Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
In June 2023, Ford announced a new recall involving nearly 15,000 Ford Fusion plug-in hybrids (PHEV). Certain 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi vehicles can exhibit starting difficulties, power loss while in motion, or potential fire hazards.
When power loss occurs, drivers may be alerted with a “stop safely now” message before complete power failure or a no-start condition. Currently, Ford has not yet provided a definitive solution for the 2023 Ford Fusion Energi Recall.
Owners of Ford or other hybrid vehicles who have faced multiple repairs related to battery problems, such as overheating or power loss, might be eligible for a lemon law claim. This could potentially lead to a refund or cash compensation.
Affected Vehicle | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
Ford Fusion Energi | $64,396 |
*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.
What You Need to Know About the Ford Fusion Energi Recall
Reducing the battery’s charge level is intended to decrease the risk of power loss and potential fire hazards associated with the battery control module located in the trunk. The Fusion Plug-In Hybrid uses more gasoline when it is not charged.
Ford is currently recommending owners to refrain from plugging in or charging their vehicles. There is no final recall repair fix for this problem. Ford is offering an interim fix until they can finalize a remedy.
Documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal that Ford is aware of five incidents where fires occurred at dealerships during the replacement of the Battery Energy Control Module (BECM), with two of these fires happening while the vehicle was in use. These incidents took place between March 2022 and May 2023.
How Will Ford Fix the Problem?
Ford says it’s still working on a definitive solution for the Ford Fusion Energi battery issue. In the meantime, the company is offering an interim repair to address the problem, at no cost to drivers.
Dealers have been instructed to install a fuse block between the high voltage battery and the Battery Energy Control Module (BECM).
This measure aims to prevent potential internal high voltage battery failures from damaging the BECM, which could pose a fire risk in the luggage compartment.
Dealers will also implement a software update as part of this interim repair. This software update will disable the plug-in charging feature of the vehicle.
This means that if the car is connected to a high voltage charger, the battery will not charge. The vehicle will continue to function as a non-plug-in hybrid.
Ford suspects that the problem may occur when a battery’s current interrupt device (CID) activates and permits excessive current to pass through the BECM.
The CID is intended to disconnect the electrical circuit when a battery fault is detected. The exact cause of the CID’s unexpected activation has not yet been identified.
On February 8, 2023, Ford issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) to its dealers, advising them to replace the high-voltage battery if a customer brings in a Fusion Energi with voltage sense diagnostic trouble codes, rather than just replacing the BECM.
Ford Fusion Energy Recall Checklist
See if Your Fusion is Included
To determine if your Ford Fusion Energi is part of the recall, you can enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) into the NHTSA’s safety recall check website.
The VIN is typically found on the lower left-hand side of the dashboard, on the driver’s side door frame, or on your vehicle registration documents.
Contact Ford
If your Ford vehicle was included in this recall, you should have received a safety recall notice from the automaker.
If you are currently experiencing issues such as power loss or battery problems, please have your vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Make sure to inform Ford of the issues you are experiencing and keep detailed records of each repair visit.
Exploring Other Options
In the absence of an official repair from Ford or General Motors, you may need to consider alternative solutions.
This could include not using the vehicle until a repair is available or exploring temporary fixes that can mitigate risks until a formal repair is available.
Seeking Legal Help
If your Ford Fusion Energi has suffered repeated battery issues or if the recall has led to significant inconveniences or safety concerns, it may be beneficial to seek legal advice.
A lawyer specializing in Lemon Law or consumer protection can help you understand your rights and explore options such as filing a Lemon Law claim, which could entitle you to a refund or cash compensation.
Connect with a Qualified Lemon Law Attorney Today
If you’re facing persistent issues with your Ford Fusion Energi’s battery and haven’t found a resolution through your dealership or Ford, seeking legal assistance may be your next step.
A seasoned lemon law attorney can help you a refund, a replacement vehicle or cash compensation.
If you have any questions about a defective 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi, the Lemon Law Experts are prepared to assist you. Since 2009, our team has been committed to devising effective legal strategies for numerous California consumers.
We have a strong track record of winning lemon law cases against major automakers, including Ford.
Our free consultation provides a detailed evaluation of your case, enabling you to make an informed decision about your legal options.
With our help, you can secure the compensation and justice you deserve. Contact the Lemon Law Experts at (877) 885-5366 today for a free, no-obligation review of your situation.
Citations
“23S33 – Fusion 2019-2020 Battery and Power Loss Recall.” Ford, https://www.ford.com/support/how-tos/recall/recalls-and-faqs/23s33-fusion-2019-2020-battery-and-power-loss-recall/.
Kelley Blue Book. “Recall Alert: 2019-2020 Ford Fusion PHEV.” Kelley Blue Book, https://www.kbb.com/car-news/recall-alert-2019-2020-ford-fusion-phev/.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). (2023). Technical Service Bulletin (TSB): MC-10232489-0001. Retrieved from https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2023/MC-10232489-0001.pdf
Consumer Reports. “Don’t Charge Ford Fusion Plug-In Hybrids Until Recall Repair.” Consumer Reports, https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-recalls-defects/dont-charge-ford-fusion-plug-in-hybrids-until-recall-repair-a7402731633/.