For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluated turbochargers replaced for oil leak symptoms and although oil may collect on the external surface of a turbocharger, it is extremely rare for a turbocharger assembly to be the root cause of the oil leak. Careful inspection of the turbocharger oil feed and drain tubes should be performed along with the recommended WSM procedures as needed. Warranty claims for turbocharger replacement going forward will be assessed.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2015 Ford Fusion engine problems
moderate Owners of the 2015 Ford Fusion have filed 243 NHTSA complaints about the engine, typically surfacing around 85,000 miles at roughly $3,100 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
243
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
| Model year | engine complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 Fusion | 90 |
| 2012 Fusion | 49 |
| 2013 Fusion | 314 |
| 2014 Fusion | 157 |
| 2015 Fusion (this page) | 243 |
| 2016 Fusion | 446 |
| 2017 Fusion | 419 |
| 2018 Fusion | 212 |
| 2019 Fusion | 160 |
1fire
What stands out
Owners have filed 243 engine 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.
Engine accounts for 23% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 12 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine 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 2014-2020 Fusion and 2017-2019 Escape vehicles may be equipped with a 1.5L Ecoboost engine that uses a 50-tooth variable camshaft timing (VCT) intake and exhaust unit from the assembly plant or if a service long block was installed. VCT locking tool 303-1097 is not compatible with this system. If VCT system service is required, replace both the intake VCT (service part DS7Z-6256-F) and exhaust VCT (service part DS7Z-6256-G) as a pair. An interim loaner tool program has been established to enable these repairs. Contact 1-800-403-4844 (Monday-Friday 8:00am to 8:00pm EST; Saturday 8:00am to 3:00pm EST) to obtain this tool. A VCT locking tool compatible with the 50-tooth system is under dev
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2014-2019 Fusion vehicles built on or before 10-Jun-2019 and 2017-2019 Escape vehicles built on or before 08-Apr-2019 equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit low coolant level, white exhaust smoke and/or runs rough condition with or without an illuminated malfunction indicator light (MIL) with only diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0300, P0301-P0304, P0316, P0217, P1285 and/or P1299 stored in powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to coolant intrusion into the cylinder. To resolve the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the short block and head gasket.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2014-2017 C-MAX Energi, 2014-2020 Fusion plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), 2015-2017 MKZ/MKZ Hybrid/MKC, 2016-2017 MKX, 2016-2018 Focus battery electric vehicle (BEV) and 2017 Continental vehicles equipped with SYNC screens 8 inch or larger may be unable to complete modem authorization after 3G to 4G modem upgrade was performed. No Authorization Popup displayed on SYNC infotainment screen during the Authorization process. This may be due to the Sync Software. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to toggle Valet Mode.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2014-2019 Fusion vehicles built on or before 10-Jun-2019 and 2017-2019 Escape vehicles built on or before 08-Apr-2019 equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit low coolant level, white exhaust smoke and/or runs rough condition with or without an illuminated malfunction indicator light (MIL) with only diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0300, P0301-P0304, P0316, P0217, P1285 and/or P1299 stored in powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to coolant intrusion into the cylinder. To resolve the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the short block and head gasket.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2015 Ford Fusion's 1.5L EcoBoost engine has a systemic coolant intrusion problem. Owners describe coolant seeping from the engine block or head gasket into the combustion chambers, causing misfires, rough running, white exhaust smoke, and sudden loss of power—sometimes while driving on the highway at speed. The check engine light comes on with misfire codes (P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304), and the coolant level drops rapidly despite no visible external leak.
Symptoms appear across a huge mileage range: some owners hit the problem at 27,000 miles; others at 130,000 or higher. The defect ruins the engine. Dealers and independent mechanics confirm that replacement is the only fix—either a new short block, long block, or full engine. Costs run $5,000 to $14,000. One owner waited six months for parts. One unlucky owner had the same failure occur twice in 14,000 miles after the first engine was replaced under warranty.
