Owners have filed 1,169 complaints
about the 2009 Ford Fusion with NHTSA between 2009 and 2026.
The largest single group is the brakes.
Across this model's run it ranks 8 of 15 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 30
Against the median year of the Ford Fusion. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 65
12.5% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 13
8% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
2343.4%
Door
1426.4%
Latch
611.3%
Automatic Emergency Braking
35.7%
ABS Warning Light
23.8%
Accelerator Pedal
23.8%
Control Unit/Module
23.8%
Oil/Lubrication
11.9%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
101.4%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
111.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
192.6%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
598.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
10013.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
19527.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
23532.5%
150,000+ miles
9312.9%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2009 Ford Fusion 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
9.2% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Feb 2009peak 56Sep 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2009 Ford Fusion
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA18002Opened 18 Apr 2018Closed 15 Jan 2021SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Extended Braking Distance
On April 18, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-002 to investigate reports of braking concerns in model year (MY) 2006-12 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ, and MY 2006-11 Mercury Milan vehicles manufactured with Continental Automotive System?s ABS hydraulic control units (HCUs). Complainants report that after an ABS braking event (initiated by slippery or uneven surfaces) the brake pedal moved towards the floor and the vehicle stopping distance increased beyond driver expectations.Inside the HCU are four hydraulic normally closed (NC) valves with zin...
PE16017Opened 20 Dec 2016Closed 4 May 2018SERVICE BRAKES
Extended Braking Distance
On December 20, 2016, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 16-017 to investigate reports of braking concerns in model year 2007 through 2009 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan vehicles.Complainants report that after an ABS braking event (caused by braking on a slippery or uneven surface) the brake pedal moved towards the floor and the distance in which the vehicle stopped increased beyond what was expected by the driver.The cause of the problem appears to be the Antilock Braking System (ABS) Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU), a component manufactured for Ford by C...
EA12009Opened 12 Dec 2012Closed 12 Jun 2014VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
Floor mat interference with accelerator
On May 27, 2014, Ford Motor Company submitted recall 14E-028 (Ford recall #14S07) to correct a safety-related problem with certain driver's side Ford optional all-weather floor mats sold for use in model year 2006 through 2011 model year Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln Zephyr, and Lincoln MKZ vehicles built at Hermosillo Assembly Plant (HAP) from November 9, 2007, to October 31 ,2010.NHTSA testing determined that the original accessory all-weather mat with a single retention clip (Figure 1), may interfere with accelerator pedal return to idle with the mat retained by the clip and rotated c...
PE10019Opened 28 May 2010Closed 11 Jan 2013VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
Accel Pedal Interference - Acc Floormat
Unsecured mats may interfere with accelerator pedal return to idle. A heel blocker in the floor pan provides a platform that may lift an unsecured mat into contact with the pedal. Ford introduced new pedals as a running change early in model year (MY) 2010 vehicles. Analysis of complaints received by ODI and Ford show elevated rates of pedal entrapment incidents in MY 2008 through early 2010 production vehicles. Incidents typically occur following hard pedal applications to pass slower traffic or when merging into faster traffic. Drivers allege continued high engine power after releasing the a...
Recalls on the 2009 Ford Fusion
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
21V158000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2007-2011 Ranger, 2006-2012 Fusion, Lincoln Zephyr, Lincoln MKZ, 2006-2011 Mercury Milan, 2007-2010 Ford Edge, and Lincoln MKX vehicles. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
21V081000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2005-2014 Mustang, 2004-2011 Ranger, 2009-2011 Mercury Milan, 2006 Ford GT, 2008-2012 Fusion, 2007-2010 Edge and Lincoln MKX, and 2009-2010 Lincoln MKZ vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with a driver or passenger frontal air bag inflator used as a replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the frontal air bag, an inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V904000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln Zephyr and MKZ vehicles. The valves within the ABS Hydraulic Control Units (HCU) may react with brake fluids containing specific corrosion preventative additives. This reaction may cause the valves to not close properly.
