NHTSA Complaint #11583030 — 2017 FORD FUSION

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the temperature gauge displayed that the engine was overheating. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and inspected the vehicle for leaks, but none were found. The contact added coolant to the coolant reservoir and was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who performed a pressure test, but no leaks were found. The independent mechanic diagnosed that there was a misfire in cylinder #2. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for a diagnosis. The contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N12 (Short Block Replacement After Coolant Intrusion) and Technical Service Bulletin: 22-2229 (Coolant in Cylinders, White Exhaust Smoke And/or Illuminated MIL); however, the VIN was not included in the Customer Satisfaction Program and the vehicle was not covered under the TSB. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.