Got in the parked vehicle and the display on the dash said the vehicle was in neutral but shifter was in park and would not move. The transmission linkage bushing had failed and the cable was no longer connected to transmission. This is a known recall issue for this model. Dealership advised the recall does not apply to my VIN and I am responsible for repairs.
2016 Ford Fusion powertrain problems
moderate 297 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
297
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
8crashes
3injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 297 powertrain complaints filed for the 2016 Ford Fusion, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 297 powertrain 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.
Among the 15 model years of Ford Fusion in our records for powertrain problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
The failure pattern owners describe
Buyer takeaway: 2016 Ford Fusions have documented problems with shifter cable bushings that fail unexpectedly, causing vehicles to roll away while parked—and Ford's recalls don't cover all VINs with identical failures. Additionally, many owners report sudden power loss at highway speeds and expensive transmission failures in the 77k–130k mile range, with no recalls or manufacturer assistance offered.
The 2016 Ford Fusion shows a pattern of serious powertrain defects across multiple systems. The shifter cable bushing—a small plastic part connecting the transmission cable to the transmission—degrades and detaches, allowing drivers to move the shifter to Park, remove the key, and exit the vehicle while the transmission remains in Neutral or Reverse. This creates a rollaway hazard. Owners have reported vehicles rolling away parked on level ground, with some near-misses involving pedestrians and children. While Ford has issued multiple recalls (18V471000, 18S20, 19V362000, 22V413000), many affected VINs are excluded despite experiencing identical failures.
Sudden power loss is another recurring complaint. At highway speeds, the engine drops power, the accelerator becomes unresponsive, and a wrench icon with "See Manual" appears. Pressing the gas pedal does nothing; the car can only coast or crawl at 15–50 mph until restarted. This hazard has occurred in rush-hour traffic, construction zones, and multi-lane highways with no shoulder to pull over safely. Ford has issued no recall, though a "Customer Satisfaction Program" has been mentioned.
Transmission failures occur early, with owners citing complete transmission failure at 77k–100k+ miles and repairs costing $6,000–$9,500. One owner reported dark transmission fluid with metal filings after the dealer had just replaced it weeks earlier. Finally, some owners experienced white smoke from the exhaust due to coolant leaking into the cylinder, requiring complete engine replacement at $7,300. These defects are not covered by recalls or warranty for most owners.
Same Ford Fusion powertrain reports on nearby years: 2014 · 2015 · 2017 · 2018 · 2019
Failure modes owners describe
Shifter cable bushing detachment
The plastic bushing that connects the transmission shifter cable to the transmission degrades and detaches over time. When detached, the gear shifter can be moved to Park and the ignition key removed, but the transmission remains in a different gear—most commonly Neutral or Reverse. The dash display may show Park while the car is actually in Neutral or Reverse, creating a rollaway hazard.
When: Failures reported across all mileage ranges; some occurring years after recall repairs (e.g., #2 at 245,000 miles, 7 years after 2018 recall fix at 88,000 miles); others early in ownership (reported at 50k, 70k, 80k, 130k, 147k, 181k miles)
Symptoms owners cite: Shifter moves freely but transmission does not engage selected gear; Vehicle rolls backward or forward while shifter shows Park; Dash display shows one gear while transmission is in another; Shifter becomes stuck or very difficult to move between gears; No warning lights or chimes before failure; Orange plastic bushing debris visible (in some cases)
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement bushing kits cost $5–$7.64 for the part; labor and towing vary. Owner #2 bought updated yellow plastic bushings and cover for ~$250+ out-of-pocket after recall fix failed. Some dealers unable to perform repairs due to parts unavailability (Recalls 18V471000, 18S20, 19V362000, 22V413000). DIY fixes reported using universal bushings from auto parts stores.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 18V471000 (July 2018) and 18S20 began Sept 2018 for 2013–2016 Fusions built at Hermosillo plant June 2, 2014–Aug 31, 2015. Later recalls 19V362000 and 22V413000 issued but do not cover all affected VINs; many owners report VINs excluded despite identical failures. Updated repair parts (yellow bushing + cover) developed for later recalls but not retrofitted to earlier repaired vehicles. Parts shortage delays repairs; some dealers told to repair only after car breaks down and is towed.
Sudden power loss and unresponsive accelerator (limp mode)
Engine power drops abruptly with no warning or only brief warning (wrench icon, 'See Manual' message). Accelerator pedal becomes unresponsive; pressing it has no effect. Vehicle cannot exceed 15–50 mph and loses power in traffic or at highway speeds. Electrical systems (steering, braking, climate, radio) remain functional. Power returns after restart, but failure recurs.
When: Reported from 12,000 miles to 105,000+ miles; some early in vehicle ownership (new purchase with <20k miles); recurring within days or weeks of repair attempt
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of engine power while driving, usually at highway speed (60–70 mph); Accelerator pedal will not respond—pressing it does nothing; Orange wrench light and 'See Manual' message appear on dash; Vehicle shakes, shudders, or vibrates during power loss; Speed drops to 15–50 mph maximum; cannot accelerate; Cruise control deactivates; traction control and other stability systems disabled; Check Engine light may illuminate; Power returns after restart; car may run normally until failure recurs
Codes mentioned: P0300 (cylinder misfire), P2112 (throttle actuator 'A' control system-stuck closed)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have replaced throttle body ($unknown labor cost), updated software, replaced fuel sensor. One owner reports dealership statement 'happens all the time – there was a bad batch.' Some repairs fail and power loss recurs within days or weeks.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No formal recall issued for throttle body failure, though a 'Customer Satisfaction Program' is referenced in complaint #20 and #26. TSB 19-2346 addresses coolant leak into cylinder (related but distinct). Ford has issued no recall for power loss despite multiple complaints and owner research indicating the problem is documented across many model years.
Transmission failure and harsh shifting
Transmission deteriorates prematurely, diagnosed as torque converter failure, defective bearings (HF35 hybrid models), shattered clutch, or general internal damage. Fluid often dark with metal filings or fragments. Transmissions fail as early as 77,000–100,000 miles despite proper maintenance. Repair or replacement costs $6,000–$9,500+.
When: Reported at 58k, 77k, 100k, 105k, 120k, 130k miles; one failure at 49k miles with shifting lunge
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle stalls at low speed while starting or shifting; Harsh, jerky shifting between gears; Vehicle jerks or lurches when accelerating from stop or shifting; Transmission fluid dark or black with metal particles or filings; Whining noise from transmission (hybrid models); Check Engine light and wrench warning light illuminate; Failure to accelerate; loss of power during acceleration
Codes mentioned: Shift solenoid D (generic)
Repairs/costs cited: Full transmission replacement $6,000–$9,500. One owner reports dealer replaced only transmission fluid after stalling complaint, then a month later diagnosed need for complete transmission replacement due to metal filings in fluid. Rebuilds quoted as alternative. No warranty coverage for most owners.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued. Owner #3 notes Ford has known 2009–2017 Fusions have faulty transmissions and has offered 'band aid' recommendations but no compensation. A Customer Service Satisfaction Program 14B07 replaced transmissions for 2013–2014 Fusion Hybrids but expired; 2015–2016 hybrids with same bearing defect (TSBs 14-0214, 16-0105, 17-0039) receive no coverage.
Unintended vehicle rollaway from Park
Vehicle rolls forward or backward despite shifter being in Park position. Occurs while parked on level ground or slight inclines. In some cases, the transmission is actually in Neutral or Reverse but the display falsely shows Park. Hazard intensified when vehicle is parked unattended or with occupants still inside.
When: Multiple incidents reported; some within days of ownership, others after years of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls backward or forward while shifter is visibly in Park; No warning lights or chimes before rollaway begins; Dash display shows Park but transmission is in Neutral or Reverse; Emergency brake may be required to stop rolling
Repairs/costs cited: Caused by shifter cable bushing failure (see separate mode). Repairs as noted under bushing detachment.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Related to Recalls 18V471000, 18S20, 19V362000, and 22V413000. Many owners report recalls do not apply to their VIN despite identical failures.
Coolant leak into engine cylinder
Engine coolant leaks into one or more cylinders, causing white smoke from exhaust, rough idle, misfire, and eventual engine failure. Likely caused by crack in engine block or failed gasket. Requires engine replacement.
When: Reported at 75,000 miles and in early ownership (owner #13 at unknown mileage; owner #37 at 75k)
Symptoms owners cite: White smoke billowing from exhaust, especially on startup or idle; Rough idle and stalling shortly after startup; Check Engine light illuminates (P0300 cylinder misfire code); Engine dies during normal driving; Coolant level drops; coolant may spout from reservoir
Codes mentioned: P0300 (cylinder misfire)
Repairs/costs cited: Engine replacement quoted at $7,300. TSB 19-2346 addresses the issue but does not cover the repair cost; only owners with extended warranty may get coverage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 19-2346 issued but no recall. Owner must pay full cost unless extended warranty covers it.
Ignition switch sensitivity and 'Trans Not in Park' error
Ignition key is extremely sensitive; barely rotating the key back (not far enough to turn off the engine) causes the engine to cut out and display 'Transmission Not in Park' error message, even though the transmission is in Park. This can occur at highway speeds, especially if the key is bumped or jostled.
When: Reported at 48,000 miles; recurred three times over several months
Symptoms owners cite: Engine power loss at highway speed (60+ mph); 'Transmission Not in Park' message appears on dash; Engine must be restarted to regain power; Failure can be triggered by bumping ignition key with knee or leg
Repairs/costs cited: Ford dealer determined replacing ignition switch would not fix the problem, as multiple 2016 Fusions exhibit the same behavior. Suggested using parking brake until recall remedy is available.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford has not issued a recall. Dealers acknowledge other Fusions have the same issue but consider it normal behavior, not a defect.
Engine block crack and EcoBoost overheating
Engine overheats due to thermostat or engine block crack. Antifreeze and water spurt from reservoir. Engine temperature gauge moves to hot, and 'Power Reduced to Lower Engine Temp' warning appears. Vehicle may cut out on highway with check engine light. After repair, overheating recurs.
When: Reported at 73,000 miles on used purchase; overheating incidents on March 12, 22, 24, and April 11
Symptoms owners cite: Engine overheating; temperature gauge moves to H; Antifreeze and water spurt from reservoir; 'Power Reduced to Lower Engine Temp' message on dashboard; Vehicle loses power on highway; check engine light illuminates; Blunt sound from vehicle before power loss
Codes mentioned: Fuel system code (unspecified)
Repairs/costs cited: Initial repairs included thermostat and thermostat housing replacement at Pep Boys (5 days labor), and tube assembly replacement at independent shop. Overheating recurred within weeks despite repairs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall mentioned; customer was directed to independent repair shops rather than Ford dealer.
Synthesized from 297 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2016 Ford fusion. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA campaign number: 18v471000 (power train). Cannon Ford Lincoln (904 n davis ave, cleveland, ms 38732, (662) 843-2785) was contacted for several months and stated that the part was not available. The manufacturer was contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. *tt…
Car has 60k miles. Losing coolant no leak. Didn't start one day. Firestone couldn't find the problem. Had my car towed to baytown Ford. After a week and a $800 authorization to open the engine only. Next day I was told I need a new engine. $6k. My question was what caused the engine failure, and how can I be sure the new engine wont have the same problem. My oil changes are regular. Mobil 1 oil…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2016 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 powertrain problem on the 2016 Ford Fusion?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 297 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 194 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 60,169 and 105,000 miles, with the median around 83,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 60,169; a quarter make it past 105,000. 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 $2,500 for powertrain 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 powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain 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/2016/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.