What 175 owners told NHTSA about the 2020 Ford Fusion

I have had this car for 6 years and the transmission has gone out on top of the purge valve, I have seen many people have the same issues with this model and year of this car. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADRESSED. I also see that there is a lawsuit against this issue with the transmission model 6F35

NHTSA ODI 11735599

2020 Ford Fusion 1.5L EcoBoost engine completely failed. Ford dealership diagnosed need for complete engine and turbo replacement at $13,475. Believed to be related to known EcoBoost coolant intrusion defect.

NHTSA ODI 11733486

Coolant problems and cylinder damage on engine due to coolant intrusion. Ford has not issued a recall on this well known problem and issue on ALL Ford Fusion Models. Several complaints have been made by many Ford Fusion owners for putting drivers and vehicle owners at risk of driving unsafe vehicles and poor driving conditions.

NHTSA ODI 11733054

I don't know if this qualifies as an immediate safety issue, however, if the vehicle is stopped and placed into park on a busy freeway, or in traffic in any way, then this absolutely is a safety issue after the fact because the vehicle cannot be moved due to not being able to get it into gear. This involves the shift linkage component and not being able to get the car out of park and into any other gear. It's already an active recall but it's VIN specific and my VIN was not included. It really needs to be though. It should be all Fusions at this point. I drive a 2020 Ford Fusion and the shift linkage bushing broke. Initially I got the "shift system error" message back in January and could not get my car into gear. It would just bounce right back into park. I had to call a tow truck but eventually the driver was able to somehow reset the system using the hidden reset button in the center console. It was enough to keep me running for a couple of months. However, two weeks ago it happened again and the reset option was no longer working. The car was towed to my dealership and they replaced the "missing" bushing and I was charged $511.00 for the repairs. Considering how widespread this issue this seems to be, I would like to see a full model-specific recall issued for these Fusions and possibly reimbursement for the costs I was subjected to due to the issue. I can provide the service receipts from the dealership showing that it was replaced and the total cost. Thank you!

NHTSA ODI 11730018

HEAD GASKET FAILING, common problem in car. Broke down in the middle of busy Main Street and started smoking out of exhaust pipes. It has been confirmed by my service center that they now have 3 ford fusions, including mine, that they are replacing a head gasket on right now. They were no warning signs, it happened out of nowhere.

NHTSA ODI 11726537

purge solenoid unplugged, several times for years, which causes the vehicle not to start up after getting fuel. Check engine light come on often due to this. When I bring vehicle to Mecanic shop they plug it right back. P0443 evap purge control valve “a” circuit

NHTSA ODI 11725076

I only have about 45K miles on my car. I began to hear a rattling sound while vehicle is idling and more pronounced with the air conditioning on. I took it to the Ford service department at the dealership where I bought it and was told it was a cracked engine flex plate and it would be a $3000 cost to repair. I was extremely surprised at such an expensive fix for such low mileage and looking online I found a Ford customer satisfaction program 22N12 for this exact issue. I checked and my car was indeed manufactured at the plant in Hermosillo, MX covered in the program. However I was told that I am not covered because it is for the 2.0L engine and not the 1.5L engine. It seems to be more than a coincidence that I would have this issue on this model of car from this manufacturing plant. There were no warning lights of any kind that went off. I have seen that this could have been a major issue had it went unrepaired and caused a major safety issue. I am unfortunately being forced to pay for this out of pocket on such a new car but also this issue is clearly not only on the 2.0L vehicles and the recall/customer satisfaction program should be expanded to include 1.5L

