1994-2004 Ford Mustang: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Ford Mustang includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Ford Mustang .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Accessory belt:
The serpentine accessory drive belt on 4.6L engine comes off in wet weather requiring a redesigned water pump, tensioner pulley or both. (2001-02)
Accessory belt:
On GT models with manual trans, the serpentine belt might come off in wet weather. A revised tensioner and water pump pulley are available. (2000-01)
Alternator belt:
The drive-belt tensioner pulley or idler-pulley bearings are apt to make a squealing noise when the engine is started in cold weather. (1994-96)
Automatic transmission:
The automatic transmission is notorious for shuddering or vibrating under light acceleration or when shifting between third and fourth gear above 35 mph. It requires that the transmission fluid be changed and only Mercon fluid be used. (1994)
Automatic transmission:
The transmission may slip and the engine may flare when the transmission shifts into fourth gear, which can often be traced to a bad TR/MLP sensor. (1994-95)
Blower motor:
Squeaking or chirping blower motors are the result of defective brush holders. (1994)
Clutch:
Clutch pedal vibration is not uncommon. Does not indicate an engine or transmission problem. (1994-01)
Coolant leak:
The intake manifold on 4.6L V8 engines is prone to breakage resulting in coolant loss and possible overheating. The manufacturer is reimbursing owners who paid for fixes up to $735 and extending the warranty for others (1996-2001)
Hard starting:
If the engine does not want to start or cranks for a long time then stalls, the idle air-control valve may be sticking. (1995-96)
Heater core:
Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1985-2002)
Spark plugs:
Spark plug hole threads in cylinder heads are easily damaged or stripped out when removing plugs because carbon builds up on them. (2004)
Vehicle noise:
A chattering noise that can be felt coming from the rear during tight turns after highway driving is caused by a lack of friction modifier or over-shimming of the clutch packs in the Traction-Lok differential. (1994-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $410 |
| Alternator | $535 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $675 |
| Brakes | $245 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $435 |
| Exhaust System | $830 |
| Radiator | $480 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $435 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $215 |
| Universal Joints | $95 |
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