The 2012 Ford Fusion is a midsize sedan with a price range of $8,235 to $13,643. Even though the Fusion is more affordable than some rivals, frequent mechanical problems and outdated technology are reasons buyers should look elsewhere.
2012 Ford Fusion: Quick Overview
- New features for 2012 include suspension changes, as well as Cinnamon and Red Candy Tinted Clearcoat Metallic paint choices. There’s a full redesign for the 2013 model year.
- Reliability ratings are average according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the 2011 model.
- Three engine choices are available, including an efficient four-cylinder and a powerful V6.
- Fuel economy is excellent and is in 2nd place out of 15 midsize cars with a combined rating of up to 26 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are good, with four out of five stars in government crash tests and a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2012 Ford Fusion ranks 11th out of 15 midsize cars, based on owner reviews. The 2012 model is outdated, has mechanical problems, and is a car we don’t recommend.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Ford Fusion Have?
The 2012 Ford Fusion problems cover power steering failures and faulty airbag inflators, among other major issues. The 2012 Fusion has more problems than other midsize cars on the market, and most of them are serious mechanical issues. Even with all the problems, there’s fewer complaints than the newer 2013 model.
Power steering problems, including power steering assistance failures, are the most common issues. The electronic steering system is a weak spot on the Fusion, with components wearing out around 65,000 miles. There is a recall on the steering system, but owners have had the parts fail several times. Replacing the parts costs about $1,500, depending on local labor rates.
Door handle failures are a very frequent problem as well. The interior door handle linkage breaks where it attaches to the latch cable. A replacement handle costs about $150.
Transmission problems including rough shifts are also common. Usually, the transmission begins to jerk and shift poorly when fluid levels are low. If you notice transmission problems check the fluid levels and add as needed.
There are six recalls, worse than other midsize cars from the same era. The recalls include a loss of electrical power steering assistance and the airbags. Most serious are electrical power steering assistance failures, since the problems can lead to accidents.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Ford Fusion is more affordable than other midsize cars on the market with a price range of $8,235 to $13,643, depending on the mileage and model. When new, the price range was $20,705 to $29,175. Depreciation is average, losing about 45% of the original value in the first five years.
- S is the entry-level model and has 16-inch alloy wheels, cloth seating, blind spot mirrors, keyless entry, and a four-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with 3.5mm AUX jack.
- SE is next in the lineup with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, a power driver’s seat, and a six-speaker stereo system.
- SEL focuses on luxury with improved 17-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated mirrors, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a Sync infotainment system.
- Sport is a performance-oriented model with a larger V6 engine, 18-inch wheels, sport suspension, spoiler, black exterior trim, and improved steering.
How Long Will the 2012 Ford Fusion Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Ford Fusion will last about 200,000 miles, which is standard for a midsize car. Expensive power steering problems happen about every 65,000 miles. Regular annual maintenance costs are average for the class. Repair Pal estimates the costs to be $583 per year.
It is mostly reliable. The only problem is related to the transmission. I am in fear that it is a problem that will be too expensive to fix.
The 2012 ford fusion se is a reliable vehicle when it comes to the engine. On the other hand after a certain time you will have to replace inside door handles. The car itself has a lot of body defects that are not covered on a recall even though ford is well aware of the issues.
Yes it is very reliable and I have experienced no problems with it since I have bought it and I would buy one again for sure.
My car is very reliable. It starts even on the coldest morning. I have had minimal work done on it, except for the occasional maintenance.
Mine has been very reliable. There's been no major problems since I have had it. We've had to do some minor repairs from hail damage and normal wear and tear.
I had the car passed down to me so there were already issues with the car from the previous owner. It still gets me where I need to go and I am fixing the issues one by one.
Right now it is reliable. I have a feeling in the near future it will require major maintenance as it feels like the power steering is about to go out and it has starter problems it takes about 10 sec for it to actually start.
As far as I know, there are no problems with the Ford Fusion. I have only provided the usual maintenance on my vehicle, such as oil changes, new tires and a new battery.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is basic in the Ford Fusion, with the entry-level models missing a lot of features found in other midsize cars.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with four speakers and an AUX connection.
- Upgrades include a Sync infotainment system, navigation, voice control, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity, as well as six-speaker or 12-speaker stereo systems.
- Standard safety features include Ford MyKey, which allows parents to set limits, antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, as well as airbags. Optional upgrades include parking sensors, a rearview camera, and blind-spot monitoring.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is good for a midsize car in the 2012 Fusion, and is quick with the upgraded engine. The larger V6 in the Sport model takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.7 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.5L four-cylinder with 175 horsepower.
- An optional V6 on the SE and SEL models is the 3.0L V6 which has 240 horsepower
- The engine found in the Sport model is the 3.5L V6 which produces 263 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Fusion?
The 2012 Ford Fusion is a bit bigger than other midsize sedans on the market. Passenger room is good with plenty of room for adults in the front and back seats. Cargo space is one of the largest found in a midsize sedan at 16.5 cu. ft. of room in the trunk. There’s enough room to fit four to five suitcases.
How Does the 2012 Ford Fusion Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 11th out of 15 midsize cars based on owner reviews, the 2012 Ford Fusion is near the bottom of the class.
A highly-rated competitor is the more expensive Toyota Camry. The Camry has better reliability ratings, and a lower cost of ownership. Where the Ford stands out is with more cargo space, and a higher-quality interior. The Camry will be less of a headache to own than a Fusion, and earns our recommendation.
Another close competitor is the more affordable Chevrolet Malibu. The Malibu has more room for passengers, and is more engaging to drive. Where the Fusion stands out is with better technology, and more luxurious trims throughout the cabin. Overall, though, both choices are not good sedans, and buyers should go with something more reliable.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Ford Fusion a Good Car?
No, the 2012 Ford Fusion is not a good car based on information from 1,089 verified owner reviews, and 16 government and automotive websites. The upsides include a more luxurious interior than the rivals, and decent fuel economy with the four-cylinder. Downsides are mechanical problems, and performance is weak in the entry-level models. Buyers in the market for a midsize car should look elsewhere since there are more reliable options from Toyota and Honda.