Ford Recall 12V-553: Exterior lighting – headlights

Affected: 2013 Ford Fusion. Filed with NHTSA on November 30, 2012, covering about 19,158 vehicles.

The problem

Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Fusion vehicles, manufactured from February 3, 2012, through October 20, 2012, for failing to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." The affected vehicles may not have had the low beam headlamp projector coating properly cured during its manufacturing process.

The risk

An improperly cured projector coating will become hazy through operation, over time, reducing the brightness of the low-beam lamp. This may decrease driver visibility and increase the risk of a vehicle crash.

The fix

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the headlamp assembly. The recall began on December 18, 2012. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign12V-553 (12V553000)
Manufacturer number12C27
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
ComponentExterior lighting › Headlights
Report dateNovember 30, 2012
Owners notifiedDecember 18, 2012
Vehicles affected19,158
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the lights

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 12V-553 repair free?

Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the headlamp assembly. The recall began on December 18, 2012. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 19,158 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.