Ford Fusion Years to Avoid
Every Fusion model year ranked by owner complaints filed with NHTSA, with recalls and the top problem for each year.
Updated Oct 17, 2026.
Which Fusion years should you avoid?
The 2010, 2011 and 2012 Fusion have the most NHTSA complaints. Adjusted for how long each year has been on the road, the 2020, 2019 and 2018 models have the fewest problems.
Complaints by model year
Total complaints. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing.
Every year at a glance
| Year | Complaints | Per year | Recalls | Top problem |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 183 | 26 | 3 | Transmission |
| 2019 | 316 | 40 | 3 | Engine |
| 2018 | 442 | 49 | 2 | Engine |
| 2017 | 1,112 | 111 | 4 | Engine |
| 2016 | 1,641 | 149 | 13 | Engine |
| 2015 | 995 | 83 | 13 | Engine |
| 2014 | 1,331 | 102 | 19 | Steering |
| 2013 | 1,792 | 128 | 19 | Engine |
| 2012 | 2,516 | 168 | 6 | Steering |
| 2011 | 2,793 | 175 | 9 | Steering |
| 2010 | 5,130 | 302 | 13 | Steering |
| 2009 | 1,023 | 57 | 7 | Brakes |
| 2008 | 1,353 | 71 | 6 | Airbags |
"Per year" divides complaints by the years since that model year went on sale, so new and old years compare fairly. Highlighted rows have the most complaints.
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Common questions
What is the worst year for the Ford Fusion?
The 2010 Fusion, with 5,130 complaints. Its most reported problem area is the steering.
What is the best year for the Ford Fusion?
Among years with at least three years of owner reports, the 2020 Fusion has the fewest complaints per year on the road.
Which Ford Fusion years should I avoid?
Be most careful with the 2010, 2011 and 2012 models. Check service records and recall work before buying.