Last updated: 2026-04-20

2018 Ford Mustang Reliability Report
The 2018 Ford Mustang scores 65/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 172 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
4
Complaints
172
Complaint Rate
22.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$709
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,400–$3,300
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (41)
- ENGINE (38)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (27)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 received a 2018 update update for the Sixth generation (2015).
- Changes: Minor exterior redesign; Engine lineup revised, dropping V6; Increase in horsepower for EcoBoost V8.
- Year 4 in this generation (2015–2023).
- 6th generation Mustang (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2015: Sixth generation (2015) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2018: This Model Year (Refresh)
2018 received a 2018 update update for the Sixth generation (2015).
Should You Buy the 2018 Ford Mustang?
At 65/100, the 2018 Ford Mustang lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 received a 2018 update update for the Sixth generation (2015).
Its complaint rate of 22.7 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the Coupe segment average of 16.9. The most common reports involve power train (41).
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (41). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Ford Mustang, which scored 2 points higher.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (14%)
Cons
- −Above-average repair costs for its class
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for Coupe
Compare 2018 Ford Mustang With

2018 Chevrolet Camaro
Reliability: 71/100

2018 Chevrolet Corvette
Reliability: 70/100

2018 Tesla Model 3
Reliability: 46/100

2018 Honda Accord
Reliability: 63/100

2018 Toyota Camry
Reliability: 65/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (41)
- ENGINE (38)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2018 Ford Mustang. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
22.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 16.9
Safety Incidents
8
Crashes
1
Fires
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Ford Mustang Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Ford Mustang. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC, Mustang, F-350 SD, F-250 SD, F-450 SD, 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, 2015-2018 Edge, Transit Connect, 2016-2019 F-550 SD, Transit, 2017-2019 Econoline, and 2019 Ranger vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, inverted, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
Consequence
A rearview camera that displays an inverted, distorted, or blank image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 13, 2026. Ford owners will receive letters in phases, beginning January 2026 and May 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S89. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 25V270. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning September 8, 2025.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Roush Performance Products, Inc. (Roush) is recalling certain aftermarket supercharger kits, part number R1318-6006P1-AA, sold for installation on 2018 Ford Mustangs. The hose barb fittings on the supercharger kits may be manufactured incorrectly, possibly causing damage to the fuel lines and resulting in a fuel leak.
Consequence
A fuel leak can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Roush will notify the known owners and replace the defective fuel rail subassemblies, free of charge. The recall began on May 31, 2018. Owners may contact Roush customer service at 1-800-597-6874. Roush's number for this recall is REMay2018.
POWER TRAIN
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford F-150 and 2018 Ford Expedition and Mustang and Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with 10-speed automatic transmissions. A roll pin may not have been installed in the transmission, potentially causing a loss of the "Park" function.
Consequence
Despite the transmission shift lever being placed in 'Park' and the instrument panel display indicating 'Park,' the vehicle may roll away after it has been exited if the parking brake has not been applied, increasing the risk of injury or a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmission to make sure it has the roll pin, installing one if it is missing, free of charge. The recall began on April 13, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S09.
Buying a used 2018 Ford Mustang? Check its history first
Every 2018 Ford Mustang has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Ford Mustang NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.3%
Safety Technologies
Ford MustangRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$709
vs $526 avg for midsize cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
14%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
18–25 MPG
Running cost: $3,100–$4,000/yr
Fuel + repair
15–21 city / 24–32 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mustang 2.3L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 21 | 32 | 25 | $2,400 |
| Mustang 2.3L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 21 | 31 | 25 | $2,400 |
| Mustang Convertible 2.3L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 20 | 29 | 23 | $2,600 |
| Mustang Convertible 2.3L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 20 | 28 | 23 | $2,600 |
| Mustang Performance Package 2.3L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 20 | 29 | 23 | $2,600 |
| Mustang Performance Package 2.3L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 20 | 28 | 23 | $2,600 |
| Mustang 5.0L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 16 | 25 | 19 | $3,150 |
| Mustang 5.0L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 15 | 25 | 18 | $3,300 |
| Mustang Convertible 5.0L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 15 | 24 | 18 | $3,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Ford Mustang.
Inspect for coolant leaks in the engine bay
Test the digital instrument cluster for display issues
Check for proper door latching and locking
Test transmission for smooth shifting and listen for unusual noises
Verify power steering functionality
Check for any signs of water leaks in the interior
Test brake lights for proper operation
2018 Ford Mustang Common Problems by Component
172 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
41 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ford Mustang frequently report issues with the vehicle's power train, particularly involving the transmission. Common symptoms include the vehicle abruptly stopping or locking the rear wheels, especially when shifting gears, which occasionally leads to crashes. Other reported issues involve the transmission failing to shift properly, causing jerking, slamming, or slipping during gear changes, with some owners noting problems as early as 35,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with instances of unintended vehicle movement and rollaway incidents, as well as sudden loss of power while driving. These patterns suggest potential risks for used car buyers considering this model.
ENGINE
38 complaintsOwners report that the 2018 Ford Mustang, particularly those with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine, frequently experiences coolant intrusion into the engine cylinders, leading to misfires, engine failure, and the need for costly engine replacements. Common symptoms include rough starting, misfires, loss of power, and illuminated check engine lights. These issues are often reported around 40,000 to 70,000 miles, though some occur as early as 18,000 miles or as late as 100,000 miles. Safety implications include sudden loss of power while driving, which may pose a risk of stalling or accidents. Potential buyers should be aware of these reported problems and the associated repair costs, as well as the lack of manufacturer support for out-of-warranty vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
