Welcome! This manual guides you through the 2012 Ford Fusion’s features, operation, and maintenance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience․
Overview of the Vehicle
The 2012 Ford Fusion represents a blend of style, comfort, and efficiency within the mid-size sedan segment․ Ford made adjustments for the 2012 model year, notably limiting the availability of the six-speed manual transmission to the base Fusion S trim․ This vehicle caters to drivers seeking a reliable and practical daily commuter, offering a range of engine options to suit different preferences․
The Fusion’s design emphasizes a modern aesthetic, while its interior prioritizes passenger space and convenience․ Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on longer journeys, the 2012 Fusion aims to deliver a balanced driving experience․ This manual will help you understand and maximize the potential of your Fusion․
Target Audience for this Manual
This manual is designed for all owners and operators of a 2012 Ford Fusion․ It’s intended for both experienced drivers and those new to the Ford brand, providing comprehensive guidance on vehicle operation and maintenance․ Whether you’re a first-time car owner or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide offers valuable insights into maximizing your Fusion’s performance and longevity․
We’ve tailored the content to be accessible and easy to understand, utilizing clear language and illustrative examples․ This resource is also beneficial for anyone involved in the vehicle’s upkeep, including those responsible for scheduled maintenance and routine fluid checks․ Safe and informed operation is our priority․
Understanding Your Vehicle
Explore your Fusion! This section details crucial identifiers, key systems, and the meaning of dashboard symbols for optimal vehicle awareness․
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Location
Locating your 2012 Ford Fusion’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential for various reasons, including warranty claims, theft recovery, and vehicle history reports․ The VIN is a unique 17-character code specific to your vehicle․
On the 2012 Fusion, you can find the VIN in several places:
- Dashboard: Look on the driver’s side dashboard, visible through the windshield on the lower left corner․
- Driver’s Side Doorjamb: A sticker containing the VIN is affixed to the driver’s side doorjamb․
- Vehicle Title and Registration: The VIN is printed on your vehicle’s title and registration documents․
- Insurance Card: Your insurance card may also list the VIN․
Always verify the VIN matches across all documents to ensure accuracy and prevent potential issues․
Key Components and Systems
Your 2012 Ford Fusion incorporates several key components and systems working together to deliver performance and reliability․ Understanding these basics enhances your ownership experience․ The engine, available in various configurations (including 2․5L and 3․5L options), provides power․ The transmission (automatic or, on the base S model, a six-speed manual) efficiently transfers that power to the wheels․
Essential systems include: the braking system (featuring ABS), the steering system, the suspension system for ride comfort, and the electrical system powering all accessories․ The climate control system ensures passenger comfort, while the fuel system delivers fuel to the engine․ Familiarizing yourself with these core elements will aid in routine maintenance and troubleshooting․
Dashboard Symbols and Indicators
The 2012 Ford Fusion’s dashboard displays a variety of symbols and indicators providing crucial information about your vehicle’s status․ Warning lights (red or amber) signal potential problems requiring immediate attention – such as low oil pressure, engine temperature, or brake system malfunctions․ Indicator lights (green or blue) confirm that a system is actively engaged, like headlights or cruise control․
Pay close attention to: the check engine light, ABS light, airbag light, and fuel level indicator․ The information display may also show messages regarding maintenance needs or system alerts․ Refer to this manual for a complete explanation of each symbol, ensuring you understand its meaning and appropriate response․ Ignoring warning lights can lead to more serious issues․
Operating Your 2012 Ford Fusion
Let’s get driving! This section details how to start, operate, and utilize the various features of your 2012 Ford Fusion safely and efficiently․
Starting and Stopping the Engine
Starting Your Fusion: Ensure the vehicle is in Park (P) or Neutral (N), and your foot is firmly on the brake pedal․ Insert the key into the ignition or, if equipped, press the start button while depressing the brake․ The engine will crank and start․ Allow a few moments for the engine to reach optimal operating temperature․
Stopping the Engine: To shut down, bring the vehicle to a complete stop, shift into Park (P), and engage the parking brake․ Turn the key to the “Off” position or press the start/stop button․ Avoid abruptly turning off the engine while driving, as this can affect vehicle control․ Always ensure the vehicle is fully stopped before powering down․ Familiarize yourself with these procedures for safe operation․
Driving Modes and Features
Standard Drive Mode: The 2012 Ford Fusion primarily operates in a standard drive mode, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency for everyday driving conditions․ SelectShift Automatic Transmission: Some models feature SelectShift, allowing manual gear selection for enhanced control․ Utilize the +/- shifter for upshifting or downshifting․
