2012 Ford Fusion Engine 2.5 L 4 Cylinder S
The 2012 Ford Fusion's 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, designated the Duratec 25, offered a blend of respectable fuel economy and adequate power for the mid-size sedan segment. While not setting any performance records, it proved a reliable and relatively simple powerplant, making it a common sight on American roads. This article delves into the technical aspects of this engine, exploring its design, performance characteristics, and common maintenance considerations.
Engine Architecture and Design
The Duratec 25 is an inline-four cylinder engine featuring an aluminum block and cylinder head. This aluminum construction helped to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. The engine utilizes a 16-valve DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) configuration. This design allows for optimized valve timing and control, improving both power output and combustion efficiency. The bore and stroke dimensions are 89 mm x 100 mm, respectively, resulting in a slightly oversquare design. This typically favors higher-revving performance, although the engine's overall tuning prioritized low-to-midrange torque for everyday driving.
The cylinder head incorporates four valves per cylinder – two intake and two exhaust. This multi-valve design enhances airflow into and out of the combustion chamber, allowing for a more complete combustion process. Valve actuation is achieved via hydraulic lash adjusters, which automatically maintain the correct valve clearance, reducing maintenance requirements and minimizing valve train noise. The intake manifold is constructed from plastic, further contributing to weight reduction. The exhaust manifold is made of cast iron for durability and heat resistance.
Fuel System and Engine Management
The Duratec 25 employs a sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPFI) system. This means that fuel is injected directly into each intake port, just upstream of the intake valves. This precise fuel delivery ensures optimal air-fuel mixture and contributes to efficient combustion. The fuel injectors are electronically controlled by the PCM (Powertrain Control Module), also known as the ECU (Engine Control Unit). The PCM receives data from various sensors throughout the engine and vehicle, including the mass airflow (MAF) sensor, oxygen (O2) sensors, crankshaft position sensor, and camshaft position sensor. Using this data, the PCM precisely controls fuel injection timing, ignition timing, and other engine parameters to optimize performance, fuel economy, and emissions.
The ignition system is a coil-on-plug (COP) design, eliminating the need for traditional spark plug wires. Each spark plug has its own dedicated ignition coil, directly controlled by the PCM. This results in a stronger spark and more precise ignition timing, further improving combustion efficiency.
Performance and Output
The 2012 Ford Fusion's 2.5L Duratec 25 engine produces approximately 175 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. While not a powerhouse, this output provided sufficient power for daily commuting and highway cruising. The engine's torque curve is relatively flat, providing ample low-end and mid-range torque, making it responsive in typical driving situations.
Maintenance and Reliability
The Duratec 25 is generally considered a reliable engine, but like any internal combustion engine, regular maintenance is crucial for longevity. Recommended maintenance includes regular oil changes (typically every 5,000-7,500 miles with synthetic blend or full synthetic oil), air filter replacement, spark plug replacement (typically every 100,000 miles), and coolant flushes. One potential issue to watch out for is potential oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket and the front crankshaft seal. Regular inspection of these areas can help prevent more serious problems. The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve should also be inspected and replaced periodically to ensure proper crankcase ventilation and prevent oil leaks.
Overall, the 2012 Ford Fusion's 2.5L 4-cylinder engine proved to be a dependable and efficient powerplant. Its relatively simple design and robust construction contributed to its reliability, making it a popular choice for Ford Fusion owners.