27 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ford Mustang frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the infotainment system and instrument cluster. Common symptoms include the backup camera and infotainment screen going black or blue, unresponsive touchscreen controls, and the instrument cluster failing to display crucial information such as speed and fuel levels. These problems often arise around 30,000 to 65,000 miles. Some complaints note safety implications, with doors unlatching while driving and instrument panels going blank at high speeds, potentially distracting drivers. Additionally, owners mention recurring issues with battery terminal corrosion affecting electrical connections. Potential buyers should be aware of these reported issues, especially if considering a vehicle in this mileage range.
STRUCTURE (14 complaints)
STRUCTURE
14 complaintsOwners report two primary structural issues with the 2018 Ford Mustang. The most frequently mentioned problem involves the passenger and, occasionally, driver doors unlatching or becoming ajar while driving, often at highway speeds but also at lower speeds or when traversing bumps. This issue occurs even when the doors are locked, and several complaints detail the passenger door opening multiple times within a short timeframe. Additionally, a few owners describe water leaks, particularly in the back footwell or through the rear windows in convertibles, leading to potential interior damage. These issues, especially the door unlatching, carry safety implications, as they can occur unexpectedly and require immediate attention to secure the vehicle.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (6 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
6 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Ford Mustang frequently report issues related to engine misfires and coolant intrusion, often resulting in the need for engine replacement. Common symptoms include illuminated check engine lights, overheating messages, and abnormal knocking sounds, with some cases noting oil or coolant leaks. These problems typically occur between 23,000 and 72,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, the need for significant engine repairs or replacements may impact reliability and repair costs. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these potential engine issues, particularly at these mileage intervals.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (6 complaints)
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
6 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Ford Mustang frequently report issues with doors unexpectedly unlatching or opening while driving, particularly the passenger door. Symptoms often include the door ajar warning light illuminating and the need to stop and re-secure the door. Multiple complaints mention this occurring at highway speeds, with some reports indicating the issue starts around 27,000 to 70,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as one owner notes the driver's door unlocking unexpectedly, creating potentially hazardous situations. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring door latch issues and the potential need for repairs.
STEERING (4 complaints)
STEERING
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ford Mustang report issues with the power steering system, often describing sudden failures while driving. Complaints frequently mention the power steering assist system failing without warning, causing the vehicle to become difficult to control. These issues typically occur around 16,000 to 46,000 miles. One report involves a crash where the steering unexpectedly veered left and resulted in a collision with a concrete barrier, though no injuries were reported. Used car buyers should be aware of these steering-related problems, as they may impact vehicle safety and require attention.
SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Ford Mustang report issues with the service brakes, particularly with the parking brake and brake lights. Multiple complaints highlight a problem where the parking brake fails to engage or release properly, leaving the vehicle at risk of rolling when parked on an incline. This issue is noted to have started as early as 2019 and worsens over time, with adjustments only temporarily improving the situation. Another reported issue is brake lights remaining on after releasing the pedal, which can persist even after the vehicle is turned off. Additionally, some owners experience unexpected activation of the collision avoidance system, causing the car to brake hard without an apparent obstacle, raising concerns about potential rear-end collisions. These issues can be of particular interest to used car buyers concerned about vehicle safety and reliability.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners report two primary issues with the fuel/propulsion system of the 2018 Ford Mustang. First, some owners experience problems with the gas tank not filling properly, where fuel backfeeds up the tube, causing spillage and requiring extended time to fill the tank, often taking about 30 minutes. Second, multiple owners describe the engine shutting down repeatedly and completely, posing a significant safety issue. These symptoms are reported without specific mileage or timeframes, and the engine shutdowns in particular have potential safety implications due to the risk of loss of power while driving. This information could be crucial for used car buyers assessing the reliability of this model year.
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)
AIR BAGS
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Ford Mustang report issues with the airbag system, particularly in crash situations. Complaints frequently mention that side airbags fail to deploy during collisions, even in severe impacts where the vehicle is totaled. One report describes significant injuries to the driver's leg caused by the airbag, resulting in fractures and long-term limping. Another report highlights a scenario where the airbags did not deploy despite a side impact at approximately 30 mph, leading to multiple injuries. These incidents occur at relatively low speeds on city streets, suggesting potential safety implications for drivers and passengers.
When Do 2018 Ford Mustang Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Ford Mustang Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Ford Mustang Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Ford Mustang year is 2025 with a reliability score of 73/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (72/100) and 2024 (67/100).
Ford Mustang Years to Avoid
The worst Ford Mustang year is 2021 with a score of 54/100, primarily due to electrical system (113) issues.
Ford Mustang Reliability Score Trend
Ford Mustang reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 65/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 54/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2023 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 73/100 | Good |
Ford Mustang Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Ford Mustang reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Ford Mustang?
How many recalls does the 2018 Ford Mustang have?
Is the 2018 Ford Mustang expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Ford Mustang without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Ford Mustang.
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