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The Ford Mustang is one of America’s most beloved cars. Although its classic models are among its best-known, the Blue Oval continues updating the Mustang. And soon, the auto giant will release the 2024 Mustang, the first in the iconic pony car’s seventh generation. However, even legends can have bad years. So, should you wait to see if the 2024 Ford Mustang has problems before buying one?

Don’t worry about whether the 2024 Ford Mustang will have major problems

A rear exterior side shot of a blue-gray 2024 Ford Mustang muscle car coupe model parked near shipping containers
2024 Ford Mustang | The Ford Motor Company

As with any redesign, the next-gen Ford Mustang will bring updated features but remain unchanged elsewhere. That’s actually good for the Mustang’s reliability because problems are likelier when a manufacturer makes big, sweeping moves across the board. The 2024 Mustang has changes that modernize it, but under the hood, it’s not too different from before.

For example, the new Mustang packs a 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder similar to the standard engine in the 2023 version. The engine is the heart of a muscle car, and it’s also a complex machine where many issues can arise. But because Ford didn’t change the standard engine much, it will likely be a reliable workhorse for the new Stang.

Of course, minor issues might pop up in other areas, such as the infotainment system, but Ford has pretty much perfected its pony car. The Mustang’s history dates back almost 60 years, and engineers have worked out the kinks. Other than engine upgrades, the main changes throughout the years have involved the car’s looks. That was the case with the previous generation, and it’s the case with the latest.

What are the differences between the 2024 Ford Mustang and the 2023 model?

Some of the 2024 Mustang’s more noticeable styling changes happened to the front end. It has a sharper, sleeker appearance, and each trim will sport a different grille and vent design. Also, expect new headlights that help make the front look even more aggressive and modern. Ford made similar tweaks to the side profile and rear.

In addition, the 2024 Mustang boasts an updated interior, tech features, and engines. That standard 2.3-liter isn’t too different from the 2023 version but harnesses 315 hp. That’s a slight power boost of 5 hp. Tech-wise, the new model starts with a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen. Both are dramatic departures from last year’s features.

Beware of these common Mustang problems

Although it’s a safe bet the 2024 Ford Mustang won’t have significant problems, no car is perfect. One of the most common Mustang problems with the last generation was squeaking when the wheels turned. But that issue often happened late in the car’s life and cost only about $100 to fix.

Another common problem late in Mustang models’ lifespans was damage to synchronizers in manual transmissions. Replacing them averaged around $1,500 to $2,000.

Similarly, the intake manifold gasket could leak late in the car’s life. Replacing the gasket could cost around $500, including parts and labor.

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