Case file · FORD-FUSION-2006-2012 · Field document

Ford Fusion 2006–2012 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes, not generic used-car advice.

1. Check 01

   Run the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup (or Ford's) and confirm the EPAS steering recall (15V340/15S18, certain 2011–2012 cars without the 3.5L), the ABS/HCU brake recall (19V904/19S54, certain 2006–2010 cars), and the Takata airbag recall are all marked completed.

2. Check 02

   On any 2010–2012 car, test the power steering at low speed and while turning the wheel lock-to-lock for any hesitation, heaviness, or a steering warning light, the classic EPAS-loss symptom.

3. Check 03

   Watch the idle and throttle response for hesitation, a 'wrench' limp-mode light, or a stall, the throttle-body failure this generation is known for (worse on 2010–2012, also reported on earlier years).

4. Check 04

   Press the brake pedal firmly and hold it. Unusually long or sinking pedal travel points to the ABS hydraulic-control-unit valve issue.

5. Check 05

   On the 6F35-equipped 2010–2012 cars, feel for a hard or delayed shift from a stop, or a shudder around 30–45 mph; ask for transmission fluid service history.

6. Check 06

   Check the V6 for the harder-to-reach rear spark plugs under the intake manifold. Confirm they've actually been changed on higher-mileage cars, not skipped.

7. Check 07

   Inspect for rust on the rear subframe and rear suspension mounts if the car came from a salt-belt state. That's routine for a car this age, not a defect, but budget for it.