Traction Control: The vehicle is equipped with traction control to minimize wheel spin during acceleration․ Cruise Control: Activate cruise control for maintaining a set speed on highways․ Other Features: Explore features like power windows, locks, and the audio system for a comfortable driving experience․ Refer to dedicated sections for detailed instructions on each feature․
Fueling and Fluid Checks
Fueling: Your 2012 Ford Fusion requires unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher․ The fuel filler door is located on the driver’s side․ Always ensure the fuel cap is securely tightened after refueling․ Engine Oil: Regularly check the engine oil level using the dipstick; maintain between the minimum and maximum marks․
Coolant: Inspect the coolant level in the reservoir when the engine is cold․ Brake Fluid: Check the brake fluid level periodically․ Washer Fluid: Keep the windshield washer fluid reservoir filled for optimal visibility․ Refer to the ‘Fluid Levels and Top-Ups’ section for specific fluid types and capacities․
Maintenance and Care
Preserve performance! Follow the scheduled maintenance plan for optimal reliability, longevity, and safety of your 2012 Ford Fusion․
Scheduled Maintenance Schedule
Maintaining your 2012 Ford Fusion is crucial for its longevity and performance․ Regular servicing, as outlined in this schedule, ensures optimal operation and prevents costly repairs․ Every 5,000 miles (or six months), inspect and rotate tires, check fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid), and visually inspect belts and hoses․
At 15,000 miles, add the above checks plus replace the engine air filter and cabin air filter․ By 30,000 miles, include spark plug replacement and a thorough inspection of the braking system․ A more comprehensive service is recommended at 60,000 miles, including transmission fluid service and coolant flush․ Always refer to your vehicle’s specific maintenance schedule for detailed intervals and recommendations․
Tire Maintenance and Replacement
Proper tire care is essential for safety and fuel efficiency in your 2012 Ford Fusion․ Regularly check tire pressure – including the spare – and inflate to the recommended PSI found on the driver’s side doorjamb․ Inspect tires for wear and tear, including cuts, bulges, and uneven tread wear․ Rotate tires every 5,000 miles to promote even wear and extend their lifespan․
When tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch, tires must be replaced․ Use a tread depth gauge for accurate measurement․ When replacing tires, ensure they match the original equipment specifications in size and load rating․ Always have a professional install and balance new tires for optimal performance and safety․
Fluid Levels and Top-Ups
Maintaining correct fluid levels is crucial for your 2012 Ford Fusion’s performance․ Regularly check engine oil using the dipstick, adding the recommended grade as needed․ Inspect coolant levels in the reservoir when the engine is cold, and top up with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water․ Check brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels, replenishing as necessary․
Low fluid levels can indicate leaks or other issues; investigate promptly․ Refer to the vehicle’s specifications for the correct fluid types․ Always dispose of used fluids responsibly at a designated recycling center․ Consistent fluid checks contribute to a longer vehicle lifespan and reliable operation․
Troubleshooting and Emergency Procedures
This section provides guidance for common issues, jump-starting, and emergency situations, ensuring your safety and helping resolve problems on the road․
Common Issues and Solutions
Experiencing trouble with your 2012 Ford Fusion? This section addresses frequently encountered problems and offers practical solutions․ A common issue is a faulty fuel pump relay, potentially causing starting difficulties – try replacing it․ Dim headlights often indicate a weak alternator or corroded connections; inspect and clean these․
If your Fusion exhibits erratic shifting, a transmission fluid flush might resolve the issue․ For unresponsive power windows, check the fuses first․ Unusual noises could stem from worn brake pads or suspension components․ Remember to consult a qualified mechanic for complex repairs․ Regularly checking fluid levels and maintaining scheduled maintenance can prevent many of these issues, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience․ Prioritize safety and professional assistance when needed․
Jump Starting Procedures
Need a jump start for your 2012 Ford Fusion? Ensure both vehicles are turned off․ Connect the red (positive) cable to the positive terminal of the discharged battery, then to the positive terminal of the good battery․ Next, connect the black (negative) cable to the negative terminal of the good battery․
Crucially, connect the final black cable to a grounded metal surface on your Fusion, away from the battery, to avoid sparks․ Start the good vehicle and let it run for a few minutes․ Then, attempt to start your Fusion․ If it starts, carefully disconnect the cables in the reverse order․ Allow your Fusion to run for at least 20 minutes to recharge the battery․ If it fails to start, consult a professional․
Emergency Contact Information
In case of an emergency involving your 2012 Ford Fusion, immediate access to vital contact information is crucial․ For roadside assistance, contact Ford Motor Company at 1-800-241-3673․ This service provides towing, jump starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery․
