2020 Ford Fusion
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 182 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 15th highest complaint count among 15 Fusion model years with reports.
Of the 2020 reports, 10 involved a crash and 3 involved a fire. 5 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Equipment, electrical, engine block heaterOct 10, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
Campaign 25V685000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, softwareJun 27, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Campaign 25V442000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, propulsion system, traction battery, management system/energy control module (bms/becm)Jun 23, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Fusion PHEV vehicles. The battery energy control module (BECM) may become damaged due to excessive voltage and current flow.
A damaged BECM can result in a loss of drive power or fire, increasing the risk of a crash.
Owners are advised not to charge their vehicles until the remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the battery and update the BECM software for free, or Ford will repurchase the vehicle. If your vehicle is currently operating normally, Ford has authorized dealers to replace the fuse block and a software update as an interim repair before the availability of remedy parts for the final repair. This repair will be free of charge (parts and labor). As an alternative remedy, Ford is offering a vehicle refund. Please see Ford's owner notification letter or contact Ford for full details. Owner notification letters were mailed May 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S33.
Campaign 23V440000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
182 reports, newest first.
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 30, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the contact noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that coolant intrusion into the cylinder had caused the engine to fail. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 112, 000.
Engine, Jul 28, 2025
The check engine light came on. The car was regularly losing coolant but none was leaking out. I topped it off but the coolant level lowered again. My mechanic suspects it is a problem with the Ecoboost engine where the coolant leaks into the cylinders. I know there is currently a class action lawsuit against for for Fusions from 2013-2019 addressing this problem.
Engine, Jul 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The vehicle as taken to the dealer; however, no cause for the failure was found. The cam shaft sensor was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that on another occasion, while driving 8 MPH, the engine seized. The message "See Manual" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to several dealers and independent mechanics. The contact was recently informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 152,000.
Steering, Electrical system, Lane departure, Jul 24, 2025
RANDOMLY 'SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC', 'PRE-COLLISION ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE', LANE ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE', POWER ASSIST STEERING NOT AVAILABLE', HILL ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE', WARNING LIGHTS APPEAR. WHEN THEY DO I COMPLETELY LOSE POWER STEERING. WHICH IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS WHILE DRIVING. MOST THE TIME I CAN TURN OFF AND RESTART THE CAR AND IT GOES AWAY. HOWEVER, NOW IT HAS BECOME MORE FREQUENT AND HAS STARTED LOSING COMPLETE POWER OF THE CAR TURNING OFF WHILE DRIVING. I ALMOST DIED ON THE INTERSTATE. FORD DEALERSHIPS ONLY RECOMMENDATION WAS A NEW CIRCUIT BOARD THAT WAS LIKE $5K, MORE THAN THE CAR IS WORTH. THEY SAID IT WAS SOMETHING COMMON WITH THE FORD FUSIONS, THATS WHY THEY WERE QUIT BEING MADE. I RESEARCHED AND IT IS A COMMON ISSUE, BUT NO RECALLS HAVE BEEN MADE???!!???
Suspension, Jul 21, 2025
Vehicle Make/Model/Year: Ford Fusion, 20XX (replace with your year) Component Affected: Suspension – lower control arm bushing or mount Summary of the problem: I am reporting a recurring and well-known issue with the lower control arm bushings on Ford Fusion models from 2013 and newer. In my case, the bushing wore prematurely, causing a clunking or cranking noise when turning, especially at low speeds. The bushing or bolt appears to shift even when torqued properly. This problem has been acknowledged by many other owners as well. Safety risk: This affects the vehicle’s handling and stability. It can cause loose steering, misalignment, premature tire wear, and could result in suspension failure while driving. This poses a real safety concern, especially during cornering or evasive maneuvers. Repair history: This issue is so common that owners often have to replace the bushings or the full control arm multiple times. Even after replacement, the problem can come back, suggesting a design flaw. Community evidence: There are many online complaints and forum threads about the same issue in Ford Fusions from 2013–2020. This appears to be a widespread defect that has not been formally acknowledged by the manufacturer. Request for action: I’m asking NHTSA to investigate this recurring suspension issue and determine if a safety recall is warranted. This is a design defect that affects vehicle safety and should be addressed by Ford.
Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Jul 19, 2025
Tire Pressure Monitor System Warning Action Now Issue Since 09-22-2024 The tire pressure monitoring system has detected one or more tires are significantly under-inflated. Suggested Actions: Check the tire pressure to ensure the tires are properly inflated. WARNING: The tire pressure monitoring system is NOT a substitute for manually checking tire pressure. The tire pressure should be checked periodically (at least monthly) using a tire gauge. See Inflating Your Tires in the Wheels and Tires chapter of your Owner's Guide. Failure to properly maintain your tire pressure could increase the risk of tire failure, loss of control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.
Suspension, Jul 15, 2025
The ball joint broke off while driving and the car only has 44,000 miles.
Other or unspecified, Jul 2, 2025
Hood latch, unable to open the hood latch of vehicle
Electrical system, Jun 27, 2025
since day number one this vehicle has had an issue of maintaining a charge even when you drive it regularly , if you don't start it the next day it needs a jump , agew days after purchase a new battery was installed and the problem persisted , this vehicle has the same issues as the other 2020 Ford Fusion models that have been recalled?? But unfortunately under the VIN there has been no recall when this vehicle suffers from the same issues the ones that have been recalled suffer from Just add it like the others please . The incident has happened every day since 2020 If you miss a day starting it the next day it needs a jump even in warm weather , and it's been driven .,Just doesn't hold a charge I assume , needs a jump There's a record on the Ford app of the numerous jumps for rhe vehicle
Vehicle speed control, Jun 20, 2025
The accelerator pedal broke off while merging into traffic resulting in the immediate loss of speed control.
Power train, Jun 18, 2025
The flexplate in my 2020 Ford Fusion SE (1.5L EcoBoost engine) failed at just over 53,000 miles. The car began making loud knocking and rattling noises while driving, and it vibrated heavily at idle and during acceleration. This posed a serious safety concern, as we feared the car could stall or break down while on the road with our toddler in the backseat. We took it to an independent, certified repair shop where they diagnosed a broken transmission flexplate, which required immediate replacement. The repair cost nearly $3,000, and the shop confirmed it was not caused by driver error or normal wear-and-tear. The failure was premature and mechanical in nature. The mechanic informed us that this specific engine and flexplate design have been recalled before in other Ford models using the same 1.5L EcoBoost engine and parts. They suggested we contact Ford, as this appeared to be a known defect that should be covered under goodwill or extended warranty. We followed their advice and reached out to Ford directly, but Ford refused to offer any assistance — even though they are aware of these ongoing flexplate failures across similar vehicles. After researching, I discovered Ford has had multiple flexplate and powertrain-related recalls in other 1.5L and 1.6L EcoBoost engines in previous model years. I also found many online complaints from other Ford owners experiencing the same flexplate failures, often at similar mileage. Yet, this issue has not been acknowledged or recalled for the 2020 Ford Fusion SE. This is clearly a design or manufacturing flaw that should be investigated by the NHTSA. Flexplate failure puts lives at risk and results in major repair bills for consumers. Please investigate this ongoing issue before someone is seriously hurt.
Suspension, Jun 16, 2025
At approximately 99,900 miles, my 2020 Ford Fusion began experiencing serious transmission issues, including rough shifting, hesitation, jerking, and difficulty accelerating, especially at low speeds or while merging onto highways. These symptoms created an unsafe driving situation, particularly in traffic and intersections. I took the vehicle to multiple repair shops to have the issue diagnosed. This process caused my mileage to go slightly over the 100,000-mile recall coverage limit for transmission repair assistance, but I have full documentation showing that the transmission problem clearly began while the vehicle was still under the limit. I later discovered that Ford had issued a recall or Customer Satisfaction Program (CSP) related to known transmission issues on this model. The CSP is 22N12, however, I never received any notice from Ford by mail, phone, or email about this recall or warranty extension. I was unaware it existed until after my car began to fail. Despite being under the recall threshold when the issue began, and having proof, Ford has so far refused to fully cover the cost of the repair, only offering partial assistance due to the slight overage in mileage. This is a serious safety defect. My vehicle hesitates or fails to shift properly at critical times, putting myself and others at risk of collision. I was not informed of the recall, and now I'm being financially penalized for Ford’s delay and lack of notification. I cannot afford this out-of-pocket expense, and I believe it is unfair and unreasonable to place this burden on consumers, especially when safety is involved. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this matter and urge Ford to take full financial responsibility for the recall repair. This defect is not due to misuse or wear-and-tear, but is acknowledged by Ford as a manufacturer issue I have an open case with Ford Corporate in which they have failed to get back to me about the issue. Case number ([XXX]) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Steering, Traction control system, Jun 11, 2025, crash
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while making a turn in either left or right direction, the Traction Control warning light had displayed, and the vehicle had reduced speed independently. During failure, the contact lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a mailbox. During the crash, no injuries were reported. No police report was filed and the vehicle was driven home. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 81,000.
