When Ford created the Fusion in 2006, they put safety and reliability at the forefront of all they did to create this build. Since that time, they’ve made this basic midsize car more powerful and surefooted while retaining its original characteristics. In 2010, a facelift greatly improved its looks and gave it an edge against the competition. Arriving toward the end of the first generation, the 2011 Ford Fusion comes with all these traits, making it an excellent option for short and long drives.
Although the build seems to check all the boxes, it’s important to look at each individual vehicle to see if it’s right for you. By reviewing recall notices, accident history, and other important details, you can get the most car for the money and avoid buyer’s remorse in the future. Here’s a look at the recalls on record for the 2011 Ford Fusion, plus information on how to check out any Ford you’re considering.
Defective Wheel Studs
Your wheel studs need to have immense strength to tightly hold the tires on the car and withstand serious forces at high speeds. On 2011 Fusions with 17-inch steel wheels, however, this is not the case. Their wheel studs are prone to fracturing during normal use, causing the tire and rim to come off the car while driving. If that occurs, you could end up skidding across the road and getting into a severe collision.
Fixing this problem goes beyond simply replacing the wheel studs — though that’s a given. Technicians must also inspect the surface of the rear disc brakes to check for defects. If the discs don’t look flat, the technicians will replace them with new ones in addition to changing the studs.
Faulty Steering Motor Sensor
The 2011 Ford Fusion comes with electric power steering assist that makes it easier than ever to pilot your vehicle around corners. But that’s only true when the entire system is in good working order.
Unfortunately, this model also came with a potentially faulty steering motor sensor that can fail without warning. Without a working sensor, the assist system can’t aid in steering, resulting in the need for a lot more driver effort at low speeds. If you’re not ready for this required increase in effort, an accident could occur.
To complete the repairs, technicians have to check for trouble codes in the power steering control module to see if all of the system’s components are working right. If not, they may need to update the software. If the problem already presented with a loss of steering assistance, they’ll have to replace the steering gear as well.
Airbag Inflator Explosion Risk
Like many other vehicle makes and models, the 2011 Ford Fusion received defective Takata airbags. These airbags can suddenly explode and send metal shrapnel through the air, putting you and your passengers at risk of life-threatening injuries. This doesn’t even require an impact to occur, since the problem arises from long-term exposure to heat and humidity. The propellent inside the airbag starts to degrade in those conditions and leaves the inflators unstable.
Thankfully, all it takes is replacement of the passenger front airbag inflator to resolve the problem. Since this issue can prove devastating if it occurs, all affected vehicles should have the repair done before they’re driven again.
Fuel Tank Pressure Abnormalities
Pressure in the fuel tank can build to unsafe levels due to vapors released by the gas. Fuel vapor canisters are tasked with removing that pressure, but that only happens when their purge valves open at the right times. The 2011 Fusion does not have properly operating purge valves, leaving the pressure building in the tank. This can result in the gas tank cracking and leaking fuel, which could start a fire.
The repair for this issue depends on the extent of the damage by the time the vehicle arrives at the shop. If the tank has already cracked, for example, the technicians must replace it altogether. Otherwise, they may just need to update the powertrain control modules, check for trouble codes, and complete a leak test on the canister purge valve. If the purge valve seems faulty, they’ll remove it and install a new one.
Accelerator Pedal Obstruction
Floormats need to stay firmly against the footwell to avoid obstructing the gas, brake, and clutch pedals while driving. In the 2011 Fusion, the floormats can shift around suddenly and get stuck under the gas pedal. If that happens, the car could continue accelerating after lifting your foot off the gas. You could then get into a collision as you struggle to remove the floormat and depress the brakes.
New floormats are all that’s needed to resolve the issue. If you still have the offending mats in your car, you can simply pull them out to safely drive down to the dealership for your repair appointment.
Where to Go for Help with 2011 Fusion Recalls
While looking for a 2011 Ford Fusion to buy, it’s vital to do your research. You can start by exploring all the recalls and check for new ones on the Ford Recalls and Field Service Action page. Then, take the time to perform a quick license plate check through Vehicle History. With that search, you’ll find out if the car has a clear title, any accidents in its history, and much more.
If you do end up adding the Fusion to your stable, continue to check back for pending recalls. If you notice any that are due, just call 1-866-436-7332 to reach a Ford representative and discuss the next steps. They’ll let you know which authorized dealership service center to go to, and what to expect when you get there.