For medical, fire, or police assistance, dial 911․ Keep your vehicle identification number (VIN) readily available, as it may be required when reporting incidents․ Your insurance provider’s emergency claim number is also essential; locate it on your insurance card․
Additionally, program emergency contacts into your mobile phone and consider keeping a physical list in your glove compartment․ Prioritize safety and swift communication during any unforeseen event․
Vehicle Specifications
Discover key details! This section outlines the 2012 Ford Fusion’s engine specs, dimensions, weight, and fuel economy ratings for informed ownership․
Engine Specifications
Detailed Engine Information: The 2012 Ford Fusion offered a range of engine options to suit diverse driving needs․ The standard engine was a 2․5-liter Duratec inline-4, producing 175 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of efficiency and performance․
For those seeking enhanced power, a 3․5-liter Duratec V6 engine was available, delivering 287 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque․ A turbocharged 2․0-liter EcoBoost inline-4 engine, generating 237 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, offered a compelling blend of power and fuel economy․
All engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, except for the base 2․5L which initially offered a five-speed manual, later discontinued․ Understanding your engine’s specifications is crucial for proper maintenance and optimal performance․
Dimensions and Weight
Vehicle Size and Mass: The 2012 Ford Fusion boasts a length of 192․1 inches (4879 mm), a width of 73․4 inches (1864 mm), and a height of 58․2 inches (1478 mm)․ These dimensions contribute to its comfortable interior space and stable handling characteristics․
The curb weight varies depending on the engine and trim level․ The 2․5-liter models typically weigh around 3380-3480 lbs (1533-1579 kg)․ V6 models are heavier, ranging from 3620-3700 lbs (1642-1678 kg)․ The EcoBoost models fall in between, around 3500-3580 lbs (1588-1626 kg)․
Knowing these dimensions and weight figures is important for parking, maneuvering, and understanding vehicle load capacity․ Proper weight distribution enhances safety and driving dynamics․
Fuel Economy Information
MPG Ratings: The 2012 Ford Fusion’s fuel efficiency varies based on engine choice and driving conditions․ The 2․5-liter four-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway․ The 3․5-liter V6 offers 18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway․
The EcoBoost 2․0-liter turbocharged engine provides a balance, with ratings of 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway․ These figures are estimates and real-world mileage may differ․
Fuel Tank Capacity: The Fusion has a fuel tank capacity of 17․5 gallons․ Using the recommended octane fuel (typically 87 octane) ensures optimal engine performance and longevity․ Regularly monitoring fuel consumption helps maximize efficiency and plan for refueling stops․
Safety Features
Protecting You: The 2012 Ford Fusion prioritizes safety with features like airbags, ABS, and safety restraints, designed for comprehensive occupant protection․
Airbag System
Understanding Your Airbags: Your 2012 Ford Fusion is equipped with an advanced airbag system designed to provide crucial protection during a collision․ This system includes frontal airbags for both driver and passenger, as well as side-impact airbags and a safety canopy system covering front and rear outboard occupants․
Important Considerations: Airbags are supplemental restraints and work best when used with seatbelts․ To ensure proper function, avoid placing objects between the airbags and occupants․ The system may not deploy in all collisions, depending on the severity and angle of impact․ Regularly inspect airbags for any signs of damage or tampering․ Proper maintenance and understanding of the airbag system are vital for your safety․
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
How ABS Works: Your 2012 Ford Fusion features an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) designed to help maintain steering control during hard braking situations․ ABS prevents wheel lockup, allowing you to steer around obstacles while braking․ You may feel a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal when ABS activates – this is normal and indicates the system is functioning correctly․
Operating ABS: When encountering a situation requiring hard braking, apply firm and continuous pressure to the brake pedal․ Do not pump the brakes; let the ABS system do its job․ The system operates automatically․ A warning light on the dashboard will illuminate if the ABS system detects a malfunction, requiring immediate service․ Regular brake inspections are crucial for optimal ABS performance․
Safety Restraints
Seat Belts: Your 2012 Ford Fusion is equipped with three-point seat belts for all seating positions․ Always ensure all occupants are properly restrained before driving․ Seat belts significantly reduce the risk of injury during a collision․ Adjust the shoulder harness height for optimal comfort and safety․
Child Safety: Children should be secured in appropriate child restraint systems, complying with local laws and Ford’s recommendations․ Never place a rear-facing infant seat in the front passenger seat if the vehicle has an active passenger airbag․ Regularly inspect seat belts and child restraints for damage․ Proper use of safety restraints is paramount for passenger safety․