Engine, Jun 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that the vehicle was started, there was a large amount of white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe, with the engine sputtering. The vehicle as taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with engine block failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.
Power train, Engine, Jun 6, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds or while the vehicle was idling, there was an abnormal clunking sound coming from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the flex plate had fractured. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Jun 4, 2025
I purchased a used 2020 Ford Fusion from Carmax n 2023 with about 56,800 miles. A week later was involved in a nor side impact accident on the back end driver side, insurance paid for a dinted door and there was no other issues with the vehicle according to SONS ford. In 2024 I was on the highway (going about 80 mph) when my engine light came on, no more than 3 minutes later all the lights in my car flickered and i lost power to my entire car almost causing me my life, roadside assistance and a mechanic who had thankfully pulled over explained that my alternator completely shredded my belt. I paid for both my alternator and belt to be replaced But most recently (2025) I continued to whirring and knocking noises for 3 days (no warning lights) , I took it to firestone who stated I needed a motor repair so I got it towed to the dealership. A Ford certified mechanic stated my Flex Plate was cracked and it begin breaking off and how I needed a new starter as well leaving the car inoperable. They confirmed this was very uncommon due to the car age and the miles on it (80,000 mi) I’ve also reviewed the complaints on NHTSA and it looks like a lot of 2020 ford fusions are having these issues but yet no recall.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, May 31, 2025
My car is at 47,000 miles and i started To hear a loud noise . Turns out ford says it’s the Flywheel, transmission pump, and torque converter per ford technician who completed my inspection . No warning lights came on nor was there any alerts the ford app. My 2020 Ford Fusion with approximately 48,000 miles experienced a cracked flexplate. This caused severe engine vibration, knocking sounds, and ultimately loss of power while driving. A cracked flexplate can lead to sudden engine stalling or failure to accelerate, especially at highway speeds or during intersections. This puts the driver and passengers at serious risk of a crash due to unexpected loss of power or control. This issue happened without warning and is a known problem in vehicles with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and 6F35 transmission. Ford is aware of the issue (Customer Satisfaction Program 22N12), but my VIN was not included, even though the symptoms and components match the defect. I am reporting this because it jeopardized my safety and others on the road, and I believe more vehicles should be covered under the existing CSP or a recall.
Engine, May 22, 2025
My 2020 Ford Fusion has had multiple transmission failures and has now had a third transmission installed. The newest issue with with the engine design that Ford is aware of but is not covered by extended warranty. The engine block is cracked due overheating caused by coolant intrustion and flexplate problems. Each time these incidents were identified and examined by Ricart Ford in Columbus, OH. The car was also purchased by the same dealer in January of 2024. The check engine light along with the temperature light were triggured by the engine issue on [XXX] I immediately contacted Protective(My warranty company) and requested that the car be transported to Ricart. I also contacted the service deparment at Ricart and explained the issue. There was plenty of coolant in the resevoir but the coolant leaked into the cylinders and caused the car to overheat. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6
Power train, May 19, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH and attempting to pull into a store parking lot, there was an abnormal whining sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that when the gear shifter was shifted to park or neutral, the sound ceased. The contact stated that the sound returned while shifted into drive or reverse. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer in where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
Engine and engine cooling, May 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, her husband noticed white smoke coming out of the mufflers. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine short block had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
Power train, May 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was driving rough. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated while accelerating with a whining sound coming from the transmission. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local mechanic was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the transmission was faulty and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and informed of the failure; however, no assistance was provided. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 100,000.
Engine, May 5, 2025
As I was driving last week i suddenly lost engine power and broke down. Had it towed and ford says there’s zero compression in 2 cylinders. It’s a 1.5 ecoboost which I’ve read has issues. 96,448 miles
Power train, May 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the crankshaft flex plate. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 22N12. 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 71,000.
Power train, Apr 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle hesitated while responding. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power, with an abnormally loud vibration coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that either the flywheel or the flex plate was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced Customer Satisfaction Program: 22N12 as the possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 103,000.
Power train, Engine, Apr 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle there was an abnormally loud knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the flex plate was cracked and needed to be replaced along with the torque converter, the transmission fluid pump, and seals. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was no longer eligible for a Customer Satisfaction Campaign related to the failure. The failure mileage was 122,000.