Ford Mustang Reliability - Are Mustangs Reliable or Not? • Road Sumo

If you are planning on buying a Ford Mustang, it is important to learn how reliable they are. In this article, I’ll describe the reliability of the Ford Mustang, as well as the Ecoboost and the 3.7L V6 engines. Ford Mustang Reliability – are Mustangs reliable?

According to JD Power, the Ford Mustang has a reliability rating of 4 out of 5 among consumers in the U.S. and worldwide. This is a great reliability rating score, based on performance, comfort, overall value, and other categories.

The Ford Mustang has been one of the best-selling cars in the Sports Car category for several years. It is also one of the world’s best-selling cars to date.

Although 2015, 2016, and 2017 models had some consumer issues, the Mustang is still one of the top sports cars. The new 2020 Ford Mustang has a great reliability rating of 4 out of 5.

Some of the best Mustang special editions included the 2003 Ford Mustang Mach 1, the 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302, the 2019 Ford Mustang GT, and the 2020 Ford Mustang. The latest model has incorporated features that improved the 2019 Mustang model.

In this article, we will look at the following:

Ford Mustang Ecoboost reliability
Ford Mustang 3.7 V6 reliability
Ford Mustang GT reliability
Ford Mustang Shelby Reliability

Read on to learn more about Ford Mustang reliability and whether it is the right car for you.

Ford Mustang Reliability – Are Mustangs Reliable Cars or Not?

You can confirm the Ford Mustang’s reliability through its sales. In 2019, Ford sold more than 100,000 units of the Mustang worldwide. Furthermore, it has ranked consistently at the top of the sports cars category.

This good sales record reflects the customer’s satisfaction with the reliability of the Mustang. When the performance of the Ford Mustang is good, its reliability rating also increases.

Ford mustang reliability: In general, the Ford brand ranked #23 out of 30 vehicle manufacturers. This may not be an impressive ranking; but, the Ford Mustang has ranked #1 in the sports car category. So for the Mustang, you can rest assured that it’s a reliable car. [1]

Reliability Rating

Are Ford Mustangs reliable? While the 2020 Ford Mustang is rated excellent in reliability, consumers awarded the 2019 Ford Mustang with an average reliability rating of 3 over 5. [2]

Its basic 4-cylinder turbocharged engine makes 310 horsepower. But take note that you have another option, the V8 engine that produces 460-480 horsepower and more.

Ford has acknowledged the reliability and power of the Mustang as a sports car by listing it as a contender in the 2020 Australia Supercars Championship, the Xfinity Series, and the NASCAR Cup Series. The speed and power of the Ford Mustang are undeniable.

Speed

The Mustang’s speed depends on the type of motor it has under the hood. The Mustang EcoBoost can hit 60 miles per hour in five seconds, while the Shelby GT500 can dash 60 miles per hour in just three seconds and a half. On the other hand, the Mustang GT can race 60 miles per hour in four seconds.

Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Ford Mustang a ‘good’ rating. But interestingly, the NHTSA or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has awarded the 2020 Ford Mustang a perfect overall safety rating of 5/5.

Safety Features

The Mustang’s safety features’ excellent score comes from the concept that you can add more features to the existing standard driver assistance. These features include the following:

Pedestrian detection
Adaptive cruise control
Lane departure warning
Rear cross-traffic alert
Rear parking sensors
Blind-spot monitoring
Automatic emergency braking
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
High beam headlights

If you’re planning to buy a Mustang, you can choose from reliable engine options and the driver-assistance features, as mentioned above, depending on your preferences.

Reliability of the Ford Mustang Ecoboost, 3.7 V6, GT, and Shelby

Ford Mustang EcoBoost Reliability

Ford Mustang EcoBoost reliability: There are no detailed and separate sole ratings for the Mustang EcoBoost reliability. Although consumers cannot see widespread complaints, it’s still assumed that the Mustang EcoBoost is reliable, like the rest of the Ford Mustang models.

It provides 310 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. This engine is also ideal for high-speed drivers as the high performance of its turbocharged engine is exceptional.

