2016 Ford Fusion Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2016 Ford Fusion, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Engine52728.7%
- Powertrain (other)29416.0%
- Driver assistance18810.3%
- Steering1769.6%
- Electrical1457.9%
- Brakes1357.4%
- Fuel system925.0%
- Airbags502.7%
- Body & structure502.7%
- Other / unspecified482.6%
- Interior & seats452.5%
- Visibility241.3%
- Seat belts170.9%
- Exterior lighting160.9%
- Transmission150.8%
- Suspension80.4%
- Tires & wheels40.2%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The engine experienced a sudden failure that caused the vehicle to become completely inoperable. Prior to the failure, the vehicle exhibited intermittent hesitation, rough idling, and loss of power during acceleration. These symptoms began several weeks before the complete failure. No warning lamps were illuminated at first, but shortly before the breakdown, the vehicle displayed a check engine light and a “Service Engine Soon” message. While driving, the vehicle abruptly lost power and became unsafe to operate. I was forced to pull over immediately, which created a safety risk to myself and other drivers due to the sudden deceleration and inability to maintain speed in traffic. The vehicle would not restart afterward. A repair facility has confirmed that the engine has suffered a major internal failure and requires replacement. The estimated cost of repair starts upwards of $5,000. The vehicle is currently non‑drivable and remains available for inspection. The issue has been reproduced and confirmed by an independent service center. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. However, I have found multiple similar complaints from other owners reporting the same type of powertrain failure, suggesting a potential pattern or defect affecting safety.
Engine reached high temperature on July 2 2016 the results of which required the replacement of the radiator. Apparently there is a class action regarding coolant system issues for my vehicles 2.0L engine. The radiator failure may be the result of this issue. Engine overheated
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
The engine experienced a sudden failure that caused the vehicle to become completely inoperable. Prior to the failure, the vehicle exhibited intermittent hesitation, rough idling, and loss of power during acceleration. These symptoms began several weeks before the complete failure. No warning lamps were illuminated at first, but shortly before the breakdown, the vehicle displayed a check engine light and a “Service Engine Soon” message. While driving, the vehicle abruptly lost power and became unsafe to operate. I was forced to pull over immediately, which created a safety risk to myself and other drivers due to the sudden deceleration and inability to maintain speed in traffic. The vehicle would not restart afterward. A repair facility has confirmed that the engine has suffered a major internal failure and requires replacement. The estimated cost of repair starts upwards of $5,000. The vehicle is currently non‑drivable and remains available for inspection. The issue has been reproduced and confirmed by an independent service center. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. However, I have found multiple similar complaints from other owners reporting the same type of powertrain failure, suggesting a potential pattern or defect affecting safety.
severe coolant intrusion issue where coolant leaks into the cylinders, causing rough running, overheating, and potential engine failure. Very unsafe especially due to the fact the their were recalls on the 2017-2019 but not for 2016 models and ford refuses to replace the engine.ford reproduced a better block however my 2016 isn't covered. There signs of rough idling and a engine code for a failed coil . Replaced all coils and spark plugs just for the car to still ride rough with no warning signs. Ford knows themselves that there was a flaw in the making the recall for the 2017-2019(21N12) . This is a major issue considering several reviews or reddit consumers have encountered the exact issue at 100k miles and less. Even when I took my car to bill estes they only found a missfire due to coil. Nothing specified a coolant intrusion.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera displayed a distorted image. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was informed that the part to repair the vehicle was not available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The failure was a persistent failure. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while shifted in reverse(R), the rear-view camera failed to display a clear view image as intended. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle suddenly lost power steering functionality and nearly crashed. The contact swerved and slammed on the brake pedal abruptly, causing the contact to strike the left side of the head against the upper side of the driver's side window. The contact sustained a headache, a bump and dizziness and sought medical attention. The power steering warning light was illuminated after the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power steering assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V632000 (STEERING). The contact resided in Wisconsin, which was one of the States listed in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that no assistance would be provided because the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 178,000.
After hitting 100,000 mile my car electronics failed and caused my steering to fail and all other safety equipment like airbags and brokering system
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
Back up camera does not work and other electrical elements not working in conjunction with it
After hitting 100,000 mile my car electronics failed and caused my steering to fail and all other safety equipment like airbags and brokering system
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
The brake booster vacuum pump coupler broke off of the vacuum pump and a piece of the coupler was left stuck in the camshaft. This caused the brakes to become very stiff and hard to push down to stop the vehicle. It wasn't inspected by anyone. No warning messages or icons appeared on the dash. Car had to be towed.
