131 complaints reported

2011 Ford Fusion Brakes

Owner-reported problems and safety issues filed with NHTSA. Review common failures, severity levels, and complaint trends over time.

Reports
131
Crashes
4
Fires
1
Injuries
0

Complaint Timeline

Chronological view of owner reports

Nov 2025

There have been only been 3 instances that my ABS has activated in the past 4 years. During all 3 instances of the ABS activating, the ABS motor turned on for less than a second and then the brake pedal went soft and all the way to the floor. After this moment, I had little to no braking power. The pedal remained soft until the very end of the pedal travel. The brakes were very shifty and I had to have a shop bleed the ABS unit and lines. The first instance (2019) I had to swerve around a vehicle that blindly crossed traffic. I slammed on the brakes, ABS motor activated for less than a second and the pedal went to the floor and I did not slow down. I had to drive through someone's yard on the other side of the intersection because I had no brakes. The second time (2022) I was on the highway on a 2,500 mile road trip. In Utah, there was a rain storm (unusual) and the passing lane on the highway began gathering water. I hydroplaned and used the brakes to slow down. Same story - ABS briefly activated and the pedal went to the floor. I was able to slow down eventually by letting off the brake and gas and dealt with soft, ineffective brakes for the remainder of the trip. The third time (2025), I dodged a pothole only to hit another one I didn't see approaching a stop sign, and this activated the ABS very briefly, sending my pedal to the floor and losing braking. I was in the middle of the intersection by the time I stopped. There were no other cars around as it was a rural area. I had a shop nearby evacuate the ABS module both times and they discovered air in the unit. I simply cannot believe there hasn't been a recall on this, especially with all the reports made.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Nov 2025
Oct 2025

Abs module is bad

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Sep 2025
Aug 2025

I have filed a complaint last month and didn't have an email at the time..I was given a ticket number...[XXX], which upon searching isn't a thing. My son purchased a 2011 Ford fusion from a " mechanic" who claimed he just did the brakes, calipers etc..we replaced many parts and upon driving it within 4 days I lost all control braking at a speed of 35-40mph.. it's a miracle that I wasn't on the freeway. Had it towed to Keith's muffler in Westland mi.. after over a month decided they were not working on it anymore..and closed up shop. had it pushed to pioneer auto care next door , supplied them with a remanufactured part after determining it's the abs module.. most fusions have the exact problem however not for the 2011...Ford customer service said call nhtsa... where do I find the complaint online or can someone tell me what to do!!!!! I'm about to call channel 7 news because I'm out thousands.. and need a car. Most fusions have had a recall on the abs module.There seems to be absolutely zero regulatory departments overseeing auto mechanics in Michigan that will do anything to help me. Please advise. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Aug 2025
Dec 2024

The brake ABS module fails intermittently on 2010-2012 model year Ford Fusion Hybrid vehicles. It has failed multiple times on mine and I have only owned the vehicle for 2 months. The vehicle is available for inspection. When the module fails, the vehicle switches from electronic to manual braking; however, there are times when the brakes will not engage with the pedal at full travel, touching the floor board of the car. When this happens, the car does not stop and has almost resulted in accidents in the past and around April 2024, most recently for me. The only reason a crash did not occur is the light I was stopping for changed green and the car in front of me began moving. I was traveling approximately 25 mph when I began to press the brake pedal. I pumped the pedal 3 times but was still traveling around 15 mph when the light turned green. I had the car inspected by a mechanic because of this issue and found out the entire ABS module and brake pump housing is defective; the plastic pieces from the module that connect to the pump can fracture due to brake pressure. The module is also vin/vehicle specific and replacement parts are extremely hard to find. Symptoms leading to this issue are the parking brake lights-one on the instrument cluster and one on the information screen, and the Check Brake System message illuminate. There is also a clicking noise and vibration from the brake pedal, which I was told is the electronic assistance lever moving away from the pedal. There are multiple people talking about this in online forums and seems to be a well documented fault, even into 2024.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Dec 2024
Nov 2024

