New vehicles are expensive. That’s why finding an excellent used car feels like a steal. But determining which pre-owned models have the fewest problems can be challenging. Although Ford stopped producing the Fusion midsize sedan after the 2020 model year, dependable used versions still exist. Here are three reliable Ford Fusion model years for well under $10,000. 

Note: Regardless of a used car’s reliability score, always obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, and location.

The 2009 Ford Fusion has a great reliability score and a low price

The first model year on our list of the most reliable Ford Fusion years under $10,000 is the 2009 model. According to U.S. News, this sedan’s original MSRP was between $19,035 and $25,605. Now, consumers can expect to pay an average of $5,129 to $6,222 for a used 2009 Ford Fusion. 

While the pros and cons differ between years, the 2009 model’s reliability rating indicates that its benefits outweigh its drawbacks. J.D. Power assigned this model a quality and reliability score of 82 out of 100. Any score over 80 is considered “great.”

U.S. News cites the 2009 model year’s biggest pros as an available all-wheel-drive option, spacious interior, engaging handling, and outstanding safety ratings. In contrast, the biggest complaints are its underpowered base engine and less-than-stellar interior ergonomics. 

How reliable is the 2010 Ford Fusion?

The next model year on our list is the 2010 Fusion. According to U.S. News, the original MSRP ranged from $19,695 to $28,355. Now, consumers can expect to pay between $6,286 and $7,849 for a used 2010 Ford Fusion. 

Compared to the 2009 model year’s reliability score, the 2010 Ford Fusion fares slightly better, with an 84 from J.D. Power.

In addition, U.S. News lists the top pros of this model year as its sporty handling, spacious cabin and trunk, and available AWD. Also, the 2010 model enjoyed the introduction of a revamped engine lineup and new six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. In contrast, the biggest complaint about this sedan is its numb electric power steering on lower trim levels. 

The 2011 Ford Fusion has a slightly lower score, but it’s still solid

The last on our list of the most reliable Ford Fusion years under $10,000 is the 2011 model. According to U.S. News, the original MSRP ranged from $19,850 to $29,000. Now, shoppers can expect to pay between $6,671 and $8,276 for a used 2011 Fusion. 

Though not as good as the 2009 or 2010 models, the 2011 version still earned a respectable reliability score of 80 from J.D. Power.

Furthermore, U.S. News says the biggest advantages of this model year are its engaging performance, roomy cabin and trunk, and available AWD. Like the 2010 model, the 2011’s most common issue is its numb electric power steering on the non-sport trims.