Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00. The brake rotors should only be machined if directed by the WSM because one or more of the following conditions are present on the braking surface: scoring, excessive corrosion/rust or pitting, bluing/discoloration and/or heat spots. For additional information, refer to WSM section 206-00.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 Ford Fusion brakes problems
severe Owners of the 2013 Ford Fusion have filed 52 NHTSA complaints about the brakes, typically surfacing around 45,000 miles at roughly $450 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See brakes across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
52
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$450
| Model year | brakes complaints |
|---|---|
| 2009 Fusion | 494 |
| 2010 Fusion | 477 |
| 2011 Fusion | 161 |
| 2012 Fusion | 89 |
| 2013 Fusion (this page) | 52 |
| 2014 Fusion | 91 |
| 2015 Fusion | 109 |
| 2016 Fusion | 97 |
| 2017 Fusion | 83 |
7crashes
1fire
2injuries
What stands out
Owners have filed 52 brakes complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering brakes on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2013-2016 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles may display an error message when updating the All Wheel Drive-ATC Barcode using the IDS service function after installing a new rear drive unit assembly (RDU) or active torque coupling (ATC) clutch assembly. To prevent this error from occurring, enter the universal ATC 4 digit barcode 7772. Once programmed, perform several figure 8 turns at parking lot speeds to verify there is no binding from the all wheel drive (AWD) system. If the vehicle binds in a turn, perform Pinpoint Test A. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-07A > Diagnosis and Testing.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00. The brake rotors should only be machined if directed by the WSM because one or more of the following conditions are present on the braking surface: scoring, excessive corrosion/rust or pitting, bluing/discoloration and/or heat spots. For additional information, refer to WSM section 206-00.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Certain 2015-2018 Model Year Edge and Lincoln MKX Vehicles and 2013-2018 Model Year Fusion and Lincoln MKZ Vehicles Front Brake Flexible Hose Replacement Submitting Owner Letters
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2013-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00. The brake rotors should only be machined if directed by the WSM because one or more of the following conditions are present on the braking surface: scoring, excessive corrosion/rust or pitting, bluing/discoloration and/or heat spots. For additional information, refer to WSM section 206-00.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Brake failures on 2013 Fusions span a range of hazards. Hybrid owners describe a recurring surge or loss of control when braking around curves, downhill, or over bumps—sensation of brakes slipping momentarily then re-engaging—at speeds under 40 mph and low mileages. Dealers consistently cannot reproduce the issue.
A separate and more dangerous problem emerges at all mileages: brake pedal losing pressure and going to the floor with complete loss of braking power. Owners report puddles of brake fluid, blown brake hoses, and fractured brake lines. Several collisions resulted, including one at 70 mph that totaled the vehicle and one rear-end crash at low speed; no warning lights alerted drivers in most cases.
Premature rear brake wear is common—pads and rotors failing at 18,000–37,000 miles while front brakes remain fine, reversing typical wear patterns. Multiple owners report excessive vibration before failure. Dealers deny warranty coverage, calling pads consumable.
Control module and electrical issues surface: ABS lights illuminate without clear cause, traction control fails, and some owners experience spongy or unresponsive pedals. A major recall (23V162000) addresses brake fluid leaks but has left owners stranded for months—parts unavailable, some dealers refusing work citing vehicle age, mileage, or rust. One owner waited over two months with no repair date in sight.
Same Ford Fusion brakes reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2012 · 2014 · 2015 · 2016
Failure modes owners describe
Brake surge or loss of control during braking (hybrid regenerative braking)
Owners of 2013 Fusion Hybrids report momentary loss of control, surging, or skidding sensations when braking, especially during curves, downhill driving, or braking over bumps. Feels like brakes slip momentarily then re-engage. Most common at speeds under 40 mph. Dealers unable to reproduce the issue and have attributed it to engine kick-in from battery-to-gasoline transition, which owners dispute.
When: Under 40 mph, typically at 20,000–26,000 miles or low mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Momentary loss of control while braking; Surging sensation despite brake application; Skidding feel on dry pavement; Brakes feel like they slip then re-engage; Occurs during curves, downhill driving, or braking over bumps/raised pavement; Duration appears to increase over time
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer unable to replicate; no repairs made. One owner reported dealer applied PCM update without success.