On multiple occasions after an ABS brake event, the brake pedal will travel all the way to floor with very little braking power. In some instances, the brake pedal returns to normal after a short amount of time and repetitive pumping of the the brake pedal. In other instances, an extended period of time and aggressive pumping and stabbing of the brake pedal is required to regain full brake control. In every case, this condition has occurred immediately following an ABS brake event. However, it does not occur after every ABS brake event, making it very unpredictable. There have been no warning lamps, messages, symptoms, or other indication of a problem prior to each occurrence. This vehicle has been inspected by a Ford Dealer. The dealer was not able to reproduce the problem, but loss of brake pedal with little brake control continues to occur unpredictably. We use this vehicle for commuting to downtown Minneapolis in heavy traffic and ice roads. Despite cautious driving habits, this issue has created multiple close call collisions with other vehicle.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Nov 2024
Oct 2024

The ABS Brake module had an internal failure, per the Lucas Ford Dealership in Burlington New Jersey. The Part I believe is available upon request. - The way my safety / the safety of others was put at risk was that my abs brake system had an internal failure. No car dash indicator lights came up, however my brake peddle became spongy and created a delayed brake time response due to the fact the brake would not engage until nearly fully depressed or engaged into the floor. - Once i noticed the brake issue and this brake concern did not go away I then contacted and brought my car to The lucas ford dealership in Burlington NJ, in which this dealership confirmed my brake issue and told me there was an internal failure in the abs brake module. - The Component has inspected by the Lucas ford dealership, who repaired the issue on 1-7-24 - No warning lamps, messages were emitted concerning this brake failure. The only reason I knew about this issue is due to the fact my brake peddle started to feel like a sponge when engaging the brake peddle to stop the car. - I have documentation of the repair done by Lucas Ford Dealership. - I appreciate the work the NHTSA does to keep U.S Citizens safe, which is why i am reaching out to explain the issue i had regarding my brake system to keep others out of harms way. After doing some research online, this issue regarding the abs module failure in this particular car model seems to be an issue other U.S Citizens are having. To note, This particular repair costs almost 2,000 dollars. At the time of this this submission was written, the repair report was not in hand, the repair report can be submitted upon request if further review is needed.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2024
Jan 2024

Car was working great and is serviced regularly. Brake system completely went out- throwing tons of codes. There was a recall for the same issue on models 2010 and earlier but not on the 2011 or later! Many people have had the same issue (brakes going out while driving, ABS module/pump failure, etc.). The parts to fix it are also currently discontinued!! I have no idea what to do because nobody is helping.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jun 2023
Jan 2024

When applying the brakes, they go almost all the way to the floor without warning. This just started happening this year so I had the master cylinder replaced by a certified mechanic and it still occurs intermittently. They will work fine for months at a time and then do exactly the same thing where they go almost all the way to the floor. It can happen when driving or at a stop. When it happens when driving at high speeds it is scary as I don’t feel I am going to stop. I am thinking of trading in the car because I don’t feel safe and feel that I am putting myself and others in danger.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: May 2024
Dec 2023

Abs pump failed resulting in very little brakes which almost caused a accident with my wife and daughter in the car. With no warning lights on and no indication of brake failure until they tried to avoid a car/ group of deer accident. Car had 25% brakes. They cautiously got the car home. Upon inspection no leaks or anything wrong with brake system. After doing research on the problem car is experiencing, I found that previous models of the fusion had been recalled for the same problem. 2011 and 2012 were still having problems with them, but no recall, even tho many owners had the same problem. $850 plus tax for just the part and no labor. I put a new abs pump in and corrected the problem. Ford should recall this as brakes are very important safety issue. This could kill or injure people as there is no warning at all to the failure.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Aug 2023
Nov 2023

The brake pedal on my 2011 Fusion compressed to the floor just barely stopping the vehicle. This happened suddenly without warning. This puts me, other drivers, and pedestrians at risk. This braking issue was confirmed by my mechanic. My mechanic said that the issue is with the hydraulic control unit (ABS part), and he said that it looks to be like the exact issue covered in the current recall for 2006-2010 Fusion models. He also replaced the brake master cylinder as part of the problem although the brake pedal is still very soft. The local Ford dealership confirmed the issue but says the ABS part is on back order thru early 2024.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Nov 2023
Sep 2023