Risk: If the valves do not properly close, additional brake pedal travel may be required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
18V046000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Ford is recalling certain 2010 Ford Edge, Fusion, Mustang and Ranger, Lincoln MKX and Zephyr/MKZ, and Mercury Milan vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Ford is also recalling certain 2009 Ford Edge, Fusion, Mustang and Ranger, Lincoln MKX and Zephyr/MKZ, and Mercury Milan vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembl
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V024000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012 Ford Fusion and Mustang and Lincoln Zephyr and MKZ vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Ford is recalling certain 2009 Ford Ranger, Edge, Fusion and Mustang, Lincoln MKX, MKZ and Zephyr and Mercury Milan vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Ford is recalling certain 2007-2008 Ford Ranger, Edge and Lincoln MKX, 2006-2008 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln Zephyr and MKZ, 2005-2008 Ford Mustang and 2005-2006 Ford GT vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V384000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Ford Ranger vehicles, 2006-2011 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ vehicles, 2007-2010 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX vehicles, 2005-2006 Ford GT vehicles, and 2005-2011 Ford Mustang vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Ford is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 Ford Ranger, Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles, 2006-2008 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ vehicles, 2005-2006 Ford GT vehicles and 2005-2008 Ford Mustang vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Any vehicle not included in "Zone A", or "Zone B" is not included in the safety recall. These vehicles are equipped with
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
14E028000
EQUIPMENT
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain all weather driver side accessory floor mats sold for use in model year 2006-2011 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, 2006 Lincoln Zephyr, and 2007-2011 Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured November 9, 2007, through October 31, 2010. The affected floor mats may move and possibly interfere with the accelerator pedal.
Risk: The floor mat could shift such that it could interfere with the accelerator pedal, preventing its return to an idle position, which could result in unintended vehicle speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2021029274,737 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the driver-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Action: Ford will notify owners by mail. The corrective actions for this recall are under development. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 201966554,292 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: On certain cars, a problem with the hydraulic control unit for the anti-lock brake system (ABS) could cause increased brake pedal travel. Safety Risk: Increased brake pedal travel could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to inspect the ABS module assembly. The system will be flushed with DOT 4 brake fluid, and if necessary, the hydraulic control unit will be replaced. Dealers will also replace the DOT 3 reservoir cap with a new DOT 4 cap.
Recall 2019005300,898 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the passenger-front airbag inflator replaced. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected. Additional note: This recall supersedes recalls 2016-347 (Ford Safety Improvement Program 16S26), 2017-024 (Ford Recall 17S01) and 2018-035 (Ford Recall 18S01). Vehicles repaired under the previous recalls do not require repair under this recall.
Recall 201803536,727 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected. Additional note: This recall is superseded by recall 2019005 (Ford Recall 19S01). Please see <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2019005">recall 2019005</a> for more information.
Recall 20163475,867 units in Canada
Airbag
Ford Canada is conducting a voluntary Safety Improvement Program involving passenger airbag inflators in certain vehicles that were originally sold or ever registered in certain high humidity areas of the United States equipped with Takata airbags. Ford will replace the driver or passenger inflator on affected vehicles, depending on the vehicle involved. Owners who believe their vehicles may have been originally purchased or registered in the states of New Jersey, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, North Carolina, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, California, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands should contact a Ford dealer. This action is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Note: This Safety Improvement Program is superseded by recall 2019005 (Ford Recall 19S01). Please see <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2019005">recall 2019005</a> for more information.
Recall 20141952,810 units in Canada
Accessories
A safety defect may exist in Ford aftermarket all-weather floor mats sold as accessories or service replacement parts for 2006-2011 Ford Fusion, Lincoln Zephyr, and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The floor mats are secured by a single retention device, which could allow the driver's floor mat to move out of position and interfere with the accelerator pedal. If this occurs, the accelerator pedal could fail to return to idle. This could result in a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will replace Ford aftermarket all-weather floor mats with an updated design having two retention devices.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Washington, DCCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
