2013 Ford Mustang Reliability ReportB grade · low risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2013 Ford Mustang
- The system most likely to surface first: transmission (mt82 manual) (moderate severity).
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
- Scores 2 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2011 Ford Mustang earns a 85.
Is the 2013 Ford Mustang Worth Buying?
The 2013 Ford Mustang stands as a surprisingly robust modern muscle car, offering potent performance with fewer long-term headaches than many rivals. While it has a few well-documented quirks, a well-maintained example is one of the safest used performance car purchases you can make, promising years of driving enjoyment.
The 2013 Ford Mustang, especially with the Coyote V8 and automatic transmission, is a rock-solid choice for a performance vehicle. Its known issues are manageable and well-documented, making it a highly reliable and enjoyable car for enthusiasts. Go forth and enjoy, just do your homework!
Best Model Years
2011-2014 (S197 refresh, specifically 2013-2014 for minor refinements)
Years to Avoid
No specific years to avoid within the 2011-2014 S197 refresh, but early 2011-2012 MT82 manuals might have more pronounced shift issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Highly durable V6 and Coyote V8 engines
- Robust automatic transmission (6R80)
- Strong aftermarket support and readily available parts
What Tends to Fail First on the 2013 Ford Mustang
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2013 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.
The Getrag MT82 6-speed manual transmission is notorious for stiff shifts, grinding, and lockout issues, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. Premature synchro wear is common, especially with aggressive driving, leading to costly repai…
Issues with the SYNC infotainment system (freezing, Bluetooth connectivity, voice commands) are common. Less frequently, but still reported, are Body Control Module (BCM) malfunctions leading to various electrical anomalies and instrumen…
Rust can appear on the rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and around wheel wells, particularly in regions that use road salt. Some owners report paint bubbling or premature clear coat failure, especially on horizontal surfaces.
2013 Ford Mustang Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2013 Ford Mustang most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, most issues are minor electrical glitches (SYNC updates) or early signs of MT82 shift quality problems. Focus on confirming all software is up to date and performing basic fluid checks.
Maintenance Zone
Key service items become due, including spark plugs (especially on Coyote V8), brake components, and potential control arm bushing wear. MT82 issues may become more pronounced. This is a good time to assess suspension components.
Elevated Risk Zone
Major service items like full fluid flushes (coolant, differential), accessory belt replacement, and potential alternator or starter motor wear are to be expected. Watch for EPAS system warnings or rust development.
High Risk Zone
While the engines and automatics are still strong, this mileage brings increased risk of major component wear like catalytic converter failure, fuel pump issues, or extensive suspension overhaul. Thorough pre-purchase inspection and serv…
2013 Ford Mustang Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2013 Ford Mustang on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2013 Ford Mustang Last?
Don't be overly concerned with higher mileage (100k+) if the vehicle comes with a diligent service history and passes a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection. These powertrains are built to last.
What 2013 Ford Mustang Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exhilarating V8 power and exhaust note (Coyote)
- Classic muscle car styling that still looks modern
- Vast aftermarket for performance and cosmetic upgrades
- Relatively simple and affordable to maintain mechanically
Common Frustrations
- Notchy/grinding MT82 manual transmission issues are common
- Interior plastics feel cheap and prone to rattles
- Poor rear visibility, especially in coupe models
- High fuel consumption with the V8, particularly in city driving
Who Should Buy the 2013 Ford Mustang?
Best For
- Performance enthusiasts seeking V8 power on a budget
- Daily drivers who value driving engagement and style
- Weekend cruisers and car show attendees
Not Ideal For
- Families needing practical rear seating or cargo space
- Drivers prioritizing fuel economy above all else
How the 2013 Ford Mustang Compares to Rivals
The 2013 Mustang generally offers a superior blend of raw performance, reliable powertrains, and aftermarket support compared to its direct domestic rivals, often with lower long-term ownership costs than contemporary European alternatives.
More Reliable Than
- 2013 Chevrolet Camaro (often heavier, less visibility)
- 2013 Dodge Challenger (significantly heavier, less agile)
- Many European performance coupes of the same era (often higher maintenance/repair costs)
Comparable To
- 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe (different philosophy, but similar reliability profile)
- Earlier generation Mustangs
2013 Ford Mustang Recall History
6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Ford is recalling certain 2011 Ford Ranger and Mercury Milan vehicles, 2011-2012 Ford Fusion and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ vehicles and 2011-2014 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Ford is also recalling certain 2010 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles, 2010-2011 Ford Ranger and Mercury Milan vehicles, 2010-2012 Ford Fusion and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ vehicles, and 2010-2014 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013 Ford Mustang vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Ford is recalling certain 2010 Ford Edge, Fusion, Mustang and Ranger, Lincoln MKX and Zephyr/MKZ, and Mercury Milan vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Ford is also recalling certain 2009 Ford Edge, Fusion, Mustang and Ranger, Lincoln MKX and Zephyr/MKZ, and Mercury Milan vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
What breaks on the 2013 Ford Mustang?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Ford Mustang Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Ford Mustang. Click any year for its full report.
2013 Ford Mustang Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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