At least one recall carries a do-not-drive or park-outside warning. Confirm by VIN that the repair was completed before driving or buying this car. The fix is free at a dealer.
Before you buy
- Throttle body failure and power loss: about 31% of complaints. Ask whether the throttle body has been replaced, and watch for hesitation, limp mode or a wrench light on the test drive.
- Power steering assist loss: about 27% of complaints.
- Brake pedal sinking to floor: about 1 in 10 complaints.
- Safety: Engine stalling while driving (can affect control: 13 of 13 reports), about 4% of complaints.
- Run the free VIN recall check for the 13 recalls to confirm on this model, starting with the airbags recall (19V001000).
Based on a random sample of 300 of the 5,126 complaints filed with NHTSA for this model, read and summarized with AI. 274 of them describe a failure the owner experienced; the rest (recall notices, parts delays, worries) are left out of these counts. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Known problems
What owners report most often, grouped into named problems. Summaries are written by AI from the complaints; open a problem to read the owners' own words.
Throttle body failure and power loss
Owners report the engine suddenly losing throttle response and refusing to accelerate while driving, often with the wrench or check engine light on and sometimes needing a restart. Dealers and shops blamed the throttle body, actuator or throttle control module, and some say the problem returned after replacement.
- How common
- 92 of the 300 complaints we read (31%), roughly 1,572 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 89 of 92 reports; 1 report mentions an injury
Before you buy: Ask whether the throttle body has been replaced, and watch for hesitation, limp mode or a wrench light on the test drive.
- Owner says the throttle body is not working properly and argues the non-hybrid recall should also cover hybrid models. · filed Aug 2020
Read the owner's complaint
AFTER MUCH RESEARCH I HAVE DETERMINED THE THROTTLE BODY IS FAILING TO FUNCTION PROPERLY IN THIS CAR. THIS PART HAS BEEN RECALLED ON NON HYBRID MODELS BUT NOT HYBRID MODELS, EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE IDENTICAL PARTS.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11344165
- Engine went into limp mode. · filed Aug 2017
Read the owner's complaint
ENGINE WENT TO LIMP MODE.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11012333
- Throttle body failures caused loss of acceleration on the highway; owner says Ford refused to help after the second failure. · filed Mar 2017
Read the owner's complaint
THE ISSUE I HAVE BEEN HAVING WITH THIS VEHICLE INVOLVES THE THROTTLE BODY WHICH HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE NOW SINCE I HAVE OWNED THIS CAR. WHILE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE, MYSELF AND MY DAUGHTER, AT SEPARATE TIMES, LOST ACCELERATION WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION IF THE TIMING OF BEING ON THE ROAD WAS DIFFERENT AS WELL AS THE AMOUNT OF VEHICLES ON THE ROAD. WE BOTH WERE ABLE TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THANK GOODNESS WE WERE BOTH IN THE FAR RIGHT LANE WHEN THE ACCELERATION FAILED. FORD DID RECALL THE PRODUCT AT ONE TIME, HOWEVER, NOW THEY ARE UNWILLING TO ASSIST WITH THE 2ND FAIL. THIS APPEARS TO BE EITHER AN ENGINEERING DEFECT OR VENDOR DEFECT IN THE PART. THIS IS A DANGEROUS DEFECT AS COLLISIONS COULD OCCUR WHEN UNABLE TO ACCELERATE ON HIGH SPEED ROADS AS WELL AS DANGEROUS FOR OTHER DRIVERS WHO ARE UNABLE TO GAGE THE SPEED OF THE SLOW MOVING VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint ODI #10966036
Power steering assist loss
Owners report the electric power steering assist cutting out with warning messages, sometimes at speed. Some dealers could not reproduce it, while others found a defective assist module or steering column.
