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The Ford Mustang isn’t necessarily synonymous with reliability, but it doesn’t have a reputation for poor dependability among muscle cars. Still, if you want to stack the deck in your favor, you can choose one of the more dependable Mustangs of the last 15 years. Savvy shoppers can choose one of the most reliable Mustang model years, like the 2008 Ford Mustang from the S197 generation or a newer 2015 Ford Mustang from the S550 generation.

  • 2008 Ford Mustang
  • 2011 Ford Mustang
  • 2014 Ford Mustang
  • 2015 Ford Mustang

Are 2008 Ford Mustangs good cars?

The 2008 Ford Mustang is one of the most reliable Mustang model years in the last two decades.
2008 Ford Mustang Shelby GT | Bryan Haraway, Bloomberg via Getty Images

The 2008 Ford Mustang is part of the fifth generation of the pony car and has a reputation for being one of the most reliable Mustangs in years. First, Consumer Reports gives the 2008 model year top scores in reliability. Also, the 4.6L V8 engine in the GT trim is smooth-running, and the five-speed manual transmission is quite forgiving. However, the 2008 Mustang does have eight recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in its history, the most recent being an airbag issue. 

Is the 2011 Ford Mustang a reliable car?

The 2011 Ford Mustang wears a facelift, unlike its strictly-retro predecessor. However, the redesign didn’t compromise the reliability of the 2011 model year. It gets top marks for reliability, which is good news for shoppers who want one of the most reliable modern muscle cars available. Furthermore, the 2011 Mustang GT got a more ferocious 5.0L V8 and an extra gear. 

However, the 2011 Ford Mustang has had four recalls, including airbag issues. If you own or are considering buying a 2011 Mustang, you should confirm that the recalls have been addressed. 

Are 2014 Mustangs reliable?

The 2014 Ford Mustang is the last iteration of the S197 before Ford redesigned the pony car. It is, fortunately, one of the most reliable Mustangs in recent years. Consumer Reports gives the 2014 Mustang high overall reliability scores, with excellent engine reliability marks. In addition to the dependability factor, the 2014 Mustang is the last year of the pony car’s retro-inspired aesthetics. 

Do 2015 Mustangs have problems?

If you like the modernized look of the S550 Mustang, a 2015 model year pony car might be for you. The 2015 Ford Mustang is one of the most reliable S550 generation cars. However, the 2015 Mustang has nine recalls from the NHTSA, including a reversing camera issue. Still, Ford bestowed several technological updates to the 2015 model year, including independent rear suspension for the first time. 

Does the Ford Mustang break down a lot?

Some model years of the Ford Mustang, like the 2019 and 2020 models, have reports of less than adequate reliability. However, Ford Mustangs don’t break down a disproportionate amount of the time and don’t cost as much as higher-end European sports cars to repair. Frankly, if you choose one of the most reliable model years, you could end up with a V8-powered muscle car with excellent dependability. 

Also, as with any other vehicle, keeping up with service intervals and recalls can help maintain the dependability of your car, no matter what it is. Keep up with MotorBiscuit to read more about Ford Mustangs!

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