2018 Ford Fusion Safety Report

The 2018 Ford Fusion presents a mixed safety profile. While it achieved strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating, 5-star side impact, and 4-star frontal and rollover ratings, its complaint data reveals significant underlying mechanical issues that could compromise safety. With 405 total complaints, 8 crashes, 1 fire, and 5 injuries reported, there are clear patterns of concern. The most prominent issue is related to the engine, specifically 'coolant intrusion' into the cylinders, leading to overheating, misfires, reduced power, and in many cases, complete engine failure. This is reflected in the high complaint counts for 'ENGINE' (108) and 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING' (62), which together account for over 40% of all complaints. Such failures, often occurring at relatively low mileages (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles), pose a direct safety risk by causing sudden loss of power or vehicle shutdown while driving, as described in multiple complaints on highways. Beyond the engine issues, the vehicle has two significant recalls. One addresses front brake hoses that may rupture and leak fluid, increasing stopping distance and crash risk. The other recall concerns the steering wheel retaining bolt, which could loosen and cause the steering wheel to detach, leading to a complete loss of steering control. Both recalls address critical safety components and highlight manufacturing defects that could lead to severe accidents. While these recalls aim to mitigate specific risks, the high volume of engine-related complaints, many of which describe dangerous driving conditions, suggests that the vehicle's long-term operational safety is significantly impacted by these unaddressed mechanical flaws. The overall safety picture is therefore nuanced: excellent crash protection is undermined by widespread and potentially dangerous engine defects and critical recall-related component failures. The 'coolant intrusion' issue, in particular, appears to be a systemic problem for the 1.5L EcoBoost engine, leading to numerous reports of sudden power loss and engine shutdown, which are clear safety hazards. Buyers should be aware that despite good crash ratings, the vehicle has known mechanical vulnerabilities that could lead to unexpected breakdowns and dangerous driving situations.

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, proceed with caution due to widespread engine coolant intrusion issues and critical safety recalls; prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially of the engine, and ensure all recalls have been addressed.