- How common
- 82 of the 300 complaints we read (27%), roughly 1,401 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 73 of 82 reports; 1 report mentions a crash; 2 reports mention an injury
- Steering became difficult at about 65 mph with power steering and AdvanceTrac fault messages. · filed Sep 2026
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver and failed to return to normal operation. The advancetrac warning light was illuminated and the "Power Steering Fault" and "Advancetrac Failure" messages were displayed on the instrument panel. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11764480
- Car lost power steering with a power steering assist fault message; owner has not repaired it due to cost. · filed Sep 2024
Read the owner's complaint
The vehicle lost power steering. Restarting vehicle shows a "power steering assist fault" message. Looking into this fault, I found Safety Recall 15S18, for later year vehicles. This seems to be what I experienced. I have not had it towed to a dealer for diagnosis or repair yet, as the cost for repair seems to exceed the value of the car.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11613112
- Electric power steering stopped working properly while reversing, requiring more effort; restarting helps but the failure keeps returning. · filed Mar 2024
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while reversing out of a parking space, the contact became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The electric power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: EA17004 (Steering). The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 89,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11579808
Brake pedal sinking to floor
Owners report the brake pedal turning spongy, needing extra travel or sinking to the floor, with longer stopping distances and sometimes ABS or brake warnings. Mechanics and dealers blamed the ABS module or hydraulic control unit, and new pads, calipers or bleeding often did not help.
- How common
- 31 of the 300 complaints we read (10%), roughly 530 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 24 of 31 reports; 1 report mentions a crash; 1 report mentions an injury
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 19V904000. Check the VIN for it.
- Hydraulic control and ABS unit failed and brakes completely failed, nearly causing a crash; owner says the recall missed affected VINs. · filed Jun 2025
Read the owner's complaint
Hydrologic control and abs unit failed. Ford addressed the issue but did NOT include ever vin that was affected. Almost got into an accident and crashed when my brakes completely failed from a defective part. The problem has been confirmed by a independent service, no warning light or messages. Many other people with this issue that were not covered by the lackluster recall.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11665442
- Brakes abruptly failed while merging onto the interstate, then responded weakly; mechanic said the ABS failed. · filed Mar 2025
Read the owner's complaint
While merging onto the interstate the brakes abruptly failed. They didn't respond at all then responded weakly with several attempts. The mechanic said the abs failed.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11650508
- Brake pedal randomly drops to the floor and feels spongy; owner says the VIN is not in the recall and parts are unavailable. · filed Oct 2024
Read the owner's complaint
Brake pedal randomly drops to floor, spongy brakes. Took to local dealer. My vin number is NOT part of recall. No parts are available.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11620011
Engine stalling while driving
Owners report the engine stalling or shutting down without warning while driving, including at highway speed, sometimes with the check engine light or a stop safely now message. Repairs such as coil wire, throttle body, fuel injector or vacuum pump replacement did not always stop it.
- How common
- 13 of the 300 complaints we read (4%), roughly 222 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 13 of 13 reports
- Car showed 'Stop Safely Now' and shut down on the highway, losing brakes and steering; a vacuum pump replacement did not stop it recurring. · filed Jan 2020
Read the owner's complaint
IN MOTION ON HIGHWAY WITH CRUISE CONTROL CAR DASHBOARD SHOWS 'STOP SAFELY NOW' LOOSE ACCELERATION. TURN CAR OFF THEN BACK ON AND CAN DRIVE. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. TOLD VACUUM PUMP CREATING ISSUE. REPLACED AND CAR OKAY. WHILE IN MOTION ON HIGHWAY DURING ACCELERATION 'STOP SAFELY NOW' ENTIRE CAR SHUTS DOWN WHILE DRIVING. LOSS OF BRAKES, STEERING, ACCELERATION. GET CAR TOWED BACK TO SHOP AND TOLD ACID LEAK DEGRADED WIRE HARNESS. BUT ALSO TOLD THEY CAN'T ENSURE THE CAR WILL BE FIXED FROM REPAIRING. HOW DOES A BATTERY LEAK SO BAD WITHOUT ANY CRACKS. NO SHOP CAN CONFIRM THE ACID LEAK IS CAUSING THE BRAKE ISSUE. POSSIBLE ABS MODULE, ELECTRONIC CONTROL, O2 SENSOR REPLACEMENT TOO.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11299590
- Car shut down at 35 mph with all warning lights on; restart helped but it recurred. Ford said the VIN is not in a recall. · filed Jul 2019
Read the owner's complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 FORD FUSION. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE SEIZED AND ALL THE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND ASKED A BYSTANDER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE BYSTANDER OPENED THE HOOD AND DEPRESSED THE MANUAL RESTART BUTTON, WHICH ALLOWED THE VEHICLE TO RESTART AND RETURN TO NORMAL; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY THE CONTACT'S INSURANCE COMPANY TO THE CONTACT'S HOME. SOUTH BAY FORD (5100 ROSECRANS AVE, HAWTHORNE, CA 90250, (310) 584-7641) WAS CONTACTED TO SCHEDULE A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11233300
- Car stalled without warning at 65 mph; throttle body and fuel injectors were replaced three times but the stalling returned. · filed Aug 2016
Read the owner's complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 FORD FUSION. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE THROTTLE BODY AND FUEL INJECTORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED THREE TIMES; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10897554
Fuel tank leaks and odor
Owners report gasoline leaking from the fuel tank or when filling, with puddles and strong fuel smells outside or inside the cabin. Some suspect a corroded fuel tank.
