30 of the
574 complaints about the 2018 Ford Fusion are about the
fuel system — 5% of everything
reported for this model year.
Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before
73,000 miles.
I purchase this car on XXX Clinton Ford Dealership and engine need replacement Jan 2020 . I at that time did many replacement until the final diagnostic said engine replacement confirm by dealership Ford Dealership Fayetteville NC . The purge valve canister went out in 2022 and was replaced by Ed’sTire in Hope Mills Rd 11/19–11/22/2022 and now mechanic said it is in need of replacement again . Car problems started 2026 Feb and three pieces were replaced because the system was reading those code now to find out the purge valve canister needs replacement again. These hardship have cost me financial difficulties that a new car should never have had within 2 years . I believe no consumer should have to go through this.
NHTSA complaint #11743867 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Los Altos Hills, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Formal Complaint – 2018 Ford Fusion 1.5L EcoBoost – Engine Block Defect Statement of Issue:I am writing to report a premature engine failure on my 2018 Ford Fusion 1.5L. The vehicle is exhibiting all symptoms of the well-documented "coolant intrusion" defect described in Ford Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 22-2222. Despite following all recommended maintenance intervals, the engine block has failed, allowing coolant to enter the combustion chamber.Observations:Confirmed coolant loss with no external leakage found via pressure test.Significant white smoke and rough idle upon cold start. Desired Resolution: Since this is a known manufacturing defect involving the engine block's cooling channels—and not a result of wear and tear—I am requesting a "Goodwill Repair" for a long-block replacement. The current TSB denial based on [8 years] is unacceptable for a known catastrophic design flaw that compromises vehicle safety.
NHTSA complaint #11739403 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Berkley, MI
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- There is a crack in the engine block; coolant is leaking into cylinder 3. I am having the car taken by carvana on 3/30 and it will no longer be available for inspection, but I have record of the mechanical issues from taking the vehicle into the dealership on 3/18. - My/others safety was not immediately at risk, but I know that my engine could have blown while driving, causing an accident or even an engine fire. - As stated, issue was confirmed by dealer, and I have records of this - N/A - Check engine light appeared on approximately 3/5; was unable to have car inspected right away and continued driving. Started to get intermittent errors stating that the engine was overheating/coolant was low on 3/12. Stopped driving car more than 2 miles at a time after this. Boyfriend correctly diagnosed issue on 3/15 and I had the issue confirmed by dealer on 3/18.
NHTSA complaint #11727679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dearborn Heights, MI
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2018 Ford Fusion SE 1.5L EcoBoost, just purchased the car 10 days ago and I already have antifreeze that's mixing with the oil causing the car to overheat and white smoke coming from the back cannot drive the car took it to three mechanics they told me it needs a new turbo and a head gasket which will cost well over $4,000 which I don't have the money that I bought the car with I borrowed from family members so I can go back to work and I don't have money to fix it so at the moment I am unemployed because I have no vehicle to get to work this is a major problem. My father before he passed away had a 2017 Ford Escape with the same engine and he had the same problem he sold it for $1500 lost 14 Grand on it
NHTSA complaint #11725437 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pittsburg, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I would like to respectfully request that my 2018 Ford Fusion, with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine, be considered for inclusion in the customer satisfaction programs related to the engine issues I'm experiencing. Despite my vehicle not being initially listed, the problems I've encountered, including the diagnostic trouble code P0302 and the coolant leak into cylinder #2, suggest that it may be suffering from a similar defect or design flaw that the program aims to address. Given the safety risks associated with the current condition of my vehicle, I believe it would be fair and reasonable to include it in the program and provide the necessary repairs or replacements to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate. I would appreciate your assistance in facilitating this process and exploring options for resolving this issue in a manner consistent with the treatment of similar vehicles.
NHTSA complaint #11681721 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Washington, DC
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
At approximately 67,180 miles, a Ford dealership performed a multi-point inspection on my 2018 Ford Fusion SE with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine due to a check engine light on. The Ford dealership diagnosed the vehicle with a coolant intrusion into cylinder 2. The Ford dealership recommended the replacement of the short block and gasket kit, with an estimated repair cost of $7,465. This type of issue diagnosed for my vehicle is a known failure issue for 1.5L Ford EcoBoost engines documented in Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12, which covers coolant intrusion and engine damage in this engine type. Despite the Ford dealership diagnosis of my vehicle matching what is described in Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12, I was informed that my vehicle is not eligible. The Coolant intrusion into cylinder 2 is an issue that poses a safety risk due to engine misfires, stalling, overheating, and possible sudden loss of engine power while driving. In my case, my vehicle has become unreliable and unsafe for regular driving. A Ford dealership inspected the vehicle, confirmed and documented the issue, and the repair quote, diagnostic report and diagnostic payment receipt are available upon request. Ford has declined assistance despite the vehicle’s low mileage and clear alignment with known engine defects. I mailed a formal appeal letter to Ford Motor Company and I am filing a complaint with my state attorney general. This widespread issue affects customer safety, and vehicle safety standards and deserves further investigation, as many other Ford owners of vehicles with 1.5L EcoBoost engines have reported similar failures.
