2016 Ford Mustang

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 380 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 5 times.

Not among the Ford Mustang years to avoid. Which Ford Mustang years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
35,600 milesMedian miles at failure

204 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2016 Ford Mustang problems

74 of the 380 complaints (19%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine67
031
Electrical System60
120
Unknown or Other52
000
Back Over Prevention · backup camera27
100
Power Train · transmission22
000
Structure › Body · body and frame20
000
Service Brakes · brakes14
101
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system14
012
Air Bags · airbags14
806
Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera · backup camera13
000

2016 Ford Mustang engine problems

19% of all complaints

74 of the 380 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash35% · 26
  • leaks oil or fluid28% · 21
  • turns on the check engine light23% · 17
  • smokes or smells of burning18% · 13
  • loses power16% · 12
  • stalls12% · 9

Share of the 74 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
46,000 mi
median of 43 reports
Peak year of filing
2024
17 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 3 · 1
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
“Component/system: Engine (Coolant intrusion into cylinder 1); Inspection available: Yes; Safety risk: Sudden power loss on road; Reproducibility/Confirmation: Dealer verified coolant in cylinder 1 after engine inspection; Manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others inspections: No; Warnings/symptoms: Check Engine light turned on, error code P0301, higher than normal engine temperature, low coolant in …”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 6, 2025
“Coolant intrusion into the cylinder head. This caused a sudden halt of he vehicle which could have caused an accident and loss of life. The engine coolant overheating temperature warning light came on. Vehicle was inspected by ford dealership and found to have blown head gasket. The car is vat for inspection.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 29, 2025

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2015: 0 complaints, 0 about the engine'152016: 25 complaints, 9 about the engine'162017: 26 complaints, 4 about the engine'172018: 17 complaints, 3 about the engine'182019: 38 complaints, 8 about the engine'192020: 47 complaints, 5 about the engine'202021: 29 complaints, 2 about the engine'212022: 53 complaints, 3 about the engine'222023: 42 complaints, 8 about the engine'232024: 47 complaints, 17 about the engine'242025: 27 complaints, 8 about the engine'252026: 29 complaints, 7 about the engine'26Recall 15V707000 (child seat)Recall 16V779000 (engine)Recall 22V082000 (backup camera)Recall 25V572000 (backup camera)Recall 25V614000 (seat belts)NHTSA investigation EA21002
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2016 Mustang peaked in 2022, with 53 filed that year. Owners had filed 8 complaints about the engine before the first recall that covers it, 16V779000 in October 2016; 66 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 29 so far.

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Seat Belts › Pretensioner25V614000
Filed Sep 12, 2025332,778 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Mustang vehicles. Water and road salt may corrode the front seat belt anchor pretensioner cables.

Risk. A corroded cable can break, preventing the seat belt from properly restraining an occupant, and increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace both front seat belt anchor pretensioner assemblies, as necessary. In addition, dealers will remove sections of the carpet and underlayment that contact the cables. Dealers will also inspect the A-pillar sealing patches, and as necessary, install A-pillar body plugs, and/or inspect and replace the front outboard seat bolts. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 20, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated December 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S92. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov September 17, 2025.

Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera25V572000
Filed Sep 3, 20251,456,417 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC, Mustang, F-350 SD, F-250 SD, F-450 SD, 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, 2015-2018 Edge, Transit Connect, 2016-2019 F-550 SD, Transit, 2017-2019 Econoline, and 2019 Ranger vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, inverted, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.

Risk. A rearview camera that displays an inverted, distorted, or blank image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 13, 2026. Ford owners will receive letters in phases, beginning January 2026 and June 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S89. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 25V270. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning September 8, 2025.

Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera22V082000
Filed Feb 16, 2022330,784 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera wiring may be loose or damaged, which can result in a blank or distorted image.

