Fade2 Posted April 6, 2013 Share Posted April 6, 2013 Hey everyone, I own a 2010 Fusion SE. In Sept 2012, while still under warranty, I brought the vehicle in for service at our local dealer to replace a steering gear assembly. When I brought it in, I also reported another problem concerning how the vehicle shifted. I stated that the vehicle was shifting relatively hard and responded sluggish and delayed when accelerating, especially on the highway. The techs there were unable to find any codes/issues, and told me that it way it shifted/drove was completely normal. Since that service, the vehicle has continued to drive the same, and I have not returned it for service as I have assumed all was normal. However, on a long trip to visit family this past week, I noticed the vehicle shift very hard, and the wrench light came on indicating a throttle/transmission issue. The vehicle is scheduled for service this upcoming Monday, but I'm fearing it's the throttle body or similar issue. My question is, should I be expected to pay for this fix? When I brought the vehicle in for service a in late 2012 and reported the shifting problem, the vehicle was still under warranty, and I assume the TSB for the problem had been issued. As of today, our warranty expired about 3 weeks ago. I'm not sure how to proceed. Any advice would be appreciated! 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RRF986 Posted April 6, 2013 Share Posted April 6, 2013 I doubt they will cover it. However, you may be able to work a deal with the dealer or contact Ford Customer Service and have the repairs partially covered. Since it is documented that you took it in for the issue prior to warranty expiration that should help. Good luck. 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Big Jim Posted April 6, 2013 Share Posted April 6, 2013 Given that you lodged a concern while it was still under warranty, it is possible that you may be able to get Ford to foot the bill as a goodwill adjustment so it is well worth asking about. Bring the paperwork from the visit where you brought it up with you to establish that it was an ongoing concern. The fact that the warranty ran out very recently is somewhat on your side. Another thought is have you checked the powertrain warranty? If it falls under the powertrain warranty, that is 5 years / 60,000 miles. 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fade2 Posted April 7, 2013 Author Share Posted April 7, 2013 Thanks for the suggestions. When I was talking to the tech, they had told me that if it is a problem with the throttle/throttle body that it likely wouldn't be covered under the powertrain. Doing some research on others who have to have it replaced, their repairs were also not covered by the powertrain warranty. Because of our work schedules, my wife and I are dropping it off today while the service center is closed and they'll be looking at it tomorrow morning. When they call me to tell me the verdict, I guess I'll talk to them about it. If the dealership is unwilling to deal or work with Ford themselves, is this something that I can contact Ford with AFTER the repairs are made? Or would I have to get approval from them before the dealership begins working on it? 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RRF986 Posted April 7, 2013 Share Posted April 7, 2013 (edited) I'd call Ford right now since they are unwilling to work with Ford. Call and explain the whole thing to them and see whatthey say. Edited April 7, 2013 by RRF986 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Big Jim Posted April 8, 2013 Share Posted April 8, 2013 Push the dealer to talk to Ford BEFORE you agree for the repair. Talk with the SERVICE MANAGER, not the Service Advisor. It is far more likely to get factory help before you pay for the repair. 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fade2 Posted April 8, 2013 Author Share Posted April 8, 2013 Thank you everyone for your suggestions. I have a bit of an update, and it is rather unexpected. I got a call this afternoon from the dealership, and they did not identify a problem with the throttle body. Instead, it was a problem with the transmission. The tech was able to witness slipping gears and whatnot. They told me that the transmission will likely need to be rebuilt or replaced :wacko: . Once it is torn down and the failure is identified, and a cost cap is performed, they will let me know how Ford will advise them to proceed. On the plus side, they told me that the repairs will be covered under my powertrain warranty. However, I am not sure how I feel about owning a car with only 30,000 miles that already needs a new transmission. Is it rational to be concerned about keeping this vehicle in the future? My wife and I are tossing around the idea of possibly trading it in after the work is complete (assuming such a major repair is what they ultimately do). I know this is a Ford Fusion forum and everything, but in all honesty, would you guys be concerned enough to look at possibly replacing the vehicle, or am I blowing this a little out of proportion? 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RRF986 Posted April 8, 2013 Share Posted April 8, 2013 Glad to hear it will be covered under warranty. Personally, I'd consider at least getting an extended warranty. If you like the car that's probably the best course of action for piece of mind. Otherwise, you can trade it for something newer. 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
akirby Posted April 9, 2013 Share Posted April 9, 2013 Why would you be worried? If anything you just got 30K extra miles of transmission life. You're actually LESS likely to need an aftermarket tranny rebuild now. 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
awdpath Posted April 9, 2013 Share Posted April 9, 2013 If it's the throttle body, you can DIY for < $200.00. 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fusionfamily Posted April 9, 2013 Share Posted April 9, 2013 The 6F35s are good for the most part (small questionable batch around 2010). Reason we replaced my wife's Civic with a 2012 Fusion. Fairly reliable cars! 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Big Jim Posted April 9, 2013 Share Posted April 9, 2013 Congratulations on getting it handled. I wouldn't worry about the fixed / replaced transmission. 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hermans Posted April 9, 2013 Share Posted April 9, 2013 (edited) I had the transmission replaced at 72,000 miles...two teenage drivers. I drove this car for another 100,000 miles and had no further transmission issues. If they replace the transmission it will be a Ford re-manufactured unit with a guarantee. Edited April 9, 2013 by hermans 0 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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