Are you planning to purchase a 2013 Ford Fusion and you are trying to learn more about the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion? Well, if that is the case and you are interested in this model, then you are at the right place because, in this article, there will be quite a lot to cover.
One of the biggest tasks for anyone out there that want to purchase a used vehicle is good and thorough research. And if you are interested in a used car, this should be one of your top priorities in order for this to help you narrow your options down to the right car.
There are hundreds of models out there. And they all perform differently and most importantly, some of these cars are more prone to problems than others. So, this is why you have to narrow your choice down to the cars that are actually good and worth the money. And is the Ford Fusion one of these cars? Well, let’s find out.
First, we are going to cover what is the Ford Fusion and then we will take a look at some of the reviews. Once we clear the basics, we will cover the specs of the model. We will cover the dimensions, size, and practicality.
As well as the engines, transmissions, fuel economy and other important specs. Then we will move on to the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion and learn some of the issues that trouble this model year. So, if you want to learn more, please follow along.
Ford Fusion
Now before we dive into the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion, let’s first discuss more about what is the Ford Fusion in general. There are a lot of people who suffer from similar problems and do not know about this model and its main characteristics. So, let’s elaborate on it and learn more about it.
So, what is the Ford Fusion? Well, the Ford Fusion is a mid-size car that was introduced by Ford in 2005 and was produced until 2020 when it was discontinued. This discontinuation was because Ford simply didn’t want to build sedans anymore and it drove its main focus to pickup trucks and SUVs.
Nevertheless, there were two generations in total of the Fusion. One was produced between 2005 and 2012. And the second was introduced for the 2013 model year and produced until 2020.
What is interesting about both of these models was that the first generation was based on the Ford CD3 platform, developed together with Mazda. This first generation implemented a lot of Mazda parts. While you’re here, do take a peek at our guide on does Ford own Mazda if you’re curious.
While the second generation of the Fusion was based on the Ford CD4 platform and this model was basically a model borrowed from Ford Europe. In Europe, this generation of the Fusion was known as the Mondeo.
Even though it was a borrowed model, this was a good move by Ford because they didn’t have to develop a different car for the North American market. But this doesn’t mean that the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion are not there.
And more on the problems, we are going to discuss later on in the article, now let’s take a look at a Ford Fusion review.
2013 Ford Fusion Review
Now let’s take a look at one of the Ford Fusion reviews before we discuss the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion. Watching a good and thorough review is always a good idea before you decide to buy a vehicle.
Especially when out there there are a ton of good car reviewers that basically give you that incredible input of what a car can deliver to you as a buyer.
In the video above, you can check an incredible review on the Ford Fusion delivered by the Redline Reviews YouTube channel. In the video, the reviewer goes through all of the specs of the Fusion and delivers a really good input on the car.
But if you are in the more traditional way and you want to read more about the specs, feel free to follow along while we cover the specs of the 2013 Ford Fusion in the next chapters.
2013 Ford Fusion Specs
So, we learned a little bit about the Ford Fusion. Now before we start discussing about the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion, let’s dive into the specs of the model.
As we noted previously, this model was produced between 2012 and 2020 with 2013 being the first model year. The model is based on Ford’s CD4 platform that was shared with the Lincoln MKZ, Lincoln Continental, and Ford Taurus seventh generation.
This is a platform that is only front-wheel-drive. Unlike the traditional American rear-wheel-drive layout. And honestly, when it comes to compact and mid-size cars, going for FWD instead of RWD, really improves the fuel efficiency and also the handling on icy surfaces and snow.
What is also interesting to note is that this model implements AWD for the more premium spec models. The Fusion was assembled in two factories. One in Hermosillo, Mexico, and the other in Flat Rock, Michigan. But what about the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion? More on that, we will cover it in a bit.
Dimensions, Size & Practicality
Let’s now start with the specs before we discuss the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion. And the most important specs are the dimensions and size. As we noted previously, the Fusion is a mid-size sedan. This means that the Fusion in terms of size falls somewhere in the middle.
The wheelbase of the model is about 112.2 inches and the overall length is 191.7 inches. The model is 72.9 inches wide and also 58.1 inches tall. The curb weight of the Fusion is between 3,323 lbs and 4,123 lbs. This big difference really depends on the engines that were used on the model.
Since the powertrain tends to weigh quite a lot. Especially for the 2013 Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid version.
In terms of cargo space, the Ford Fusion is quite average. There is a total of 16 cubic ft of cargo space inside the trunk. Which is enough for groceries. And if you want more space, you can always store more items on the rear seats. But what about the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion? More on the problems, we are going to elaborate in a bit.
2013 Ford Fusion Engine & Transmission
Another topic that we would like to cover before we dive into the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion is the engines and transmissions (just like the 2014 Ford Fusion problems).