Risk. A rearview camera that displays a blank or distorted image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and repair the decklid wiring harness and/or replace the rearview camera, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 23, 2022 and June 26, 2023. Remedy parts are expected to become available in the 4th Quarter of 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S06.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System › Hoses/Lines/Piping/Fittings16V779000
Filed Oct 26, 20166,582 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Mustang vehicles manufactured February 24, 2015, to August 30, 2016. A hose may separate from the engine oil cooler tube assembly causing an oil leak.

Risk. A sudden loss of engine oil may cause engine failure, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, an oil leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine oil cooler tube assembly, free of charge. The recall began on March 23, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S40.

Child Seat › Tether › Connector/Clip15V707000
Filed Oct 26, 20151,900 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Mustang vehicles manufactured September 26, 2015, to October 1, 2015. The front and rear seat belts and child seat tether anchors may have been damaged in shipping from the supplier to the vehicle assembly plant and may not adequately restrain the occupant in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection," and 225, "Child restraint anchorage systems."

Risk. If the restraint components do not function as intended, the occupants may not be properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front and rear seat belt assemblies and the child seat tether anchors, free of charge. The recall began on December 18, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C13.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2016 Mustang.

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA21002Open
Opened Sep 17, 2021airbags

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at …

Technical service bulletins

167 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2016 Mustang. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 45electrical system 40engine 19transmission 11body and frame 8equipment adaptive/mobility 8steering 6brakes 6
25N15 S1Service campaignApr 20, 2026electrical system

Customer Satisfaction Program 25N15 - Supplement #1 Certain 2015-2019 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Inspection For One-Time Replacement

SSM 52334Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 6, 2024engine

Some 2011-2024 Mustang and F-150 vehicles equipped with a 5.0L engine may exhibit a tick tap and/or typewriter ticking noise at idle after an engine oil change. It is often referred to as typewriter noise because of its similarity to the sound of a mechanical typewriter. The noise in question may be heard on some engines when engine temperatures reach 150°F …

SSM 52335Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 6, 2024engine

For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluated turbochargers replaced for oil leak symptoms and although oil may collect on the external surface of a turbocharger, it is …

SSM 49821Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 24, 2021engine

Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick. Before attempting any component diagnosis or replacement of the VCT solenoid, refer to …

SSM 49761Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 29, 2021engine

Some 2011-2021 Mustang and F-150 vehicles equipped with a 5.0L engine may exhibit a ticking noise at idle after an engine oil change. It is often referred to as typewriter noise because of its similarity to the sound of a mechanical typewriter. The noise in question may be heard on some engines when engine temperatures reach 150F (65 C) or higher and engine …

SSM 49210Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 25, 2020engine

Some 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare for a turbocharger to leak oil. To isolate the source of the leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 General …

TSB 19-2309Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 17, 2019engine

Some 2015-2017 Mustang vehicles equipped with a 5.0L engine may exhibit an oil leak from either valve cover gasket. This may be due to the valve covers warping due to excessive heat. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to add fasteners to both valve covers.

Showing the newest 6 of 19 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2016 Ford Mustang 2 DR RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★8.1%
2016 Ford Mustang C RWD———★★★★★8.1%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Oct 21, 2026NY

Coolant intrusion caused by a crack in the engine block coolant leaking into cylinder 3, engine replacement needed. 50k miles on the vehicle.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 14, 2026IL

The clutch pedal assembly weld has failed at the pivot point. This is a well known issue in the community and no fix has been made by Ford. The car could NOT shift or move while in the middle of an intersection.

Electrical System › 12v/24v/48v BatteryFire
Filed Sep 29, 2026CA

A new Walmart-brand EverStart Plus 96R, 590 CCA automotive battery was purchased on August 4, 2026, and installed in a 2016 Ford Mustang Convertible. On the evening of September 26, 2026, my family and I drove the Mustang and returned home at approximately 11:00 p.m. The vehicle operated normally. There were no warning signs, electrical problems, overheating, or other indications of a mechanical problem. The Mustang remained parked and untouched overnight. At approximately 2:00 p.m., 15 hours later, on September 27, my daughter came into the room and told me that the car was on fire. Riverside County Fire responded to the scene. Fire personnel specifically asked whether the Mustang had been driven or worked on that day. I told them it had not. The vehicle had remained parked since approximately 11:00 p.m. the prior evening. Fire personnel continued to suppress the fire, investigated the engine compartment, cut the battery cables, photographed the vehicle, and advised me that the battery appeared to be the possible source of ignition.

Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Sep 18, 2026MI

The contact owned a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that while driving at highway speeds, the driver's side door independently opened. The failure caused severe wind noise to enter the vehicle, and the door ajar warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer, where technicians confirmed that the door latch mechanism had failed and stated that the mechanism was subjected to unintended opening. The vehicle was repaired out of pocket. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V331000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages) as the cause of the failure; however, the VIN was not included in the recall.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 17, 2026FL

On or about June 24, 2026, the CHECK ENGINE light came on. Since I was near the local Ford Dealership, I stopped there. The car was evaluated the next day. I was told the the gas tank assembly and pipe had to be replaced. The repair was almost $4000. My car only as 63,117 miles on it. Before the problem was diagnosed, I was getting lousy gas mileage and assumed it was because the government was allowing more ethanol. In fact, the problem could have been disastrous... The car could have caught on fire . The car was in the repair shop until July 2, and I had to rent a car for $300. I am unable to download a photo I have of the gas tank which shows these numbers: E-11 34RI-020135 as well as AD46319. I have attached the bills from the CERTIFIED FORD repair shop. Please note that the 2015 Mustangs were recalled for gas tank replacements. I have a 2016.... Seems like my car may have had a faulty gas tank installed as well. The mechanic said he had replaced a couple. Nite that the car had just over 63000 miles

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 4, 2026SC

When reaching 60+ mph the passenger door will unlatch and give me the open passenger door notification on the dash. It doesn’t shoot up, but rather barely comes open.

Engine
Filed Sep 3, 2026AL

Brought the car in for service. The tech called me back and said the engine was blown. Condensation in cylinder 3. This was due to the cylinder walls being engineered to small. Which caused a leak in the coolant jacket. I paid out of pocket nearly $10,000 to have it replaced because the third party warranty that I had purchased declined my coverage to fix it because it’s a known issue by ford. Bc

Electrical System
Filed Aug 20, 2026CT

This complaint is a formal notification of a Recall Remedy Failure regarding NHTSA Campaign 22V082000 / 25V572000 (Rearview Camera Wiring Harness / Camera Replacement). My vehicle was brought to an authorized Ford dealership on 07/22/2026 to complete the recall remedy. Following the service, the backup camera functionality has completely degraded and is now worse than before the service. The screen is consistently displaying entirely black / distorted screen / Message Camera not available, presenting an ongoing, unmitigated back-over safety hazard. The manufacturer's remedy has failed to resolve the safety defect. Returned to the authorized Ford dealership on 08/21/2026 and was told this is a known issue and there is another "recall" fix for this issue, but parts are now available at this time. I need to follow up in a month or more.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 20, 2026PA

See attached document for complaint

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Filed Aug 7, 2026108,787 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH with his daughter inside the vehicle, the driver’s and passenger’s side doors opened unexpectedly. No warning light was illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed; however, the contact declined to pay the cost for the diagnostic test. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated the failure had occurred approximately twelve times with the driver’s side door. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was out of warranty. The approximate failure mileage was 108,787.

