The Ford Mustang is a go-to vehicle for many drivers. These sports cars are assembled with powerful engines, roomy cabins and exterior surfaces that steal the show in any setting. Sure, Ford Mustangs drive smoothly and look the part, but like any other vehicle, the need for repairs will come up.

There are six Ford Mustang generations. While each series is known for having impressive handling capabilities and a mean engine roar, there are a few common Ford Mustang problems to keep your eyes open for.

How Trustworthy Are Ford Mustangs?

Make no mistake — Ford Mustangs are some of the best-looking and most luxurious sports cars you can use for commuting, racing on a track or embarking on an adventure.

There's a reason for the Mustang's growing demand in the automotive community. Since 1965, the Ford Mustang has represented American style and engineering in the sports car world. When you purchase a Ford Mustang, you can expect an extensive vehicle life as long as you stay on top of maintenance tasks.

Drivers can rest assured knowing sources like J.D. Power have reviewed recent 'Stangs on the market, giving a score of 85/100. This rating makes the Ford Mustang one of the best options you can choose in the pony car sector.

The Top Ford Mustang Issues

Below is a list of the most widely seen problems with the Ford Mustang.

1. Loud Rattling Sounds

You get behind the wheel of a Ford Mustang to enjoy the open road. For some drivers with sixth-generation (2015-present) models, cabin vibrations can be distracting.

Ford Mustangs have a reputation of vibrating once you reach the 60 mph mark. While this can be normal when you're traveling at higher speeds, it's important to note that loud rattling sounds can result from an imbalanced drive shaft.

The Ford Motor Company has not issued any recalls regarding sixth-generation Mustang driveshafts, but replacing these components yields positive results.

2. Valve Cover Gasket Leaks

Watch for oil leaks as your Ford Mustang grows older. Specifically, you'll want to check engine valve cover gaskets for cracks. Some vehicle generations like the fifth-generation SN95 and New Edge Mustangs are prone to their valve cover gaskets leaking oil. This ultimately leads to oil seeping into your vehicle's coolant supply.

3. Hood Corrosion Problems

Ford Mustangs are notorious for their large hood assemblies. These surfaces are frequently exposed to UV rays and outside elements, which can cause corrosion. Metal hardware across your Mustang's hood may call for attention over time. Knowing where you can find replacement hood hinges and other solutions like hood latch strikers is useful for do-it-yourself repairs.

4. Malfunctioning Entertainment System

Ford Mustang problems relating to interior entertainment systems are common and widespread. Like other sports cars, modern Mustangs allow you to connect your smartphone, pair Bluetooth devices and listen to your favorite songs. Some drivers experience display issues that make it hard to view music data. This problem is often linked to loose wiring behind the dash or a faulty receiver from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

5. Rearview Camera Troubles

Fifth- and sixth-generation Ford Mustangs are available with rear backup cameras to eliminate blind spots. In some cases, Mustang owners will notice a miscommunication between rearview cameras and the infotainment system display on the dash. Signs you're experiencing a problem with your Mustang's backup camera are black or blurry images when shifting into reverse.

Changing out the OEM cameras on your Ford Mustang is helpful for improving system reliability and visibility.

6. Loose Suspension Components

Ford Mustangs sit close to the road where they encounter potholes, changing terrains and kicked-up gravel. Regular driving can cause problems with a Mustang's suspension system, as components including ball joints and tire rod ends can deteriorate or loosen. Drivers may report a loss of handling control or the steering wheel vibrating if the issue is ignored for long periods.

It's crucial to repair loose suspension components as soon as possible on a Ford Mustang. Doing so will help prevent your vehicle from bottoming out on the road and keep wheel assemblies aligned.

7. Fast-Wearing Brake Rotors

High-performance vehicles like the Ford Mustang must have strong brake components to bring the cars to a complete stop. Drivers using Mustangs as a primary form of transportation might notice fast-wearing brake rotors depending on their driving habits.

Brake rotors slow your vehicle down once pads create enough friction against them. All Mustang generations are susceptible to increased rotor wear when the vehicles are used for competition since an intense amount of heat builds up here. Inspect your brake system periodically to ensure you can drive your sports car safely.

8. Misaligned Oil Filter

Changing the oil in your performance car is a regular part of maintaining your vehicle. If you notice oil leaking from below your ‘Stang, there’s a chance the oil filter under your vehicle was installed too quickly or needs replacing. As a rule of thumb, you should replace your Mustang's oil filter each time you perform an oil change.

A misaligned oil filter is not necessarily something you'll see when your vehicle is fresh off the lot. This issue could occur after taking your vehicle somewhere new for service. Checking the oil filter on your performance vehicle is proactive in finding the potential source of a leak before you start disassembling other connections.

9. Broken Oil Filler Caps

Checking oil levels is needed to ensure your vehicle's engine is well-lubricated. Mustang owners do this by loosening the oil filler cap and checking the dipstick. A Ford Mustang issue you might encounter is a broken or cracked oil filler cap or seal.

The OEM filler caps included on your vehicle from the Ford Motor Company will do the job for some time, but temperature shifts and frequent use may cause them to wear out. Changing a broken oil filler cap and seal is recommended to keep the engine compartment clean and stop contaminants from entering the intake.

10. Squeaking Serpentine Belts

Mustangs have serpentine belts below the hood. The thick rubber belts power the alternator, the power steering system and your vehicle's air conditioning compressor. Serpentine belts are constantly working to provide you with a comfortable driving experience, but they become less efficient with time.

A loud squeaking sound coming from underneath your Mustang's hood is a giveaway that your serpentine belt needs replacing. Mustang fans can expect the OEM serpentine belt to last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles based on driving behaviors and environmental conditions. If you can see splits in the serpentine belt or your alternator quits on you, there's a good chance you're due for an upgrade.

Choose StockWise Auto for Ford Mustang Repair Parts

StockWise Auto is a reputable source for Mustang OEM and replacement parts. Thanks to our up-to-date fitment data online, you know the technology you purchase from us will fit after we ship it to your home or business.

We get that drivers are particular about repair parts. This is why you will find components produced by all the brands you are familiar with in the automotive world. Browse the Ford Mustang repair parts in our catalog and purchase from StockWise Auto to finish your repair work.