2018 Ford Fusion
Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data
The 2018 Ford Fusion maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Ford Fusion.
For oil changes, the 2018 Ford Fusion takes 5W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 5 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Motorcraft Gold (OAT), and transmission fluid is Mercon LV. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.
When mounting wheels on the Ford Fusion, torque the lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.
Owners of the 2018 Ford Fusion have reported 5 common issues including "Steering Gear Bolt Loosening and Loss of Steering", "1.5L EcoBoost Engine Coolant Loss into Cylinders" and "Brake Vacuum Pump Failure and Hard Brake Pedal". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.
There are 2 NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2018 Ford Fusion. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.
Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.
The 2018 Ford Fusion uses 5W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (5 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 100 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.
Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2018 Ford Fusion. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.
Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2018 Ford Fusion.
Common problems reported by 2018 Ford Fusion owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.
Steering Gear Bolt Loosening and Loss of Steering
The steering gear bolts can loosen over time, causing a clunking noise and eventually partial or complete loss of steering control. Ford recalled over 1.3 million Fusions (2014-2018) for this defect. Owners report the steering wheel feeling loose or disconnected from the front wheels.
Ford issued recall 19S07 to inspect and replace the steering gear bolts with longer bolts and install a thread-locking patch. Contact your dealer to verify your VIN. If you notice steering play or clunking, do not drive the vehicle. The repair is free of charge.
Est. Cost: Covered under recall1.5L EcoBoost Engine Coolant Loss into Cylinders
The 1.5L EcoBoost engine can develop internal coolant leaks where coolant seeps into the combustion chambers through cracks in the engine block or cylinder head. Owners notice gradually dropping coolant levels with no visible external leak, white exhaust smoke, and eventually engine misfire codes.
Ford issued TSB 18-2346 acknowledging the issue. The repair may involve replacing the engine block, cylinder head gaskets, or the complete long block assembly. Check coolant levels regularly. This should be covered under the powertrain warranty if within the coverage period.
Est. Cost: $0 under warranty; $3,000 - $6,000 for engine replacement out of warrantyBrake Vacuum Pump Failure and Hard Brake Pedal
The mechanical brake vacuum pump on the 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost engines can fail, resulting in loss of brake assist. The brake pedal becomes extremely hard and requires significantly more force to stop the vehicle. A warning message may appear on the dash.
Replace the brake vacuum pump assembly. Ford issued a TSB acknowledging the high failure rate. Some owners have experienced multiple pump replacements. Inspect the vacuum lines for leaks as well, as a cracked line can mimic pump failure.
Est. Cost: $400 - $900Door Latch Failure (Recall)
Like the Focus, the 2013-2018 Fusion is affected by the massive door latch recall. The door latch pawl spring tab can fracture, preventing the door from staying closed. Doors may pop open during driving or refuse to latch at all.
Ford issued recalls 15S27 and 16S36 to replace all affected door latches. Contact your dealer to verify your VIN. If the door-ajar warning stays on or a door will not latch securely, have the vehicle towed to the dealer. The repair is free of charge.
Est. Cost: Covered under recallTransmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting (6-Speed Auto)
The 6F35 six-speed automatic transmission in the Fusion develops a shudder or vibration during light acceleration between 25-50 mph, similar to driving over rumble strips. The issue is caused by degraded transmission fluid and worn torque converter clutch material. Hard shifts between 2nd and 3rd gear are also common.
Ford issued a TSB recommending a complete transmission fluid flush with Mercon LV fluid as the first step. If the shudder persists, the torque converter may need replacement. Perform transmission fluid changes every 30,000 miles to prevent recurrence.
Est. Cost: $200 - $400 for fluid flush; $1,200 - $2,500 for torque converter replacement2 NHTSA safety recalls for the 2018 Ford Fusion. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
A brake fluid leak will increase brake pedal travel and extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S12.
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion vehicles. The steering wheel retaining bolt may loosen allowing the steering wheel to detach while driving.
A steering wheel detachment can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering wheel bolt with a longer bolt, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S08.