- How common
- 6 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 103 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Injury risk: 5 of 6 reports
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 15V793000. Check the VIN for it.
- Fuel tank leaked from the top; car is covered by a fuel system recall and the dealer is waiting for the repair part. · filed Oct 2020
Read the owner's complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 FORD FUSION. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS LEAKING FROM THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V793000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 166,000.*DT*JB CONSUMER STATED DEALER IS CURRENTLY WAITING TO RECEIVE PART FOR REPAIR.*JB
NHTSA complaint ODI #11362768
- Fuel tank leaked a quarter tank overnight with constant fuel smell; owner says Ford refused to reopen the fuel system recall. · filed Aug 2019
Read the owner's complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 FORD FUSION SE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL TANK LEAKED FUEL UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LOOSE A QUARTER TANK OF FUEL OVERNIGHT AFTER REFUELING. THERE WAS NO WARNING, EXCEPT THAT THE CONTACT SMELLED FUEL CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER WHERE THERE WAS NO LEAK DETECTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND WAS TAKEN TO ANOTHER DEALER FOR A SECOND OPINION. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN DIAGNOSED AT RIVERSIDE AUTOPLEX OF POTEAU DEALER (918-647-2228, LOCATED AT 2100 S BROADWAY ST, POTEAU, OK 74953) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS DEFECTIVE AND CAUSED THE LEAK. THE DEALER INFORMED THAT ON 08/2018 THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V793000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) HOWEVER WAS CONCLUDED THAT THE VEHICLE DID NOT REQUIRE THE RECALL REMEDY PERFORMED AND THE RECALL WAS CLOSED UNDER THE VIN. THE DEALER REQUESTED THE RECALL BE REOPENED AGAIN TO PERFORM THE REPAIRS ON THE VEHICLE BUT THE REQUEST WAS DENIED BY THE MANUFACTURER. THE DEALER CONFIRMED THAT THE CANISTER PURGE VALVE (CPV) AND THE FUEL TANK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT INFORMED THAT THE RECALL WAS WITHIN THE SERVICE WARRANTY PERIOD OF 12 MONTHS AND 12,000 MILES OF THE CLOSING REPAIR ORDER HOWEVER THE MANUFACTURER'S DECISION REMAINED IN DECLINING THE RECALL TO BE REOPENED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS CURRENTLY NOT BEING DRIVEN DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 159,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11245042
- Fuel leaks out when the tank is filled above half, both while driving and parked. · filed May 2019
Read the owner's complaint
IF I FILL MY CAR ABOVE A HALF OF A TANK IT LEAKS OUT ALL OVER THE PLACE AND IT LEAKS WETHER IM DRIVING OR PARKED
NHTSA complaint ODI #11205410
Interior door handle breakage
Owners report the driver interior door handle or latch breaking so the door will not open from inside, forcing them to lower the window and use the outside handle.
- How common
- 6 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 103 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Injury risk: 4 of 6 reports
- Inside door handle broke so the door could not be opened; driver window motor also malfunctioned. · filed Mar 2022
Read the owner's complaint
the inside door handle broke was unable to open the door, the inside door assembly was broken also... drivers side also the window door motors malfunctioned window would go up and down not knowing what direction and also change directions disallowing window to be opened or closed
NHTSA complaint ODI #11456441
- Driver door will not open from the inside, forcing the owner to use the outside handle; owner fears being trapped in an emergency. · filed Nov 2018
Read the owner's complaint
DRIVER SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN FROM THE INSIDE. IT WILL LOCK AND UNLOCK, HANDLE WILL MOVE, DOOR WILL NOT OPEN. I HAVE TO OPEN THE WINDOW AND USE THE HANDLE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE CAR. THIS IS HAZARDOUS TO BE TRAPPED INSIDE OF MY CAR IN AN EMERGENCY.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11149979
- Driver door stopped opening from the inside while parked; the owner must lower the window and use the outside handle. · filed Jan 2018
Read the owner's complaint
MY DRIVER SIDE DOOR IS NO LONGER OPERATIONAL FROM THE INSIDE. THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS PARKED. YOU CAN ROLL DOWN THE WINDOW (IF IT'S NOT FROZEN SHUT) AND REACH TO THE OUTSIDE TO UNLATCH FROM THE HANDLE. THIS CREATES A SAFETY ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11058241
Transmission slipping and harsh shifting
Owners report the automatic transmission slipping, shifting hard or erratically, lunging, surging and bucking. PCM replacement, reflashes, reprogramming and even a rebuild did not always fix it.
