Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Ford Fusion
The 2017 Ford Fusion has notable recalls related to brake fluid leaks, steering wheel detachment, torque converter issues, and seat weld problems. These are significant concerns that affect safety and drivability. Verify these areas during inspection and test drive to ensure the car is in good condition. Overall, the Fusion can be a reliable choice if these issues are addressed.
Known issues to inspect
Brake fluid leaks
How to check: Inspect brake lines for cracks and fluid leaks
Steering wheel detachment
How to check: Test wheel for unusual play or looseness
Torque converter weld failure
How to check: Listen for unusual noise or shuddering
Rear seat weld defects
How to check: Examine rear seat for stability issues
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises
Red flag: Loud knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for steering wheel looseness
Red flag: Excessive wheel play
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Notice any shudder or hesitation
Red flag: Significant hesitation felt
- 04
City driving
What to check: Ensure brakes are firm and responsive
Red flag: Soft or delayed braking
- 05
Parking
What to check: Test rear seat stability
Red flag: Seat moves unusually
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifts
Red flag: Rough or slipping shifts
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake line recall been addressed?
- Is the steering wheel securely attached?
- Any issues with the transmission?
- Have rear seat welds been inspected?
- Service history of brake system?
- Documentation of previous recalls done?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service history report
- Accident history report
- Warranty information
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/8/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2017 Ford Fusion.