Ford has issued technical service bulletins (TSB 20-2100, TSB 19-2139, TSB 19-2375) acknowledging the flaw and directing dealers to replace components. Ford also created Customer Satisfaction Program 21N21 covering 2017–2019 models, but did not extend it to 2015–2016. No recall has been issued. Ford tells owners the problem is a known design flaw but declines to cover repairs outside the narrow warranty and CSP windows. Multiple class action suits are pending. An owner who bought used at 70,000 miles found the engine needed replacement a few weeks later; another owner's warranty expired just six days before the failure occurred. For a used buyer with limited recourse, this is a financial catastrophe masked by Ford's silence.
Same Ford Fusion engine reports on nearby years: 2013 · 2014 · 2016 · 2017 · 2018
Failure modes owners describe
Coolant intrusion into cylinders
Coolant leaks from the engine block/head gasket area into one or more cylinders, contaminating the combustion chamber. Root causes cited by owners and dealers include design flaws in the block itself (pitting in the short block, scored grooves between cylinders), head gasket movement/wear, and issues with the inner cooler assembly and intake manifold gasket. The problem occurs across a wide range of mileages (as low as 27,000 miles to as high as 175,000 miles) and model years 2015 and earlier built 2015 Fusions.
When: Widely variable: 27,000–175,000 miles; complaints span 2015–2024 model years; some fail within weeks of purchase, others years after manufacture
Symptoms owners cite: Engine misfire (rough running, hesitation, jerking); Check engine light illuminated or flashing; Loss of engine power while driving (stalling on highways and at low speed); White smoke from exhaust or tailpipe; Vibration and shaking while driving or at idle; Coolant level drops without visible external leak; coolant disappears rapidly; Hard starts, multiple restart attempts needed; Rough idle after sitting for 20–60 minutes then restarting
Codes mentioned: P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P1299, P26CE, P0303, P0316
Repairs/costs cited: Owners report replacement of short block (engine block), long block, or entire engine; costs typically $5,000–$14,000 depending on whether short or long block is replaced and whether labor is included. Some dealers quote $6,000–$8,000 for short-block replacement alone. Parts frequently on backorder for months (3–6 months reported). One owner paid $2,700–$3,100 for engine plus $1,800 labor; another paid $11,000 for engine replacement at dealership. Warranty replacement (if within coverage period) reduced owner cost; out-of-warranty repairs are owner's expense.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSB 20-2100, TSB 19-2139, TSB 19-2375, TSB 21-2269) describing the problem and directing replacement of short block or other components. Ford issued Customer Satisfaction Program 21N21 (or 21N12) covering short block on 2017–2019 Fusion EcoBoost engines, but not earlier model years (2015–2016). No recall issued. Ford has told owners the problem is a 'known design flaw' but denies warranty coverage outside the limited CSP window or warranty period. When contacted, Ford denies responsibility, claims vehicle is 'too old,' or refers owners to NHTSA. Class action lawsuits have been filed (e.g., firms Berger Montague PC and Capstone Law APC in Delaware).
Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection)
Direct injection (GDI) engines do not spray fuel on intake valves during the intake stroke, so valves do not receive the detergent benefit of gasoline. Over time, carbon accumulates heavily on valve stems and faces, causing rough running and misfire codes. One owner found all spark plugs heavily coated in carbon and the tailpipe interior heavily carbon-coated at only 27,721 miles.
When: Occurs early in engine life; owner observed at 27,721 miles; TSBs do not address this as a recall or service campaign, only as a known characteristic
Symptoms owners cite: Engine misfire (rough running); Check engine light for cylinder misfire; Spark plugs heavily coated in carbon; Tailpipe interior heavily carbon-coated
Codes mentioned: P0302
Repairs/costs cited: One mechanic recommended annual 'GDI service' involving removal and cleaning of all intake valves; owner reports first spark plug service interval is 100,000 miles, inadequate for GDI engines. No manufacturer fix offered; owners must perform out-of-pocket valve cleaning to prevent further degradation.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls or service bulletins explicitly addressing carbon buildup. Owners and independent mechanics note Ford is 'well aware' of the issue but has not corrected it in the engine design. No proactive customer outreach reported.