The engine experienced a sudden failure that caused the vehicle to become completely inoperable. Prior to the failure, the vehicle exhibited intermittent hesitation, rough idling, and loss of power during acceleration. These symptoms began several weeks before the complete failure. No warning lamps were illuminated at first, but shortly before the breakdown, the vehicle displayed a check engine light and a “Service Engine Soon” message. While driving, the vehicle abruptly lost power and became unsafe to operate. I was forced to pull over immediately, which created a safety risk to myself and other drivers due to the sudden deceleration and inability to maintain speed in traffic. The vehicle would not restart afterward. A repair facility has confirmed that the engine has suffered a major internal failure and requires replacement. The estimated cost of repair starts upwards of $5,000. The vehicle is currently non‑drivable and remains available for inspection. The issue has been reproduced and confirmed by an independent service center. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. However, I have found multiple similar complaints from other owners reporting the same type of powertrain failure, suggesting a potential pattern or defect affecting safety.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
The dealer is saying that the car needs a purge solenoid repair or replacement as well as rear shocks. When I looked this up on a 2016 Ford fusion it states this is the most are one of the most common issues the purge solenoid the dealers trying to charge me almost $500 for this repair and I guess I’m reaching out to the Ford company itself or somebody that can help so my name is [XXX] and my phone number is [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
For the past year, I have been dealing with a recurring check engine light on my Ford Fusion related to Diagnostic Trouble Code P0301 – Cylinder 1 Misfire. Despite multiple repair attempts by qualified mechanics, the issue continues to return, leaving me with mounting repair bills, lost confidence in my vehicle, and serious concerns about its reliability and safety. Every time the check engine light has appeared, I have taken my vehicle in for diagnosis and repair. Each time, I was assured the problem had been fixed. However, the repair would only last anywhere from a week to a month before the exact same code would return. I have now experienced this issue on August 8 2025, January 9 2026, April 20 2026, May 19 2026, and June 1 2026. I have paid to address the same problem, along with related repairs, five separate times. Even more concerning, my vehicle has broken down and left me stranded on the side of the road three out of those five occurrences. No vehicle owner should have to repeatedly face the same unresolved issue after spending significant money on repairs and maintenance. After conducting extensive research, I discovered that I am far from alone. I have found numerous reports from other Ford Fusion owners experiencing the exact same Cylinder 1 misfire issue, many of whom have also been unable to find a permanent solution despite repeated repairs. This appears to be a widespread problem affecting many customers, not an isolated incident. As a Ford customer, I expected a dependable vehicle that I could trust to safely get me where I need to go. Instead, I have spent the last year dealing with recurring failures, unexpected expenses, and the constant fear of being stranded again. When so many owners are reporting the same defect with no lasting repair available, it raises a serious question: Why has this issue not been investigated for a recall or other manufacturer supported corrective action? I urge Ford to thoroughly investigate this recurring issue.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
air bag light comes on sometimes not other car panic alarm goes off at random times backup camera sometimes work sometimes glitches
My airbag light suddenly came on this morning and my light blinking off for the airbag was blinking my whole trip to work. I've also had my catalytic converter replaced and my check engine warning still says their is an issue when everything has been replaced Lights on my mirrors also don't cut on when someone is in my blind spots the symbol is there but they don't light up My back up camera has not worked correctly since a few weeks after I got the car. I have taken it to the dealership and their stating it happens in these vehicles sometimes.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The rearview is not working consistently and caused me to back into a pole.
I am requesting formal escalation and review of my case due to a repeat failure of a safety recall component that has rendered my vehicle unsafe and not safely operable. My vehicle is a 2016 Ford Fusion. In 2024, a door latch safety recall repair was completed at an authorized Ford dealership. The same door latch has now failed again, causing the door to not close or latch at all, creating the same safety condition the recall was intended to correct. Both the dealership and Ford customer service have declined assistance on the basis that the recall repair was previously completed. However, this is not a new or unrelated issue — this is a repeat failure of the same safety-critical component addressed under the recall. This condition presents an ongoing safety risk, and the vehicle cannot be used safely in its current state. I have already filed a formal complaint with NHTSA documenting this repeat failure and Ford’s refusal to repair the issue. At this time, I am requesting: Review by a supervisor or escalation specialist Consideration for goodwill or recall-related assistance Resolution of this repeat safety defect without cost to me Please provide: Confirmation that this case has been escalated A written response explaining Ford’s position Any options Ford is willing to offer to address this safety concern I am requesting this review in good faith and hope Ford will stand behind its safety recall repair when the same defect has clearly reoccurred. Thank you for your time and attention. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, [XXX] & [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
I have concerns about the safety and proper installation of my child’s car seat. The seat is installed in the rear of the vehicle, however I am unsure if the lower anchors and tether system are functioning properly or securing the seat as intended. I want to ensure my child is fully protected in the event of a sudden stop or crash. Additionally, I am reporting ongoing safety concerns with my vehicle related to open recalls. The manufacturer has stated that certain repairs should be completed free of charge, but the dealership has delayed or failed to complete the repairs in a timely manner. These issues raise concerns about overall safety and risk to occupants, especially a young child. The vehicle and car seat are available for inspection if needed.
