2013 Ford Mustang

The 2013 Ford Mustang is a popular sports car known for its iconic styling and engaging driving experience. Available engine options include a 3.7L V6 producing 305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, a 5.0L V8 (“Coyote”) generating 420 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque (GT models), and a 5.8L Supercharged V8 producing 662 horsepower and 631 lb-ft of torque (Shelby GT500). Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Mustang’s performance and heritage, while some criticisms include interior material quality and rear seat space.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs. This is generally noticed by checking the oil level and noticing a significant drop between oil changes.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings or the entire engine may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8 (“Coyote”)

• Engine Knocking/Ticking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A distinct knocking or ticking noise emanating from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. May be related to valve train components.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of specific valve train components such as lash adjusters/rocker arms, or complete engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.8L Supercharged V8

• Supercharger Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the supercharger, potential loss of boost, and eventual supercharger failure.
  • Solution: Supercharger rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Shifting Delays
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting between gears, particularly when cold. Can manifest as a “clunk” or “jerk” during gear changes.
  • Solution: Transmission flush and fluid change, valve body replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (All Engine Options)

• Grinding When Shifting into 2nd or 3rd Gear
  • Description/Symptoms: A grinding noise is heard when attempting to shift into 2nd or 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Synchro replacement is usually required. Some instances require full transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Axle Whine/Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable whining or howling sound coming from the rear axle, especially at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear axle bearings and/or differential.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or unresponsiveness of the MyFord Touch/SYNC system. Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light illumination, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, and eventually complete electrical failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hood Flutter/Vibration at High Speeds
  • Description/Symptoms: The hood visibly vibrates or flutters at highway speeds, causing concern for drivers. This is due to the hood latch system not holding the hood down tight enough.
  • Solution: Adjusting or replacing the hood latch mechanism. In severe cases, reinforcing the hood structure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Light Illumination
  • Description/Symptoms: The airbag warning light is illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the airbag system using a diagnostic scan tool. Repair or replacement of faulty airbag sensors or modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Ford Mustang, while a generally reliable and enjoyable vehicle, can suffer from certain issues. Engine problems such as oil consumption and knocking noises are significant, especially with the 3.7L V6 and 5.0L V8. Transmission issues like harsh shifting are more common with the automatic. Electrical problems, particularly with the SYNC system, can be frustrating. Most of these problems range from relatively inexpensive to very expensive to repair. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection completed by a qualified mechanic.