Ford Fusion 2018 recalls, problems, complaints and safety
NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls issued for the Ford Fusion 2018 and 442 complaints filed by owners. It has 42% fewer complaints than the average Ford Fusion from 2016–2020 (766 per year).
These are recalls issued for this model and year, not for your specific car. A car may already be repaired or may not be included. Confirm with your VIN on NHTSA.
Own or buying a Ford Fusion 2018? Enter its VIN to see its exact trim and engine, and confirm on NHTSA whether its recalls were repaired.
Recalls issued for the Ford Fusion 2018
Brakes (hydraulic)
NHTSA campaign 23V162000 · 2023-03-10
What happens
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
Consequence
A brake fluid leak will increase brake pedal travel and extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S12.
The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.
Steering
NHTSA campaign 18V167000 · 2018-03-12
What happens
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion vehicles. The steering wheel retaining bolt may loosen allowing the steering wheel to detach while driving.
Consequence
A steering wheel detachment can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering wheel bolt with a longer bolt, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S08.
The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.
Complaints from other owners
442 complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of this model.
9 with a crash · 1 with a fire · 6 injuries
Most reported problems on the Ford Fusion 2018
- Engine: 205 (46% of complaints)
- Powertrain and transmission: 105 (24% of complaints)
- Engine and cooling: 88 (20% of complaints)
- Electrical system: 26 (6% of complaints)
- Fuel and propulsion: 22 (5% of complaints)
Complaints are written by owners and NHTSA doesn't verify each one. They're useful to spot trends.
What to check before buying a Ford Fusion 2018
- Confirm by VIN on NHTSA that the recalls on this list were repaired.
- Start it cold, listen for noises, look for oil or coolant leaks and exhaust smoke.
- On the test drive, check for smooth shifts with no jerks, slipping or noises; check the transmission fluid condition.
- Check coolant level and color, the temperature gauge on the test drive and leaks under the engine.
- Get an inspection from an independent mechanic before paying.
Safety rating (NCAP)
| Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Ford Fusion 4 DR AWD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2018 Ford Fusion 4 DR FWD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Ford Fusion recalls by year
- 2016 : 13 recalls · 1,717 complaints
- 2017 : 4 recalls · 1,111 complaints
- 2018 : 2 recalls · 442 complaints
- 2019 : 3 recalls · 378 complaints
- 2020 : 3 recalls · 183 complaints
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Ford Fusion 2018 have?
NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls issued for the Ford Fusion 2018. That doesn't mean every car has them open: confirm with the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The repair is free at the dealer.
What is the most common problem with the Ford Fusion 2018?
In complaints filed with NHTSA, the most mentioned component is: engine (205 of 442 complaints). Complaints aren't verified one by one, but they show trends.
Model-level information from official NHTSA sources. Confirm by VIN on NHTSA. Not a substitute for a mechanical inspection.
Last updated: October 13, 2026. Sources: NHTSA vPIC (decoding), NHTSA Recalls, NHTSA Complaints and NHTSA NCAP (5-Star Safety Ratings).