Engine
Filed Aug 5, 2026CA

Nelson v. Ford Motor Company is a class action lawsuit targeting a defect in Ford's 2.3-liter EcoBoost engines. The suit highlights coolant leaks into engine cylinders, overheating, and catastrophic engine failures. I have had my 2016 ford mustang ecoboost in and out of mechanic shops for months now accumulating well over $7K in out of pocket expenses. I have been to multiple mechanics trying to diagnose and fix the problem but in the end it was a design flaw in the 2016 ford mustang ecoboost 4 cylinder which caused it to leak coolant, misfire, and overheat. I have been having this problem for some time now, this put my safety and the safety of others at risk because I had to slow down dramatically in order to pull over on the freeway due to the engine overheating from coolant loss. I've also experienced problems like trouble starting, rough idling, loss of coolant, and huge clouds of white smoke coming from the exhaust upon start. I have saved every single receipt and invoice breakdown since this problem began. My mechanic has also been documenting everything including taking notes and photographs of every issue. My car is currently in the shop right now being worked on. My mechanic says that he can temporarily patch the problem with a high performance head stud, copper sealant, and an ExtremeHeat metallic repair paste by JB Weld to momentarily solve the issue. He says that he does not know how long this patch will last so he is insisting I either get a new car or to see wha

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 31, 2026OH

The passenger side door is periodically opening to the first catch while driving on the highway without anyone touching the handle and it does not matter that the door is locked. It is very scary for any passenger when it happens. For the driver the tendency is to try to reach over and re-close the door at highway speed which seems dangerous.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 24, 2026FL

I am experiencing the same issues as NHTSA 22V-011 where the brake pedal stop bumper had disintegrated, causing continuous brake lights and a potential rollaway risk

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 30, 2026NC

Break bumper disintegrated, causing the rear bites to stay on and the automatic transmission to be able to switch from Parker to drive causing the vehicle to be able to roll and possibly crash

Electrical System
Filed Jun 26, 2026VA

The rear view camera has a recall. I took the vehicle into a Ford dealership on 6/23/26 for this recall. This is a risk to myself and others because backup cameras are a federally required safety feature. This is my 2nd attempt for Ford to fix this recall at two separate dealerships. Ford does not care about their recalls and the safety of Ford customers! I almost hit another car that was coming out due to the blind spots on that vehicle. My young daughter also drives the car and this is not the 1970’s as young drivers depend on that feature. Ford said that they could not find the problem with this issue and further diagnosing must be done on my part for $198. This is not fair to customers as this was a recall issue. If Ford is not properly training their technicians to diagnose this issue, it should not be the responsibility of the customer to pay for their error in producing this car. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by a Ford dealership. There were no warning lights or issues that were displayed. Ford only sent out letters stating that a recall was issued on the problem. In May of 2026 my backup camera and trunk was not working. Ford inspected and replaced the parts on the vehicle that they assumed was part of the recall. For a 2016 Mustang, a common cause is not just the camera itself but also wiring/connectors in the trunk area or the APIM/radio module that displays the image. If the dealer simply performed the recall software update or replaced one componen

Back Over Prevention
Filed Jun 25, 2026TX

See attached document for complaint.

Seat Belts
Filed Jun 22, 2026CA

There are two recalls on this vehicle. South Bay Ford, located just a few miles farther away than Auto Nation Ford in Torrance has no problem with pick up and delivery resources to insure recall work is completed but stated I must use Auto Nation Torrance Ford because I fall into their service area, yet Auto Nation Ford Service Manager contacted on 6/22/2026 @ ~ 4:05 P.S,T. stated they do not have enough people to perform pick and delivery. It would seem to me Auto Nation Ford in Torrance has chosen profits over recall compliance putting lives at risk. I thought this was important enough for you to look into.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Mar 24, 202672,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that while shifted into reverse(R), the rear-view camera was blank and then operated intermittently; however, the image was blurry. The vehicle was taken to a dealer on two occasions. During the first visit, the contact was informed that the harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to a different dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the camera needed to be reprogrammed. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted during the first inclement weather. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

Seat Belts
Filed Mar 17, 2026FL

They have a recall for the seatbelt so I got my car inspected and tested and my seatbelts are fine. I use this as a rental car and my business is stopped and I’m losing money every day that I cannot rent this out.

