Last updated: 2026-03-04
2023 Ford Mustang Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2023 Ford Mustang scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 6 recalls and 14 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2023 is the last model year of the Sixth generation (2015).
Recalls
6
Complaints
14
Complaint Rate
2.6
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$709
Above avgMajor Repair Risk
14%
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
6 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
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.
Sixth generation (2015)
Should You Buy the 2023 Ford Mustang?
The 2023 Ford Mustang scores 72/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2023 is the last model year of the Sixth generation (2015).
With 14 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to steering (5). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
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%)
- Below-average complaint rate for Coupe
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 Corvette
Score: 73/100
2023 Tesla Model 3
Score: 57/100
2023 Honda Accord
Score: 74/100
2023 Toyota Camry
Score: 79/100
2023 Nissan Altima
Score: 84/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 6 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- STEERING (5)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- SERVICE BRAKES (2)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
- ENGINE (1)
Recall Overview
6
recalls on record
The 2023 Ford Mustang has 6 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
2.6
per 10k soldSegment avg: 2.5
Safety Incidents
Crashes
5
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
0
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.
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.
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.
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.
2023 Ford Mustang NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.3%
Safety Technologies
Ford Mustang Repair 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.
When Buying a Used 2023 Ford Mustang
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- 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
Check Any 2023 Ford Mustang's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2023 Mustang in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Ford Mustang with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2023 Ford Mustang Common Problems by Component
14 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners 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.
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaintOngoing 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 complaintWhile 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 complaintThe 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.
Best & Worst Ford Mustang Years
Best Ford Mustang Years to Buy
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).
2025
3 recalls · 8 complaints
2023(this page)
6 recalls · 14 complaints
2024
10 recalls · 63 complaints
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.
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.
| 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 2023 Ford Mustang reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Ford Mustang?
How many recalls does the 2023 Ford Mustang have?
Is the 2023 Ford Mustang expensive to maintain?
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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