Ford Fusion 2006 - 2009 review

2006 Ford Fusion. Click for larger photo

Ford Fusion, introduced to North America as a 2006 model, was a big step forward for Ford. The Fusion was arguably the best family sedan produced by the "Big Three" at that time. The Fusion also played its role in helping Ford to survive the Recession of the 2008-2009. The 2006-2009 Ford Fusion is a reasonably priced, well-equipped mid-size sedan based on sporty Mazda6 platform. Mercury Milan and the Lincoln Zephyr also share the same platform.

• Overview
• Pros and Cons
• Overall
• What to look for when buying a used Ford Fusion
• Few maintenance tips
• Specifications
• Ford Fusion Photos

Overview

Ford Fusion interior. Click for larger photo

Ford Fusion instrument panel.
Click for larger photo

Ford Fusion 2.3L 4-cyl engine.
Click for larger photo

The 2006 Fusion was only available as a front-wheel drive; optional AWD was added to V6 models from 2007. The Fusion was available in S, SE and top-of-the-line SEL trims. The engine choices included a 2.3L 4-cylinder DOHC or 3.0L V6 DOHC engine. The 4-cylinder models came with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. The V6 models were only available with 6-speed automatic. Four-wheel disk brakes were standard; the ABS system was optional; standard on late models.

Inside, the Fusion is comfortable, with a well-designed simple dashboard and easy to read instruments. The fit and finish is great. The controls are well laid out. The storage compartment at the top of the dashboard is very convenient. The steering tilts and has telescopic adjustment. Available six-disc in-dash MP3-capable CD player sounds great. The front seats are very supportive. The rear seat space is sufficient. The 60/40 split rear seat folds down easily for extra cargo space.

On the road, Ford Fusion offers excellent handling with responsive steering and good road feel. The ride is quiet and comfortable. It's a real pleasure to drive the Fusion on the highway. The 3.0L V6 engine is smooth. The 2.3L 4-cylinder offers adequate power, but is a bit noisy on acceleration. I only have one small complaint: the turning radius could be better.

In the NHTSA frontal crash tests, models from 2006 to 2008-early release, received four stars for both the driver and the front passenger. The 2008-late release and 2009 model received five stars for both the driver and the front passenger. In the side-impact crash tests, 2006 Ford Fusion without side airbags received four stars for both the driver and the rear passenger seat. The 2006 model with side airbags as well as 2007-2009 models received five stars for the driver and four stars for the rear passenger. For more details, visit Safercar.gov

Pros

- Excellent handling and smooth ride
- Attractive styling in and out
- Good sound system
- Available AWD
- Reasonably priced
- Available with manual transmission
- Convenient storage compartment on the dashboard

Cons

- Fuel economy for V6 could be better
- Wide turning radius
- Rear visibility
- The ABS is not standard

Overall

Ford Fusion is a decent choice for a used family sedan - it looks good from the outside and is very comfortable inside. The Fusion offers smooth and quiet ride and excellent handling with wide turning radius being the only minus. I'd recommend the Fusion with a 4-cylinder engine, as it is more economical, easier to maintain and has sufficient power for daily driving. A 4-cylinder engine is also a lot easier to work on if you are a DIY person.
The Fusion has above-average reliability. Both the 2.3L 4-cylinder and the 3.0L V6 are decent engines and both have a timing chain, but lack of maintenance could lead to problems.

What to look for buying a used Ford Fusion

As a first step, check the used car history records; this could help you to avoid cars with hidden problems. Follow this link: How to check used car history. Check the service records if available, it's good to know if the car has been maintained regularly. Check all the door handles, they seem to break easy. During a test drive watch how the automatic transmission shifts. There shouldn't be any jerks or slipping. There are some complaints about the automatic transmission in early models. Make sure to test the air conditioner operation.
Blue smoke at start-up may indicate engine problems; avoid such a car. Learn more what to look for when buying a used car. Before buying a car, have it properly inspected by a mechanic. Check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.
Consider an extended warranty to protect from unexpected repair costs.

Few maintenance tips

By washing your car regularly and applying a car wax every three-four months you can keep the paint finish of your car shiny and protected from corrosion. Read more how to wax a car. Check the engine oil level regularly; running the engine low on oil can cause serious problems. Change transmission fluid at recommended intervals using only original transmission fluid. Check your tire pressure regularly; unequal tire pressure will cause increased wear of the AWD system components. Use only original parts. Read How to keep your car running longer. Check more Car maintenance tips. If you have a problem with your vehicle and want to repair it yourself, here is the link: Online car repair manual. If an ignition coil fails on your Ford Fusion, it's a good idea to replace all the spark plugs along with a new ignition coil.

2006 Ford Fusion specifications

Dimensions:
Overall length: Overall height: Overall width (excluding mirrors): Wheelbase:	190.2 in (4831 mm) 57.2 in (1453 mm) 72.2 in (1834 mm) 107.4 in (2728 mm)
Engines:
4-cylinder engine V6 engine	2.3-liter 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder 160 hp @ 6500 rpm, 156 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm 3.0-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 221 hp @ 6250 rpm, 205 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
EPA Fuel Economy (US MPG, L/100km):
2.3L 4-cylinder, manual: 2.3L 4-cylinder, automatic: 3.0L V6 automatic:	city: 20 MPG (11.8 L/100km) hwy: 28 MPG (8.4 L/100km) city: 21 MPG (11.2 L/100km) hwy: 29 MPG (8.1 L/100km) city: 18 MPG (13.1 L/100km) hwy: 27 MPG (8.7 L/100km)
Recommended Fuel:	87 octane
Fuel Tank Capacity:	17.5 US gallons (66.2 liters)
Engine oil capacity:
Oil change, including filter: 2.3L 4-cylinder engine 3.0L V6 engine	4.5 US qt (4.25L) 6.0 US qt (5.7L)