- How common
- 6 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 103 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 6 of 6 reports
- Car rolls backward in drive on inclines and the transmission does not shift smoothly as RPMs rise. · filed Dec 2019
Read the owner's complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 FORD FUSION. WHILE DRIVING UP A SLIGHT INCLINE AND STOPPING, THE VEHICLE WOULD DRIFT BACKWARDS WHEN IN DRIVE GEAR. THE VEHICLE HAD AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. WHEN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, THE RPMS INCREASED, BUT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT SWITCH GEARS SMOOTHLY LIKE IT WAS DESIGNED TO DO. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO ONLY PRINTED OUT THE RECALL INFORMATION. THE MANUFACTURER ALSO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11290818
- Transmission slips in first through third gears, causing jerky motion and high revs when pulling away; owner wants a recall. · filed Aug 2019
Read the owner's complaint
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
NHTSA complaint ODI #11242121
- Automatic transmission hesitates finding gears and lunges forward when stopping; problem returned after a PCM reflash. · filed Oct 2015
Read the owner's complaint
I HAVE A 2010 FORD FUSION SEL AWD V6 WHICH I PURCHASED ABOUT 2 YEARS AGO. I HAVE STARTED NOTICING SHIFTING PROBLEMS WITH MY CAR. IT FIRST STARTED ABOUT 3 WEEKS AGO NOW. THE CAR ACTED LIKE IT COULDN'T FIGURE OUT WHAT GEAR TO GO IN, WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN THROUGH TRAFFIC IT HESITATED A LOT & THEN FIGURED OUT WHAT GEAR TO GET INTO, BARELY AVOIDING AN ACCIDENT. I WAS THEN COMING BACK FROM THE AIRPORT WITH MY SISTER & IT CLAMMED DOWN IN GEARS AS WE STARTED TO STOP & THEN LUNGED FORWARD 2 TIMES ALMOST HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I HAVE TAKEN IT INTO THE SHOP & THEY SAID THEY NEEDED TO REFLASH THE PCM, THIS WAS DONE THE DAY BEFORE YESTERDAY. I GOT IT BACK YESTERDAY & IT STARTED DOING THE EXACT SAME THINGS. I HAVE SEEN THAT A RECALL NOTICE WAS SENT OUT TO SOME PEOPLE YEARS AGO WITH A TIME LIMIT ON GETTING THIS FIXED. RECALL NOTICE 10B15. IT SAID IT ENDED IN APRIL OF 2011. CAN THR BE A TIME LIMIT ON THIS SORT OF THING? SOME PEOPLE DON'T HAVE $1,000'S OF DOLLARS TO FIX CARS. WHAT CAN SOMEONE DO TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint ODI #10787171
Sudden unintended acceleration
Owners report the car suddenly accelerating rapidly at low speed, including while braking into parking spaces, leading to crashes. Some owners suspect the throttle body.