NHTSA ODI 11720453

Last month, while transporting my brother to his arm surgery in Chapel Hill, NC, I observed unusual and audible shifting behavior when engaging the vehicle's sport mode. This mode is typically utilized for extended journeys on highways and interstates. Although the anomaly was brief, I did not initially consider it significant. Several weeks later, upon departing from my community college campus, I encountered a red light near Santa Fe Drive. The vehicle exhibited a hesitant and labored acceleration, eventually moving forward. This incident was particularly concerning given the high volume of traffic during that time of day. I subsequently stopped at a nearby 7-Eleven for fuel, suspecting a low fuel level might be the cause. No engine warning lights or mechanical indicators were illuminated, and the oil life was at 70% with appropriate oil levels. Fast forward to the last week of January. On Wednesday the 28th, I began to notice recurring shifting issues with the vehicle during a class break. Additionally, engaging reverse consistently resulted in a harsh shift. As I was leaving my neighborhood to return to class, the vehicle completely failed to engage gears or accelerate. At this point, both the wrench and check engine warning lights illuminated. Upon returning home, I utilized the code reader provided by my mother last Christmas, which displayed the code "P0772." This confirmed my prior research regarding potential issues with the EcoBoost engine. I am relieved that this mechanical failure did not occur amidst the heavy traffic typically found on 210 Murchison South , I-295, Bragg Blvd Fayetteville/Spring Lake and other routes heavily trafficked due to the military base. The high speeds on these roads could have led to a dangerous situation, potentially causing a rear-end accident or other involving other drivers who may be speeding or inattentive. I am grateful that I did not experience a stall in the middle of traffic, which could have compromised my safety.

NHTSA ODI 11715575

In early October 2025, the vehicle was taken to an independent dealership service department for a routine oil change. Several weeks later, the vehicle appeared to be leaking fluid and began experiencing loud knocking/clacking noises, significant vibration, and drivability concerns, especially during acceleration. On October 10, 2025, while parked at a family member’s residence, the vehicle would not start. Due to safety concerns, the servicing dealership arranged for the vehicle to be towed for inspection. Technicians found a split transmission hose causing transmission fluid loss, which was repaired; however, the abnormal noises, vibration, and drivability issues persisted. Further inspection identified loud popping/clacking noises from the bell housing area. The technician physically inspected the flex plate and documented that the flex plate was cracked. The dealership advised that a cracked flex plate can worsen, cause severe vibration, damage related components, and lead to drivability issues or potential loss of propulsion. Because of the nature of the failure and symptoms, the vehicle was removed from regular use due to safety concerns. The vehicle was later taken to a manufacturer-authorized Ford dealership, which confirmed flex plate failure but stated the vehicle did not qualify for a customer satisfaction program due to engine variant. A goodwill/financial assistance request was submitted and denied. Technician diagnostic documentation from the manufacturer-authorized dealership was requested but not provided prior to filing this complaint. No crash or injury occurred; however, the failure created a risk of sudden inability to propel the vehicle while driving, including at highway speeds. The vehicle remains unrepaired and parked due to cost and safety concerns.

NHTSA ODI 11706177

My Ford started making a loud noise whenever the accelerator wasn't being pressed, after taking it to the mechanic, he said it is the cracked flex plate. After some light research, it was aparent that this is an issue that Ford's cars have, and ford has tried to make it better by offering free fixes. I contacted the local ford dealer and since the car has 90,000 miles, it would have been covered. However, since it doesn't have a clean title, I was declined this service free of charge. I don't agree with this decision since I've been driving this car for over a year since it was purchased off IAA auction, and this issue was made clear only yesterday, but this issue is prevalent in cars like mine.The damage to my car specifically was to the back, and only affected the rear bumper and trunk. Therefore I don't think it is fair that I was declined the serve even though Ford has made it clear it is there manufacturing mistake and they are willing to fix it, just not with cars with my type of title. I was hoping to send in this incident so that this issue becomes a national recall, and more people can get their cars rightfully fixed and aware of this serious issue that can make the car completely unusable before it gets too late. I wasn't aware this was a common issue when purchasing this car, so a recall would protect more people since it will become mandatory information for owners to be aware of this issue. Thank you!

NHTSA ODI 11705731

During a road trip, received an error message indicating "SHIFT SYS FAULT" after the vehicle would not shift out of park. Upon inspecting the vehicle, it was noticed that the transmission linkage cable bushing was missing. The error message had appeared the day before, but the vehicle would still shift and the error message went away after a few seconds. I was unable to recover the original bushing as it was missing when the vehicle was inspected after the error message. Luckily the error did not happen while driving and instead was noticed while the car was in park. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than myself, and I was able to buy a replacement bushing from a local dealership to replace the missing bushing.