Corroded thermostat housing causing coolant leak
The thermostat housing corrodes, allowing coolant to leak. One owner reports the housing became severely corroded and had to be replaced, but the new part will also corrode and fail in approximately 70,000 more miles due to the inherent design/material issue.
When: Observed at approximately 70,000 miles in one case, but inherent corrosion issue means repeated failures over time
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light (coolant-related code); Coolant level drops; Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Codes mentioned: P26CE
Repairs/costs cited: Thermostat housing replacement cost not specified in narratives. Dealer informed owner that the replacement part will corrode again in ~70,000 miles; no permanent fix is available from Ford.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No information provided; owner advocates for Ford to 'offer a permanent fix' for the corroding thermostat housings.
Water pump failure (timing-driven)
Water pump fails and requires replacement. The original pump was discontinued because Ford knew the part was defective. Replacement is timing-driven and requires extensive labor and research to determine correct wiring.
When: Owner reported repair in early period of ownership; timing of failure not specified
Symptoms owners cite: Scraping noise in engine compartment
Repairs/costs cited: Repair quoted at $672 and took 4.5 hours labor; dealer had to research how to cut unneeded wires and install new pump because the original pump was discontinued and replacement process was not straightforward.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Part was discontinued because Ford knew it was defective; no recall or service bulletins mentioned.
Fuel system pressure and vacuum issues
One complaint describes fuel pressure sensor malfunction and inability to bleed fuel tank vacuum, resulting in sputtering and loss of power. Codes suggest fuel rail pressure too low and O2 sensor issues.
When: Reported in one complaint; vehicle less than 5 years old at time of failure
Symptoms owners cite: Engine sputtering; Loss of acceleration; Check engine light on; Fuel pressure sensor failure indicated
Codes mentioned: P0087, P2196, P1450
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel pressure sensor and fuel rail replacement; specific cost not mentioned
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No information provided in complaint.
Engine stalling after warm-up idle or on restart
Engine loses power and stalls unexpectedly after the vehicle has been sitting for 20–60 minutes following a drive, then is restarted. Stalls occur at low speed (5–10 mph in drive or park). Associated systems malfunction including headlights flickering, brake power loss, and throttle unresponsiveness. One owner reports this is a recurring issue with possible fuel injection or throttle body problems.
When: Occurs after 20–60 minute idle following a drive, then restart; multiple stalling events reported
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalling and loss of motive power; Engine sputtering and hesitation; Rough running at low RPM; Headlights flickering; Brake power loss; Throttle unresponsiveness (drive-by-wire malfunction); No check engine light in some cases; in others, light present
Repairs/costs cited: One complaint mentions suspected fuel injection or throttle body issue; no successful repair reported. Dealerships unable to replicate or diagnose the problem; one owner attempted online service requests with no response.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships unable or unwilling to diagnose; no response from dealers in some cases despite service requests.
Synthesized from 243 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
Engine Coolant Overheating Warning.keeps coming on. Engine coolant sensor 1 code amd Cylinders 1 and 2 misfiring codes on reader. Having to replace coolant every couple days. Afraid engine will be damaged and possibly catch fire.
Engine overheats to cause enough damage to loose all compression and power then fail to restart mid-drive even at highway speeds in passing lanes next to a semi tractor trailer. Had to have vehicle towed in after walking ½ mile to gain enough service to call for help/tow truck. Engine then requires replacement to run.
Had engine trouble with your 2015 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 engine problem on the 2015 Ford Fusion?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 243 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 165 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 68,300 and 112,700 miles, with the median around 85,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 68,300; a quarter make it past 112,700. 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 $3,100 for engine 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 engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine 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/2015/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.