The EcoBoost Premium Mustang has the same features as the regular EcoBoost. Nonetheless, Ford added other features, such as heating and cooling features. You can heat or cool the front seats according to your comfort.

Additionally, Ford added user-friendly technology, so you can enjoy your ride as you burn the road. The model could run on regular gasoline, but you may want to use premium fuel for higher performance.

The EcoBoost is also lighter at the front than the Mustang GT and has only 2-piston machines. It is more ‘agile’ and more lightweight to drive, but still, it has the same expected engine power. In addition, the EcoBoost Mustang with the High-Performance Package can reach a speed of 155 miles per hour.

Pros

Durable adaptive suspension
Reliable larger brakes
Exceptional EcoBoost engine
Standard EcoBoost that can hit 121 miles per hour
A safe sports car compared to other brands
Durable tires

Cons

Carbon buildup may lead to slightly raised fuel consumption, so you must institute a particular carbon cleaning procedure. You can prevent carbon buildup by cleaning the carbon regularly.

Ford Mustang 3.7 V6 Reliability

Ford Mustang 3.7 V6 reliability: The 2014 model V6 Ford Mustang is the most reliable, with an excellent reliability rating of 4 over 5. The 2010-2013 V6 models have had lower reliable ratings because of their bodily integrity, but the overall performance is good. The V6 is a perfect choice if you want to save with a better MPG.

The 3.7L V6 engines are reliable with a longer life expectancy too. It makes 201-305 horsepower and moves faster than the GT. The V6 can do ¼ mile within 15 minutes, which can be quite impressive if you’re not good at driving.

In older models, the V6 is slower compared to the Mustang EcoBoost. The 4.7L V8 engines may have higher mileage than the V6, but the 3.5L V6 produces 70 pound-feet more torque. But both engines have their own pros and cons. The V6 is actually V8 minus two engine parts.

So the Ford Mustang 3.7 V6 reliability is solid, but only if you’re a careful driver. You can attribute the reports of Mustangs crashing into crowds or objects as caused by inexperienced drivers. The Mustang is a powerful car that should be handled only by those who have had intensive driving experience with massive engines.

For expert drivers, the Mustang is an outstanding tool for their goals; but it could serve as a means to end all dreams for inexperienced drivers.

Pros

Longer life expectancy, which is over 200,000 miles or 300,000 kilometers
Cheaper than other V8 models
Features a power-packed, efficient base engine
Option to pick a High-Performance Package

Cons

A few consumers reported design flaws
The V8 engines are more powerful

Ford Mustang GT Reliability

Ford Mustang GT reliability: The Mustang GT, specifically the GT500, gained a reliability rating of 4 out of 5 points. It’s an impressive rating because not all Mustangs are highly rated.

The Mustang GT provides 4-piston calipers, making it faster than the EcoBoost Mustang. A modified full stock-turbo EcoBoost Mustang would boost its speed against the GT.

Ford’s most powerful Mustang is the Shelby GT350 with its 5.2L V8 engine at 526 hp. The 2020 model’s V8 engine makes 760 hp. This model has become popular with drivers as it is fun to drive and provides a stylish exterior.

If you choose the GT Performance Package Level 2, you will have these features: a front aerodynamic splitter, high-quality track-tuned springs, sway bars, and a MagneRide unique adaptive suspension.

The GT500 Handling Package and GT500 Carbon Fiber Track Package feature tough fiber wheels, quality leather seats, an efficient rear Gurney flap, and a sturdy carbon fiber rear wing.

So are Ford Mustangs reliable? When it comes to the GT model? Yes, the JD Power reliability rating of the Ford Mustang GT is 4 out of 5. Reviews and consumer reports have also established the Mustang GT as one of the most reliable sports cars in the market.

