1987 Ford Mustang Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 1987 Ford Mustang
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1985 Ford Mustang earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: electrical system (moderate severity).
- Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:headlights.
1987 Ford Mustang: Buy or Avoid?
The 1987 Ford Mustang offers iconic Fox Body styling and potent 5.0L V8 performance, making it an accessible classic. However, owning a nearly 40-year-old vehicle inherently brings significant age-related challenges, demanding a proactive owner and a realistic budget for ongoing maintenance and restoration. This is a car for the enthusiast, not for those seeking modern reliability.
The 1987 Ford Mustang is an absolute legend, but its age means that even well-preserved examples will demand attention. This is a fantastic platform for an enthusiast who enjoys wrenching and is prepared to invest time and money into maintenance and restoration. It is not a set-it-and-forget-it daily driver.
Best Model Years
1987-1993 (Known as the 'Fox Body' facelift, particularly the 1993 for OBD-I diagnostics)
Years to Avoid
None within the 1987-1993 range are inherently 'bad', but avoid poorly maintained, heavily rusted, or extensively modified examples without professional pre-purchase inspection.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust 5.0L V8 engine (if well-maintained)
- Excellent aftermarket support and parts availability
- Relatively simple mechanical design for DIY repairs
1987 Ford Mustang — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Ford Mustang, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Aging wiring harnesses, brittle connectors, and failing switches lead to intermittent power windows, gauge cluster malfunctions, headlight switch failures, and parasitic draws. Grounds frequently corrode, causing erratic behavior.
Corrosion is a major concern, particularly on frame rails (front and rear), strut towers, floor pans, rocker panels, and the cowl area. This can compromise structural integrity and be costly to repair.
Original rubber bushings throughout the control arms, sway bars, and steering components are likely worn out, leading to sloppy handling, clunks, and excessive play. Power steering pumps often leak or become noisy.
1987 Ford Mustang Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Ford Mustang most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, most cars are still in excellent condition. Focus on verifying fluid changes and addressing any minor factory defects or early owner-induced issues. A car with this low mileage is rare and likely commands a premium.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage typically indicates a well-preserved example that's been driven regularly. Expect to perform routine maintenance like fluid flushes, belt replacements, and potentially addressing the first signs of rubber component degradation.
Elevated Risk Zone
A significant turning point where major wear items come into play. Expect to address suspension components, potential oil/coolant leaks, and thoroughly inspect the transmission. A history of diligent maintenance is crucial here.
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, assume most original mechanical and rubber components are due for replacement or have already been replaced. This requires a comprehensive inspection and budgeting for a significant refresh or potential rebuilds. Neglect…
1987 Ford Mustang Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Ford Mustang on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-1,000
Moderate Repairs
$500-2,000 occasionally for suspension or electrical fixes.
How Long Does the 1987 Ford Mustang Last?
Seek out cars with under 100,000 miles for the best foundation, but be prepared for age-related wear regardless. Examples over 150,000 miles should be considered project cars, as major component overhauls are highly likely.
What 1987 Ford Mustang Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Legendary 5.0L V8 power and exhaust note are incredibly engaging.
- Vast aftermarket support means almost any part or upgrade is available.
- Simple, rear-wheel-drive platform is enjoyable to drive and easy to work on.
- Timeless, iconic styling that still turns heads.
Common Frustrations
- Interior quality and ergonomics are dated, with pervasive dash cracks and worn plastics.
- Stock handling and braking are adequate but show their age, requiring upgrades for modern performance.
- Persistent electrical gremlins can be frustrating to diagnose and fix.
- Rust is a major concern, particularly in northern climates, and can be structurally significant.
Who Should Buy the 1987 Ford Mustang?
Best For
- Automotive enthusiasts and DIY mechanics
- Collectors seeking an iconic American classic
- Weekend cruisers and show car participants
Not Ideal For
- Anyone seeking a reliable daily driver or primary transportation
- Buyers with a strict, limited budget for repairs and maintenance
How the 1987 Ford Mustang Compares to Rivals
The Fox Body Mustang benefits from its relative mechanical simplicity and a colossal aftermarket, making it easier and cheaper to maintain and modify than many of its more complex, import, or FWD domestic contemporaries.
More Reliable Than
- 1987 Chevrolet Camaro (often more prone to interior degradation and initial build quality issues)
- 1987 Pontiac Firebird (similar platform, but often with heavier styling and less aftermarket focus)
Comparable To
- 1987 Nissan 300ZX (different class, but comparable age-related issues with complex electronics)
- 1987 Dodge Daytona (another FWD performance car of the era, but different mechanical challenges)
Safety Recalls on the 1987 Ford Mustang
5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
What breaks on the 1987 Ford Mustang?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 1987 Ford Mustang? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Ford Mustang — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Ford Mustang. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 1987s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Ford Mustang
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Ford Mustang
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Just bought a 1987 Ford Mustang? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Ford Mustang's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Ford Mustang
How Long Does a Ford Mustang Last? (Real Owner Data)
Uncover the real lifespan of a Ford Mustang! Get exclusive insights from genuine owner data to see how many miles your favorite muscle car can truly last.
Ford Mustang Common Problems and Repair Costs
Experiencing Mustang trouble? Discover common Ford Mustang problems, from engine issues to electrical glitches, and learn average repair costs to budget smart.
Ford Mustang Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Our comprehensive guide reveals the Ford Mustang years to avoid, ranking every model from the worst offenders to the undisputed best for your garage.