After activation of ABS brake system, brakes became "soft" and "spongy" with permanent increased braking time. As described in safety recall 19S54, this due to to a valve in the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) being stuck open. I received a letter from Ford Motor Company regarding this safety recall in 2011 informing of the defect and assuring "we will correct this condition." The vehicle was taken to Koons Ford (1051 E Broad St., Falls Church, VA, 22044; 703-241-7250) on 7/5/21 for repair. However, the HCU was not replaced, which appears to be the only remedy to this problem. Instead DOT 3 brake fluid was replaced with DOT 4 fluid, according to Koons Ford. However, after subsequent activation of the ABS brake system, the brakes became impaired again in the same way as before. I returned the car to Koons Ford on [XXX]. A "one-time" repair was performed pursuant to "customer satisfaction program" 21N11, as Ford acknowledged in a letter to dealers dated 12/7/21 that numerous customers were returning as the action prescribed in safety recall 19S54 did not repair the defective brakes. However, the HCU was not replaced. Service Advisor Kevin Lacki told me the HCU "passed" the inspection/diagnostic despite replication of the problem. I complained to Service Manager Rob Ryans who did nothing. I emailed the General Manager of the dealership twice, and he never responded. I called the manufacturer on [XXX] (case #[XXX]), but no action was taken. The problem of "soft" brakes and extended travel time quickly resurfaced and led to a vehicle accident in early 2023. The Ford Motor Company is employing a diagnostic that results in false "passes" for HCUs that should be replaced (and/or this dealership did not correctly perform the service actions). Even after "passing" Ford's diagnostic, the HCU valve(s) become stuck open after ABS activation. The safety recall should be investigated and the recall amended to replace faulty HCUs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 55
NHTSA complaint #11617022 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesNorth Ridgeville, OHCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing extended brake pedal travel while driving. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal traveled down to the floorboard, causing the braking distance to be extended. There was no warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while her husband was pulling into the garage, the brake pedal was depressed. Still, the failure recurred, causing the vehicle to crash into the garage wall. There was no injury sustained. The vehicle was drivable. The contact later received notification of Ford Campaign Number: 21N11. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the brake fluid and the brake fluid cap were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the dealer had not replaced the HCU. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
NHTSA complaint #11612491 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oak Park, MICrash
AIR BAGS
My vehicle failed to stop which resulted to a car crash
NHTSA complaint #11511294 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oak Park, MICrash
SERVICE BRAKES
My vehicle failed to stop which resulted to a car crash
NHTSA complaint #11511294 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My vehicle failed to stop which resulted to a car crash
NHTSA complaint #11511294 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Des Moines, IACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
Extended brake travel that caused me to get into a car accident. Also my airbag did not deploy causing me to have a serious headache. I had two people in the vehicle with me. I pushed down on the brake pedal and it felt like it wasn’t stopping or it was stopping very slowly. I was driving straight the person in the white pontiac was trying to turn left. I had the right away no yield or stop sign, but she pulled out in front of me. Driver was a 16 year old girl
NHTSA complaint #11487467 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Prescott Valley, AZ
SERVICE BRAKES
Dear NHTSA, The braking system failed which was covered by Ford Safety Recall 19S54 with NHTSA campaign #19V904000 at 37,750 miles. After research and finding the label of the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit still on the vehicle, being manufactured 07/12/2008, picture attached, it turned out to be the original HCU, whose failures were the reason for the Safety Recall. A Ford dealer had performed software evaluation of the ABS HCU and determined replacement of unit not necessary. This was done on 4/14/2021 at 17,606 miles along with break fluid change to DOT4 and reservoir cap change. Unfortunately my wife just went through a four-way stop intersection when the break pedal went to the end of its movement without being able to stop. No injuries or crashes involved. According to all sources read, this was caused by the ABS HCU valve being stuck open after attempting to brake on the slippery road during rain. The car is no longer safe to drive and sitting in front of our home. Asked Ford Motor Co to take care of this incomplete repair by the Ford dealer and replace the HCU but they say it’s no longer their responsibility. My understanding is that with a safety recall, they are to fix the issue as long as the vehicle is still around. They don’t agree. Can you help with this situation? Thank you! Note: I tried to upload pictures of ABS HCU and VIN labels on vehicle but failed after a number of retry attempts. If you need them I can try another way. Let me know.
NHTSA complaint #11762013 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spring Lake, NC
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
my brakes had went out while i was driving home from work
NHTSA complaint #11751439 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spring Lake, NC
SUSPENSION
my brakes had went out while i was driving home from work
NHTSA complaint #11751439 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spring Lake, NC
SERVICE BRAKES
my brakes had went out while i was driving home from work
NHTSA complaint #11751439 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesLexington, KY
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for brake repairs, and after the repairs, the brake pedal felt spongy. The independent mechanic performed further inspections and diagnosed the vehicle with insufficient brake pressure due to a failure of the ABS hydraulic control unit. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V904000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000.
NHTSA complaint #11732434 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 95,000 milesHenrietta, NY
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V904000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), but the failure occurred. When the vehicle was retrieved from the dealer, the contact was informed that the vehicle had passed an inspection. The brake pedal was depressed approximately seventy percent down for the brakes to engage. The contact stated that the brake pedal was soft while depressed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, but it was unknown if the vehicle was diagnosed. The contact was informed that the rear calipers needed to be inspected. However, the contact was unsure if the rear calipers were inspected. The contact stated that the vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired and was awaiting a flush of the braking system. The dealer made the manufacturer aware of the issue. The zone manager informed the contact that a satisfaction program had expired. No additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.