NHTSA complaint #11678219 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Birmingham, AL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Coolant intrusion, coolant and oil is mixing causing my car to run hot. Engine light keeps coming on, repairs to multiple pumps replaced, water pump replaced, spark plugs replaced, radiator replaced, thermostat replaced. Ford dealership tried replacing all the above vehicle is still running hot. Now claiming I need a new engine.
NHTSA complaint #11675774 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Phillipsburg, NJ
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Unknown. Car will not start, dashboard says overheating, white smoke was coming out of muffler but stopped and etc.
NHTSA complaint #11658682 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Warren, ME
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My car had a bad shifting linkage which I paid for out of pocket. My 2.0 Ecoboost engine is leaking coolant into my oil and makes a very loud concerning ticking noise, along with reduced engine power and sporadic/random loss of brakes. There has been recalls for these issues on most other Ford Fusion models and this one NEEDS TO BE RECALLED. My engine is going to blow any day now and I will be stuck paying for the rest of my car loan for a vehicle I cannot drive. All of the Ecoboost engines should be recalled for poor design.
NHTSA complaint #11650127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hamilton, OH
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
EVAP system leak. Vapor leak causes car to not start after putting gas in the tank. It takes several tries before the car starts up. Engine light stays on which causes car fob not to auto start.
NHTSA complaint #11626746 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SAN Bernardino, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I drive a 2018 Ford fusion ecoboost. It started with a misfire on cylinder 4 and in that same week the engine started to over heat. Had the spark plugs replaced. Upon checking and monitoring coolant levels noticed I was losing coolant. Wasn't having any puddles in the driveway and no visible leaks under the hood. After few trips to work and home the engine would overheat and my work is less than 2 miles from my home. Started to quickly get worse, more codes popping up on my fixt obd2 scanner. From po304, PO300, PO303, B124D, PO313, PO316, PO317.
NHTSA complaint #11607854 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 79,000 milesSouthfield, MI
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with a failed EVAP purge system. The contact was informed that the EVAP purge system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired, and the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that the fuel tank made a vibrating sound before the vehicle stalled. Additionally, the contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart immediately. The contact stated that the vehicle restarted after several attempts. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure and a service appointment was scheduled. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.
NHTSA complaint #11590156 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 113,000 milesHopewell, VA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving or while stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was sputtering while driving at various speeds. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that after refueling, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the failure was due to the canister purge valve. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the canister purge valve was stuck. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.
NHTSA complaint #11587633 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 73,000 milesDonaldsonville, LA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted; however, the failure persisted. The contacted stated that the failure persisted, and the vehicle would not restart. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed as a malfunction with the gas cap. The contact was informed that the gas cap needed to be replaced. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.