Considering your experience of losing total control of the vehicle even while driving slowly while following a snowplow vehicle dispensing road deicer while plowing; I have a strong suspicion that his has happened in 2024 as well when the vehicle had registered a drive issue and the dealership found now existing reason for it. The compacted snow forms a large layer of snow and ice in the wheel wells to the point that it is rubbing on the tires all around the wheel wells. As this icy snow hardens while the vehicle is parked; it is dangerous to drive on any road surface in this condition at any speed. While the danger was less in the past due to not driving to Cass Lake, Minnesota from Bemidji, Minnesota and back nearly every other day; it has become critical this winter because of the high increase in winter snowy road driving that you are currently doing. Even though doing Hemo-Dyalisis at home decreases the danger; this vehicle is at risk of suddenly going out of control during winter snowing highway driving conditions if ice and snow builds up around the tires where it can suddenly release and jam tires from turning. You need to be aware of the danger you place yourself and other motorists in if you are driving this Ford Fusion Energi while in these dangerous driving conditions. In the past I have seen the condition of ice and snow buildup in the front and rear wheel wells to the point that there is less than one half inch of clearance between the tires and the ice/snow buildup. I did not allow you to drive it that way until I had chopped and removed it from around the tires and wheel wells.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
I have concerns about the safety and proper installation of my child’s car seat. The seat is installed in the rear of the vehicle, however I am unsure if the lower anchors and tether system are functioning properly or securing the seat as intended. I want to ensure my child is fully protected in the event of a sudden stop or crash. Additionally, I am reporting ongoing safety concerns with my vehicle related to open recalls. The manufacturer has stated that certain repairs should be completed free of charge, but the dealership has delayed or failed to complete the repairs in a timely manner. These issues raise concerns about overall safety and risk to occupants, especially a young child. The vehicle and car seat are available for inspection if needed.
On 11/6/2025 we were rear ended at a dead stop. The posted speed limit was 35mph. The Other driver that hit us did not see us or attempt to stop, this vehicle was a hummer. The car was totaled. The front passenger seat collapsed, tilted backwards in a laying down position during impact. Injuries did occur and are being treated. After the wreck I attempted to raise the electric seat , you can hear the motor trying to lift the seat but the seat would not move.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
The rearview is not working consistently and caused me to back into a pole.
I own a 2016 Ford Fusion affected by Safety Recall 25SA9 (NHTSA Recall 25V695) regarding the rearview camera. I took my vehicle to an authorized Ford dealership on June 25, 2026, to have the recall repaired. The dealership confirmed that the repair procedure is currently available only for Mustang vehicles and that no repair is available for my Fusion. The dealership documented this on the repair order. I also contacted Ford Customer Relations, and Ford confirmed there is currently no confirmed ETA for the recall remedy. I am fully willing to complete the recall immediately, but I cannot do so because the manufacturer has not made the repair available for this vehicle. I am submitting this complaint because the manufacturer has been unable to provide a timely remedy for this safety recall despite my attempt to have the repair completed. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this situation.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
Driver side seat belt suddenly stopped working. Initially it was stuck and would not deploy. Eventually it released and was able to be drawn and buckled, but does not restrain passenger when tested manually; driver was not restrained when the car was braked quickly. rom 35 mph to a full stop. There is a December 5, 2016 NHSTA recall on front seat belts May not restrain Occupants (NHSTA Campaign number 16V875000) and and a Ford Recall number 16S42. Car was purchased from a Ford dealer in 2018-2019 as a used vehicle. Current dealer indicates it may cost from $400-1200 to replace the seat belt.
Rear passenger seat belt will not release lock/tension/broken. Will not allow rear occupants to buckle in. Safety issue. Seems to happen on most 2013+ ford vehicles specifically trims like titanium with a 'inflatable belt" This issue should be recalled free of charge, It is a major safety issue not to be able to use a seatbelt. The best remedy would be inspect and replacement of broken components. Both occurred over 80k miles one being a truck (entirely different vehicle)
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to complete the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera was inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated that while making a turn, the turn signal delayed to engage as intended. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or a dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,202.
