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, 2011–2012 mainly), the ABS/HCU brake recall (19V904/19S54, 2006–2010), 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

   On the Fusion Hybrid, ask about any CVT shudder or warning-light history and whether the valve-body update (TSB 06-7-8) was performed.

7. Check 07

   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.

8. Check 08

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