2018 Ford Mustang

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2018 Ford Mustang, categorized by major components and specific configurations. The 2018 Ford Mustang is a popular sports car appreciated for its performance, iconic styling, and relatively affordable price point. However, like any vehicle, it’s not without its potential problems. The 2018 Mustang offered several engine choices: a 3.7L V6 (300 hp, 280 lb-ft of torque), a 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4 (310 hp, 350 lb-ft of torque), and a 5.0L Coyote V8 (460 hp, 420 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic. While Mustang enthusiasts often praise the car’s powerful engine options and sporty handling, some common dislikes include a cramped back seat (in models that have one), a sometimes-plasticky interior, and potential reliability concerns.

Engine

2.3L EcoBoost

• Cracked Cylinder Head
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss with no visible leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, and potential engine damage. A cracked cylinder head is allowing coolant to leak into the combustion chamber.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head. In some cases, engine replacement may be necessary if significant damage has occurred.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ (depending on the extent of damage and whether the engine needs to be replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L Coyote V8

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeably lower oil levels between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage due to lack of lubrication.
  • Solution: The fix varies depending on the cause. Initially, some owners have had success with a PCM reflash. More invasive solutions may involve replacing the PCV valve, valve seals, or piston rings. In severe cases, engine replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (PCM reflash) to $6,000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knocking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking sounds coming from the engine, especially when cold. Could be caused by piston slap or other internal engine issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the exact source of the noise. Depending on the cause, solutions can range from oil additives to internal engine repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Oil Additive) - $6,000+ (Engine Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (10R80)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. Hesitation or delay when accelerating or shifting. Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Some owners have reported success with a transmission software update (PCM reflash). If the problem persists, valve body replacement might be necessary. In more severe cases, complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (PCM reflash) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, RPMs climb without acceleration.
  • Solution: Valve Body Replacement, Full Transmission Replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Ford SYNC infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes frequently. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Try a system reset (holding the power and forward buttons). Software updates from Ford may address some of these issues. In some cases, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (system reset) to $500 - $1000+ (APIM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera displays a black screen or distorted image, or fails to activate when the vehicle is in reverse.
  • Solution: Check camera connections. Replacement of the camera may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Loose or Rattling Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or loose trim pieces within the interior, especially on the dashboard, door panels, or center console.
  • Solution: Secure the trim pieces with appropriate clips or fasteners. In some cases, replacement of damaged clips may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20-$200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford Mustang can be a fun and engaging vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems like cracked cylinder heads (2.3L EcoBoost) and excessive oil consumption (5.0L Coyote) can be costly to repair. Transmission issues with the 10-speed automatic can also be a concern. Electrical glitches, particularly with the infotainment system and backup camera, are also fairly common complaints. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but it’s wise to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before buying a used 2018 Mustang.