NHTSA complaint #11585856 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Jqckson, MO
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My car has stalled out coming up to a stop sign. It makes a sound coming from gas tank. I can not turn it off while pumping gas because it will not start after pumping gas. It is the purge value according to my mechanic. I know the recall on this issue is on the focus models but the fusion is basically the same car
NHTSA complaint #11582231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fontana, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I PURCHASED THE CAR [XXX], FEW WEEKS LATER THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON THEN DISAPPEARED, I WAS ALSO EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THE SEAT COOLING FUNCTION, AS THE TOUCH SCREEN CONTROLS WAS SHOWING THAT THEY WERE BOTH ON AND IT WAS STILL WINTER/RAINY SEASON OUTSIDE. I TOOK THE CAR INNTO FORD DEALER AT SAN BERNARDINO CA, THEY TOLD ME THAT MOST LIKELY IT WAS JUST A DASHBOARD LIGHT MALFUNCTION BECAUSE THE DIAGNOSTICS RESULTS CAME OUT FINE AND AFTER RESEARCHING IN OTHER MANUALS EVEN THOUGH THE SEAT COOLING FUNCTION WAS SWITCHED TO "on", THE CAR DID NOT COME EQUIPPED WITH SEAT COOLING ONLY HEATED SEATS. 3 WEEKS LATER AFTER TAKING MY CAR HOME, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN ON Y DASHBOARD, I BOUGHT AN OBDII DIAGNOSTIC TOOL, THE RESULT CAME BACK WITH 2 DIFFERENT POWERTRAIN CODES THAT WERE STRICTLY MANUFACTURER CODES. 1ST CODE WAS P1450 WHICH IS DEFINED AS UNABLE TO BLEED GAS TANK - EXCESSIVE VACCUM. 2ND CODE WAS P2196 WHICH IS DEFINED BY O2 SENSOR STUCK TRYING TO CORRECT 1ST CODE. THE P2196 EVENTUALLY CLEARED ON ITS OWN BUT THE P1450 BECAME PERMANENT. I HAD A DIAGNOSTIC MECHANIC TAKE A LOOK AT IT AND HE TOLD ME THE SAME THING, EXCEPT THAT THE MAIN CULPRIT IS THE PURGE FLOW VALVE, WHICH IS A RECALL ISSUE ON OTHER FORD FUSIONS. WHEN I PURCHASED THE CAR, I WAS SHOWED THAT THE CAR HAD NO RECALLS BUT THE "MYFORD" APP AND OWNERSHIP DIDNT TRANSFER TO ME RIGHT AWAY UNTIL 30 DAYS AFTER THE PURCHASE, WHICH IS WHEN IT FINALLY LET ME VIEWED THE CARS PRIOR SERVICE / MAINTANANCE HISTORY AND EVEN THOUGH THE CAR SALES LADY SHOWED ME VIN RECORDS WHERE IT SAYS THERE IS NO RECALLS AND IT HAD NO ACCIDENTS, RECORDS THAT SHE SHOWED ME 30 DAYS PRIOR TO ME GAINING ACTUAL OWNERSHIP THRU "MY FORD" WHEN PURCHASING THE VEHICLE. THE "MY FORD" APP STATES THAT IT SEEMS AS IF THE CAR WAS IN AN ACCIDENT IN THE PAST BECAUSE ALMOST $8000 WENT INTO REPAIRS TOWARDS TRANSMISSION AND OTHER MAIN COMPONENTS. CALIFORNIA SMOG CHECK RECORDS SHOW THAT THE CAR HAS ONLY HAD 1 TEST IN CA LAST SEPT 2023. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO
NHTSA complaint #11580810 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Van Nuys, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Coolant is leaking into my oil.
NHTSA complaint #11568621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Winnebago, IL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I went on a road trip to see family which needed 5 hours of travel. After returning and parking the car, I noticed a knocking noise coming from the engine bay when it was started and was idling. After doing what I could to rule out possible problems I concluded the Flexplate might be the culprit due to Recall 22N12 with Ford. A short time later, my car started to stall if I did not keep my RPM's high enough while my vehicle was stopped. After getting an inspection done with a dealership they confirmed that it is the Flexplate. The symptoms gradually got worse which is what ultimately led me to bring it in to a dealership instead of a different shop. The problem is that this repair estimate I got says this repair is going to cost me $3,000. I am arguing that my vehicle should have been on Recall 22N12. After contacting Ford and going back and forth for 2 and a half hours they told me i'm out of luck and that there was nothing they can/will do about this.
NHTSA complaint #11563144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middleburg, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
M 19 year old daughter purchased the 2018 Ford Fusion 1.5L FWD certified on May 10th from AutoNation Ford of Orange Park, FL on 5/10/2023. Car broke down on 7/31/23 at 93032 miles and had it towed back to AutoNation. Was told that the flexplate broke and that there was coolant intrusion in one or more cylinders. Had the car repaired using the extended warranty plan that was purchased for the engine repair. Also paid to have the flexplate replaced. Received the car back on 9/22/23 with 93041 miles. On 9/26/23, check engine light at 93173. Code read oxygen sensor and emission purge valve sensor. Did not have repaired right away so that we can save up for the cost since it wasn't covered by the extended warranty plan. The cost was going to be about 700.00. Then the car started to hesitate in traffic while making a loud "farting" noise and eventually breaking down on 11/8/23 . We were able to get it to Garber Ford in Green Cove Springs but was told by the mechanic that the car is to dangerous to drive anymore. After a diagnostic was performed, we were told that not only is the evap purge valve bad, the car now needs a new transmission. The transmission pours out as fast as they can put it in. Due to the broken flexplate being noted during the first repair, its highly likely that the warranty company will cover. Estimated cost is 10k if we approve the breakdown and they deny. If we do not approve the breakdown so that insurance can inspect and just replace the transmission it will be 7-8k.
