Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 72/100 (GOOD)

2023 Ford Mustang Reliability Report

Name: 2023 Ford Mustang
Brand: Ford

The 2023 Ford Mustang scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 6 recalls and 14 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

2.6per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$709

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,400–$3,500

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity73/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact65/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity80/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

STEERING (5)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
SERVICE BRAKES (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Final Year

2023 is the last model year of the Sixth generation (2015).

Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
5 years after the last refresh (2018).
6th generation Mustang (US).

What this means for buyers

Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.

2015: Sixth generation (2015) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2018: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2023: This Model Year

2023 is the last model year of the Sixth generation (2015).

Should You Buy the 2023 Ford Mustang?

At 72/100, the 2023 Ford Mustang lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 is the last model year of the Sixth generation (2015).

Owners log 14 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to steering (5). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2024 Ford Mustang, which scored 5 points lower. See also the 2022 Ford Mustang for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low major repair risk (14%)
+Complaint rate in line with Coupe segment average (early data)

Cons

−Above-average repair costs for its class
−Above-average recall count
−STEERING: Abnormal vibrations and looseness in the steering wheel (5 complaints)

Compare 2023 Ford Mustang With

2023 Chevrolet Camaro

Reliability: 81/100

Excellent

2023 Toyota Supra

Reliability: 69/100

Good

2023 Chevrolet Corvette

Reliability: 73/100

Good

2023 Tesla Model 3

Reliability: 57/100

Mixed

2023 Honda Accord

Reliability: 74/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

6 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

STEERING (5)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2023 Ford Mustang has 6 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

2.6

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 2.6

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2023 Ford Mustang Recall Details

6 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Ford Mustang. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V0960002025-02-14

STEERING

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Ford Mustang vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-493. The secondary steering torque sensor may not be calibrated properly, which can cause the steering wheel to turn side to side against the driver's intentions.

Consequence

A steering wheel that turns unintentionally can cause a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the power steering control module (PSCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S11.

25V6890002025-10-10

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Mustang vehicles repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V727. The brake fluid level sensor may not activate the visual warning indicator when the brake fluid is low. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Consequence

Without a low brake fluid warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, reducing braking performance and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C55. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 17, 2025.

25V4420002025-06-27

BACK OVER PREVENTION

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.

Consequence

A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2023 Ford Mustang? Check its history first

Every 2023 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

2023 Ford Mustang NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 9.3%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Not Available)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Ford MustangRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based 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

Mustang

$709

Category Avg

$526

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

17–25 MPG

Running cost: $3,100–$4,200/yr

Fuel + repair

14–22 city / 22–32 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 2023 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Mustang 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 10-spd	22	32	25	$2,400
Mustang 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S10)	21	31	24	$2,500
Mustang 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	21	29	24	$2,500
Mustang Convertible 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S10)	20	28	23	$2,600
Mustang Convertible 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 10-spd	20	28	23	$2,600
Mustang Convertible 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	20	27	23	$2,600
Mustang HO Coupe 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S10)	20	27	23	$2,600
Mustang HO Convertible 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S10)	19	26	22	$2,700
Mustang HO Coupe 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	20	27	22	$2,700
Mustang HO Convertible 2.3L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	19	25	21	$2,850
Mustang 5.0L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S10)	15	24	19	$3,150
Mustang 5.0L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	15	24	18	$3,300
Mustang Convertible 5.0L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S10)	15	23	18	$3,300
Mustang Mach 1 5.0L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S10)	15	23	18	$3,300
Mustang Mach 1 5.0L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	14	22	17	$3,500

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Ford Mustang.

Inspect steering for abnormal vibrations or looseness
Test brakes for proper function and pedal resistance
Check for any unresolved recalls related to steering and brakes
Verify acceleration response and check for any hesitation or stalling
Ensure tires are not worn prematurely and have adequate tread

2023 Ford Mustang Common Problems by Component

14 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

STEERING (5)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)SERVICE BRAKES (2)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)POWER TRAIN (1)ENGINE (1)

STEERING

5 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report issues with the steering system of the 2023 Ford Mustang, primarily involving abnormal vibrations and looseness in the steering wheel. Complaints frequently mention these symptoms occurring at varying speeds, with some owners experiencing the issue as early as 3,000 miles. One incident involved a crash where the steering suddenly veered right, leading to a collision with a curb. These problems are linked to a recall for which parts are not yet available, suggesting potential delays in repairs. Buyers should be aware of these steering concerns and the associated safety implications, including the risk of loss of control.

