Ford Mustang Problems: 3 Known Issues (Explained)

The Ford Mustang is a series of cars manufactured by Ford since 1964. This makes it the company’s longest-produced nameplate, and it’s also the fifth top-selling nameplate since the company’s inception.  

With six generations and tons of accolades under its belt, the Ford Mustang has not slowed down and continues to pull big numbers. Features, including its superb handling, powerful acceleration, and a plush cabin, contribute to its unending reign.

Like every other vehicle, the Ford Mustang has a few complaints here and there, and we will discuss some of them below.

1. Car Vibrates While Driving

A handful of Mustang owners have complained about the car’s habit of vibrating while driving.

Some other specific reports showed that the vibration often happened when the car crosses 60mph. It also appears to be a lot more common with 2016 models than the others.

Possible Causes and Solutions

Here are potential causes and solutions to this problem:

Problems With the Tires/Wheels

If you often experience vibration while driving your Mustang, it is likely a problem with your tires or wheels.

Possible problems include damaged wheels, lack of balance between wheels and tires, and uneven tire wear, amongst others.

The best way to avoid encountering any of these issues is regular tire maintenance. We’re talking tire rotation, wheel balancing and alignment, adjustment of tire pressure, etc.

Damaged Suspension/Steering

Sometimes, suspension and steering components get loose, which may cause the steering wheel to vibrate. The components most likely to get worn include the ball joints and the tire rod ends, and when they do, it may affect your Mustang’s alignment.

Problems With the Transmission

If the vibration on your Mustang continues even after you have stopped the vehicle, then it might be a transmission problem. It could be because of a broken engine or a loose transmission mount.

This does not, however, mean you’d have to replace your transmission; do not panic. We advise getting a technician to confirm the problem first or take the car to a dealership.

Worn Brake Rotors

Some owners feel the vibration in the steering and the brake pedal simultaneously. If this is the case with your Mustang, then it might just be a problem with the brake rotor.     

The best way to go about this would be to have your entire brake system checked to be sure what the root of the problem is.

What to Do

There are multiple, sometimes unrelated, reasons the Ford Mustang vibrates while driving. To be sure, we advise taking the car to a qualified technician.

Related: Ford Mustang & Keys: 12 Questions Answered (For Newbies)

2. Engine Oil Leaks

A number of Ford Mustang owners have also complained about incessant engine oil leaks. We noticed that the majority of these complaints were from 90s Mustang models, especially the 1994 models.

Many of these owners also reported finding out the leak mostly originated from the gasket valve covers.

Possible Causes and Solutions

Here are possible causes and solutions to this problem:

Broken Gaskets

This appears to be the number one cause of the engine oil leaks in the Ford Mustang, per multiple reports. Now, gaskets play the important role of smoothening the transfer of gas, coolant, and oil within the engine.

However, these gaskets often degrade after a long period and what follows is a weakened seal, which can lead to an oil leak.

Other reasons the gasket may degrade include vibrations, exposure to high temps, and excessive pressure.

Another overlooked reason is the incorrect installation of the valve cover. If you buy a new valve cover and the leak persists, it may be because whoever installed it over-tightened it.

Problems With the Crankshaft Seals

The crankshaft seals are present at either end of the engine, and they serve as mounts for seals designed to prevent oil leaks. If these seals wear out, there will likely be a resultant oil leak, which is often visible in front of the engine.

Oil Filter Issues

Oil filters often wear out over time. In other cases, they may be misaligned or loose, and these anomalies can cause a leak.

Every time you change your oil, it is advisable to change the filter as well and make sure it is properly fitted.

Broken Filler Cap

If your vehicle spills engine oil when it is in motion, it’s likely because of a problem with the filler cap.

The filler cap, like the name implies, covers the spot where oil goes in the engine. It could go missing, loosen or wear out, and if any of these happen, the oil will spill due to pressure from the engine.

What to Do

It’s best to seek the services of a technician to ensure it never happens again. Besides the fixes, replacements, and repairs, you may have to take servicing and maintenance a little more seriously.

Related: Ford Mustang In Snow & Winter Driving? (Explained)

3. Chirping and Squeaking Noises

We found several complaints about chirping and squeaking noises in the Ford Mustang during cold weather.

According to reports from multiple aggregator platforms, the problem was most common with 2004 models of the Ford Mustang.

Possible Causes and Solutions

Below are potential causes and solutions of this problem:

Ice on Wheels

During winter, it is not uncommon to find ice on the ground, and sometimes it can accumulate under your Mustang’s wheels. So, if you notice any chirping or squeaking noises, you can look under the hood and remove the ice if there is any.