I bought a used 2011 Ford Fusion 1 year ago with 91,000 miles on it. When I took it for a test drive, the brakes were fine. After I bought it and drove it for a few days, I noticed that when I was in stop and go traffic, the brakes weren't engaging as soon - and the brake pedal would have to be pressed much further down towards the floor before engaging. It only happened once in a while, but as the year went on, it was happening more and more often to the point that we are afraid to drive it. We brought it in to our mechanic who is very knowledgeable. He said that the issue is with the hydraulic control unit (ABS part), and he said that it looks to be like the exact issue covered in the current recall for 2006-2010 models. The mechanic has had it in his shop for two months as we wait for the parts to become available as they are on a national back order. The fact that these parts are on a national back order with lots of people waiting in line to purchase them tells me that my car is not the only one out there having this problem. I have researched on several forums online and am seeing multiple people reporting the same problem on their 2011 Fusions. This is an extremely scary situation because the brakes can just go out on you completely without any warning at all, working fine one minute and then completely gone the next. I refuse to put my life in danger to continue driving this car due to the safety concern, and am not sure how to handle this financially since I am making payments on a car that I can't drive and also paying for insurance for it to be sitting in the shop. I am hopeful that the NHTSA will investigate this complaint, as I am certain my situation is NOT unique.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Mar 2023
Aug 2023

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, she noticed smoke coming from the front passenger’s side tire. The contact stated that the ABS warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to park on the side of the road for an hour before restarting and continuing driving to her destination. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the brake hose needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact’s husband replaced the front passenger’s side brake hose himself. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2022
Jul 2023

The master cylinder has gone out 3 times within 6mo of repair and warranty repair. Yes, it was confirmed and repaired by Goodyear Auto Service Center both previous times. I have the receipt to the warranty repair. The third time just happened last night. The vehicle has a current state inspection sticker. No warning light or symptoms at all. When driving without warning the brakes go to the floor and it’s harder to stop when driving. Yes the vehicle can be inspected upon request. Last night I was approving the corner of an intersection. My destination was a store on the corner. My speed was approximately 40-45 and I began to slow down by not accelerating. As I became closer to the driveway I began braking at which point almost immediately I felt what I can best describe as a disconnect, almost a pop of release like. At this point the brakes immediately went to the floor and I was scared I wasn’t going to be able to stop. I pumped the brakes and was able to slow the car down and turn in.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jul 2023
May 2023

The 3rd time that an abs event has caused the brake peddle to go extremely soft. Eventually pressure in the peddle will regain after several weeks. The issue I'm experiencing is identical to Ford's Safety Recall 19S54 which states an issue with sticky abs valves and a loss of pressure in the braking system. I'm not sure why this vin is not included in the recall but I would really appreciate an NHTSA ordered recall as this can be an highly expensive fix that should have been included in Ford's recall, in my opinion. Thank you for considering.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Dec 2023
Mar 2023

While driving at 25-30 mph I stepped on the brakes to stop and alarm went off and warning of ABS system failure. I had to press brake pedal extremely hard to slow down to rolling stop, completed stop with parking brake. I took to independent mechanic who was unable to get the car to repeat the problem. After I picked up my car from mechanic it happened again, but when I turned the ignition off and opened the door the warning stops. I don't know what caused the brakes to fail and can't predict when it will happen again. This is very unsafe.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Mar 2023
Mar 2023

About 6 months ago, while driving, my car hit a bump in the road and the brakes went all the way to the floor when I tried to stop. I pulled to the side of the road, turned car off and restarted and brakes returned to normal. Two days ago for no reason the brakes became non-responsive again. I turned the car off and restarted and they began to work again. Shortly after that incident, on the same day, the warning lights came on and the brakes became unresponsive. After turning the car off, opening the door and restarting the brakes still were unresponsive and the warning lights are still on. I cannot drive the car safely because the brakes are not working and the warning lights are on non-stop.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Mar 2023
Mar 2023

