ford unveiled a V6 AWD version as well as a hybrid version which aimed to appeal to Ford’s Fusion to a wider range of customers.
Both model years 2008 and 2009 witnessed technological advancements, including for instance, the Ford SYNC infotainment system improving the overall experience. Safety features such as Anti-lock brakes and stability control were included in certain trims, improving the image of these years as the peak period in the history of Ford Fusion.
The Neutral Years: 2006, 2007
In the Ford Fusion models from 2006 and 2007 mark those of the Neutral Years for this vehicle line. In 2006, consumers could choose between two options for engines, those of 2.3L and 3.0L Both of which offered good performance in terms of fuel consumption, which was 20 cities and 28 highway mpg.
There were reports of problems concerning the airbags, the electrical system and transmissions in this model year which could be source of concern for potential buyers.
Moving onto The Ford Fusion 2007 model, people were raving about its smooth ride and solid handling. There were brake issues that were linked on an ABS valve issue which eventually caused the recall. This underscores the importance of being aware of any safety issues that could arise that may arise with particular model years prior to purchasing an used Ford Fusion from this period.
Ford Fusion Years To Avoid: 2010, 2011, 2012
The years 2010 and 2011 and 2012 were particularly difficult particularly for Ford Fusion owners due to the quantity of NHTSA complaints received in this time. In 2010, the Ford Fusion alone accumulated over 55,000 complaints, which highlighted issues related to steering, transmission and engine issues.
Recalls were issued for a variety of crucial components, including ABS valve issues along with Electronic Throttle Body malfunctions, which highlights the seriousness of the issues that owners face.
Despite attempts to fix these issues in the subsequent models however, the 2011 as well as 2011 Ford Fusion models continued to have issues with power steering issues. The recurrence of the issues combined with the number of recalls in these years, makes them some of the most difficult problems for Ford Fusion owners.
It is an opportunity to remind people that it is essential to implement thorough quality control procedures in automobile manufacturing in order to prevent the general discontent among consumers.
Best & Worst Years for Ford Fusion 2nd Generation (2013-2020)
The second-generation Ford Fusion (2013-2020) kept the fun going with new features and a modern appearance. However, there aren’t all models identical. Let’s take a look:
The star are the stars of this show? 2017-2020. What are the years to avoid? 2013 and 2014. Make sure to check back for more details!
The Best Years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
If you’re looking for a second-hand Ford Fusion, set your goals for 2017-2020. These models are among the best of the crop. They include:
- Excellent reviews for CarHistory along with Cars.com
- There aren’t many complaints or recalls about NHTSA (that’s an earful for the ears of a car-buyer!)
Options for engine options are endless:
- 2.5L Duratec 4-cylinder
- 1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder
- 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder
- V6 Sport engine (for the speed freaks among us)
The V6 is an absolute beast:
- 2.7L turbocharged engine
- 325 horsepower
- A torque of 380 lb-ft (hello thrilling drives!)
Fuel efficiency? The 1.5L model is rated at 16 city/34 highway mpg according to Consumer Reports.
But wait, there’s more!
- Hybrid and plug-in hybrid choices (Fusion Hybrid and Energi) as well as Fusion Hybrid)
- Advanced driver assistance functions (adaptive cruise control automatic brakes in emergency, and lane-keeping assistance)
- The new SYNC3 information system (because who doesn’t like an upgrade in technology?)
The Neutral Years: 2015, 2016
In 2015, and 2016, what are the 2016, Ford Fusion models? They’re “meh” years – not bad, but they’re not exactly sparking the world to ablaze also.
2015 Ford Fusion:
- A new recall is underway: The brake light not working properly
- In other words generally, reliable
2016 Ford Fusion:
- Some lingering steering problems
- Overall, a consistent performer
The past few years have been like the friend who is always reliable, but isn’t the center of the party. Not terrible, but not extraordinary.
The Worst Years: 2013, 2014
Be prepared, people. In 2013, and in 2014, the Ford Fusion years are the ones to avoid the same way as potholes on the highway.
2013. Ford Fusion: The problem child
- Leaks of coolant (nobody would want to be in a hot mess)
- Overheating issues (ditto)
- Transmission issues (slipping and unsteady shifting – – yikes!)
- Loss of power steering assist (because you don’t need control, do you think?)
Recalls? Oh, my!
- Leaks of oil from cracked heads on cylinders of the engine
- Fluids from the cooling system leak.
- Overheating in 1.6L engines
- Leaks of fuel from compromised delivery systems
- Malfunctioning door latches (don’t get locked in… or out)
- Accidental rollaway caused by damaged cable for shifting (parking brake or anyone else?)
- The front brake line cracks, leading to leaks in brake fluid
Review the NHTSA’s 2013., 2014, 2015, 2016 Ford Fusion recalls and complaints. This isn’t for the faint of heart.
Ford Fusion Average Resale Values:
The Ford Fusion stands out as an option that is reliable in the crowded sedan market. With its strong performance and stylish appearance The Fusion retains its value in time, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone who are looking to trade or sell later on. Below is a graph that shows the average resale value of various Ford Fusion models across various years, showing the consistent and positive yields.
Conclusion:
After reviewing the different versions that comprise Ford Fusion, we have found that after analyzing the various model years of Ford Fusion, the 2017-2020 models are the most popular contenders for the top Ford Fusion years to purchase. With their reliability as well as modern technology and overall price, these models offer an all-encompassing driving experience.
FAQ’s: Best & Worst Ford Fusion Years
What year of Ford Fusion is most reliable?
Ford Fusion is generally considered to be the most reliable model in the 2017-2018, 2019 and 2020 model years.
What was the timeframe when did Ford Fusion have problems?
Ford Fusion faced various problems between 2010 and the year 2016. The most frequent issues were transmission failures and premature wear on brakes and electrical problems. Owners have reported these issues leading to costly repairs as well as a decline in the performance of the vehicle in the time.
