2016 Ford Fusion Problems
Shopping for a used 2016 Ford Fusion? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Based on 500 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Engine Problems the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2016 Ford Fusion has 500 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Engine Problems.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2016 Ford Fusion Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated energy efficiency for the 2016 Ford Fusion. Values shown in MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent).
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 7 trims analysed.
2016 Ford Fusion Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested — showing 2016 Ford Fusion 4 DR AWDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
10.9% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
10.9% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2016 Ford Fusion has 500 owner complaints, 16 crash-related complaints, and 12 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Engine Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Ford
- Model
- Fusion
- Model year
- 2016
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 500
- Crash-related complaints
- 16
- Safety recall campaigns
- 12
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPGe combined
- 28
- EPA MPGe city / highway
- 24 / 36
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electric range (miles)
- 550
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2016 Ford Fusion problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Uncategorized Issues
Back Over Prevention
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Uncategorized Issues, Back Over Prevention. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2016 Ford Fusion?
The 2016 Ford Fusion shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2016 Ford Fusion
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the engine for any signs of problems or prior repairs.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for reported components, especially engine and transmission.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase, focusing on engine, steering, and back-over prevention systems.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect the engine for any signs of problems or prior repairs.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for reported components, especially engine and transmission.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase, focusing on engine, steering, and back-over prevention systems.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2016 Ford Fusion, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Complaints for the 2016 Ford Fusion are heavily concentrated in the Engine Problems category, accounting for nearly half of all reports. Other notable areas include Back Over Prevention, Steering Defects, and Transmission/Drivetrain issues. The data suggests potential concerns with these systems, though the low confidence level and consumer-submitted nature of the data warrant caution.
- Engine Problems account for 238 of the 500 total complaints.
- Back Over Prevention has 59 complaints, indicating a possible issue with the system.
- Steering Defects and Transmission/Drivetrain each have over 40 complaints.
- Engine Problems
- Back Over Prevention
- Steering Defects
Full breakdown
All 2016 Ford Fusion complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2016 Ford Fusion. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 238 | 3 | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 66 | 1 | — | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 59 | 3 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 54 | 3 | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 48 | 1 | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 40 | 2 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 39 | 5 | 1 | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 16 | 1 | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 12 | 1 | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 10 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 9 | 3 | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 7 | 1 | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 5 | 1 | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Lane Departure | 3 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 3 | 1 | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Tether | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Lower Anchor (On Car Seat Or Vehicle) | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Other/I Am Not Sure | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Parking-Brake Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Traction Control System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Firerelated | 1 | — | 1 | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2016 Ford Fusion. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while his wife was making a left turn, the steering wheel lost steering capabilities, and the vehicle did not steer as intended. The vehicle then ran into a divider on the four-lane highway and then came to a full stop.…
See attached document for complaint. In Oct I received letter (see enclosure) that there is a recall on my rear view camera. I’ve been waiting for Sam Galloway Ford in Ft Myers to call me to say they have parts to fix. I called them yesterday 3/9/26 and they didn’t have any id…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that the rear sensor for the camera was inoperable. The contact stated that unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact received a notification letter of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The …
CAR IS OVER HEATING AND ENGINE LIGHT ON. SAME ISSUES AS THE 2017 FORD FUSIONS RECALL BUT I WAS TOLD THE FIRE RISK FROM ENGINE COOLANT LEAKS AND ENGINE BLOCK HEATER FAILING DOES NOT COVER MY YEAR EVEN THOUGH THE ISSUES ARE COMPLETLY THE SAME.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The contact stated that intermittently while reversing, the screen was blank. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or re…
For over a year my reverse camera is malfunctioning. Initially it seemed like hot days but now its almost all the time it is not working. In October it was recalled and I had my car serviced shortly after and was told they were expecting a resolution to it in December. Still no …
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while attempting to reverse, the rearview camera became inoperable. The contact stated that the rearview camera intermittently operated but was turning on and off. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Num…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The contact stated that while in reverse(R), lines appeared on the screen. The contact stated that over a while the lines on the screen became worse.…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while in reverse(R), the rear-view camera image failed to di…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the rear-view camera displayed a b…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. While driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from underneath the hood. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed, and metal shavings were found inside the engine in cylinders #1 and #4. Additionall…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The contact stated that while shifted in reverse(R) on several occasions, the rear-view camera did not operate as intended and the screen was black. …
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera displayed a blank imag…
I called way scarff ford to have the safety recalls taken care. Got my appointment, stopped the car off in the morning. They kept the car for 3 days and after the 3rd day they said everything is good to go. Go there in Auburn WA couldn't find my car. Took 4 people or including…
See attached document for complaint.
The plastic part on the transmission melted. I had to get my transmission rebuilt. This has been a problem for many Ford vehicles with this engine type because who makes a transmission out of plastic!?
The steering gear went out causing the steering wheel to completely lock up. It’s costing thousands of dollars to repair. Not sure why this recall isn’t associated with my VIN number but other 2016 ford fusions. My car is in the shop now to be fixed and was quoted over 3k
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel started to shake while driving at slower speeds, and the shaking ceased while driving at higher speeds. The message "Steering Fault - Service Now" was displayed.…
severe coolant intrusion issue where coolant leaks into the cylinders, causing rough running, overheating, and potential engine failure. Very unsafe especially due to the fact the their were recalls on the 2017-2019 but not for 2016 models and ford refuses to replace the engine.f…
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Fusion. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exc…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2016 Ford Fusion.
Safety recalls
2016 Ford Fusion recalls
12 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2016 Ford Fusion. 12 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT
SEAT BELTS:FRONT
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2016 Ford Fusion buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2016 Ford Fusion reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 500 owner complaints, 16 crash-related complaints, and 12 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2016 Ford Fusion shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Ford Fusion?▾
#1: Engine Problems (238 complaints). #2: Uncategorized Issues (66 complaints). #3: Back Over Prevention (59 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2016 Ford Fusion?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2016 Ford Fusion?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2016 Ford Fusion, NHTSA complaints include 16 crash-related reports and 2 fire reports out of 500 total complaints. 4 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2016 Ford Fusion have any recalls?▾
Yes. 12 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2016 Ford Fusion. A major recall area is STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM. 12 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2016 Ford Fusion?▾
The 2016 Ford Fusion shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Ford Fusion reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2016 Ford Fusion based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.