2012 Ford Fusion Problems: A Reliable Ride with Some Hiccups
When it comes to reliable mid-size sedans the 2012 Ford Fusion stands out as a solid choice for many drivers. It was praised for its sleek design smooth handling and an interior that provided comfort for both the driver and passengers. But like any car there are some common issues you might want to know about before making a purchase or if you're an owner experiencing some quirks.
Here's an in-depth review of the potential issues with the 2012 Ford Fusion highlighting the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.
The Overview: A Well-Rounded Car With A Few Flaws
The 2012 Ford Fusion offered a balance of performance fuel economy and value. It came with various trims like S SE SEL and the sporty Fusion Sport and offered two engines: a 2.5L I4 and a more powerful 3.0L V6. Many owners found it to be a reliable ride but some common issues have been noted over time. Let’s dive into these problems and see how they stack up against other mid-sized sedans.
Common Problems with the 2012 Ford Fusion
Many of these issues aren't deal-breakers but are worth being aware of if you're considering purchasing a used Ford Fusion from 2012 or you already own one and are encountering some strange occurrences.
Transmission Problems
Shifting Issues
One of the most frequently reported problems for the 2012 Ford Fusion is its transmission particularly the 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners have complained of hard shifting or even slipping gears which can be unnerving and dangerous while driving at higher speeds. The problem tends to occur around the 60,000 to 100,000-mile mark.
- Some common symptoms include:
- Delays in shifting
- Jerky movements while accelerating
- The car not going into the correct gear smoothly
This issue often requires a transmission fluid flush or sometimes a complete transmission rebuild which can be costly. While this isn’t unique to Ford as many sedans experience transmission issues over time it’s still something that’s better to be prepared for.
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
Another related issue is the Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure. The TCM is responsible for managing how the transmission shifts gears and any malfunction can lead to improper gear shifting and engine trouble. Ford has issued technical service bulletins (TSBs) for this problem but it's important to check if any fixes were applied to your specific model before purchasing.
Alex Collantes an experienced Ford owner notes "I started noticing weird jerky shifts around 70k miles on my Fusion. After a lot of research and trips to the mechanic it turned out the TCM needed a reset but it still wasn't 100% smooth."
Power Steering Issues
Loss of Power Steering
The electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) on some 2012 Ford Fusions has been known to fail resulting in a sudden loss of power steering which can make the car extremely difficult to steer especially at low speeds. This problem can pose a safety risk as the steering wheel may become very heavy requiring significant effort to turn.
The issue is often caused by a malfunction in the steering column or power steering rack. In some cases this problem has led to the need for a complete replacement of the steering system—a costly repair that can run into the thousands.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Difficulty turning the steering wheel
- The steering wheel feels “heavy” when parking or making sharp turns
- Warning lights for power steering on the dashboard
Ford did issue a recall for some models related to this problem so it's a good idea to check your VIN to see if your car is included in any recalls.
Engine Stalling & Idle Issues
Throttle Body Malfunction
Many drivers have reported engine stalling or the car idling roughly. This is often tied to a problem with the throttle body which regulates the amount of air flowing into the engine. A malfunctioning throttle body can cause inconsistent air intake leading to engine stalling or failure to start.
The car may enter what is known as "limp mode" where it restricts performance to prevent engine damage. While replacing the throttle body can fix this issue it’s another costly repair that can come as a surprise.
Signs to watch for:
- Check engine light turning on
- Engine stalling at idle or low speeds
- Loss of power while accelerating
Braking System Woes
ABS and Brake Pedal Issues
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and brake pedal pressure have been a concern for some owners. Some drivers reported a soft brake pedal or having to apply extra force to stop the vehicle. This issue can be due to air in the brake lines or faulty brake boosters. In extreme cases it could lead to brake failure which is a severe safety concern.
If you notice your brakes feeling spongy or not as responsive as they should be it's important to get them inspected promptly.
"My Fusion had this weird issue where the brake pedal felt really soft," says Alex Collantes. "It was scary at first especially on the highway. Turned out the brake booster needed to be replaced which thankfully wasn’t as expensive as I feared."
Electrical System Malfunctions
Battery Drain and Electrical Glitches
Some owners have experienced electrical issues that lead to rapid battery drain or trouble with the alternator. These issues can cause various electrical components like the radio power windows or dashboard lights to malfunction. A weak battery or faulty alternator is typically the culprit and fixing the issue might involve a simple battery replacement or alternator check.
Common symptoms:
- Dim headlights or flickering interior lights
- The car struggles to start
- Random dashboard warning lights turning on/off
What the 2012 Fusion Got Right
It's not all negative! The 2012 Ford Fusion has its strengths too and it's good to balance the problems with what Ford did right.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the selling points of the 2012 Fusion is its fuel efficiency. With the 2.5L I4 engine getting around 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway it's a fairly economical choice for everyday commuting. The V6 engine obviously burns a bit more gas but it still offers respectable mileage for a car of its size and performance.
Comfortable Interior and Smooth Ride
Another positive point for the Fusion is its spacious interior and comfortable seating. The car rides smoothly even over rough patches of road and the cabin is designed with soft-touch materials that make longer drives comfortable. The Fusion Sport model even adds a bit of pep to the driving experience with its sport-tuned suspension and more powerful engine.
Safety Features
The 2012 Fusion also scored high in safety tests. Equipped with features like stability control anti-lock brakes and front/side airbags it's a car that takes safety seriously. Ford has always focused on keeping their vehicles safe and this model was no exception.
What to Do If You Own or Want to Buy a 2012 Ford Fusion
For Current Owners
If you currently own a 2012 Ford Fusion it's a good idea to:
- Stay on top of regular maintenance to catch potential problems early
- Have your transmission checked if you notice any shifting issues
- Check if your vehicle is under any recall
- Monitor any electrical glitches to avoid battery drain
For Prospective Buyers
If you're considering buying a used 2012 Fusion:
- Ask for a full service history to see if any of the known problems have already been addressed
- Test drive the car paying attention to how it shifts steers and brakes
- Have a trusted mechanic do a thorough inspection before purchase
Final Verdict: A Solid Car With Some Annoyances
The 2012 Ford Fusion remains a popular choice in the used car market thanks to its balance of comfort efficiency and reliability. While it does have its share of issues particularly with the transmission power steering and braking system many owners find the car to be dependable for daily use.
As Alex Collantes puts it "The Fusion is a great car to drive if you maintain it well. I've had mine for years and apart from a couple of hiccups it’s been a reliable ride that still looks sharp on the road."
While some repairs can be costly as with any used vehicle being aware of potential issues helps you to better manage your car and keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Conclusion: Weighing Pros & Cons
Every car has its strengths and weaknesses and the 2012 Ford Fusion is no different. With a comfortable ride good fuel economy and generally reliable performance it's a solid choice as long as you’re prepared for some of the more common issues that may arise.
Quick Pros & Cons Summary
- Pros:
- Good fuel economy
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Solid safety features
- Cons:
- Transmission shifting issues
- Potential power steering failure
- Brake pedal problems and electrical glitches
References:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) - www.nhtsa.gov
- Consumer Reports - www.consumerreports.org
- Edmunds - www.edmunds.com
- Personal experience - Alex Collantes 2012 Ford Fusion owner