Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Ford Fusion
The 2018 Ford Fusion has moderate owner complaints and two recalls, primarily affecting the engine, brake, and steering systems. The most significant concerns are engine and powertrain issues, with few safety recall campaigns for brake hose failures and steering wheel detachment. Always verify the repair status for these recalls. While evidence suggests some issues, it remains a generally solid option with due diligence.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Ford Fusion has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 444 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 3 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V162000 Front Brake Hoses May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V167000 Steering Wheel may Detach NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 206 complaints
- Power Train 107 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 88 complaints
- Unknown or Other 47 complaints
- Electrical System 26 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 22 complaints
Of the 444 complaints on file, 9 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 444 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Brake hoses may rupture
How to check: Inspect brake hoses for wear or leaks
Steering wheel bolt may loosen
How to check: Ensure steering wheel feels secure
Engine complaints reported
How to check: Listen for unusual engine noises
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises
Red flag: Persistent, loud knocking
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Feel for engine vibrations
Red flag: Strong, constant vibrations
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness
Red flag: Spongy brake pedal
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifts
Red flag: Rough or hesitant shifting
- 05
Turning at speed
What to check: Steering wheel stability
Red flag: Loose or wobbly feel
- 06
Braking from high speed
What to check: Brake pedal firmness
Red flag: Pedal sinks to the floor
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Are the brake hose recalls addressed?
- Has the steering bolt been checked?
- Any major engine repairs done?
- Service records for routine maintenance?
- Any recurring electrical issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of recall repairs
- Complete service history
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Ford Fusion at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 Ford Fusion? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.