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that on numerous occasions while driving over 45 mph there was a scrubbing noise originating from the driver front wheel. The contact stated that smoke was occasionally witnessed coming from the front driver side wheel. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving on numerous occasions and at various speeds, the brake was inadvertently applied without being depressed causing the vehicle to lose speed. The brake system safety warning light was illuminated each time. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed with an unknown failure and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated the failure persisted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer has been notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 167,420.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Dec 2022
Feb 2023

ABS Module and HCU Failure Additional brake pedal travel that feels jarring and decreased stopping power Brake Module Failure confirmed at Ford dealership - Garnet Ford requiring ABS Module and HCU replacement No, the vehicle was not inspected by Ford Corporate, police or insurance Service Advancetrack Now message with numerous dashboard lights quickly appeared and disappeared about 3 times before car was serviced February 2023

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Dec 2023
Jan 2023

When braking on a low traction surface, ABS activated pulsing the pedal. After this brake event, the brake pedal feels significantly soft and can be pushed nearly to the floor with ease. The braking distance has greatly extended and is unsafe to drive. The event closely matches the ABS valve issue in NTSA Campaign Number: 19V904000. This vehicle has not yet been taken for inspection nor repaired. This vehicle will be repaired soon but is currently available for inspection.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jul 2023
Jan 2023

While driving on the street, my car’s brakes were suddenly inoperative. The parking brake light and a brake system warning light were illuminated on my dash just as I went to use the pedal. (“Check brake system”). Despite pressing the pedal to the floor, I was unable to get the car to slow down at all. I was approaching a red light and had to shift the car into neutral, then use my parking brake to bring the car to a complete stop to narrowly avoid hitting the car in front of me. After turning the car off, then on again, the indicating lights disappeared and the car, from what I could see, acted as usual. The incident was completely spontaneous and posed a huge threat for not only myself, but drivers around me. After towing the car to my nearby mechanic I was told it was a possible problem with the Hydraulic brake/control assembly and ABS system. The estimate for repairs was nearly $3,000. My car is available for inspection upon request. After research, it appears it is a relatively common problem with my car’s make and model. Ford models of years previous to mine have seemingly had a similar issue, as well as others that were the same as mine. The damage possible with this manufacturing error is inexcusable. Completely spontaneous and at an exorbitant price for repair.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Feb 2023
Nov 2022

Brakes became extremely soft after an ABS event. No warning lights and brake pressure has not returned to normal

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: May 2022
Oct 2022

Had a catastrophic brake failure a couple days ago. Had a Christmas tree of lights from traction control, brakes and the wrench. The brakes had about 15% power effectiveness and went down nearly to the floor. Was forced to have a significant car gap when driving, downshift gears and use the emergency brake when slowing down and stopping. This is the worst hazard situation I have had in over 40 years of driving. Brake fluid was full. No leaks on the lines, calipers are fine, brakes were recently replaced(within past 2 months) and are fine. I have a picture of the warning lights documenting problem. I have not had any previous errors or problems like this.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Oct 2022
Oct 2022

after hitting some fairly harsh bumps, the next application of the brake pedal went almost to the floor and i had almost no brakes. there were no warning lamps, the brakes are good and the fluid level is ok.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Aug 2022
Sep 2022

The car was shaking at a low speed. When taken to the shop it was determined that the rotor was damaging the break lines which caused a need for a rotor, break pad , & break fluid lines. Once that work was done the brake pedal was soft & would not depress correctly. It is looking like a defective ABS module, which is what was recalled on the 2010 & below. His IS a problem with the 2011 too. It needs to be rectified! Ford, do the right thing.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jul 2022
Aug 2022

Brake peddle goes to the floor without any warning near accident. Replaced master cylinder and fluid. Continues still.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD FUSION, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Apr 2022

Trend Over Time

Complaints by year

Quick Summary

The 2011 Ford Fusion has 131 Brakes complaints on file. 4 crashes have been reported. Review the timeline above for detailed owner experiences.