- How common
- 5 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 85 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 5 of 5 reports; 3 reports mention a crash; 1 report mentions an injury
- Car accelerated on its own while stopped at a light and hit the car ahead; airbags did not deploy. Owner suspects the throttle body. · filed Dec 2020
Read the owner's complaint
ON DECEMBER 1ST I WAS DRIVING MY FORD FUSION 2 THE ACTUAL FORD DEALERSHIP TO GET A LOOK AT THEIR FIELD SERVICE ACTION THAT THEY HAD POSTED ON MY FORD APP. WHILE ON MY WAY I WAS STOPPED AT A LIGHT ON COLUMBIA DRIVE IN PORTLAND OREGON AND I HAD THOUGHT MY FOOT SLIPPED OFF THE BRAKE INITIALLY BUT ACTUALLY WOULD HAPPEN IF MY CAR HAD ACCELERATED AND TO THE GENTLEMAN IN FRONT OF ME CAUSING A CAR ACCIDENT. MY INSURANCE COMPANY WOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT I TRIED TO CONTACT FORD THE DEALERSHIP THAT I NORMALLY GO TO TO SEE IF THEY COULD REPAIR THE FRONT-END OF MY FORD FUSION THAT WAS DEMOLISHED AND ALSO NO AIRBAGS WENT OFF AS I HAD JUST GOT MY CAR OUT OF THE SHOP AT FORD FOR A RECALL ON THE AIRBAGS MY FIANCE WAS WITH ME SO THERE WAS DEFINITELY CAUSE FOR CONCERN FORTUNATELY NOBODY WAS HURT BUT LIKE I SAID MY CAR WAS DEMOLISHED ON THE RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE FRONT END I COULDN'T FIGURE OUT WHY MY CAR ACCELERATING ON ITS OWN SO LOOKING INTO IT THE EXPLANATION THAT I CAME UP WITH WAS DEFINITELY THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BODY MOTOR AND ALL I WANT IS MY CAR RETURNED BACK TO ITS PRIOR CONDITION I HAVE NO OTHER VEHICLE I DON'T KNOW WHO TO CONTACT I DID CONTACT FORD AND WAS REFERRED TO A BIGGER FORD COMPANY IF SOMEONE COULD HELP THAT WOULD BE AMAZING I'D APPRECIATE IT... ALSO NO WARNINGS OR SENSORS WENT OFF IN MY VEHICLE I DO HAVE THE SEL PACKAGE AND ONCE AGAIN NO AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED AND FOR THE AMOUNT OF DAMAGE THAT WAS DONE I WAS VERY SURPRISED
NHTSA complaint ODI #11384752
- Car suddenly accelerated rapidly on three occasions at low speed, requiring hard braking and shutting off the engine to stop. · filed Aug 2019
Read the owner's complaint
ON 3 SEPERATE OCCASIONS I HAVE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN RAPID ACCELERATION WITH MY AUTO. FIRST WHILE SLOWLY ACCELERATING FROM A PARKING SPOT IN A CROWDED DEPARTMENT STORE PARKING LOT. SECOND WHILE SLOWLY MOVING FORWARD IN A FAST FOOD DRIVE THRU LINE. BARELY MISSING THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. AND THIRD WHILE SLOWING DOWN APPROACHING A STOP SIGN AGAIN MOVING SLOW EXITING A PARKING LOT. ALL THREE TIMES I'VE HAD TO ALMOST STAND ON THE BRAKE TO STOP AND SHIFT TO NEUTRAL AND KILL THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE IS A 2010 FORD FUSION WITH APPRX 130,000 MILES.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11244709
- Car accelerated on its own while stopped and braking; recurred after the dealer replaced the throttle body. · filed Mar 2014
Read the owner's complaint
WHILE SITTING AT A STOP LIGHT, THE CAR STARTED ACCELERATING FASTER AND FASTER. HAD TO TURN THE CAR OFF TO GET IT TO STOP. NEXT LIGHT, THE SAME THING. TOOK IT TO DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID IT WAS THE THROTTLE BODY, AND THEY REPLACED IT. (RECALL?) WORKED OK UNTIL 3/27/2014 AND PULLING INTO A PARKING LOT, WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE TO SLOW DOWN, THE CAR STARTED ACCELERATING AGAIN. I TURNED THE CAR OFF TO GET IT TO STOP. GLAD I WASN'T ON A HIGHWAY OR INTERSTATE WHEN THIS HAPPENED. GOING BACK TO DEALERSHIP TOMORROW, AS I CONSIDER THIS A DANGEROUS PROBLEM. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10575253
Rear brake calipers sticking
Owners report rear brake calipers sticking or seizing, causing dragging and rear pads wearing out far faster than the fronts.