For the 2013 model year, there were four engines available. The base engine was the Duratec 25. This was a really old-school engine with 2.5L in displacement and produced about 175hp and 175lb-ft of torque.
The next engine was the Duratec 20. A 2.0L inline-4 that produced 144hp, with a peak horsepower of 188hp. This engine was used only in the hybrid version of the Fusion.
Next are the more up-to-date engines. Specifically, the 1.6L EcoBoost. This was an inline-4 turbocharged engine that made about 179hp and 184lb-ft of torque.
And the top of the line engine was the 2.0L EcoBoost. Another inline-4 turbocharged engine. But this engine made a respectable 240hp and 270lb-ft of torque.
In terms of transmissions, there were three available. One was the 6-speed manual, available only with the 1.6L EcoBoost. Then there was the 6-speed automatic. And the eCVT automatic for the hybrid version. But what about the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion? More about that, we are going to explain more in a bit.
2013 Ford Fusion Fuel Economy
Another topic that we would like to discuss before we dive into the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion is fuel economy. Is this model considered fuel efficient or not? Let’s elaborate.
In this aspect, the Ford Fusion is really good. The 2.5L engine gets 22 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined.
The 1.6L engine on the other hand gets about 23 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. The 2.0L turbo is the least fuel-efficient with 22 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined.
The hybrid on the other hand is the most fuel-efficient model. The standard hybrid gets 43 mpg in the city, 39 mpg on the highway, and 41 mpg combined. While the plug-in hybrid delivers 88 mpg. Which is a really respectable number. But what about the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion?
More on the problems, we are going to cover in a moment.
2013 Ford Fusion Safety
Now let’s cover the safety aspect before we dive into the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion. And this is also a really important topic that we need to elaborate before we discuss the problems.
What is worth noting about the 2013 Fusion is that it was tested by both the NHTSA and the IIHS, which are the main governing bodies in the US when it comes to car safety. The NHTSA gave a 5-star overall rating, which is the highest rating possible when it comes to the NHTSA and their grading of car safety.
And on the IIHS testing, the model also performed quite favorably and got ”Good” scores on most of their tests. Except on the small overlap driver’s side test where it only got an “Acceptable” score.
And as we observed some images and videos, we indeed determined that there is small damage to the cage when the overlap test is performed. Not very significant but enough to cause some leg injuries to the driver. You can see it by yourself in the video that we attached above.
2013 Ford Fusion Value
And the last topic that we would like to discuss before we cover the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion is the value. What is the average price on the used market for this model?
Well, for this purpose, we observed some listings on Autotrader.com. The lowest price for what you can get a decent model is about $5,000. There are cheaper listings but these are usually damaged or really worn-out low-spec models.
But if you want to get a really well-maintained SE model with relatively low mileage, you will have to pay about $10,000 to $13,000. The top trim Platinum models usually go for much higher, about $15,000 to $18,000. Now let’s move on to the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion.
Problems With 2013 Ford Fusion
Now let’s dive into the 2013 Ford Fusion problems or problems with 2013 Ford Fusion as some people would call them. It is important to note that we are getting our data from carcomplaints.com where owners non-stop list issues with their cars.
And the Ford Fusion is no exception with 281 complaints on this model year. And in the following three chapters, we are going to thoroughly cover the problems. Starting with the engine problems, and then we will move to the transmission issues and other miscellaneous problems.
What is worth noting about the engines in this Fusion is that a vast number of them were either the 1.6L EcoBoost or the 2.0L EcoBoost. Both of them were turbocharged and both of them suffered from similar issues. Therefore, you’ll have to be cognizant of the common Ford EcoBoost engine problems.
Ford Fusion Engine Problems
The biggest Ford Fusion problem with many reports is the issue with the electronic throttle body. This a very common problem with Ford Engines. The throttle body loves to fail on most of these engines and you will highly likely have to replace it with a new one. And when this throttle body fails, you will have a stalled engine.
Therefore, you should be wary of the symptoms of a dirty throttle body, figure out what does a throttle body do, and the general symptoms of a bad throttle body.
The engine will die and will not like to turn on. Another problem that these EcoBoost engines were susceptible to is the increase in carbon buildup. These are a new generation of engines that implement direct injection.
And since you don’t have fuel to wash the intake valves, there will be an increase in carbon buildup on these engines on the intake ports and this could affect the engine work. The spark plugs and ignition coil failure rate is really high on these engines as well.
And another problem that this 1.6L engine has is the risk of fire. And there was a recall about this that we are going to cover in the recall section. The cars with this engine suffered from a serious coolant leak. which then burst into flames on the hot engine block.
Also, there is a problem with the 1.6L engine that we are going to cover is the premature wear of the timing belt. These engines for some unknown reasons go through timing belts at a greater pace than other engines.
Another problem with the 2.0L engine was a low-pressure fuel pump failure. This fuel pump is found in the gas tank. Now let’s continue with the other problems with 2013 Ford Fusion.
