2016 Ford Fusion Common Issues: A Positive Outlook on a Reliable Sedan
The 2016 Ford Fusion is a popular choice among car enthusiasts and daily commuters alike. With its sleek design, reliable performance, and impressive features, it’s a solid vehicle that remains a top contender in the mid-size sedan market. However, no car is without its flaws. In this comprehensive article, we'll dive into the problems that have surfaced with the 2016 Ford Fusion, helping buyers and owners understand what to expect and how to deal with these issues while still appreciating what makes the Fusion an appealing choice. Here's a balanced overview with professional insights and a few owner opinions to give you the full picture.
Overview of the 2016 Ford Fusion
The Ford Fusion offers excellent handling, a spacious interior, and a variety of trims to suit any driver’s needs. Introduced as part of the second generation of the Fusion line that began in 2013, the 2016 model is known for its sporty look and strong performance.
The EcoBoost engine options, which include the 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engines, give drivers a choice between efficiency and performance. Moreover, it comes with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. However, as with any vehicle, there have been some recurring problems reported by owners over the years.
Common Problems with the 2016 Ford Fusion
Below, we’ll break down the issues into categories, from engine problems to transmission quirks and beyond, providing detailed insights on what to look out for.
Engine Issues: EcoBoost’s Struggles
Engine Stalling and Loss of Power
One of the main issues reported by Fusion owners is engine stalling or a sudden loss of power while driving. This issue is more commonly seen in models with the 1.5L or 2.0L EcoBoost engines. Drivers have experienced instances where the car suddenly stops responding to the accelerator, forcing the engine to stall without warning. This can be particularly dangerous if it happens in high-traffic situations.
The cause for this issue is often related to malfunctioning sensors, like the throttle body sensor or the fuel pump. In some cases, a software update or replacing the faulty sensor has resolved the issue, but other times it has required a more extensive repair.
- What to look out for: If your Fusion’s engine starts to feel jerky, loses power intermittently, or stalls altogether, this could be an early sign of the problem.
Engine Misfires and Rough Idling
Another issue seen in the 2016 Fusion is engine misfires or rough idling, especially during cold starts. This is often due to a defective ignition coil or spark plug failure. In some cases, these issues have been traced back to faulty fuel injectors. Regular maintenance and timely spark plug changes can help mitigate these issues.
Alex Collantes – a 2016 Ford Fusion owner – shares: “I love my Fusion’s performance when it's running right but it did have some problems with rough idling which got resolved after a spark plug change. It wasn't a deal-breaker for me.”
Transmission Woes: Smooth Shifts? Not Always
Transmission Shifting Problems
Many 2016 Fusion owners have reported transmission issues, particularly with the 6-speed automatic transmission. The most common complaint is that the car has hard or jerky shifts between gears, sometimes accompanied by a loud clunking noise. This could lead to a delayed response when shifting from park to drive or when changing gears while driving.
In some cases, the issue was attributed to a faulty transmission control module (TCM), while in other instances, it required a transmission software update to smooth out the shifts.
- Symptoms to be aware of: Hard shifting, jerking motions, or clunking noises while driving.
Transmission Fluid Leaks
Another problem that crops up occasionally is transmission fluid leaks. This is often due to a faulty transmission cooler line, which can crack or wear out over time. Leaks can cause a drop in transmission fluid levels, leading to more severe transmission problems down the road.
Preventive Tips
- Regularly check transmission fluid levels.
- If you notice fluid under your car or your transmission feels "sluggish," have it checked promptly.
Electrical System: Flickering Lights and Inconsistent Operation
Battery Drainage and Dead Batteries
Some owners have reported experiencing battery drainage, leading to the car failing to start unexpectedly. The cause of this problem can vary from a parasitic draw in the electrical system to a faulty alternator. In many cases, simply replacing the battery does not fix the issue; instead, a comprehensive electrical diagnostic is needed.
Flickering or Malfunctioning Interior Lights
Flickering lights, including the dashboard or interior lights, have also been a concern. This could be related to a weak battery connection, a worn-out fuse, or issues with the central electrical module. While not as severe as some of the mechanical issues mentioned earlier, it can be annoying and may signal other electrical problems.
Interior Comfort Issues: Materials and Build Quality
While the 2016 Fusion is praised for its comfortable ride quality and spacious cabin, a few owners have pointed out some drawbacks related to the build quality of the interior materials.
Peeling or Fading Trim
The most common complaint is that some of the interior trim pieces peel or fade over time, especially around high-touch areas like the door handles and center console. While this doesn’t affect the functionality of the vehicle, it can diminish the overall aesthetic and may require refinishing or replacing trim pieces for those who are particular about their car’s appearance.
Faulty Door Latches
Another issue is faulty door latches. In some instances, the latch mechanism on certain 2016 Fusions may fail, causing the door to remain closed or become stuck. Ford has issued a recall on certain models to fix this problem, so it’s important to check your VIN with your local Ford dealer to see if your vehicle is affected.
Suspension Concerns: A Smooth Ride Isn’t Always Guaranteed
Noisy Suspension
Some owners have experienced creaking or knocking noises from the suspension, particularly over bumps or rough terrain. This is usually due to worn-out bushings or faulty struts/shocks. While it doesn't generally pose a safety risk, it can make for a less comfortable ride.
Wheel Bearings and Alignment Issues
There have also been reports of premature wheel bearing failure and alignment issues on certain 2016 Ford Fusion models. These issues can lead to uneven tire wear and may require a wheel bearing replacement or realignment to keep the vehicle driving straight.
Safety Recalls and Important Notices for the 2016 Fusion
Ford has issued some recalls for the 2016 Fusion that potential buyers or current owners should be aware of:
- Airbag Inflator Recall: Certain Fusions were recalled due to issues with the airbag inflators, which could rupture in the event of a crash.
- Steering Gear Motor Bolt Recall: A recall was issued for faulty steering gear motor bolts, which could fracture and affect steering control.
- Door Latch Recall: As mentioned earlier, there was a recall for faulty door latches on some models.
To check if your 2016 Fusion has any outstanding recalls, it’s best to visit the official Ford recall website or contact a Ford dealership.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Problems
To keep your 2016 Ford Fusion running smoothly, here are a few maintenance tips:
- Regular Oil Changes: Change oil and filters every 5,000 - 7,500 miles to maintain engine health.
- Check and Replace Spark Plugs: If you notice misfiring or rough idling, it might be time to replace spark plugs and ignition coils.
- Transmission Fluid Check: Ensure your transmission fluid is topped up and regularly replaced as per manufacturer guidelines.
- Battery and Electrical Checks: Keep an eye on your battery's health and have your car checked if you notice any electrical issues.
Final Thoughts: Is the 2016 Ford Fusion a Good Buy?
Despite the issues mentioned above, the 2016 Ford Fusion is still considered a reliable and comfortable sedan for many drivers. The problems it has are often manageable with regular maintenance, and many owners have praised the Fusion for its smooth ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency.
Alex Collantes’ Closing Thought: “Honestly, every car has its pros and cons but my 2016 Fusion has been a joy to drive. Sure it had a few hiccups but it never left me stranded and still drives beautifully.”
In conclusion, the 2016 Ford Fusion may have its share of quirks and challenges, but with the right care and timely maintenance, it remains a strong choice for those looking for a stylish, reliable, and feature-packed sedan.
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