- How common
- 3 of the 300 complaints we read (1%), roughly 51 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Not a safety issue
- Rear brakes ground metal to metal at 19,967 miles; dealer blamed rusty caliper pins and owner paid $283 for rotors, calipers and pads. · filed Mar 2014
Read the owner's complaint
METAL TO METAL GRINDING REAR BRAKES AT 19967 MILES, DEALER CLAIMS RUSTY CALIPER PINS, REPLACED ROTORS, CALIPERS AND PADS FOR $283 OUT OF POCKET, NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. FRONT BRAKES FINE AND WEARING NORMALLY. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10573919
- Rear brake pads wore out at 21,000 miles while front brakes showed almost no wear. · filed Dec 2013
Read the owner's complaint
REAR BRAKE PADS WORN OUT AT 21000 MILES. MANUAL TRANSMISSION SO PARKING BRAKE MUST BE USED WHENEVER PARKED. FRONT BRAKES ALMOST NO WEAR. ALSO WE HAVE COLD WEATHER HERE. ?*TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10554993
- Rear brake calipers stuck and dragged, overheating the rear brakes and wearing pads far faster than the fronts. · filed Jan 2013
Read the owner's complaint
GOT OFF THE EXPRESSWAY AND WHILE STOPPED AT LIGHT SMELLED "SOMETHING". 3 BLOCKS LATER AT MY HOUSE I FELT THE HEAT FROM THE REAR WHEELS ON MY LEGS AND REALIZED THE SMELL WAS FROM REAR BRAKES. JACKED UP BOTH REAR WHEELS AND FOUND THE WHEELS ALMOST IMMOVABLE. REAR PADS WORN DOWN TO 2-3MM! FRONT PADS STILL HAD 10MM OF PAD REMAINING ON ALL FOUR PADS! NO PROBLEM (OR USE OF) WITH PARKING BRAKE. CALIBERS HAD BEEN STICKING - DRAGGING FOR QUITE SOME TIME TO WEAR DOWN TO ALMOST NOTHING WHILE LEAVING FRONT BRAKES WITH YEARS LEFT ON THEM. CAR WAS STILL IN WARRANTY. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10493201
Wheel stud breakage
Owners report front wheel studs breaking, in some cases again after the recall lug nut replacement.
- How common
- 3 of the 300 complaints we read (1%), roughly 51 of all 5,126 on file
- Safety
- Safety impact unclear
- Front passenger wheel studs fractured and lug nuts were detaching; dealer confirmed but no repair was made. · filed Apr 2014
Read the owner's complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 FORD FUSION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT STUDS AND LUG NUTS WERE DETACHING FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE WHEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN CONFIRMED THAT THE STUDS WERE FRACTURED. NO REPAIRS WERE MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 77,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #10583271
- Wheel stud broke again on the same wheel after the recall lug nut replacement; owner says the studs, not the nuts, are defective. · filed Jan 2013
Read the owner's complaint
IN MARCH 2012 I HAD THE CAR SERVICED FOR A RECALL FOR DEFECTIVE WHEEL STUDS. AT THE TIME I HAD DISCOVERED A BROKEN OFF WHEEL STUD ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL. I HAD IT REPAIRED PER THE RECALL NOTICE AT PERRY FORD IN POWAY , CA WHICH WAS SUPPOSED TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM BY REPLACING THE LUG NUTS. NOW IN JANUARY OF 2013 I HAVE ANOTHER WHEEL STUD BROKEN OFF ON THE SAME WHEEL WHICH HAD BEEN SERVICED. THE RECALL WAS SUPPOSED TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM ON ALL WHEELS BY REPLACING THE LUG NUTS. IT HAS NOT RESOLVED THE PROBLEM AS I NOW HAVE ANOTHER WHEEL BOLT COMPLETELY SHEARED OFF AT THE WHEEL FOR NO APPARENT REASON. IT SEEMS REPLACING THE LUG NUTS IS NOT A SOLUTION AND THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS CONDITION AS I HAVE NOW HAD TWO OF FIVE BOLTS BROKEN OFF ON ONE WHEEL. CLEARLY THE WHEEL STUDS NOT THE NUTS ARE DEFECTIVE AND REPLACING LUG NUTS DOES NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10490899
- Front driver-side wheel studs broke twice within a few months. · filed Oct 2011
Read the owner's complaint
THIS IS RELATED TO NHTSA ACTION NUMBER EA11009. SO FAR I HAVE HAD 2 INCIDENTS OF BROKEN WHEEL STUDS ON A 2010 FOR FUSION THAT WAS BOUGHT ON 9/11/2010. THE FIRST OCCURRED ON 7/15/2011 AT 25000 MILES AND THE SECOND OCCURRENCE WAS ON 10/21/2011 AT 33000 MILES. BOTH ON DRIVER SIDE FRONT WHEEL. THE DEALER HAS DONE ALL WORK TO CAR SO FAR. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10432393
Less common problems (complaints in the sample)
- Evaporative purge valve failure (2)
- Steering wheel locking up (2)
- Suspension coil spring breakage (2)
- Airbag control module failure (1)
- Airbag warning light on (1)
- Blower motor noise (1)
- Clicking noise when turning (1)
- Cloudy headlight lenses (1)
- Door armrest panel separation (1)
- Door handle fracture (1)
- Electric brake assist failure (1)
- Floor mat trapping accelerator (1)
- Manual clutch slipping (1)
- Power seat failure (1)
- Seat heater fire (1)
- Starter keeps cranking (1)
- Steering grinding noise (1)
- Steering pulling and wandering (1)
- Steering rack fluid leak (1)
- Steering rack stiffness (1)
- Tail lights off with daytime lights (1)
- Transmission axle seal leak (1)