NHTSA ODI 11696130

My 2020 Ford Fusion has experienced three separate flexplate failures, as well as transmission issues following the most recent repair. Failure #1: Occurred before I owned the vehicle (confirmed later in the vehicle’s history). The flexplate was replaced by a prior owner in 2022. Failure #2: [8/2023] – While I owned the vehicle, a loud rattling noise came from the engine area. My vehicle was towed to Foothill Ford, where it was purchased, and they replaced the flexplate. No power loss occurred. Failure #3: [5/2025] – The same rattling sound returned. I drove it to Green Ford, who confirmed the flexplate needed to be replaced, and they replaced it. No power loss occurred, but the noise was severe. After the third flexplate replacement, the transmission began slipping during acceleration. This issue did not exist before the repair, and Green Ford had told me the transmission was fine before they replaced the flexplate. Safety concern: Repeated flexplate failures and subsequent transmission slipping could cause loss of propulsion or difficulty maintaining speed if the problem occurs at highway speeds or in heavy traffic, creating a potential crash risk. I did lose power on the highway, but was able to pull safely off the shoulder and called a tow truck.

NHTSA ODI 11680924

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.

NHTSA ODI 11676543

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.

NHTSA ODI 11676035

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.

NHTSA ODI 11666086

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.

NHTSA ODI 11665354

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.

NHTSA ODI 11664928

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.

NHTSA ODI 11664104

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

NHTSA ODI 11662544

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

NHTSA ODI 11658984

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.

NHTSA ODI 11656494

Component or system that failed: Flex plate, engine electrical system, and alternator (possible related failures). The issue has been diagnosed by a licensed mechanic and is available for inspection upon request. Incident Description: On April 15, 2025, while driving my 2020 Ford Fusion SE 1.5L Turbo, the vehicle suddenly experienced a total power failure. The check engine light began flashing, and the battery light blinked rapidly. Within seconds, the engine shut down completely while I was mid-drive in traffic, leaving me stuck and unable to move for over 20 seconds. This was a terrifying and dangerous situation that nearly put my life at risk. I was eventually able to restart the vehicle, but it began shaking and rumbling violently — worse than ever before. This issue was never present before my car was involved in two separate collisions, where both other drivers were found 100% at fault. The vehicle was repaired at Fix Auto Santee (a USAA-assigned body shop), but they failed to inspect internal components. A licensed mechanic at J&L Auto Care later confirmed a broken flex plate and advised it was unsafe to drive. This problem has not been addressed or fixed by the responsible insurers (USAA and AAA) or the body shop. It has progressively worsened and now created a life-threatening situation. Warning lamps or symptoms before failure: A rattling and vibrating noise began immediately after I picked up the car from the body shop in March 2025. No lights were initially present. The electrical and engine lights only appeared on April 15 when the engine shut down mid-drive. Inspected by: •Independent service center (J&L Auto Care, diagnosed flex plate failure) •USAA and AAA were informed but refused to cover or further inspect the damage •Fix Auto Santee heard the issue but refused to inspect, citing body-only service Problem available for inspection: Yes — vehicle is currently undrivable and available for full inspection.

NHTSA ODI 11654887

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the message "Engine Coolant Over-Temperature" was displayed, and the temperature gauge warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted after 20 minutes. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 132,000.

NHTSA ODI 11649222

I have had 2 transmissions within the last year, making this the third Transmission on my vehicle. I had to have another common issue with the car replaced, which is a purge valve. My ABS light goes off often causing difficulty to steer the car and warning lights are activated showing that the safety features are not available. Lastly, there is a crack in the engine block caused by coolant in the spark plug due to overheating. This engine issue is one with the engines that Ford is aware of but I do NOT see a recall. The engine is blown due to this design and the warranties do NOT cover it. Case number [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11649219

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, while the vehicle was idling, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to two independent mechanics, and unknown repairs were performed on the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. The contact took the vehicle to a dealer, where a diagnostic test was performed. The diagnostic test determined that the flex plate was cracked and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.

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