1964-present
The Ford Mustang is America's sports car icon. The current generation with the 5.0L Coyote V8 offers incredible performance for the money. Even the 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder model is surprisingly quick and efficient for a sports car.
Affects Ford Mustang: 2011-2017
Affects Ford Mustang: 2015-2020
Affects Ford Mustang: 2018-2020
Affects Ford Mustang: 2011-2017
Affects Ford Mustang: 2011-2014
Using Motorcraft XT-M5-QS fluid instead of the factory fill improves shift quality significantly.
Moisture can accumulate inside the taillight housings. Ford may replace under warranty.
| Service Item | Estimated Cost | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change (Synthetic) | $60-$90 | Every 10,000 mi |
| Brake Pads (Front) | $200-$400 | Every 30,000 mi |
| Brake Pads (Rear) | $175-$325 | Every 40,000 mi |
| Spark Plugs (V8) | $200-$350 | Every 60,000 mi |
| Transmission Fluid | $125-$225 | Every 30,000 mi |
Costs are estimates and vary by location, shop, and vehicle condition. Dealership pricing may be higher.
Ford's 5.4L 3-valve V8 (2004-2010) is notorious for spark plugs breaking during removal. Use anti-seize and the correct removal procedure.
$100 – $350
Ford EcoBoost engines generally have reliable coils, but moisture intrusion in the coil wells can cause misfires. Check for water in spark plug wells.
$150 – $400
Ford's 3.5L EcoBoost uses a water pump driven by the timing chain. If it leaks internally, coolant mixes with engine oil — a potentially catastrophic failure.
$300 – $1,000
Trucks and heavy SUVs eat brake pads faster due to vehicle weight, especially if you tow. Expect 30,000-40,000 miles on front pads.
$150 – $400 per axle
Heavy trucks and SUVs put more stress on rotors, especially when towing. Consider upgraded rotors if you tow regularly.
$200 – $500 per axle
Ford F-150 starters (2011-2017) with auto start/stop cycle much more frequently and may wear out sooner — around 80,000-100,000 miles.
$300 – $700
The S550 Mustang (2015+) with the 5.0L Coyote V8 is one of the best performance values in automotive history. The 2018+ models with the revised MT-82 or 10-speed auto are the ones to get. If buying a 2015-2017 GT with a manual, test the shift quality thoroughly — especially 3rd gear. The EcoBoost Mustang (2.3T) is perfect for daily driving with 300+ HP and 30+ MPG highway. Avoid high-mileage performance packs that have been tracked.