- Wheel rim corrosion air leaks (1)
- Windshield crack (1)
Recalls
Safety issues the manufacturer must repair for free. A recall means confirm the fix was done, not walk away.
Airbags recall
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall 19S01.
- Status
- Do not drive until repaired. A dealer fixes this free of charge.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S01.
- Status
- Do not drive until repaired. A dealer fixes this free of charge.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. Ford mailed interim letters informing owners that parts are not yet available on July 15, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S01.
- Status
- Do not drive until repaired. A dealer fixes this free of charge.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver-side airbag inflator or module with an alternate one, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 9, 2021 for the passenger side, and November 14, 2022 for the driver side. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S12.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
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.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver and passenger air bag module, and replace either the module or the inflator, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S05.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
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.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify dealers that purchased the affected parts, and dealers will provide replacement parts to purchasers, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S05.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Brakes recall
If the valves do not properly close, additional brake pedal travel may be required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will flush the brake system with DOT 4 fluid and install a new brake fluid reservoir cap. In addition, the HCU will be tested to detect a possible stuck valve condition, replacing the HCU as necessary. All services will be performed free of charge. The recall began April 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S54.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
If the air bag does not inflate as intended, there is an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began November 21, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S34.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Fuel system recall
The pressure changes may cause the tank to crack and leak fuel. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle powertrain control modules and inspect the vehicle for any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for this issue and perform a leak test on the Canister Purge Valve (CPV). The fuel tank will be inspected for cracks. The CPV and fuel tank will be replaced as necessary. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on January 15, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S34.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
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.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install new replacement mats, free of charge. The recall began in July 2014. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S07. NOTE: Vehicles built after October 31, 2010, while potentially equipped with the same floor mats, are equipped with a Brake Over Accelerator (BOA) feature that prevents simultaneous accelerator and brake application, allowing the vehicle to be safely stopped by pressing firmly and steadily on the brake pedal.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
WHILE DRIVING, MULTIPLE STUD FRACTURES COULD OCCUR AT THE WHEEL LOCATION, AND THE OPERATOR MAY EXPERIENCE VEHICLE VIBRATION AND/OR WHEEL SEPARATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy
- FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR BRAKE DISC SURFACE FOR FLATNESS AND REPLACE THE DISCS AS NECESSARY. ADDITIONALLY, THE WHEEL LUG NUTS WILL BE REPLACED ON ALL FOUR WHEELS. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JANUARY 24, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Transmission recall
A VEHICLE PARKED WITHOUT AN ENGAGED PARK PAWL AND WITHOUT AN APPLIED PARKING BRAKE MAY HAVE UNINTENDED MOVEMENT WHICH MAY CAUSE A CRASH.
- Remedy
- FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 28, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332 AND FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1-800-232-5952 (TDD). REPRESENTATIVES ARE AVAILABLE MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY: 8:00AM - 5:00PM.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEATBACK AND HEAD RESTRAINT MAY MOVE REARWARD, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MANUAL RECLINERS FOR BOTH POWER AND MANUAL SEATS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Owner complaints by system
Unverified reports owners filed with NHTSA, grouped by the part of the car. Useful for spotting patterns. Open a group to read recent examples.
