The parking brake system in the Ford Fusion sedan is a critical safety component that should not be ignored when issues arise.
The electrically-powered parking brake (EPB) automatically engages whenever the Ford Fusion is parked to prevent accidental rolling. Malfunctions in the parking brake can lead to safety risks due to unexpected vehicle movements. As such, prompt diagnosis and repair of any issues is highly recommended.
Symptoms of Parking Brake Problems
Owners of 2010-2020 Ford Fusion models may notice various symptoms indicating issues with the parking brake system, including:
- Illumination of warning lights on the instrument panel, specifically the “Parking Brake Malfunction” or “Park Brake” indicator.
- Unusual noises when engaging or releasing the parking brake, such as grinding, clicking or squeaking sounds.
- Difficulty fully engaging or releasing the brake lever/switch. The lever may feel stuck.
- Vehicle rolling excessively even with brake engaged firmly.
- Uneven front brake pad wear as a result of a stuck caliper.
If any of these symptoms occur, have the parking brake system inspected by a qualified technician immediately to prevent safety risks. The consequences of ignoring parking brake problems can be loss of control, collisions and injury.
Common Causes of Ford Fusion Parking Brake Failure
There are several components involved in the operation of the Fusion’s EPB system. Issues can arise in any of these areas:
- Electronic Control Unit (ECU): The ECU may malfunction due to software glitches, problems with wheel speed sensors, or electrical wiring faults. These can prevent proper EPB operation even when other components are functioning normally.
- EPB Switch and Lever Assembly: Damaged or loose internal cables, a faulty switch or bad connections in the lever assembly can lead to engagement/release problems and warning light activation.
- Brake Calipers and Pistons: Motor or gear failure inside the EPB caliper actuator is a common issue. Binding, leaking or stuck caliper pistons will cause brake dragging and uneven pad wear.
Proper diagnosis of the specific faulty component is key before attempting repair of the parking brake system.
Professional Diagnosis Essential Before Repair
With the complexity of the Fusion’s EPB system, do-it-yourself troubleshooting is not recommended. Instead, have a professional technician diagnose the exact cause, such as:
- A Ford service dealer, who has access to proprietary diagnostic software and tools to retrieve EPB control module fault codes and performance data.
- Knowledgeable independent brake specialists can also diagnose EPB issues through modules like Autel MaxiSys Ultra.
Typical diagnostic steps include
- Scanning electronic control modules for fault codes indicating issues.
- Carefully inspecting brake calipers, electrical connectors and cables for visible damage.
- Conducting a series of parking brake engagement and release tests while monitoring system operation.
Accuracy is vital, so an improper diagnosis risks buying unnecessary new parts or repairs failing to resolve problems.
Repair Options and Costs
Once an accurate diagnosis is complete, the technician will outline recommended repairs along with estimated parts and labor costs, such as:
- ECU Replacement: $650 to $950 for parts and installation, if software updates cannot correct electronic control unit malfunctions.
- Brake Caliper Work: Sticking EPB caliper pistons must be repaired or the entire caliper unit replaced if damaged – $350 to $700 per side.
- Control Switch Assembly: Expect $240 to $410 in parts and labor to replace a damaged parking brake switch and cable network.
- Miscellaneous: Minor fixes include brake lubrication, cable, clip, pinion or motor replacements for between $150 to $350.
Repair costs vary widely based on the extent of required disassembly and parts replacements needed. Leveraging quality professional parts helps minimize additional repairs down the road.
Maintaining Your Ford Fusion’s Parking Brake System
Preventive maintenance is key to avoiding recurring issues with your Fusion’s EPB system:
- Inspect brake caliper function and watch for uneven pad wear each time tires are rotated during routine service.
- Avoid using the parking brake lever assembly abruptly or excessively during everyday operation.
- Ensure parking only on flat, paved surfaces to prevent excessive strain on parking brake components.
- Make it a habit to disengage EPB completely before driving, and engage fully when parked.
- Address minor problems early before they cascade into major malfunctions requiring expensive repairs.
By combining preventive maintenance with immediate professional diagnosis and repair as soon as symptoms appear, costly breakdowns related to the parking brake can be minimized.
John Smith, a Los Angeles-based car specialist and automotive writer, boasts over 20 years in the industry. With a background as a master technician and a decade-long writing stint at notable automotive publications, John now shares his expansive knowledge on CarFinite, simplifying car maintenance for readers.