Ford Fusion Transmission Problems
So, we covered the engine problems with 2013 Ford Fusion. Now let’s discuss the transmission problems that often occur on this vehicle.
The transmission problems are the second most reported issues in this model year. So, you should ideally be wary of the best model years for the Ford Fusion. What is worth noting is that the automatic transmission is not terrible. But it has some issues.
Specifically, there are problems reported with the transmission shifting not properly or shifting roughly. Some owners also reported jerking and the transmission shifting in neutral by itself. Or stuck in “Park” in some cases.
Not a deal breaker but still, this transmission has some problems. This is why we encourage you to test the car thoroughly and make sure that the transmission shifts well. Now let’s move on to the other problems with 2013 Ford Fusion.
Other Miscellaneous Problems
When it comes to the other problems with 2013 Ford Fusion, is worth noting that this problem had a lot of miscellaneous issues.
Namely, horn failures are really common, in addition to this, the interior hood latch can break and stop you from opening the hood.
Also, warning lights on the dash for no particular reason, a buzzing sound from the dash, dome lights coming on randomly, the radio not working properly, and other minor issues.
Some owners also reported problems with starting the engine because of an electrical problem. There is a total of 14 reports for engines that won’t turn over, and won’t start. So, if you notice that your Ford Fusion won’t start, take note. Another symptom might include seeing the wrench light on the Ford Fusion.
Other problems included issues with the cooling system and the engine started to overheat. Sometimes the cooling system started to leak and sometimes the water pump failed on these engines.
And the last minor issues that were reported were the issues with the door failing to latch, the chrome trim falling off, and some paint defects. Overall, these are the biggest issues with the 2013 Ford Fusion. But what about the recalls? Let’s find out more about that next.
2013 Ford Fusion Recalls
What is worth noting about this Ford Fusion when it comes to the recalls is that there were a total of 19 recalls for the 2013 model year. And this is a really high number we must admit.
What is worth noting is that there were various issues with this model. Concerning the headlights, electrical problems, fuel delivery system problems, airbags, door latches, as well as recalls connecting the transmission. For more about the recalls, you can check the following link.
But the most important recall is the one issued in 2017 that is concerned with the 1.6L engine. This recall was issued because the cooling system can fail and there could be spillage on the hot engine. Increasing the risk of fire in the process.
There were a lot of cars that burst into flames because of this problem. So, make sure that you address this recall if it wasn’t already done to your Fusion 1.6L. The number for this recall is 17S09.
2013 Ford Fusion Reliability
Now that we covered the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion, we think that we need to also discuss the reliability of the model. Is this model reliable or not? Also, are Ford Fusions good cars? Well, we can say that the reliability of the Fusion is pretty average. It is not the worst car in the world. But also it is not one of the best either.
In fact, it is far back from competitors like the Camry and the Accord. But because of this, it is fairly cheaper than these vehicles. And we think that you can find a really good deal on these Fusion models from 2013.
This is why you should definitely consider the model. But don’t rush, make sure that you get the right model since you don’t want to end up with a basket case full of problems. Now let’s conclude this article on the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion.
Conclusion
In this article, we covered quite a lot about the Ford Fusion. First, we learned what this model is all about and covered most of the specs that the Fusion comes in.
Then, we discussed the problems with 2013 Ford Fusion. With the primary focus on engine problems. We also listed other issues like the problems with the transmission and other miscellaneous problems.
Lastly, we discussed the reliability of the model, as well as the recalls that were done to it. If you plan to purchase a 1.6L Fusion, make sure that the recall on the cooling system was done.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
Is Ford Fusion A Full Size Car
No, Ford Fusion is not a full-size car. The full-size car that Ford sold alongside the Fusion was the Ford Taurus. This model was also discontinued by Ford along with the Fusion.
How Long Is A Ford Fusion
The Ford Fusion is a mid-size car that has a wheelbase of about 112.2 inches and an overall length of 191.7 inches. Not the biggest Ford model. If you want something longer, you should go for the Taurus.
Did Ford Stop Making The Fusion
Yes, Ford in 2020 decided to stop developing the Fusion and basically ditch the sedan and hatchback market for the US market. They removed a lot of models like the Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, and Taurus. Now they only focus on the SUV and pickup segments.
Are Ford Fusions Reliable
Yes, they are pretty ok. Not the greatest cars in the world. But they are worth checking out if you don’t want to spend a ton of money on a car and want to drive something decent.
How Many Miles Do Ford Fusion Last
These Ford Fusions last at least about 200,000 miles with no problem. You cannot expect them to last as a Camry or an Accord. But they are relatively good vehicles.
How Much Is A 2013 Ford Fusion Worth
On the low end, you can find these models for $5,000. But if you want to get a really low mileage well equipped model, you can expect to pay $10,000 or even more in some cases.