Engine & powertrain
1985
Most reports here involve sudden stalling. Of these, 26 mention a crash, 10 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact discovered fuel leaking underneath the vehicle. The contact restarted the vehicle several times, and the vehicle returned to normal functionality. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The contact researched and was made aware of an unknown recall; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 225,000.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11723323 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Electrical & infotainment
103
Most reports here involve sudden stalling. Of these, 2 mention a crash.
Read full complaint
The 2010 Ford fusion has 2584 complaints the second highest from 2010 to 2014; mine has been giving me intermittent issues for 3 years now and some times there is no error code and inspection cannot find anything wrong- but for 2010 year their has been none even though those years are the same generation car. Thats not fair stopping at 2011-the 2010 is the same car with the same issue-issue a recall; people are getting these expensive repairs and the issue comes back sometimes!!! Give us the same recall for the same car!!! 2010: (2584 complaints) 2011: (500) 2012: (3000) 2013: (2000) 2014: (1000) Your recall does not encompass the whole generations years; agian the same car as the 11's to14's
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11739694 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Brakes
519
Most reports here involve loss of braking. Of these, 30 mention a crash, 13 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
The ABS Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) failed internally due to a stuck valve. The component remains on the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. While braking normally on a public road, the vehicle hit a minor road bump, causing the ABS to momentarily engage. Immediately following the bump, the brake pedal lost all hydraulic resistance and dropped severely to the floorboard. The vehicle experienced an immediate, drastic reduction in stopping power and an extended braking distance, nearly causing a collision. This sudden loss of braking capability puts the driver, passengers, and other motorists at immediate risk of a severe accident. There were absolutely no warning lamps, error messages, or symptoms prior to hitting the road bump. The braking system functioned completely normally until the exact moment the ABS was triggered by the uneven road surface. The vehicle and its components have not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. This identical safety-compromising failure mode (loss of pedal pressure immediately following ABS activation on a bump) is a thoroughly documented defect covered by Ford under Safety Recall 19S54 and Customer Satisfaction Program 21N11. However, because this specific vehicle has a production date falling just outside of Ford's arbitrary manufacturing window (which cut off on July 15, 2009), the vehicle is barred from receiving the safety remedy. This vehicle uses the exact same layout and suffers from the exact same dangerous safety defect. The NHTSA needs to investigate and force an expansion of the vehicle build dates for this recall before this known defect causes a fatal crash.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11746335 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Steering, suspension & tires
1711
Most reports here involve loss of steering. Of these, 36 mention a crash, 22 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver and failed to return to normal operation. The advancetrac warning light was illuminated and the "Power Steering Fault" and "Advancetrac Failure" messages were displayed on the instrument panel. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11764480 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Airbags & seat belts
521
Most reports here involve airbags not deploying. Of these, 23 mention a crash, 23 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
I was rear ended while parked at a stop light, the force of the impact drove me into the vehicle in front of me. During the accident my seatbelt pretensioner failed to work at the same time my sun visor unexpectedly dropped down swung towards me and my head struck the edge of the visor which made a gash in my forehead down in between my eyes, there was blood visibly running down my nose at the scene of the accident. I went to the ER afterwards to seek medical attention. 3 days after the accident i suffered a seizure, i have no prior seizures before this incident. Since the accident i’ve continued to have headaches, signs of short term memory loss, and having trouble finding words sometimes.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11738425 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Structure & body
117
Most reports here involve premature wear. Of these, 2 mention a crash, 4 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the dealer for an oil change and tire rotation, the contact was informed that the tires were unable to be rotated due to severely corroded rear jacking points, preventing the vehicle from being placed on the car lift. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The contact was advised to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 109,755.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11592847 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Other systems
170
Most reports here involve premature wear. Of these, 3 mention a crash, 2 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
We were made aware of Recall 11V574000 by our automotive shop, which applies to lugs/nuts/bolts on 2010 Ford Fusions, but only starting with manufacturer dates April 2009. This vehicle is dated February 2009, but we have replaced lugs/nuts/bolts at least 6 times in the past 5 years, clearly having the same problem. It has been an expensive, constantly reoccurring problem.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11734661 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
How does it compare with other years? The 2010 has 5,126 complaints on file, more than the 2011 (2,785). That is the most of the 11 model years of the Ford Fusion we cover. Older model years have had longer to collect complaints.