5 complaints total1 crash

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Ford Mustang frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving loss of power and acceleration problems. Common symptoms include the vehicle hesitating to accelerate, stalling unexpectedly, and instances where the gas pedal becomes unresponsive, leaving the car stranded in traffic. These problems are often reported around the 15,000 to 26,000-mile range. Two complaints involve crashes, with one incident resulting in a collision with a building due to brake failure and another involving a near-miss in oncoming traffic. Safety implications are significant, with reports of the vehicle stopping unexpectedly and steering issues that could lead to loss of control. These issues are compounded by ongoing recalls that lack available remedies, suggesting potential risks for used car buyers.

4 complaints total2 crashes

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Ford Mustang report issues with the braking system, with two complaints involving crashes. A common failure pattern includes the brake pedal extending to the floor during operation, leading to a loss of vehicle control. One owner notes this issue occurring at approximately 14,000 miles. Another owner links their accident to a recall notice regarding faulty brakes. These complaints highlight significant safety implications, including crashes and loss of control, which potential buyers should consider.

2 complaints total2 crashes

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

2024-05-06

Ongoing issues with rough idle. Threw a couple generic lean codes (p0171 and p0174) that did not stay. Stored code p061a:00-28. On my third dealer. Vehicle randomly shut off at stop sign with no codes thrown whatsoever. Tech believes the issue is the throttlebody. Ford Corp says it passes their tests and will not warranty the replacement. Ford Corp Basically said I have to wait till total part failure. Shutting off in traffic is obviously dangerous.

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

2025-10-21

While driving up hill in low gear, the vehicle suddenly will jerk, a service light will come on, and a powertrain warning will occur. When this happens, it warns that the pre-collision assist is unavailable, as well as the exhaust mode selection. Once this occurs, the vehicle becomes much more difficult to drive as the rev match no longer occurs, the vehicle no longer increases revs as you start releasing the clutch, and when in gear it becomes more jerky as you are driving along. I don't have the experience but I suspect it is essentially in a low power mode with minimal computer aid. After being able to pull off and turn the car off for a number of minutes (not off and on as that does not resolve it), the vehicle returns to normal. This has happened twice now while driving on the same section of roadway in almost the exact same spot. I previously called the dealer after the first time and they told me if it happens again to bring it in. They did not seem interested in looking at it. I will be hopefully doing that tomorrow. I am not sure if it is related, but the vehicle did seem like it was running rich earlier in the day (a slight smell of gas when driving by).

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint

2023-12-12

The last two times I have went to start my vehicle it acts as if it is not in the park position. The brake is stiff and wont budge. I have to wiggle the shifter as much as it will let me fpr a couple minutes before it lets loose to start.

When Do 2023 Ford Mustang Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

15,000–26,000 milesElectrical system failures

3,000–26,000 milesSteering issues

14,000–15,000 milesBrake failures

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 score

The 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).

Top Pick

Good

2025

3Recalls

8Complaints

Good

2023

(Current Model)

6Recalls

14Complaints

Good

2024

10Recalls

63Complaints

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.

Mixed

2021

18Recalls

373Complaints

See full Ford Mustang years-to-avoid analysis

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.

Ford Mustang reliability scores by year
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

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	71/100 (predicted)	—	Predicted	1	0
2025	73/100	+6	Good	3	8
2024	67/100	-5	Good	10	63
2023(selected)	72/100	+13	Good	6	14
2022	59/100	+5	Mixed	17	154
2021	54/100	-12	Mixed	18	373
2020	66/100	-1	Good	8	101
2019	67/100	+2	Good	4	129
2018	65/100	—	Good	4	172

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2023 Ford Mustang reliable?

The 2023 Ford Mustang has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 72/100. It is reasonably reliable with 6 recalls and 14 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2023 Ford Mustang?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Ford Mustang include: STEERING (5 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints), POWER TRAIN (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2023 Ford Mustang have?

The 2023 Ford Mustang has 6 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2023 Ford Mustang expensive to maintain?

The 2023 Ford Mustang has estimated annual repair costs of $709/year, which is $183 more than the midsize cars average of $526. With a reliability score of 72/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2023 Ford Mustang without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

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.

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