On Saturday [XXX] I noticed when I opened my driver side door, the dash light & the light on my touch screen began flickering. I didn't think much about it at the time, but the next day, [XXX] as myself & my wife were traveling on the highway, I tried to turn on my cruise control but it would not come on. I then tried to adjust my stereo volume on the steering wheel & it wasn't working either. Well, the next day I checked the fuses & they were fine, so that's when I went online & found out that the clock spring in the steering wheel could most likely be the problem. Well I decided to dig a little deeper into the matter & I found out that some 2016 Ford trucks had been recalled because of faulty clock springs which also could cause the airbag not to deploy when needed. I was just told by an employee from a local Ford Dealership that the 2016 Ford Fusion was not a part of that recall, which I believe should have been a part of that recall, because I'm pretty sure that the same clock springs that were used in those 2016 trucks, were used in the 2016 Ford Fusions. I would like to ask that you would please look into this mater, because this is a serious mater, & I think Ford needs to fix this problem. They should be responsible for all of their vehicles with these bad clock springs & not just those trucks only. Thank you for your time & all you do to keep us safe on the road. God Bless you all! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact's father owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle and shifting to reverse, the vehicle failed to reverse as intended. Upon inspection, the contact discovered that the transmission shifter cable bushing had detached. The local dealer was contacted and arrived at the residence and replaced the transmission shifter cable bushing and the vehicle was repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V413000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while the vehicle was started, the gear shifter was shifted in drive(D); however, the vehicle rolled backward. The contact depressed the brake pedal; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The contact used the parking brake to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with shifter linkage bushing failure. The contact was informed that the shifter linkage bushing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that an unknown recall repair was completed in 2019 for the replacement of the shifter linkage bushing. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
Considering your experience of losing total control of the vehicle even while driving slowly while following a snowplow vehicle dispensing road deicer while plowing; I have a strong suspicion that his has happened in 2024 as well when the vehicle had registered a drive issue and the dealership found now existing reason for it. The compacted snow forms a large layer of snow and ice in the wheel wells to the point that it is rubbing on the tires all around the wheel wells. As this icy snow hardens while the vehicle is parked; it is dangerous to drive on any road surface in this condition at any speed. While the danger was less in the past due to not driving to Cass Lake, Minnesota from Bemidji, Minnesota and back nearly every other day; it has become critical this winter because of the high increase in winter snowy road driving that you are currently doing. Even though doing Hemo-Dyalisis at home decreases the danger; this vehicle is at risk of suddenly going out of control during winter snowing highway driving conditions if ice and snow builds up around the tires where it can suddenly release and jam tires from turning. You need to be aware of the danger you place yourself and other motorists in if you are driving this Ford Fusion Energi while in these dangerous driving conditions. In the past I have seen the condition of ice and snow buildup in the front and rear wheel wells to the point that there is less than one half inch of clearance between the tires and the ice/snow buildup. I did not allow you to drive it that way until I had chopped and removed it from around the tires and wheel wells.
On May 16, 2024, Plaintiff [XXX] was in urgent need of replacing the front passenger side tire on his vehicle. He began searching online to compare automotive service providers, focusing on those offering competitive pricing and professional-grade installation. During my search, 1 came across Mr. Tire's website, which prominently displayed claims such as "Expert installation for less" and "Quality service for superior stopping power." According to their site, their tire installation package included: • Tire mounting and wheel balancing • Standard valve stem replacement • TPMS inspection and reset • Wheel alignment check • Precision wheel torque by hand tools • Lifetime tire rotation • Lifetime rebalancing Believing this was a comprehensive and professional service package, I scheduled an appointment at Mr. Tire, located at 5 Bel Air South Parkway, Bel Air, MD 21014 (Store #771). Upon arrival, I checked in with the store manager, [XXX] , who prepared my service contract. She explained the total cost for installing the new tire would be $191.53. The technician assigned to my vehicle was [XXX] , as listed on the service agreement and receipt. On August 4, 2024, while driving, I was involved in a serious accident. The front passenger side tire completely detached from the vehicle while in motion, causing the car to slam into the ground. I was severe risk of injury or death.The way I’ve taken this to court as I went back and looked at the reviews as of today’s date October 18th 2025 they still are committee, consumer fraud, unsafe, work practices, deceptive business practices, and are putting the community and the residence of the state of Maryland and beyond at risk from unsafe work practices and I have submitted the reviews as a PDF as an attachment to this complaint I am requesting for investigation into their business for unsafe work practices and 49 U.S.C. § 30101 (Purpose and policy) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 55
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion equipped with Michelin Tires, Tire Line: Energy Saver A/S, Tire Size: 235/45/R18, DOT Number: (Unknown). The contact stated while driving at MPH, the TPMS warning light illuminated. While the contact was attempting to pull over, the driver’s side rear tire experienced a blowout. The contact was able to change the tire with the spare tire with the assistance of the local authorities. The contact later took the vehicle to an independent mechanic who discovered a nail in the tire which lead to the failure. The tire had been replaced. The tire failure mileage was approximately 20,000. The vehicle failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
235/50 R 17. Seriously horrible groove wandering to the point that I feel extremely unsafe to drive. I'm guessing it's all four tires but, I'm only allowed to pick one. It happened the first day after purchasing the vehicle on 5/24/22. I put more money down on the car because the tires were fairly new. Now they have to be replaced because they are dangerous. They must be recalled!
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .