2018 Ford Fusion: engine failure

Filed Oct 5, 2026 · Engine · FL

My 2018 Ford Fusion suffered a sudden and complete engine failure caused by internal coolant intrusion — coolant leaking into the cylinders and destroying the engine. Pep Boys diagnosed that the failure developed internally over time and could not have been avoided by the owner. This is a known Ford factory defect in the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, documented in Ford's own publications (SSM 47204, SSM 47462, TSB 19-2346, TSB 22-2229), all of which cover the 2018 Fusion. The root cause is Ford's open-deck engine-block design, which allows coolant intrusion and cracking between cylinders. Ford corrected the design in 2019 production. A federal class action (Nelson et al. v. Ford, E.D. California) and the federal safety agency defect petition DP26008 concern this same defect. The sudden loss of engine power created an unsafe driving condition. My warranty claim was denied based on a 'blown head gasket' finding, which is the symptom of the factory defect, not the cause.

Filed Sep 30, 2026 · Engine · NC

Capital Ford of Wilmington diagnosed my vehicle with coolant intrusion into cylinder 2, accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes P0302 and P0316, after check engine light came on. I have been advised that the vehicle requires a complete engine replacement, with an estimated cost of $13,180.89. The vehicle has experienced sputtering and hesitation, creating concern that it could lose power or stall. These symptoms are concerning. After researching this issue, I have learned that coolant intrusion is a documented problem associated with certain Ford vehicles equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine produced during the 2017–2019 period. Ford has addressed this issue through Technical Service Bulletins and Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12. I contacted Ford and was told that my VIN is not covered under the Customer Satisfaction Program. When asked why mine was not covered but other were , Ford stated that even if it is the same issue that is being recalled if my VIN is not flagged it will not be covered for any recall or assistance.I called Ford when I first purchase vehicle and asked about this recall and was told if I didn't have anything wrong with my car and no engine lights that my car was fine and to bring it in if I have any issues.

Filed Sep 25, 2026 · Engine · OH

My 2018 Ford Fusion Titanium FWD (VIN: [XXX]) suffered a catastrophic engine failure while driving, causing sudden vehicle overheating, severe engine misfires, and a dangerous loss of power on the roadway.A certified Ford dealership inspection (Invoice #XXX) confirmed that the vehicle has a textbook manufacturing flaw known as EcoBoost coolant intrusion. A pressure test showed an immediate 5 PSI drop within 10 minutes, and a borescope confirmed that engine coolant is actively leaking across the block interface and pooling directly inside the engine cylinders (cylinders 2 and 3).This is a known, widespread structural engineering defect in Ford's block casting that creates a severe, sudden safety hazard by causing vehicle stalling and clouding exhaust smoke while operating at highway speeds. The vehicle is now entirely unsafe to drive and requires a full engine block replacement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Aug 25, 2026 · Engine · DE

my 2018 ford fusion has catastrophic engine failure. Engine stuttering and misfires with check engine light. Low coolant levels with no visible puddles under the car. Engine overheating, could possibly catch fire. Car recently had a tuneup was told no issues at the time. Failure mileage at 109,000.

Filed Jun 30, 2026 · Engine · UT

Coolant Intrusion issue with the 1.5-litre EcoBoost. Short block was replaced by Ford Dealer then engine failed again after only 7,000-miles. Required complete new engine installed at my expense, $12,185.28.

Filed Jun 20, 2026 · Engine · WI

My engine failed months ago, and my car has been sitting immobile ever since. My car stuttered while driving, and then turned off. As I started it back up and continued driving down the road, it was shaking very badly. I called my brother to come drive my car home and he pulled clear fluid out of my oil tank. The exact issue described has been put out in the new ford recall under code 26S43.

Filed Jun 13, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · NC

I purchase this car on XXX Clinton Ford Dealership and engine need replacement Jan 2020 . I at that time did many replacement until the final diagnostic said engine replacement confirm by dealership Ford Dealership Fayetteville NC . The purge valve canister went out in 2022 and was replaced by Ed’sTire in Hope Mills Rd 11/19–11/22/2022 and now mechanic said it is in need of replacement again . Car problems started 2026 Feb and three pieces were replaced because the system was reading those code now to find out the purge valve canister needs replacement again. These hardship have cost me financial difficulties that a new car should never have had within 2 years . I believe no consumer should have to go through this.

Filed May 25, 2026 · Engine · AZ

My 1.5L EcoBoost engine experienced coolant intrusion into the cylinders, a known and documented defect associated with this engine family across multiple Ford model years. Prior to the failure, the vehicle displayed symptoms consistent with internal coolant loss, including white exhaust smoke, coolant level dropping without visible external leaks, and rough running. No external coolant leak was ever identified. The vehicle was subsequently diagnosed by an independent service center, which confirmed coolant intrusion into the engine internals consistent with a head gasket or coolant jacket failure. The component is available for inspection upon request. The failure rendered the vehicle completely undriveable. The vehicle has been out of service for approximately 12 months and has not been driven since the failure occurred. The repair was quoted at approximately $12,000 for a full engine replacement, exceeding the current market value of the vehicle. Safety was put at risk due to sudden loss of engine performance and drivability while the vehicle was in use on public roads. Coolant intrusion can cause hydrolock, catastrophic engine seizure, and sudden loss of power, all of which create risk of collision, particularly at highway speeds. This failure is consistent with a well-documented defect in the 1.5L EcoBoost engine design, which has been the subject of technical service bulletins and consumer complaints regarding coolant entering the combustion chamber. The failure occurred with no prior accident, overheating event, or owner-caused damage.

Filed May 21, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · CA

Formal Complaint – 2018 Ford Fusion 1.5L EcoBoost – Engine Block Defect Statement of Issue:I am writing to report a premature engine failure on my 2018 Ford Fusion 1.5L. The vehicle is exhibiting all symptoms of the well-documented "coolant intrusion" defect described in Ford Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 22-2222. Despite following all recommended maintenance intervals, the engine block has failed, allowing coolant to enter the combustion chamber.Observations:Confirmed coolant loss with no external leakage found via pressure test.Significant white smoke and rough idle upon cold start. Desired Resolution: Since this is a known manufacturing defect involving the engine block's cooling channels—and not a result of wear and tear—I am requesting a "Goodwill Repair" for a long-block replacement. The current TSB denial based on [8 years] is unacceptable for a known catastrophic design flaw that compromises vehicle safety.

Filed Feb 5, 2026 · Engine · TX

While operating my 2018 Ford Fusion, the vehicle began experiencing internal coolant loss resulting in engine misfires, rough running, and white exhaust smoke. The coolant intrusion caused engine failure and loss of reliability. This condition creates a safety risk, as it can lead to loss of power while driving, hesitation, and the possibility of engine shutdown. The defect occurred without warning and is consistent with widespread reports involving Ford EcoBoost engines. This issue is not related to maintenance or normal wear and tear but is a known design defect acknowledged through service bulletins and consumer litigation. Repair requires full engine replacement.

Filed Nov 25, 2025 · Engine · 100,000 miles · GA

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started shuddering violently, hesitated, and failed to accelerate to approximately 35 MPH. The check engine warning light was flashing. The contact related the failure to the Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N12. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the cylinders. The dealer informed the contact that the engine small block needed to be replaced, but a full engine replacement was recommended. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and filed a complaint. The manufacturer advised the contact that a future report would be issued. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Filed Aug 8, 2025 · Engine · 59,851 miles · TN

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that after the engine was replaced, there was an abnormally loud banging sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle with a cracked engine flex plate. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 59,851.