2019 Ford Fusion Safety Report
2019 Ford Fusion: Strong crash ratings, but significant engine and electrical reliability issues with fire and power loss risks.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Ford Fusion
Reliability Score
The 2019 Ford Fusion receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2019 Ford Fusion
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Ford Fusion:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coolant Intrusion Into Engine Cylinders Numerous complaints detail coolant leaking into engine cylinders (especially 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost engines), leading to misfires, white smoke, rough idle, overheating, and catastrophic engine failure. This is a known issue referenced in TSBs but not a general recall. |
High | Common | 50000-130000 miles |
| Flexplate/Flywheel Failure Multiple reports of flexplate/flywheel failures, causing loss of power at highway speeds, inability to restart, and loud rattling noises. |
High | Occasional | 50000-130000 miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction The rearview camera frequently displays a blank, blue, or blurry screen, or stays on while driving forward, reducing driver visibility and increasing crash risk. This is covered by a recall (23V440000). |
Medium | Common | any miles |
| Engine Block Heater Electrical Short An electrical short circuit in the engine block heater can increase the risk of fire. This is addressed by a recall (23V440000). |
High | Rare | any miles |
| Phev Battery Energy Control Module (Becm) Failure Damage to the BECM in PHEV models can lead to a loss of drive power or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. This is covered by a recall (23V440000). |
High | Rare | any miles |
| Transmission Shifting Problems Issues include harsh shifting (1st to 2nd, 2nd to 3rd), premature shifts, clunking noises, and sudden surges or lunges in acceleration. |
Medium | Occasional | 50000-100000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Ford Fusion:
Coolant intrusion, misfires, overheating, and catastrophic engine failure are frequently reported, often linked to specific EcoBoost engine designs.
Issues with the rearview camera, infotainment system (blank screen), and general electrical malfunctions are common, including recall-related fire risks.
Directly related to engine issues, specifically coolant leaks and overheating, often leading to engine damage.
Problems include transmission shifting issues, flexplate failures, and loss of drive power, some of which are recall-related for PHEV models.
Primarily related to the rearview camera displaying a blank or faulty image, a known recall issue.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Ford Fusion
Is the 2019 Ford Fusion safe?
The 2019 Ford Fusion received excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating. However, NHTSA complaint data shows significant reliability concerns, particularly with the engine and electrical system, which have led to 5 crashes, 2 fires, and 7 injuries. There are 3 recalls addressing critical safety defects like fire risk from engine block heaters, rearview camera malfunctions, and loss of drive power in PHEV models.
What are common problems with the 2019 Ford Fusion?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Ford Fusion are related to the ENGINE (88 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (48 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (34 complaints). Common problems include coolant intrusion into engine cylinders leading to engine failure, flexplate failures causing loss of power, and rearview camera malfunctions. Several of these issues are severe enough to be linked to recalls or TSBs.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Ford Fusion?
Yes, the 2019 Ford Fusion has 3 recalls. These include a recall for an electrical short circuit in the engine block heater that can increase fire risk (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V440000), a recall for a rearview camera that may display a blank image (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V440000), and a recall for certain PHEV models where the battery energy control module (BECM) may become damaged, leading to loss of drive power or fire (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V440000).
How does the 2019 Ford Fusion perform in crash tests?
The 2019 Ford Fusion performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It received 4 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover. These ratings indicate strong performance in protecting occupants during a collision.
Is the 1.5L EcoBoost engine in the 2019 Ford Fusion reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaints, the 1.5L EcoBoost engine in the 2019 Ford Fusion is a significant source of concern. Numerous complaints specifically mention coolant intrusion into cylinders, leading to misfires, overheating, and engine failure, often at mileages between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. This appears to be a widespread and costly issue for owners.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of significant engine and electrical reliability issues, including fire risks and costly engine failures. Thoroughly check service history for engine-related repairs and ensure all 3 recalls have been addressed before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Ford Fusion
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Ford Fusion. The data includes 345 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Ford Fusion an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.