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The Ford Mustang Years To Avoid


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We've identified six specific Ford Mustang years to avoid based on commonly reported problems. Read on to learn which ones so you can make a smart used car shopping choice.

Blue Ford Mustang
Source: Flickr

The Ford Mustang is a car everybody knows. The second you see the familiar, intimidating design, there’s no mistaking the vehicle. Those looking to invest in a Ford Mustang probably want to make the most of their money and resources. In that case, you need to be familiar with the Ford Mustang years to avoid.

Although there are many top-notch years available for the Ford Mustang, there are also a few that are less than ideal. Though it won’t be the end of the world if you purchase bad years, they can be more expensive and take ample time to handle. Keep reading to learn more about the Mustang years to avoid, which are safe to purchase used, and more. 

Quick Answer: Avoid Ford Mustang Year Model 2006, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, and 2016. 

When checking out the Ford Mustang years to avoid, it’s always an excellent idea to keep your distance from selections that need extensive money and time to keep in quality condition. We advise not purchasing the 2006, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, and 2016 selections. They are the least dependable and offer a low value in the long term.


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Which Year Models of Ford Mustang Are Safe to Buy Used? 

Luckily, several years of the Ford Mustang are safe to invest in. These have the fewest customer complaints and the best track record with issues. They are far from perfect, but they’re the best you’ll find.

Here are the safest Ford Mustangs to purchase used:

  • 2005 Ford Mustang
  • 2008 Ford Mustang
  • 2014 Ford Mustang
  • 2018 Ford Mustang
  • 2019 Ford Mustang

These are top contenders if you’re interested in the Ford Mustang.

To keep these selections in the best condition, follow any recommended maintenance schedule and take it in for repairs. If buying used, ensure you take it for a test drive first to reveal any hidden issues that might not be obvious at first glance.

Which Year Models of Ford Mustang to Avoid: 

Unfortunately, as there are several years we recommend for the Ford Mustang, there are several we advise running from. These received poor reviews and held the most complaints by far.

Here are the worst selections for the Ford Mustang:

  • 2006 Ford Mustang
  • 2010 Ford Mustang
  • 2011 Ford Mustang
  • 2012 Ford Mustang
  • 2015 Ford Mustang
  • 2016 Ford Mustang

Pick one of the other dependable years instead.

Out of these, the 2010 selection is the worst. Its biggest trouble was in the area of issues with the body and paint. Ample customers reported significant corrosion on the hood and peeling paint, which makes the car unattractive and expensive to redo if it bothers the investor.

Common Ford Mustang Problems

Of course, you could invest in the best or worst versions of the Ford Mustang and still encounter issues - it isn’t uncommon to run into faults in any version of any car. The Ford Mustang has unique struggles that are helpful to know before purchasing the machine for your life.

According to repairpal.com, here are some common Ford Mustang issues:

  • Squeaking noise when turning
  • Check engine light with stalling
  • Coolant and overheating with no leaks

These can be frustrating for a vehicle owner.

If you notice any of these faults, take your Ford Mustang to the repair shop as soon as possible. Letting any trouble go for too long without any check is sure to cause permanent harm to other components of the car.


HOW LONG DO FORD MUSTANGS LAST?

If you’re interested in this car, you might wonder - how long do Ford Mustangs last? Will they survive for a long time on the road?


Ford Mustang Issues By Year

When looking at the Ford Mustang years to avoid, it’s beneficial to have information from those who have driven or owned the vehicle. First-hand accounts make it much easier to see which years are best - especially when checking out the number of complaints.

According to carcomplaints.com, here are the issues by year:

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Are Ford Mustangs typically reliable?

Another helpful item to examine when looking at the Ford Mustang years to avoid is dependability. The Ford Mustang has a long-standing history and popularity, but does that dependability hold up in general?

The Ford Mustang tends to hold above-average reliability, which is excellent news for those who love the car. It has a solid reputation, but there are more dependable selections if you want a solid choice.


THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE FORD MUSTANG

If you’re buying a used model, you need to know which is the most reliable Ford Mustang year.


How much does a used Ford Mustang typically cost?

The price point of the Ford Mustang also matters. It doesn’t matter if you go with a reliable selection if you don’t have enough money to cover it. How much money will a typical Mustang set you back?

The starting price for the most recent Ford Mustang is around $30,000, rising depending on the trim level and any additions. If you want a used version, the cost will start around $20,000, depending on the condition, trim, additions, and more. 

Is the Ford Mustang a good car to purchase?

We’ve discussed many details surrounding the Ford Mustang, including the best and worst selections. One final question remains - is it a good investment? 

Unfortunately, the Ford Mustang can be a little expensive. However, we think they are worth it if you go with the best years and want a powerhouse of a car. 

FAQs: Ford Mustang Years to Avoid

Q: Which Ford Mustang years should I avoid?

We advise keeping away from the 2006, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, and 2016 selections. 

Q: Did any of the Ford Mustang years to avoid have other significant issues?

The biggest trouble in the worst Ford Mustang years appeared in the paint and body. There was ample fading and chipping. 

Q: Are newer Ford Mustang models more reliable?

Many of the newer Mustang models are more reliable. However, some older years are just as dependable.

Q: Is the Ford Mustang a good car to purchase?

We do recommend the Ford Mustang. It’s a powerful vehicle with a decent value.



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