NHTSA complaint #11717314 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mobile, AL
SERVICE BRAKES
The ABS warning light came on while driving, and the brakes began to feel unsafe during normal stops. I later learned there is an open recall for the ABS module on my vehicle. When I took it to the dealership, they refused to perform the recall repair unless I paid out of pocket for a new ABS control module, even though the recall notice mentions this component. The issue affects braking performance and safety, especially on wet roads. The ABS system continues to malfunction, and the dealership’s refusal to complete the recall repair leaves the vehicle unsafe to drive.
NHTSA complaint #11692064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hartsville, SC
SERVICE BRAKES
My car's brake pedal started not working properly. When trying to brake, the brake pedal goes down further than what it is supposed to and it takes longer than normal to brake, causing almost wrecks. It happens suddenly when trying to brake sometimes and it is very scary. There was a previous recall on the brake lines and it said they needed to be flushed out and all. I had this done to my car before and thought everything was okay. But it is not. I called Ford and they said there is currently a Customer Satisfaction Program that covers the repair of the Hydraulic control unit but it is limited to vehicles under 15 years old. My car is 16 years old so it does not qualify for this program. I asked why this wasn't a recall because it is such a big safety issue and they stated they couldn't make it a recall, it would have to be reported and issued from NHTSA. If the brakes/brake pedal is messing up and this is a known issue, then the vehicles' age should not matter. It should be recalled and fixed because this is such a huge safety concern and obviously a defect when manufactured. I don't have another car to drive and I'm sure there are numerous others in this same position and I feel it is imperative that this be looked into further and issued as a recall so people can remain safe and I'm sure this would save lives. I almost ran into a car today and it is extremely hazardous. It is very dangerous and scary and there is no warning light or anything indicating anything is wrong until driving it and it randomly happens. I have taken care of my car and had the previous recalls fixed but Ford knows this is an issue and very dangerous so it seems clear this needs to be issued as a recall.
NHTSA complaint #11680076 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charleston, WV
SERVICE BRAKES
I have recall 19S54 and called Ford. They made an appointment with Downtown Ford, Charleston, WV. The dealership said ford declined my recall repair due to not being able to get their machines to get any codes from my car. The ABS light is on. My mechanic said Ford should fix their recall. The recall says the D03 fluid must be changed to DOT 4 even if no problem found and if problem detected how to fix it! Ford declined because they can't get code reader to work on my car. They said it is a Preexisting Condition! My car is old but only has 24,800 miles and has been kept inside in a heated garage. The Downtown dealership said their hands are tied and would love to make my car safe. Their phone number is 304 344 1601. Please help me get my car fixed!!! I have called Ford multiple times and no help due to not having the codes from the dealership. Thanks!!!!
NHTSA complaint #11679035 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fairfield, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
I have noticed for some time in our 2009 Ford Fusion purchased used that the brake travel was longer than it should be. This results in the need to anticipate braking quicker and react faster to allow appropriate time to slow down. In doing some research I discovered a Ford recall 19S54 which was apparently replaced by a Ford CSP 21N11. I made an appointment to have this issue addressed by a Ford dealership and they said that the CSP expired in 2022 and the vehicle is no longer covered despite the persistence of the safety issue and the fact that it has not been repaired for this known problem. With a significant issue, such as braking, I believe the expiration should be extended to allow for Ford owners to have this known safety issue addressed appropriately by Ford.
NHTSA complaint #11627426 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 96,970 milesVan Burentownship, MI
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving 35-45 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle was slow to respond. The check brakes system message was displayed. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 19V904000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and 21V158000 (Air Bags); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The dealer completed the air bag recall and diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the brake module and HECU module were corroded. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 96,970. Parts distribution disconnect.
NHTSA complaint #11621936 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 96,970 milesVan Burentownship, MI
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving 35-45 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle was slow to respond. The check brakes system message was displayed. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 19V904000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and 21V158000 (Air Bags); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The dealer completed the air bag recall and diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the brake module and HECU module were corroded. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 96,970. Parts distribution disconnect.