Pros

The GT Performance Package provides a larger radiator, rear bar, and rear wing, including Brembo brakes
Can hit 180 miles per hour
Reliable and affordable
Offers user-friendly handling

Cons

Uses high premium gas, which can be more expensive

Ford Mustang Shelby Reliability

Ford Mustang Shelby Reliability: The new Ford Mustang is the Shelby GT500 model equipped with a standard FordPass Connect system. You can choose between the High-Performance Package and the EcoBoost Handling Package.

Consumers rated the 2020 Ford Mustang’s reliability 4 out of 5. This model earned a total rating of 8.2. It got a performance rating of 9.1, a critics’ rating of 9.4, and an interior rating of 7.4 out of 10.

Aside from the base engine of 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder with 310 hp and 350 pound-feet of torque, you also have four major engine types to choose from.

These four engines are as follows:

5L V8 with 460 hp and 420 pound-feet of torque (GT)
5L V8 with 480 hp and 420 pound-feet of torque (Bullitt)
5.2L V8 with 760 hp and 625 pound-feet of torque (GT500)
5.2L V8 with 526 hp and 429 pound-feet of torque (GT350)

The V8 provides an extra boost to your Ford, but it’s slightly more expensive than the base V6 engine. So, you will have to choose based on your end goals.

Furthermore, Car and Driver’s Greatest of All Time (GOAT) list included the Shelby GT350/GT350R model. Even though the 2020 Ford Mustang is a Shelby GT500 model, this recognition still speaks a lot about the vehicle’s reliability.

Pros

Fastest Ford Mustang vehicle
Provides options for powerful engines
Sufficient trunk space
User-friendly features
Classy interior and exterior

Cons

Narrow rear seat
Rear-wheel drive
Not for inexperienced drivers

We’ve answered the question, “Are Mustangs reliable cars?”; Also, we discussed Ford Mustang Ecoboost reliability, Ford Mustang 3.7 V6 reliability, Ford Mustang GT reliability, and Ford Mustang Shelby Reliability. Let’s now proceed to some pointers when buying a Mustang.

Lifted Mustang – Body, Suspension, and Lift Kits

Tips When Buying a Ford Mustang

1. Establish Your Purpose When Buying a Mustang

Is it for business or pleasure? Will you use it as a race car or a show car? Have a list on hand of what features you would want from your new vehicle and what additional features you want the car dealer to install.

If you want a family car, the Ford Mustang may not be the best choice for you. You can opt for other Ford models that are built specifically for family drives.

2. Use Caution When Buying a Used Ford Mustang

Car owners usually sell their used vehicles because of some defects. If you plan on buying a used Ford Mustang, ensure that you know why the owner is selling the car. Learn about any previous repairs as well.

You could take it for a test drive and have your own trusted licensed mechanic go over the car completely. Don’t buy the vehicle until you have the ‘go’ signal from the mechanic.

3. Browse for Mustang Prices Online

Before you go shopping for your Mustang, find the available prices out there in the market. Print these prices and use them as a bargaining tool. You can get a reasonable price if you learn how to bargain smartly.

4. Prioritize Safety and Reliability

If you don’t have to scrimp when buying a Mustang, you should choose the safest and most reliable model. Experts recommend the newest model, the 2020 Ford Mustang. It can be more expensive than the other trims, but critics’ and consumers’ ratings have given it the highest marks.

Conclusion – Ford Mustang Reliability – Are Mustangs Reliable?

So, to recap, are Mustangs reliable? According to JD Power, Mustangs are reliable, with a 4 out of 5 ratings for reliability. Consumers worldwide made the Ford Mustang the #1 sports car in the world for five years. It’s also the world’s best-selling sports car.

This data clearly shows that the Ford Mustang is one of the most trusted and most reliable sports cars globally.

In this article, we also looked at the following:

Ford Mustang Ecoboost reliability
Ford Mustang 3.7 V6 reliability
Ford Mustang GT reliability
Ford Mustang Shelby Reliability

So if you want a sports car, you may want to buy a Ford Mustang. Also, avoid purchasing used cars, as some Mustang trims built in the past have had some problems. You may want to buy the 2020 model, as its reliability rating is excellent.

Ford Mustang Reliability – Are Mustangs Reliable or Not?