2009 Ford Mustang

The 2009 Ford Mustang marked the fifth model year of the fifth generation (S197) Mustang. It was available with two primary engine options: a 4.0L Cologne V6 producing approximately 210 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.6L Modular V8 producing around 300 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque (found in the GT models). Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Mustang’s iconic styling, strong performance, and relative affordability. Common dislikes include interior plastics quality and the live rear axle suspension in non-Shelby models, which can impact handling on rough roads.

Engine

4.0L Cologne V6

• Timing Chain Rattle/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise coming from the front of the engine, especially on startup. This can indicate worn or stretched timing chains, faulty timing chain tensioners, or damaged timing chain guides. If left unaddressed, it can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chains, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, reduced fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating with codes related to the camshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L Modular V8

• Spark Plug Thread Damage/Removal Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficultly removing spark plugs, damaged threads in the cylinder head, spark plugs breaking during removal. This is more common on the 3-valve engines.
  • Solution: Use proper torque and anti-seize compound when installing new plugs. If threads are damaged, repair with thread inserts (e.g., Heli-Coil).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and number of affected cylinders)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, engine misfire, white smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold, ensure proper gasket seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual (Both Engines)

• Shifter Issues/Sticking
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, particularly when cold. Sticking shifter.
  • Solution: Replace the shift bushing, clean and lubricate shifter linkage, or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ for bushings/linkage; $1500 - $3000+ for transmission replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty engaging gears, unusual noises when depressing the clutch pedal.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears, slipping during acceleration, transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush (if the fluid is old or contaminated) or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for fluid flush; $2000 - $4000+ for transmission replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Axle Whine/Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A whining or howling noise coming from the rear of the vehicle, especially at highway speeds. This is often due to worn pinion bearings or insufficient lubrication in the rear differential.
  • Solution: Replace the pinion bearings and/or the entire differential unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Loose or unstable steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light illumination, difficulty starting, dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating correctly, slow movement, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Light Housing Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracked or broken fog light housings due to road debris or impact.
  • Solution: Replace fog light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per fog light
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement, dashboard cover, or professional repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+ depending on method.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Foam Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Flattened or collapsed seat foam, reduced support and comfort.
  • Solution: Replace or repair seat foam.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Ford Mustang, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues like timing chain problems in the V6 and spark plug thread damage in the V8 can be costly to address. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, can also be a concern. Suspension issues like rear axle whine and worn suspension components are fairly common as the vehicles age. Electrical issues are not widespread but alternator and window motor failures can occur. Interior and exterior issues tend to be more cosmetic, with dashboard cracking being a notable concern. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle inspected thoroughly before purchase. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but addressing them proactively can help maintain the Mustang’s reliability and performance.