Post
Research the Car Logo

2010 Ford Mustang

Posted
By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2010 Ford Mustang marked the beginning of the fifth generation’s refresh, bringing a more angular design and improved interior. Available engines included a 4.0L Cologne V6 producing 210 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque, a 4.6L Modular V8 with 315 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque (GT models), and a 5.4L Supercharged V8 with 540 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque (Shelby GT500). Transmission options were a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic with the V6, and a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic with the V8. People generally liked the Mustang’s iconic styling, performance for the price, and available customization. Common dislikes included the lower-quality interior materials in the base models, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

4.0L Cologne V6

  • Rough Idle/Misfire
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, and misfires, often triggered by worn or faulty ignition coils. Can also be caused by vacuum leaks.
    • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils. Inspect and repair vacuum leaks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on the number of coils needing replacement and labor rates).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed.
    • Solution: Replace timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

4.6L Modular V8

  • Spark Plug Stripping
    • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs become loose or eject from the cylinder head, causing a misfire and loud noise.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the cylinder head. Inserts like Time-Serts can be used to repair damaged threads.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the extent of damage and repair method).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Train Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise, particularly at idle, can be caused by worn valve lash adjusters or rocker arms.
    • Solution: Replace worn valve lash adjusters and/or rocker arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Supercharged V8

  • No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual (V6 & V8)

  • Shifter Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, grinding noises, or a notchy feel. Can be caused by worn synchros, shift forks, or a failing clutch.
    • Solution: Replace worn synchros, shift forks, or clutch components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the severity of the damage).
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (V6 & V8)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or complete loss of gear engagement. Can be caused by low fluid level, contaminated fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body.
    • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush and filter). $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild or replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Axle Whine/Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable whining or humming noise coming from the rear axle, especially at higher speeds. Often caused by worn bearings or incorrect pinion gear depth.
    • Solution: Replace worn rear axle bearings or adjust the pinion gear depth.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Struts/Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replace worn struts and/or shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for a complete set of struts/shocks and installation).
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows that are slow to operate, don’t work at all, or only work intermittently. Often caused by a faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster stops working or displays incorrect information.
    • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Hinge Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors that sag or are difficult to open/close. This can be due to worn hinge pins or bushings.
    • Solution: Replace the door hinge pins and/or bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Airbag Light On
    • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light is illuminated on the dashboard. Can be caused by a faulty sensor, wiring issue, or a problem with the airbag control module.
    • Solution: Diagnose the issue with a scan tool and repair or replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Upholstery Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Early wear and tear, particularly on cloth seats.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the seat upholstery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Ford Mustang has some common issues across its various engine and transmission options. The severity and cost vary widely, from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing ignition coils to more significant repairs like timing chain replacement or transmission rebuilds. Electrical and suspension issues are also common. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used Mustang before purchasing. The potential for moderate to high repair costs makes a pre-purchase inspection particularly important.

Ford, Mustang
Ford Mustang 2010
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.