NHTSA complaint #11556443 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesAtlanta, GA
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:KINETIC:FLYWHEEL,BEARINGS
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle and driving from a complete stop, the vehicle made abnormal rattling sounds. The contact stated that the failure ceased while driving 40 MPH however, the failure recurred while driving below 40 MPH. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the flywheel was fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
NHTSA complaint #11521003 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Winchester, VA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start soon after refueling. Additionally, while stationary and while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would hesitate or stall upon depression of accelerator pedal. The contact also stated that the powertrain warning light would intermittently appear on the instrument panel. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there were no open recalls on the VIN. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11517416 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle and shifting into reverse(R), she was unable to shift between gears. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the under hood shifter cable bushing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was taken back to the mechanic for routine oil change service; however, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the canister purge valve (CPV) needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the part was replaced; however, the vehicle stalled after being refueled. The vehicle was taken back to the mechanic, where the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failures and confirmed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 18V735000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and 22V413000 (Power Train). The manufacturer advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA hotline. The approximate failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11513994 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the EVAP valve failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.
NHTSA complaint #11506035 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lauderdale Lakes, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
When I stop to get fuel/gas for my car, I am unable to turn the ignition off because if I do, the car will not restart immediately or at all. There is also a jerking motion immediately after fueling and while driving. There is a "wailing" noise immediately proceeding the car shutting down. The check engine light is on.
NHTSA complaint #11500270 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Potts Camp, MS
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:KINETIC:FLYWHEEL,BEARINGS
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving at 50-55 MPH, she heard an abnormally loud sound coming from the front the of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to drive to her residence, where she turned off and restarted the vehicle. However, the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the flywheel needed to be replaced. The part was replaced; however, the failure reoccurred a year later. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the flywheel needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline and a case was filed. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11486870 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fort Worth, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Fuel vacuum system failure. Results in the check engine light coming on. Vehicle has died in the middle of the highway. Took vehicle to mechanic and they stated that this is a very common issue they have fixed in over half of the ford fusions he has seen. Vehicle will cut off and will not start. Shows a code for fuel/emissions.
NHTSA complaint #11483493 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sacramento, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My transmission has start to work weirdly. My car started vibrating when I am driving slow. When move to second gear suddenly the car make stop and move again.
NHTSA complaint #11472077 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chicago, IL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I stopped at a gas station in 0 digit degree weather fahrenheit and when I tried to insert the pump into the capless filler, it was frozen guy the actual inner latch that opens to the tank itself. I tried to gently apply pressure and I could not get it to open after trying for 3-4 minutes. Luckily I was close to home since my gas light can come on and I didn't have a lot of gas left, but that also means my car is sitting in extreme cold right now with very little gas, which I believe poses a risk to line freezing. More important, what if I hadn't been as close to home? What if, while trying to drive around and fine someone to help me, I ran out of gas? If a person was in a more rural environment then I am, they might not be quickly seen and might be stranded with a car that can't provide heat any longer and in extreme cold.
NHTSA complaint #11446711 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,895 milesMerced, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, LOTS OF WHITE SMOKE OUT OF TAILPIPE AND DARK BLACK SPARK PLUGS AT 15,000 MILES! DEALER SAID I GOT BAD GAS OR VANDALISM THEREFORE NO WARRANTY COVERAGE. I HAD TO PAY A LOCAL MECHANIC TO REPLACE SPARK PLUGS, PUMP OUT AND REPLACE FUEL. TWO WEEKS LATER I RECEIVE A FORD LETTER STATING COOLANT CAN LEAK INTO THE CYLINDER BORES CAUSING EXACTLY HAPPENED TO MY VEHICLE. NOW I HAVE TO SEEK REIMBURSEMENT.
NHTSA complaint #11301127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 6,400 milesGlen Allen, VA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
WHILE DRIVING ON I-95 IN EXTREMELY HEAVY TRAFFIC THE 2018 FORD FUSION SUDDENLY DECELERATED AND INDICATING LIGHTS CAME ON. IT WAS HARROWING AND EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TO NAVIGATE THE DISABLED VEHICLE. THE FORD DEALER STATES THE THROTTLE BODY NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THIS IS INTERESTING SINCE, THE CAR IS ONLY SIX MONTHS OLD. ADDITIONALLY, THIS IS A KNOWN ON OTHER (OLDER) FORD MODELS WHICH MAKES ME SUSPECT THEY ARE USING KNOWN DEFECTIVE PARTS.
NHTSA complaint #11231104 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.