Used Ford Fusion 2nd Gen (2013-2020): Buyer's Guide

The 2013 Ford Fusion generated 1,925 NHTSA complaints, including 91 fires and 2 deaths. The 2020 Fusion generated 156 complaints, 2 fires, and zero deaths. Same basic car. Same platform. Completely different ownership experience.

The difference is eight years of Ford correcting real problems: a 1.6L EcoBoost that caught fire, a transmission bushing that let cars roll silently out of Park, a 1.5L engine that could fill its cylinders with coolant, and an electric power steering rack that corroded apart in northern states. Each of those problems was fixed across the generation. But the fixes only benefit you if you buy the right year.

There are also seven distinct powertrains across these eight years. The 2.5L Duratec is one of the most reliable engines Ford has ever put in a sedan. The 1.5L EcoBoost is a class action lawsuit waiting in your driveway. The guide you're reading tells you which is which before you sign anything.

This Generation at a Glance

The second-generation Fusion launched in 2013 on Ford's CD4 platform, sharing bones with the Lincoln MKZ. It replaced a forgettable first-gen with something that actually had visual presence: an Aston Martin-inspired grille, a low roofline, and a cabin that looked expensive at a Fusion price. A mid-cycle refresh in 2017 cleaned up the front fascia, added a Platinum trim, and introduced the V6 Sport variant with the 2.7L twin-turbo. Ford discontinued the Fusion after the 2020 model year.

Seven powertrain options across eight model years means you need a roadmap before shopping.

Current inventory: 2017 Fusion, 2018 Fusion, 2019 Fusion, 2020 Fusion.

Powertrain and Trim Breakdown

1.6L EcoBoost (2013-2014): Do Not Buy

If a seller has a 2013 or early 2014 Fusion and it has the 1.6L EcoBoost under the hood, walk away. Ford recalled over 1.3 million vehicles to fix coolant leaks from this engine that could start fires. The recall was serious enough that Ford discontinued the 1.6L entirely and replaced it with the 1.5L partway through 2014. Some 2014 models were built with the 1.6L before the switch. Always confirm which engine is actually installed using the VIN or the window sticker.

The 1.6L also used the DPS6 PowerShift dual-clutch transmission, a unit with its own separate history of shudder and hesitation complaints. This powertrain combination had the highest complaint rate of any Fusion variant.

1.5L EcoBoost (2014-2020): Understand the Risk Before Buying

The 1.5L EcoBoost is the most common engine in the 2nd gen Fusion. It is also the subject of an active class action lawsuit and two NHTSA Technical Service Bulletins.

The core problem: the interface between the engine block and cylinder head allows coolant to leak past the seal and enter a cylinder. This happens gradually, often without external leaking, so there is no puddle on your driveway to warn you. The coolant corrodes the cylinder bore, causes misfires, and eventually destroys the engine. Symptoms are low coolant level that keeps dropping, white exhaust smoke on startup, rough running, and in worse cases, overheating.

Ford issued TSB 19-2381 in 2019, followed by TSB 22-2134 in 2022, which established that affected engines could receive a short-block replacement under an extended warranty: 7 years or 84,000 miles from the original warranty start date. Ford's field program 21N12 specifically covered 2017-2019 Fusion models with the 1.5L GTDI for this repair at no cost to owners within that window.

If you're buying a 2017-2019 Fusion with the 1.5L, the first thing to confirm is whether the TSB short-block repair was already performed. If it was, that engine has a fresh bottom end. If it wasn't, and the car is outside the 7-year/84,000-mile window, any coolant intrusion repair becomes your expense. Short-block replacement runs $3,000 to $5,000 at an independent shop, more at a dealer.

For 2014-2016 models with the 1.5L, the program coverage is less certain. These are high-risk engines to buy without documentation.

The 1.5L is not guaranteed to fail. Many owners report 100,000-plus miles without incident. But the failure is severe when it happens, and there is no external warning until it is too late. If you want the peace of mind of the 27 mpg combined and the easy-to-live-with power, buy a 2018-2020 model, confirm the TSB was addressed, and get a pre-purchase inspection that includes a cooling system pressure test.

2.5L Duratec (2013-2020): The Safe Choice

The 2.5L Duratec is a naturally aspirated engine with no turbo to fail and no direct injection to cause intake valve carbon deposits. It uses port injection, the older and more forgiving fuel delivery method that keeps intake valves clean over time.

