Introduction
The 2014 Ford Fusion was a popular mid-size sedan, admired for its style, comfort, and features. But over time, many owners have reported recurring problems—from steering issues to transmission glitches. In this guide, you’ll learn the most common 2014 Fusion problems, clear ways to spot them, and how to fix or prevent them.
Is the 2014 Fusion Reliable?
According to reliability trackers like Kelley Blue Book and Consumer Reports, the 2014 Fusion carries a medium risk of major repairs, especially past 100,000 miles :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}. Complaints span power steering, transmission shifts, engine power loss, and infotainment quirks. Awareness and preventative maintenance can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Top Problems With the 2014 Fusion
1. Power Steering Failure
Direct answer: Many owners report total loss of electric power steering—making the wheel extremely hard to turn, often with warning messages like “Steering Fault.”
A Reddit post shares:
“I just recently lost my entire power steering… Now the Steering has Fully Failed… Steering Loss, Stop Safely Messages.” :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Symptoms: Hard steering, warning messages, erratic steering assist.
- Cause: Electric power steering unit or sensor failure.
- Fix: Replace or reprogram EPAS system—frequently covered by the 2013–2015 recall :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
2. Transmission Shift Problems & Roll-Away Risk
Direct answer: The 2014 Fusion may suffer from delayed, harsh gear shifts and a faulty shifter cable bushing that can detach—posing roll-away danger.
- Symptoms: Jerky 2nd–3rd shifts, over-revving, warning lights when shifting to “P.” :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Cause: Valve body wear, transmission fluid issues, detaching shifter cable bushing.
- Fix: Fluid and filter service, valve body repair; recall rollback for shifter cable bushing (2013–2016 models) :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
3. Engine Power Loss
Direct answer: Owners report unexpected power drops, often due to throttle body or engine sensor issues.
Consumer Reports places engine power among the worst categories for 2014 Fusion :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}. This may surface as rough idling, hesitation, or limp mode activation.
- Symptoms: Engine loses power suddenly, rough idle, hesitation on acceleration.
- Cause: Failing throttle body, MAF/O2 sensors, or intake leaks.
- Fix: Clean or replace throttle body, swap sensors, inspect vacuum lines.
4. Takata Airbag Recall
Direct answer: The 2014 Fusion was impacted by recalls over Takata airbags and improperly welded seat-back frames.
- Issue: Dangerous airbag inflators and seat back structural defects :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Fix: Ford provided free replacements for airbags and seat frames to affected owners.
5. Infotainment & Electronics Glitches
Direct answer: Owners report MyFord Touch freezing, rebooting, losing Bluetooth, or misreading key fobs.
A JustAnswer thread described a common “No Key Detected” error after frequent shut-offs, leaving the car unable to start for several minutes :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
- Symptoms: Frozen screen, misplaced Bluetooth, “No Key Detected” error.
- Cause: Outdated APIM modules, weak key fob battery, or software faults.
- Fix: Firmware update, replace APIM or key fob battery.
6. Suspension & Steering Wear
Direct answer: Due to mileage, worn bushings and steering linkages often cause clunks over bumps and loose handling.
Consumer Reports classifies steering/suspension among major trouble areas :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
- Symptoms: Creaks, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
- Cause: Worn bushings, tie rods, or struts.
- Fix: Replace worn components and align the wheels.
7. V6 Water Pump & Engine Cooling (if applicable)
Direct answer: Internal water pumps in V6 engines may leak coolant into the oil, destroying the engine.
While not all 2014 Fusions have V6 engines, those that do are at risk. Internal water pump failures are catastrophic and costly :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
- Symptoms: Overheating, oil/coolant mixing, white smoke.
- Cause: Internal pump failure and seal breakdown.
- Fix: Replace pump and potentially the engine if damage occurred.
Recalls and TSB Summary
| Issue | Years Affected | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| EPAS Steering Loss | 2013–2015 | Recall repair for steering gear or module :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10} |
| Shifter Cable Bushing | 2013–2016 | Recall repair to prevent roll-away risk :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11} |
| Takata Airbags | Up to 2014 | Free inflator replacements :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12} |
| Seat Back Frame Defect | 2013–2014 | Free frame weld repair :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13} |
Maintenance & Prevention Tips
- Steering check: At 60K miles, inspect EPAS system and address warning messages immediately.
- Transmission care: Change fluid/filter every 60K; address jerky shifts early.
- Engine sensing: Clean or replace throttle body and MAF/O2 sensors as part of regular tune‑ups.
- Infotainment updates: Get APIM firmware refreshed and replace key fob batteries every 2 years.
- Suspension service: Inspect shocks, bushings, and tie rods every 50K miles.
- Cooling vigilance: For V6 models, monitor coolant and oil—look for discoloration or milky appearance.
When to DIY vs. See a Mechanic
- DIY-friendly: Fluid changes, throttle body cleanings, fuse/key battery swaps, and firmware updates.
- Mechanic required: Steering gear replacements, valve body/transmission repair, suspension work, and engine rebuilds.
Owner Testimonials
“Steering failed at low speed; dealer replaced the EPAS motor under recall and it was fixed.”
“Transmission jerked badly in 2‑3 shift; fluid change helped, but valve body rebuild resolved it completely.”
Final Thoughts
The 2014 Ford Fusion offers strong value and a comfortable ride—but like any aging car, it’s prone to specific issues. Prioritize steering and transmission health, address recalls promptly, and stay on top of maintenance. With smart care, your Fusion can provide reliable performance for years to come.
Have you experienced any Fusion issues? Leave a comment below and share your tips or questions to help other owners!