CoolingHigh
1.5L/1.6L EcoBoost internal coolant leak / overheating.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for unexplained coolant loss and misfires.
2013 Ford Fusion problems
A 2013 Ford Fusion is now 13 years old, so an average example has covered around 175,500 miles. This is the first model year of the generation · early-build cars carry the highest share of teething faults and the most recall activity, so check the service history for completed recall work. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2013 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2013 Ford Fusion is 13 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 175,500 miles. At that mileage 5 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
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Build the inspection planFaults a 2013 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~176k miles an average 2013 car has covered.
SuspensionMedium
Clunking noises over bumps and vague steering feel.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Drive at a crawl on the forecourt and apply the footbrake sharply. Listen for a distinct clunk from the front lower suspension arm rear bushes.
Engine ManagementLow
Rough idle, stalling, or difficulty starting after refuelling.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold and let it idle. Listen for an abnormally loud, rapid ticking noise from the EVAP purge valve near the inlet manifold, and watch for a fluctuating rev counter.
BodyworkHigh
Doors bounce back when closed or fail to latch securely.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Open and close all four doors firmly. Ensure the latch mechanism engages immediately without the door bouncing back off the striker plate.
DrivetrainHigh
Burning oil smell or whining noise from the front axle on AWD models.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Look under the front offside behind the wheel. Inspect the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) casing and adjacent exhaust flexi-pipe for dark, weeping gear oil.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
SteeringHigh
Steering-related recall (loss of steering) on some cars.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Confirm the steering recall was completed.
TransmissionMedium
6-speed automatic harsh or delayed shifts.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive through the gears.
ElectricalLow
SYNC infotainment glitches.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the head unit.
Inspecting a 2013 Ford Fusion?
Turn this car's known weak points into a step-by-step viewing plan · what to inspect, what a bad result means and what to ask the seller.
Build my inspection planFord Fusion · frequently asked questions
Is the Ford Fusion reliable?
It's comfortable and stylish; confirm recalls (steering) and check EcoBoost coolant health.
Which Fusion engine is best?
The 2.5L NA is simplest; EcoBoost engines add power but need cooling attention.
Are there Fusion recalls?
Yes — including steering-related recalls; verify completion before buying.
Does the 2013-2019 Ford Fusion use a timing belt or a timing chain?
It depends on the engine fitted. The 2.5L naturally aspirated and 2.0L EcoBoost petrol engines use a robust timing chain that rarely requires replacement. However, the 1.5L and 1.6L EcoBoost variants utilise a timing belt. This belt requires strict adherence to service intervals to prevent degradation and catastrophic engine failure.
How long does the high-voltage battery last in Fusion Hybrid models?
The lithium-ion battery pack in Fusion Hybrid and Energi models is highly durable, typically lasting between 100,000 and 150,000 miles before showing significant degradation. Dealers should check the dashboard energy monitor during a test drive to ensure the battery holds charge and transitions smoothly between electric and petrol power.
What preventative maintenance is required for the all-wheel-drive system?
The Power Transfer Unit on AWD models is technically sealed for life, but technicians strongly advise changing the fluid every 30,000 to 40,000 miles. The unit sits close to the exhaust, causing the factory gear oil to overheat, degrade into sludge, and eventually destroy the internal bearings if left unchanged.
Other Fusion model years
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