Owners routinely report 200,000 miles and beyond on this engine with nothing more than scheduled maintenance. A small number have developed head gasket leaks after 120,000-plus miles, presenting as coolant consumption and white exhaust smoke, but this is nowhere near as common or catastrophic as the 1.5L's failure mode.

The trade-off is performance. 175 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque is adequate for commuting but underwhelming on the highway when you need to merge or pass. The 2.5L is available only in the S and SE trims, which means you are giving up the higher-spec cabins. For buyers who primarily want transportation and longevity over fun, this is the engine to get.

The 2.5L pairs with the 6F35 6-speed automatic, which has its own recall history (covered in the Trim section), but the engine itself is sound.

2.0L EcoBoost (2013-2020): The Performance Compromise

The 2.0L EcoBoost produces 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, making it a legitimately quick sedan. It pairs with the SelectShift 6-speed automatic rather than the 6F35, which is a more robust unit with fewer documented problems.

The 2.0T's weaknesses are typical of direct-injection turbocharged engines: carbon deposits build up on intake valves over time, which shows up as rough idle and hesitation that gets worse between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Walnut blasting the intake at 80,000-100,000 miles runs $400-$600 and restores performance. Some early 2013-2015 engines showed timing chain tensioner stretch, presenting as a rattle on cold startup that fades once oil pressure builds. A tensioner that rattles and does not fade at operating temperature is a red flag.

Otherwise, the 2.0T has proven reliable enough that owners on forums routinely describe 150,000-mile examples running without major problems. The bigger risk with the 2.0T is the AWD system available on higher trims: the AWD version adds complexity and the rear differential and coupling can fail in higher-mileage examples.

2.7L EcoBoost V6 Sport (2017-2019): Know the Build Date

The Fusion Sport arrived in 2017 as the performance flagship: 325 horsepower, 380 lb-ft of torque, AWD standard, and a tuned suspension that actually handled decently for a family sedan. Ford put the same 2.7L twin-turbo V6 found in the F-150 into this car.

The catch: early production 2.7L engines built between April 2016 and January 2017 had a cylinder head valve guide defect allowing oil to leak into the combustion chamber and burn off. The symptom is oil consumption without external leaks. You add oil between changes but find nothing on the ground. Ford corrected the valve guides before the 2018 model year, but some 2017 Fusion Sports were built during the affected production window.

The second issue is the oil pan. The 2.7L uses a plastic oil pan mated to a cast iron cylinder block. The thermal expansion rates don't match well, which causes the seal to break down. Oil pan leaks showed up on 2017, 2018, and even some 2019 models, though later production was better. A replacement oil pan runs $600-$1,200 installed.

For the 2017 Fusion Sport, request the build date from the door jamb sticker or VIN decoder before buying. Cars built after February 2017 avoided the valve guide issue. The 2018 and 2019 Sport models are the safer choice. The 2019 is the final year for the Sport trim, and the cleanest execution of the package.

Hybrid (2013-2020): Good Long-Term, Rough Start

The Fusion Hybrid's eCVT powertrain is fundamentally sound. Multiple owners report 150,000-plus miles on the original high-voltage battery pack, with battery degradation being a gradual reduction in electric range rather than sudden failure. The $3,500+ HV battery replacement is a real future expense for high-mileage examples but is not a typical failure before 150,000 miles.

The 12-volt auxiliary battery is the frequent issue. It powers the car's electronics when the HV system is inactive, and it fails faster than a conventional car's 12V because the Fusion Hybrid's unique electrical architecture puts more demand on it. Owners across forums report replacement every 2-3 years rather than the 4-6 years typical for a conventional car. Budget $200-$300 for this recurring item.

The 2013 and 2014 hybrid models had more fluid leak and quality issues than later years. The 2019 and 2020 Hybrid are the most reliable, with far fewer NHTSA complaints and a more mature software stack for the energy management system.

Energi PHEV (2013-2020): Check the Recall Status First

The 2019 and 2020 Fusion Energi models are subject to NHTSA Recall 23V440000, which covers a Battery Energy Control Module defect that can cause a fire in the trunk area or a complete loss of drive power while moving. Ford documented seven fires related to this defect, five of which occurred at dealerships during BECM replacement. Two fires happened with a vehicle in motion.

If you are considering a 2019 or 2020 Fusion Energi, run the VIN through our recall lookup tool before doing anything else. An unrepaired Energi from these years represents an active fire risk. The repair involves replacing the high-voltage battery and BECM, a repair Ford covers under the recall at no charge.

Earlier Energi models (2013-2018) do not have this specific recall. Their main concern is the same HV battery degradation pattern as the non-plug-in Hybrid.

Trim-Specific Notes

The Fusion's trim ladder goes S, SE, SEL (from 2014), Titanium, Platinum (2017+), and Sport (2017-2019). Most of the meaningful equipment differences live between SE and Titanium.

The SE is the sweet spot for value. It gets the full powertrain lineup and was sold in the highest volume, which means the most options on the used market. The SEL and Titanium add heated and cooled seats, a larger touchscreen, and better audio. The Titanium's panoramic sunroof is common at auction and has a moderate failure rate for the motor and seals at higher mileage.

The Platinum (2017+) is the top trim for non-Sport buyers. It adds massaging front seats, 19-inch wheels, and a nicer interior. At used prices, you often find Platinums within $1,000-$2,000 of Titaniums because the feature bump is not valued by most shoppers. That is your opportunity.

The V6 Sport is worth seeking out on its own terms. 325 horsepower in a $15,000-$20,000 used sedan is a deal. But do not buy one without confirming the build date and inspecting for oil pan leaks and oil consumption.

The MyFord Touch infotainment (2013-2016) is a real quality-of-life downgrade versus SYNC 3 (2017+). MyFord Touch used a resistive touchscreen, froze and boot-looped regularly, and does not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. SYNC 3 uses a capacitive screen and supports both. If daily tech integration matters to you, set 2017 as your minimum year.

Which Model Years to Target Within This Generation

The jump from 2016 to 2017 is dramatic. One recall and 1,062 complaints versus four recalls and 1,568 complaints. The 2017 refresh also brought SYNC 3, which alone is worth caring about for daily use.

The 2018 is the sweet spot for budget shoppers. Zero NHTSA recalls is a statement for a mass-market Ford sedan. The 400 total complaints for the year are about one-fifth of the 2013 figure. If you are buying with the 1.5L engine, the 2018 puts you squarely within the TSB extended warranty window if the repair has not yet been performed, and the program coverage is well-documented for these model years.

The 2019 and 2020 are the cleanest Fusions ever built. Their single recall each applies only to the PHEV variant. If you are buying a gas Fusion, these years represent minimal risk.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Have a trusted independent mechanic perform this inspection. Not a dealer.

For all 1.5L EcoBoost engines:

• Cold-start the engine and watch the exhaust. White smoke on a cold morning is normal for a few seconds. Persistent white smoke that does not clear is coolant burning. Walk away.
• Pull the oil dipstick and look for a milky, caramel, or frothy residue. That is coolant mixing with oil. Severe contamination means the engine is already significantly damaged.
• Ask for a cooling system pressure test. The shop pressurizes the system and watches for pressure drop. A drop indicates a leak path, which on the 1.5T is often into a cylinder.
• Ask the seller or dealer to pull service records. Look for any short-block replacement. If the repair was done under TSB 22-2134, confirm the work order. That engine has a fresh bottom end.

For the 2.7L V6 Sport:

• Look at the door jamb sticker for the build date. Anything before February 2017 is in the affected valve guide production window.
• Look for oil consumption: ask if oil has been added between oil changes.
• Check under the car at the oil pan seam for any seeping or dried oil residue.

For the 6F35 transmission (2.5L and 1.5L cars):

• Test drive from a cold start. Aggressive 1-2 and 2-3 shifts that feel like a clunk or shudder are signs of a worn valve body. Light shudder that goes away when warm is sometimes the torque converter.
• Crawl under the car and look at the driver-side half-shaft where it enters the transmission. A wet or oily residue at that seal indicates a known fluid leak.
• Confirm the shifter bushing recall (Campaign 22S43) was completed. Pull the VIN through our recall tool to check.

For all 2013-2016 cars:

• Confirm the EPAS recall (Campaign 19S26 or 15S14) was performed. This covers power steering bolt corrosion in salt-belt states. A power steering failure at highway speed is not recoverable. Verify the recall before buying any 2013-2016 Fusion in a northern state.