NHTSA complaint #11621936 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Washington, DCCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
After activation of ABS brake system, brakes became "soft" and "spongy" with permanent increased braking time. As described in safety recall 19S54, this due to to a valve in the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) being stuck open. I received a letter from Ford Motor Company regarding this safety recall in 2011 informing of the defect and assuring "we will correct this condition." The vehicle was taken to Koons Ford (1051 E Broad St., Falls Church, VA, 22044; 703-241-7250) on 7/5/21 for repair. However, the HCU was not replaced, which appears to be the only remedy to this problem. Instead DOT 3 brake fluid was replaced with DOT 4 fluid, according to Koons Ford. However, after subsequent activation of the ABS brake system, the brakes became impaired again in the same way as before. I returned the car to Koons Ford on [XXX]. A "one-time" repair was performed pursuant to "customer satisfaction program" 21N11, as Ford acknowledged in a letter to dealers dated 12/7/21 that numerous customers were returning as the action prescribed in safety recall 19S54 did not repair the defective brakes. However, the HCU was not replaced. Service Advisor Kevin Lacki told me the HCU "passed" the inspection/diagnostic despite replication of the problem. I complained to Service Manager Rob Ryans who did nothing. I emailed the General Manager of the dealership twice, and he never responded. I called the manufacturer on [XXX] (case #[XXX]), but no action was taken. The problem of "soft" brakes and extended travel time quickly resurfaced and led to a vehicle accident in early 2023. The Ford Motor Company is employing a diagnostic that results in false "passes" for HCUs that should be replaced (and/or this dealership did not correctly perform the service actions). Even after "passing" Ford's diagnostic, the HCU valve(s) become stuck open after ABS activation. The safety recall should be investigated and the recall amended to replace faulty HCUs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 55
NHTSA complaint #11617022 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rocky River, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
While i was driving and the car hits a hole if the road, and i tried to brake so i can controll the car the breakes became uresponsive for the moment and after a few seconds when i try to brake again the travel space of the brake pedal is increased a lot and is near the end, and it takes a lot before the things return to normal( so it happens only when the car try to activate te ABS system).
NHTSA complaint #11616080 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 92,000 milesVirginia Beach, VA
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the brake pedal would depress to the floorboard without warning. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the contact was informed that the Hydraulic Electric Control Unit (HECU) had failed and needed to be replaced. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V904000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was 92,000.
NHTSA complaint #11614828 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesNorth Ridgeville, OHCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing extended brake pedal travel while driving. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal traveled down to the floorboard, causing the braking distance to be extended. There was no warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while her husband was pulling into the garage, the brake pedal was depressed. Still, the failure recurred, causing the vehicle to crash into the garage wall. There was no injury sustained. The vehicle was drivable. The contact later received notification of Ford Campaign Number: 21N11. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the brake fluid and the brake fluid cap were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the dealer had not replaced the HCU. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
NHTSA complaint #11612491 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 173,890 milesSouth Beloit, IL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal depressed with no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the brake lines had been flushed. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for a second time, and the vehicle was diagnosed with an HECU fuse failure. The contact was informed that the HECU fuse needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 173,890.
NHTSA complaint #11609064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 173,890 milesSouth Beloit, IL
SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal depressed with no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the brake lines had been flushed. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for a second time, and the vehicle was diagnosed with an HECU fuse failure. The contact was informed that the HECU fuse needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 173,890.
NHTSA complaint #11609064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Quartz Hill, CA
WHEELS
The potholes on the highway caused my tie rods and tires to explode!
NHTSA complaint #11606226 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Quartz Hill, CA
STEERING
The potholes on the highway caused my tie rods and tires to explode!
NHTSA complaint #11606226 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Quartz Hill, CA
SUSPENSION
The potholes on the highway caused my tie rods and tires to explode!
NHTSA complaint #11606226 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ostrander, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
Chapman Ford in Marysville, Ohio has had my car for ABS recall for almost a month now. They said they are waiting on the HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT HCU. Is this normal to take this long to fix.
NHTSA complaint #11600621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Philadelphia, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
Ford dealership refuses to replace ABS HCU unit. Recall states that it will be replaced if defective. Dealership said that it is defective but not part of the recall. Shows that it is part of the recall.
NHTSA complaint #11577602 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesBellwood, IL
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
The contact owns a 2009 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that the front driver's side door became inoperable. The contact stated that the front driver's door failed to open. The contact stated that the door latch could be locked and unlocked; however, the front driver's door could not be opened. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
NHTSA complaint #11558640 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Willow Springs, MO
SERVICE BRAKES
Hcu fails and prolongs braking, brakes are often soft
NHTSA complaint #11556668 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
