The 2006 Fusion can last over 250,000 miles with only some door handle and turn signal issues. At $4,521 to $6,458, it’s a good value for a sedan buyers can count on for the long haul.
Is the 2006 Ford Fusion a Good Used Car?
- Yes, 2006 is a good year. Owner reviews like the comfortable cabin, decent efficiency, and lower ownership costs.
- Interior materials are average for an affordable sedan, but there is a lot of cheap feeling plastic used on the dash.
- Reliability ratings are average. Models from 2006–2009 are good choices with a surge in problems for 2010.
- Performance is average from the 4-cylinder, but the V6 offers a sportier driving experience.
- The 2006 Fusion is reasonably safe, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is decent, getting up to 24 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Fusion?
- Consumer Reports says the Fusion is satisfying to drive, with average long-term owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Fusion a 4.7/5 liking the good build quality, but disliking the lack of a manual shift mode with the automatic transmission.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Fusion a 4.6/5 and enjoy the dependable engine, but dislike maintenance costs.
What Common Problems Does the 2006 Ford Fusion Have?
The problems found on the 2006 Ford Fusion include broken door handles, turn signal failures, and excessive vibrations from the engine.
Broken door handles are the most frequent complaints from owners at around 75,000 miles. The only way to fix it is by installing a new handle. Replacing the door handles is a fairly simple process, costing about $140 .
Turn signal failures are another common problem at roughly 100,000 miles. The main junction box that controls the lights wears out as it gets older, and costs around $500 to replace.
Shaking engines are another issue that owners report at around 80,000 miles. Worn out spark plugs cause the engine to run rough and are the most common source of the problem. A new set of plugs is around $400.
There are 5 recalls, with the most serious being for the antilock brake system valve which can get stuck open and increase the risk of a crash.
How Long Will the 2006 Ford Fusion Last?
A properly maintained 2006 Ford Fusion should be able to last around 250,000 miles, which is similar to top competitors like the Honda Accord. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to rivals at around $425 per year, according to Repair Pal.
Most 2006 Fusion models will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace items including the A/C compressor for $250, rack and pinion costing $400, and the transmission mounds which cost $200.
It is fairly reliable. The turn radius is very wide, which makes it difficult to make narrow or sudden turns. Additionally, the front of the car comes out very long and low, so parking can be difficult.
Only minor problems. Some safety recalls and a little rust underneath the car. Normal wear and tear on the vehicle.
It is very reliable. The only issue I have right now is that the AC is not working. Other than that I have no problems
It has a few minor problems that need fixing but not very costly. I need a rod and an axle because it sometimes feel out of alignment.
No not that I know just normal wear and tear on a vehicle such as changing the oil and changing the spark plugs
How Much Is the 2006 Ford Fusion Worth?
Blue book values range from $4,521 to $6,458, which makes the Fusion about $200 more than other midsize sedans like the Mazda6 or Nissan Altima. When new, the price range was $17,145 to $21,700. Depreciation is similar to rivals losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Fusion?
There are three models of the Fusion available. Technology was just updated in 2006 with a new infotainment system added in 2008.
S is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry
- 4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With MP3 Playback
SE falls in the middle of the lineup, adding:
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Sport-Tuned Suspension
- Carbon Fiber Interior Trim
- 6-Speaker Stereo System
SEL is the flagship model and adds:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Heated Front Seats
- Moonroof
- 8-Speaker Premium Stereo System
What Engines Come In the Fusion?
- The base engine is an average 2.3L-4-cylinder which makes 160 horsepower while getting up to 24 MPG combined.
- An available upgrade is the more powerful 3.0L V6 with 220 horsepower, which gets up to 21 MPG combined. Performance is average, taking about 7.1 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Fusion Come In?
How Big Is the Fusion?
The 2006 Ford Fusion is larger than some other midsize sedans like the Hyundai Sonata and Subaru Legacy. Passenger room is great throughout the cabin, with plenty of legroom in the backseats for adults.
The trunk is similar in size to the competition, offering 15.8 cubic feet of room, which will easily fit 3-4 suitcases.
How Does the Fusion Compare to the Competition?
The Chevy Malibu is another midsize competitor costing about $1,000 less. Performance is a bit better in the Malibu, but the Fusion offers more up-to-date technology. We recommend the Fusion since they last longer and are more comfortable to drive.
The Toyota Camry is a rival which costs about $200 more. Reliability ratings are better in the Camry, but the Fusion has more passenger space. We recommend the Camry since they have lower ownership costs, but both are good choices for the 2006 model year.
Do Owners Recommend the Ford Fusion?
For the most part, yes. There are some minor flaws that make this car difficult to drive and park in some circumstances.
Yes. It gets great gas mileage and is a very dependable, comfortable ride. I have had no major issues with my Ford Fusion.
Yes, the 2006 Ford Fusion is a good vehicle. It is very reliable. I've had my car over 5 years and I've never had any issues. It's very comfortable with enough space for passengers in the back
The ford fusion is a good vehicle and the price was reasonable it was purchased used but in great condition.
Yes I have had it for a little over a year and it has been a dependable vehicle I have only done routine maintenance on the car such as oil change and changed the plugs