For all models:

• Check the lug nuts. Ford used aluminum lug nuts with thin plastic caps that corrode and swell. They look intact until a shop tries to remove a wheel and rounds them off. Look for signs of previous cap separation or pitting. Budget for a full set ($60-$120) if they look suspect.
• In salt-belt states, get under the car and inspect the rear subframe for rust perforation, particularly at the mounting points. Surface rust is normal. Structural rust is a deal-breaker.
• Test the MyFord Touch screen (2013-2016): hold down the power button and watch for a freeze or slow reboot. Persistent freezing is the start of the system's documented decline.

For 2019-2020 Energi PHEV:

• Run the VIN through our recall lookup tool immediately. An unrepaired PHEV recall (23V440000) is a fire risk. Do not skip this step.

Running Costs

RepairPal puts the Fusion's average annual repair cost at $581, compared to a $526 midsize class average. That figure hides significant variation: the 2.5L in a 2018+ Fusion will run below that average consistently. A 2014 or 2015 with the 1.5L and an unresolved coolant issue can put you $5,000 in the hole in a single repair event.

FAQ

Is the 2nd gen Ford Fusion 2.5L Duratec reliable? Yes. The 2.5L Duratec is the most reliable engine in the 2nd gen Fusion lineup. It uses port injection rather than direct injection, which keeps intake valves clean over time. Owners routinely report 200,000-plus miles with only standard maintenance. A small number develop head gasket weeping after 120,000 miles, but catastrophic failure is rare. If longevity is your priority, this is the engine to buy.

Is the Ford Fusion 1.5L EcoBoost reliable? It is a high-risk engine. Ford issued two Technical Service Bulletins for coolant intrusion into the cylinder bores, a failure that occurs internally with no visible leak and destroys the engine. The short-block repair runs $3,000 to $5,000. Ford extended warranty coverage to 7 years or 84,000 miles for this repair under TSB 22-2134. Buy a 2018-2020 model with documented TSB service history if you want the 1.5T. Avoid the 2013-2016 examples without service records.

What year Ford Fusion should I avoid? Avoid 2013 outright. It generated 1,925 NHTSA complaints, 91 reported fires, and 2 deaths, driven by the 1.6L EcoBoost fire recall, transmission bushing issues, and first-year quality problems. The 2014 and 2015 models are also higher risk than later years. The 2016 had four recalls, including a steering-related campaign, and one death in NHTSA records. Buy 2017 or later.

Is the Ford Fusion Hybrid worth buying used? The Fusion Hybrid is a reasonable used buy in 2019-2020 form. The high-voltage battery lasts well, with many examples reaching 150,000-plus miles on the original pack. The recurring cost is the 12-volt auxiliary battery, which fails every 2-3 years (about $200-$300). Avoid 2013-2016 Hybrids, which had higher complaint rates and more fluid-related quality issues.

How long does a 2nd gen Ford Fusion last? With the 2.5L Duratec and regular maintenance, 200,000 to 250,000 miles is realistic. The 1.5T and 2.0T engines can reach similar mileage if the coolant intrusion and carbon deposit issues are addressed proactively. The Hybrid and Energi powertrains are durable, though plan for an HV battery replacement after 150,000 miles. Rust-belt cars degrade faster regardless of powertrain, particularly in subframe and suspension components.

Bottom Line

The 2018-2020 Fusion with the 2.5L Duratec is the safest used buy in this generation: zero recalls for 2018, proven engine, low complaint counts, and SYNC 3 infotainment. If you want more power and can tolerate some risk management, the 2019 Fusion with the 1.5T works if you confirm TSB 22-2134 coverage and get a cooling system pressure test before purchase. The 2019 V6 Sport is the enthusiast pick: 325 horsepower in a sedan at used sedan prices. For any year and engine, run the VIN through a recall check first. The PHEV recall alone is reason enough to make this step non-negotiable.

CarScout members can track specific Fusion trims and years as prices shift at usecarscout.com.

Data sourced from the NHTSA recalls and complaints database, EPA fuel economy data, Ford Technical Service Bulletins 19-2381 and 22-2134, and real owner experiences from FordFusionForum.com, FordFusionClub.com, 2GFusions.net, FusionSportForums.com, BobIsTheOilGuy.com, and CarComplaints.com. See the full Ford Fusion market data for pricing and inventory.