Brake pedal goes to floor; complete loss of braking power
Brake pedal loses pressure and goes to the floor with no braking response, occurring at various speeds (10–75 mph). Owners must pump brakes repeatedly, use parking brake, or shift to neutral to regain control. Often accompanied by warning messages (low brake fluid, no brake fluid) or sudden loss of pressure while driving. One owner reported collision and airbag deployment; another rear-ended vehicle while unable to stop.
When: Various mileages: 37,000, 50,000, 63,000, 65 mph, 70 mph, 151,363 miles, and at 25 mph
Symptoms owners cite: Brake pedal depresses fully to floor with no resistance; Complete loss of braking power; No warning lights in some cases; in others, 'Brake Fluid Low' or 'No Brake Fluid' messages; Extended braking distance; Repeated brake pedal failures requiring multiple pump cycles; Trail or puddle of brake fluid visible
Repairs/costs cited: Brake fluid leak (multiple owners); brake hose ruptures (at least two owners); vacuum pump replacement (one owner, but failure recurred); brake line fractures. One owner cited NHTSA Campaign 23V162000 but parts unavailable. Another owner reported dealer charged repair fee because recall parts not yet available.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 23V162000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) issued; recall parts unavailable or delayed, causing extended wait times (several weeks to months). One owner reported Customer Satisfaction Program 22N02 offered in September 2022 but repair unavailable for at least one month. Manufacturer not notified in some cases.
Brake hose rupture or failure
Front brake hoses fail without warning, causing rapid or total loss of braking power. Owners report zero physical damage visible to hoses prior to failure. One hose failure occurred at 66,214 miles in straight-line driving; owner replaced all four hoses preventively after learning original factory part number was obsoleted.
When: 66,214 miles; another failure during normal highway driving at undisclosed speed
Symptoms owners cite: Gradual or sudden loss of braking power; Brake fluid leak visible; No warning lights or prior symptoms; Rupture of left or right front brake hose; Failure during normal driving without physical damage to hose
Repairs/costs cited: Brake hose replacement; one owner proactively replaced all four hoses. Original factory part number obsoleted and replaced with new P/N. Christian Brothers Automotive, Sun Prairie WI, serviced one vehicle post-failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA inquiry mentioned by one owner (brake hose rupture recall query); NHTSA Campaign 23V162000 addresses this issue but repair parts unavailable or delayed.
Premature rear brake pad and rotor wear
Rear brake pads and rotors wear prematurely and require replacement at unusually low mileages (18,983–37,000 miles), well before typical service life. Front brakes show minimal wear while rear components are severely worn—opposite of normal wear patterns. One owner reported vibration upon heavy braking prior to total rear brake failure.
When: 18,983 miles; 22,000 miles; 22,500 miles; 26,000 miles; 37,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Rear brake pads completely worn at low mileage; Rear rotors severely damaged/worn; Premature screeching noise from rear brakes; Loss of braking power in rear; Vibration upon heavy braking (some cases); Front brakes show minimal wear while rear pads/rotors fail
Repairs/costs cited: Rear brake pads and rotors replaced; one owner replaced all four hoses as a preventive measure. Warranty does not cover premature wear beyond 4-month period past purchase.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer claims brake pads are a consumable item and refuses warranty coverage. No recall or TSB mentioned for premature rear brake wear.
Brake pedal hard or unresponsive during emergency braking
Brake pedal becomes stiff, unresponsive, or fails to stop vehicle during emergency or firm braking. One owner reported brake lockup during firm application at 55 mph, causing vehicle to swerve across three lanes with fishtailing. Another reported brake stiffness and inability to stop, resulting in collision with wall.
When: 55 mph emergency braking; highway speeds during emergency stops
Symptoms owners cite: Brake pedal feels hard or stiff during braking; No engagement or delayed engagement of brakes; Brake lockup causing loss of steering control; Vehicle swerves between lanes; Fishtailing of rear end; Tires audibly skid on pavement
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented in these narratives.
Brake failure at low speed; collision with another vehicle
Brake pedal fails to engage or becomes unresponsive during low-speed stopping situations, causing rear-end collisions or crashes. One owner depressed brake at 15 mph approaching traffic light but vehicle did not slow; crashed into vehicle in front. Another owner's daughter experienced brake failure at 30–40 mph when attempting to avoid oncoming vehicle making illegal turn; collision resulted in injuries and vehicle deemed total loss.
