Ford Fusion Transmissions: Overview, Problems, Fluids

The first generation of the Ford Fusion was rolled out in 2005. American consumers have embraced it with a flurry of excitement. Car enthusiasts hailed it as a thrilling driving experience that solidified the place of Ford in the market. The Ford Fusion went through several changes to expand the appeal of the car between 2006 and 2009. The second generation had hit the market in 2012 with three new trim options, namely the Ford Fusion Energi, the Ford Fusion Titanium, and the Ford Fusion Platinum. It introduced smart safety features, such as adaptive cruise control that helps adjust cruise control speeds and detect other vehicles. Along similar lines, we will discuss the transmissions the Ford Fusion has embraced throughout its journey. So, here we go.

In the first generation, Ford Motor used different models of transmissions alternating between automatic and manual in the Ford Fusion. The car manufacturer, though, also embraced eCVT besides manual and automatic transmission in the second generation of the Ford Fusion.

Unquestionably, the above explanation does not give an extensive and in-depth understanding of the different transmissions the Ford Fusion has embraced across its journey so far. For broader comprehension, we will see them along the lines of different dimensions. Starting with the durability and the cost of these transmissions, we will jump to find out the common problems associated with them. Subsequently, we will grasp the differences between those transmissions. For your help, we will also provide you with the source, at last, to get the fluid for your transmission.

Also read: Types Of Gas A Ford Fusion Takes (All Generations)

What's Inside show

What Transmissions Has The Ford Fusion Used?

Now, let us see a few different transmissions the Ford Fusion has used throughout its journey.

First Generation (2005–2012)

5-speed Mazda G5M manual
5-speed Mazda FNR5 automatic
6-speed Mazda G6M manual
6-speed Ford 6F35 automatic
6-speed Aisin TF-80 automatic
Continuous variable transmission

Second Generation (2012–2020)

6-speed Ford B6 manual
6-speed Ford 6F automatic
eCVT

How Long Does A Ford Fusion Transmission Last?

Whereas it largely depends on the transmission that the vehicle embraces, the average shelf-life of a Ford Fusion transmission spans from 80,000 miles to 180,000 miles. Notably, keeping the fluid levels to the top is a good idea to increase its service life. Meanwhile, it is also advisable to fix any problems right away before it damages other parts.

Also read: How Many Miles Can A Ford Fusion Last? (Answered)

How Much Does A Ford Fusion Transmission Cost?

It is, indeed, logical to know the cost of different transmissions when one wants to have a new transmission. Therefore, we outline the prices below for your help to make up your mind accordingly.

5-speed Mazda G5M manual: $2,052.00 (reman-transmission)
5-speed Mazda FNR5 automatic: $2,256.00 (reman-transmission)
6-speed Ford 6F35 automatic: $1,677.50 (eBay)
6-speed Aisin TF-80 automatic: $2,195 (SPPrecision)

Common Ford Fusion Transmission Problems

Here we outline a few common problems concerning transmissions that Ford Fusion drivers face during driving.

G5M

The G5M is overall a fine transmission, and the gears also hold up. However, the shift forks do not like to get abused.
The forks will last a long time and do not get blended, provided that the drivers remain gentle with the shifter.
You may require to change forks often, nearly every five races, given that many people drive the exact vehicle. It is evident because you can’t expect everyone to treat it sensitively.
The hard launches damage the differential. Otherwise, gear sets and the differential hold up fine.
You may require to disassemble the transmission when you want to swap bell housings.

FNR5

A driver may face overdrive clutch burning in the case of an aggressive driving style.
You may also need to replace the complete set of a filler block and linings friction clutches during a considerable repair.
Moreover, you may also require the clearance of the valve body. It will help improve the cooling of the gearbox and scientific grease.

6F35

The 6F35 transmission may reveal a slight shudder on two-to-three upshifting, although it is decent most of the time.
When manually shifting the shift lever, a driver may experience a jolt.
Oil starvation can lead to clogging of the hydraulic plate.
It is essential to spot problems timely regarding clutch slips, oil pressure, and torque converter. It prevents you from costly replacement of the valve body, solenoids, and worn-out hardware.

TF-80

A burning smell often hints that something is wrong with the transmission.
On some occasions, cars with the TF-80 transmission may slip out of gear.
If there is a long slip, it may also prevent manual shifting.
Leaking is another problem with the transmission. Going low on fluid may indicate the given issue.
It may also have a harsh shift into Drive. Although the intensity of harshness may not be the same, it may also occur in reverse.

Also read: Ford Fusion Hybrid: All Common Problems You Should Know

Differences Between Transmissions

The G5M is a five-speed automatic transmission designed to offer short-throw shifting, give the four-cylinder engine line-up a crisp, and ensure low shifting effort in sports car style. It also allows quick-shifting because it has a high power synchronization feature. The given innovation feature also provides precision engagement and convenient shift effort for the first and second gears.

The FNR5 is a 5-speed automatic transmission. Under normal circumstances, it changes forward gears without the requirement of drive input, and it handles up to 25 ft-lbs of torque.

The 6F35 is a 6-speed automatic transmission. It boasts multiple innovative features that provide quieter operation, better fuel economy, and reduced NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness). For the record, it is a front-wheel-drive transmission. It is one of the transmissions that represents an all-encompassing strategy to deliver sustainable solutions for customers.

The TF-80 is a 6-speed automatic transmission. It fits in the same space as a manual transmission. When it comes to its measurements, it weighs 90 kg and 358 mm in length. The presence of both a Ravigneaux gear set and a 5-pinion planetary gear set makes it unbelievably compact and light. It is a sophisticated computer program that manages the shifting of gears. The program essentially oversees a clutch-to-clutch actuation. Besides, it is considered a maintenance-free gearbox because it uses proprietary transmission fluid.

Transmission Fluids And The Ford Fusion

We suggest resolving the issues as soon as possible to ensure the seamless running of the transmission. While talking about transmission fluids, many experts in the field suggest changing it between 30,000 miles and 60,000 miles. Nevertheless, bear in mind that all gearboxes do not entertain the same fluid. For your help, we provide you with the source below. It will get you the one suitable for your transmission.

G5M, FNR5, 6F35, TF-80: Transmission fluid

References

Stefan K.

Hi! My name is Stefan; I’m the owner and lead writer at TheDriverAdviser.com.

I’m an active writer on this blog myself, as well as a novice car mechanic. For the really technical stuff, I find writers with experience as a mechanic or who have studied mechanical engineering.

Read more about our fantastic team on our about page!

Have More Questions? Join Our Facebook Group!

Do you have any more questions that weren´t answered in this blog post? Join our free Facebook group and ask your question there. We promise you you´ll get an answer from one of our team members. Join the group here!