Ford Mustang Used Buying Guide: Known Issues

• Overall, the Mustang is a reliable and desired muscle car classic with few costly problems.
• The issues the Mustang is most known for are related to its interior accessories, driveshaft, and exterior paint.
• Leaking oil is common in 1990s models due to a faulty intake manifold or valve cover.

Many have reported the following to be persistent issues in the Ford Mustang:

• Interior accessory issues are small problems in comparison to engine and transmission problems, but they are nonetheless annoying. According to reports, 2017 models are plagued with radio/sync display problems. When paired with a phone or when the radio is on, the display shows the current time and temperature, but nothing else. The same model year has issues with the steering wheel, steering assist light, and rearview camera.
• 2016 models are reported to vibrate while moving at 60 mph and up. This issue is typically caused by an imbalanced driveshaft or faulty rear-end assembly.
• Older Mustangs have issues with hood corrosion. This is related to blistering paint caused by a lack of proper insulation in aluminum hoods from 2007 and 2010 models. Paint is also known to blister around other parts of the car, particularly bumpers.
• 2004 Mustangs are prone to squeaking or chirping noises when it is cold. This is caused by a faulty upper bushing in the synchronizer shaft for the camshaft position sensor. Noises go away as the car warms up, 1999, 2000, and 2002 to 2010 models are also affected.
• Worn tie rod ends are a big issue for 2000 models as well as 1996 to 2010 model years. Drivers report squeaks when going over bumps and turning. The steering wheel also squeaks at low speed (under 15 mph).
• 1994 to 2001 model years are said to have issues with leaking oil from the intake manifold or valve cover. This is not an unusual issue but it can be costly if not addressed, as it may contaminate oil with coolant and cause significant engine problems.

Peace of mind is crucial when buying a used car. Jones’ Pre-Owned Certified warranties cover two categories of used vehicles—Gold and Blue. Each category is based on age, mileage, and warranty coverage.

Gold Certified vehicles are up to six years old with fewer than 80,000 miles, while Blue Certified vehicles are up to 10 years old with under 120,000 miles. No matter what you choose, both undergo thorough inspections and come with comprehensive warranty protection and ownership benefits.

Gold Certified pre-owned vehicles are checked top to bottom with a 172-point inspection and include a 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty, plus a 7-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. Blue Certified vehicles are inspected with a 139-point checklist and include a 90-day/4,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty, with available powertrain coverage.

Both options also offer 24/7 roadside assistance, FordPass Rewards Points, a Carfax History Report, and a 3-month SiriusXM trial.