When: 10–15 mph (low-speed stops); 30–40 mph (emergency avoidance); 151,363 miles (one documented case)
Symptoms owners cite: Brake pedal depressed but vehicle does not slow; No warning lights illuminated; Vehicle continues forward unimpeded; Collision occurs; No injuries in low-speed collision; head, neck, back injuries in higher-speed collision
Repairs/costs cited: One vehicle deemed totaled by insurance; air bags did not deploy in one case despite collision.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 23V162000 notification received after collision in one case. Manufacturer advised filing complaint with NHTSA Hotline.
Brake system electrical/control module issues
Brake warning lights, ABS lights, or traction control lights illuminate without clear cause or fail to alert owners of actual brake failure. One owner reports ABS light came on concurrent with complete loss of braking power; brakes now spongy with ABS light always on. Another reports traction control system warning and 'Traction Control Unavailable' message when braking over bump.
When: Unknown mileage; one case at highway speeds
Symptoms owners cite: ABS light illuminated; Brake warning light illuminated; Traction control unavailable message displayed; Spongy brake pedal; Warning lights may or may not correspond to actual brake failure
Codes mentioned: ABS warning light, Brake warning light, Traction control warning
Repairs/costs cited: One owner reports ABS light and spongy brakes; vehicle is 'stuck' in this condition. Dealer diagnosis in some cases found open circuit in brake system.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One owner mentioned NHTSA Campaign 23V162000 related to control module issues.
Brake fluid leak (multiple hoses/lines)
Brake fluid leaks from hydraulic lines or hoses, either gradually or suddenly, reducing braking pressure and pedal height. Owners observe puddles or trails of fluid under vehicle. Some linked to NHTSA Campaign 23V162000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) but repair parts unavailable or delayed. One owner reported gasket issue alongside fluid leak and burning smell.
When: Various mileages; 50,000 miles documented; some owners unaware of exact mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Brake pedal travel increases or goes to floor; Reduction in deceleration rate; Visible brake fluid puddle or trail under vehicle; Low brake fluid warning light; Hissing or spray sound from brake lines; Burning smell (one case with gasket issue)
Repairs/costs cited: Hydraulic brake line fractures repaired; one owner reported parking brake seized after brake failure. Recall 23V162000 addresses fluid leaks but parts unavailable.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 23V162000 issued for brake fluid leaks; however, repair parts unavailable or severely delayed (weeks to months). Multiple owners report manufacturer exceeded reasonable time for recall repair. Dealers refusing to perform work until parts arrive; some dealers citing mileage, aftermarket parts, or vehicle rust as reasons to defer recall repairs.
Delayed recall response and parts unavailability
Owners received recall notification (NHTSA Campaign 23V162000) but cannot get repair performed because manufacturer has not made replacement parts available to dealerships. Owners left unable to drive vehicle safely or must wait indefinitely for parts. Some dealers cite age of vehicle, mileage, or rust as reasons to refuse recall work. One owner reported being unable to access recall repair for 2+ months.
When: Recall issued April 2023 (some cases); parts unavailable months later
Symptoms owners cite: Recall notification received; Dealership states parts not available; Indefinite wait for repair; Dealer refuses to perform work citing vehicle condition or mileage; Owner unable to drive vehicle safely
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs performed. One dealer refused work due to aftermarket tires, high mileage (133k), or vehicle rust. Customers advised to seek other dealers or wait indefinitely.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 23V162000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) issued but replacement parts unavailable. Manufacturer has not made parts available or has severely delayed availability. Multiple owners report manufacturer exceeded reasonable time for recall completion. Some dealers advise replacing brake hoses only when they fail, rather than performing preventive recall repair.
Synthesized from 52 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 0 most recent
Had brakes trouble with your 2013 Ford Fusion?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the brakes problem on the 2013 Ford Fusion?
It's a meaningful issue. 52 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $450.
At what mileage does the brakes typically fail?
Across the 25 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most brakes failures cluster between 26,000 and 127,550 miles, with the median around 45,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 26,000; a quarter make it past 127,550. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $450 for brakes repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to brakes?
No active recalls currently cover brakes issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/Ford/Fusion.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.