2017 is a good year for the Fusion lasting over 250,000 miles, with only minor issues such as dead batteries and rattling. At $18,058 – 24,776, it’s a bargain given the luxury and performance.
2017 Ford Fusion: Key Points
- Reliability ratings are good, but batteries die quickly. The 2017-2020 models are all good choices, and buyers should avoid the 2014 models with steering problems.
- Three fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engines and a very powerful V6.
- Fuel economy is average at up to 27 MPG combined.
- Safety scores are excellent, getting a perfect 5 star rating in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- We recommend the 2017 Ford Fusion for improved reliability and a sporty driving experience. The Fusion ranks 8th out of 12 midsize cars, based on owner reviews primarily because it’s a little outdated.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
Top Critics Reviews
- Consumer Reports finds the 2017 Fusion to be a breath of fresh air with a fun driving personality, but lacks luxury finishes.
- Edmunds rates it 3.6/5 with punchy acceleration, but worse fuel economy than rivals.
- Kelley Blue Book gives the Fusion a 4.2/5, finding it to be practical and affordable, but lacking the latest technology.
What Problems Does the 2017 Ford Fusion Have?
Problems include premature dead batteries, loose dash panels, and rare coolant leaks. Quality is similar on the 2015-2017 models, with computer improvements for 2018 costing $2,000 more.
Dead batteries are a very common issue happening at under 10,000 miles. There are some reports of excessive electrical draw from the radio and main computer. Replacing the battery costs about $200.
Noises inside the dash shows up in some vehicles with under 3,000 miles. The cause is usually loose clips on the plastic components. Prices for replacement parts vary from $20 to $200.
Coolant leaking into the cylinders is a rare but very serious problem on cars with around 45,000 miles. The source of the problem is usually a failed gasket and can cause the engine to crack. Installing a new engine costs around $4,500.
There are 3 recalls, less than average for a used sedan. Recalls include rear seat back pivot pins, torque converter connections, and steering wheel detaching. The most serious recall is the torque converter connection, which can cause an accident.
How Long Will the 2017 Ford Fusion Last?
A properly maintained 2017 Ford Fusion should last over 250,000 miles, which is more than an Altima but less than a Camry. Repair Pal estimates annual maintenance costs to be expensive at $562 per year.
As a Fusion reaches about 120,000 miles owners should prepare to replace heater cores for $1,000, window regulators costing $250, as well as heater hoses which cost $400.
So far I have had no problems. I have had one notice about maintenance being needed as a required recall which was a quick fix at the dealership.
I have not had it broken down in the past three years. I think it had been reliable. It works the same as it did the day I got it.
The ford fusion is a very reliable car, I did have a couple of recalls but they were taken care of by the dealership.
The ford fusion is very reliable. As of now I haven't had any problems with the car, everything has been to notch.
It is been pretty good so far. If there's a recall my dealership is very good on getting fixed right away.
Yes, have only had sensor go bad and leave me stranded. I would like if it did not have the ecosystem that makes it cut off when idling.
It's very reliable and it has not had any problems since I purchased this car. I do my best to keep it up to par with regular maintenance for it.
As far as I can tell it's pretty reliable. It gets my family back and forth to many places. Again pretty happy with it.
How Much is the 2017 Ford Fusion Worth?
Blue book prices are $18,058 – 24,776, making the Fusion affordable compared to the Legacy and Mazda6. When new, the price range was $22,610 to $38,750. Depreciation is average for a sedan, losing around 5% of its current value per year.
What Are the Models & Specs?
S is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- LED Tail Lights
- Power Windows and Locks
SE is a step up adding features including:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- LED Running Lights
- Keypad Entry
- Power Driver’s Seat
Titanium offers additional upgrades such as:
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Rear Spoiler
- Heated Mirrors
Platinum is the luxury-oriented model adding:
- Premium Leather Seating
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Automatic High Beams
- Power Steering Wheel
Sport is a performance-focused model with:
- 19-Inch Wheels
- Adjustable Suspension
- Suede and Leather Interior
- Unique Front Grille
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very good in the Fusion with new features added in 2017.
- Standard technology includes a 4-speaker stereo system with SYNC, Bluetooth, AUX and USB connectivity.
- Optional upgrades include an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, 11 and 12-speaker stereo systems, and satellite radio.
- Standard safety features include automatic crash notification, air bags, and traction control. Blind spot monitoring, drowsy driver warning, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking are optional.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is average in the base level Fusions, but excellent in the Sport model. The V6 engine found in the Sport takes only 5.1 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.
- The base engine found in the S model is a relatively weak 2.5L 4-cylinder with 175 horsepower.
- Standard on the SE model is a more powerful 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 181 horsepower.
- The Titanium model comes with an exciting 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine which makes 245 horsepower.
- The most powerful motor is found in the Sport model and is a 2.7L V6 with 325 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Fusion?
The 2017 Fusion is a midsize sedan, but offers less room than rivals including the Optima and Passat. Passenger space is cramped in the back seats with less legroom. The sloping roofline also makes it difficult for taller passengers to get in and out of the car.
Cargo space is larger than average at 16 cubic feet, enough room to fit 4 to 5 suitcases.
How Does the 2017 Ford Fusion Compare to Other Cars?
A rival is the more expensive Toyota Camry. The Camry stands out with a lifespan of over 300,000 miles, but the Fusion is sportier. The Camry is a better long-term choice, but the competition is close for the 2017 model year.
Another competitor is the more costly Nissan Altima. Technology is better in the Altima, but the Fusion has a longer lifespan. We recommend a Fusion over an Altima because there are fewer transmission problems.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Ford Fusion a Good Car?
Yes, the Fusion gets a great owners rating of 4.5/5 with many positive reviews mentioning excellent safety, fresh technology and sporty driving experience.
Overall, 2017 is a good year for the Fusion and improves over the 2014 model. Buyers may be interested in the 2018 model, which has fewer complaints, but costs $2,000 more.
Yes. Low maintenance, great gas mileage, awesome features like voice command and hands free, and it is a very roomy car.
Yes. I think this is a good car. I have had it for 3 years and I have only had to do minimal maintenance on it.
Yes. I love my car. I looked at many cars before I decided on my fusion. I would pick the fusion again.
Yes, the ford fusion is indeed a very good vehicle. It is very good on gas and drives smooth with pretty cold a/c.
Yes, I had the fiesta before and it is drives better and the body is more sturdy. I would highly recommend it.
Yes, good on gas, like the way it drives, and love the added features of navigation. Lots of trunk space too.
Yes it's very reliable. I drive it to and from work.On. A daily basis. It rides real smooth and I love the interior look. Of it. Also it's pretty good on gas.
Yes it surprisingly is. Its clean and rodes really smooth. I don't think I'll need another vehicle for along time. Pretty happy with it.