This is more likely to happen if you leave your Mustang outside overnight or for a very long time during winter.

Worn Serpentine Belt or Alternator

If you notice squeaking noises in your Mustang, it could be a problem with the serpentine belt.

The alternator has a belt that drives it and, over time, the belt may wear out, resulting in a squeaking noise.

It could also be a problem with the alternator’s bearings or the pulleys. If any of these have issues, they can create an unpleasant squeaking noise.

It’s best to have an expert diagnose this and come up with an appropriate fix.

Bad Bushings

Bushings are present in different parts of the car, and they have one major responsibility-keeping metal parts quiet. However, bushings are prone to wear, especially those attached to the suspension or brakes. If they get worn, it could result in squeaking noises.

Worn Brake Pads

One of the common signs of a worn brake pad is a squeaking noise from the brake area.

Generally, brake pads give out once they cross anywhere between 40,000 to 50,000 miles. If your brake pad has reached this milestone or close, it’s time to replace it.

Also, there have been cases where snow and water get into the brake pads and rotors. If the temperature gets too cold, it could freeze them up, thereby causing a squeaking noise.

What to Do

Squeaking noises often indicate a minor issue that you needn’t lose your sleep over. However, this is not always the case; hence, we advise dealing with the issue expeditiously to be on the safe side. And, of course, it’s best to do this with the help of a certified technician if you are not mechanically inclined.

Related: How Long Do Ford Mustangs Last? (8 Important Facts)

General Pros and Cons

Below are some pros and cons of the Ford Mustang:

Pros

Here are some of the Mustang’s selling points:

Powerful Engine With Adjustable Sound

Standard on the Ford Mustang is a turbocharged four-cylinder with a 2.3-liter displacement. That gives you about 310 horsepower and 250-pound feet of torque.

Not to mention even more exquisite engine options on higher trim levels that can pump out as much as 760 horsepower and 625-pound feet of torque.

Now, while these are all amazing engine specifications, they often come along with some loudness. Thankfully, the Ford Mustang lets you control that with its active valve performance exhaust.

There is the quiet start setting for when you are driving through a neighborhood that values quietness. On the other hand, if you want to hear your Mustang roar on an open road or during a race, there is the Sport or Track mode for that.

Open-Air Experience

The Ford Mustang offers a convertible option, meaning you get to enjoy an open-air driving experience.

Sometimes, we need a little bit of sun and natural air, and the Ford Mustang gives you unfettered access to all that.

Comfortable Cabin

The Mustang’s cabin features an ambient lighting option that can trigger a euphoric aura, as well as plush leather seats.

Front seats and steering wheels on the Mustang can be heated or cooled, depending on your need. You also get the option of a leather parking brake handle and a good-looking aluminum foot pedal.

Premium Infotainment System

The Ford Mustang has an exciting infotainment system that keeps the vibe at a top-level. It comes with Apple Car Play and the Android Auto that allows you to do just about anything-that includes phone calls, quick messages, and music streaming.

The FordPass Connect lets you connect to the internet with ease and the Waze app ensures you don’t miss your way.

In addition, you have a navigation program that allows you to make voice commands so you can keep your hands on the wheel. All of these features show the Mustang’s infotainment is nothing short of premium.

Advanced Safety Features

As exciting as it is to speed on the Ford Mustang (and it is very exciting!), it begs the question: “how safe is the Mustang?”

Thankfully, the Ford Mustang has a safety package known as the Co-Pilot 360. Its features include an intuitive driver-assist system, rear cross-traffic alert, blindspot warning, and adaptive cruise control, amongst others.

Cons

• Car Vibrates While Driving
• Engine Oil Leaks
• Chirping And Squeaking Noises

What Do the Reviews Say?

“The Ford Mustang is a brilliant sports car, and acts as a flagship for the manufacturer’s entire line-up. It’s one of the most instantly recognizable cars on the road, with sharp lines and retro touches to turn the heads of passers-by. But the Mustang isn’t just for show: the chassis is wonderfully capable and delivers brilliant handling as well as comfy ride quality.”

Source: AutoExpress

“When someone buys a Mustang, in coupe or convertible form, they’re participating in a heritage while also driving the name into a thrilling future. The Mustang feels special, bringing a sense of occasion every time you jump in, even if you’re just going to pick up the dry cleaning.”

Source: Kelly Blue Book

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.