Seat Belts
Filed Mar 17, 2026HI

Manufacturer has failed or is unable to remedy this safety recall for your vehicle IN A TIMELY MANNER. The Recall was from September 16, 2025. It has now been OVER half a year with NO remedy. I live in a salty air state and the last thing I want to happen is to drive with a seat belt with reduced effectiveness. I've ALREADY been in an accident a decade ago where a woman T-Boned me. I had a 2001 Mustang Convertible at the time with the convertible down. It's just like this Mustang with the recall but older. Thankfully the airbags and seat belt worked. Something needs to be done asap !!!!

Steering
Filed Feb 25, 2026TX

The steering wheel over time is very loose and in my case i need to be very careful with it because I feel I am losing control on my car while driving. You can feel the steering wheel moving up and down without little to know force also while driving. I don't even drive that fast since my way to work is always in a school zones.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Feb 6, 2026AR

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that while shifted into reverse, the screen turned blue with a message that the back over prevention camera was unavailable. The failure was intermittent. The contact first received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V082000 (Back Over Prevention). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who inspected the vehicle and replaced the wiring harness clips in the rear of the vehicle. The contact received a second notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was returned to the dealer, and it was determined that the camera did not need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention); and the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and referred the contact back to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 4, 2026MD

There have been 3 instances within the last year and a half where the rear window of my vehicle (Ford mustang) and the rear window of family member ford mustang both have shattered during the extreme cold possibly due to the heating coils on the window over heating and burning. You can see a burn pattern in the window This is a safety issue due to the window shattering, it sounded as if someone shot my window out the first time it happened my [XXX] son was in the back of the vehicle and I was driving home. The second instance, same vehicle, started the car using the remote starter and it did the same thing. This has not been inspected by my insurance representative, it has been reported in both instances through my insurance and pictures have been taken. There have been no warning signs or even issues, there wiring look like it had been burned, melted INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Seat Belts
Filed Feb 2, 202650,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V614000 (Seat Belts). The contact stated that the driver’s side front seat belt had detached from the frame. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the recall repair would be available in June 2026. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to parts being on backorder. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 1, 2026CA

At about 75k miles my mustang started misfiring at about 2,500 rpm’s and higher. Turns out it was a blown head gasket. This engine model is prone to what happened to it. Ford should have a recall for these engine and a solution as they’re ticking time bombs. I wish I could drive with the peace of mind of not worrying about it. I couldn’t drive my car for months because of the warranty not even wanting to cover it. The warranty from the used car dealership. Got unlucky.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 31, 2026TX

The driver And passengers door opens while driving

Engine
Filed Jan 28, 2026CA

The head gasket in my 2016 mustang eco boost failed. I have 126k miles and coolant is leaking into cylinder 2. I’ve always taken care of the maintenance on a timely matter and no modifications have been done.

Engine
Filed Jan 8, 2026FL

2016 Ford Mustang 2.3L Ecoboost Engine. Coolant intrusion into the cylinder. It's a known issue, an engine block design flaw. Ford was replacing the whole engine when those cars were under warranty. There is extensive content online about it and dozens of class actions.

Engine
Filed Jan 1, 2026KS

My cars head gasket blew at only 45,000 miles. Replaced my a local well known mechanic for around $3500.00. Now my car at 96,000 miles has blown the head gasket again. I believe the car needs a whole new block. I have seen several lawsuits regarding this and just would love my car running again. This is NOT cheap to fix for me.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 24, 2025AZ

On 12/06/2025 I filled the vehicle with gasoline. As I was driving home I noticd a strong odor of gasoline. When I arrived home I parked the car in my carport. A short time later I went outside and noticed that I could still smell gasoline and I looked under the car, which was approximately 3 feet from my house and saw a puddle under it. This could have caused a fire, so I immediately took the car to a repair shop. Approximately one hour later I received a call from the shop informing me that the tank was broken at the top and it would cost approximately $2,600 to replace the tank. The problem was confirmed by Gemba Automotive, Surprise, AZ. I am unaware of whether they have the part available for inspection. There were no warning messages or lights displayed on the driver information system.

Engine
Filed Dec 15, 2025TX

From what I can remember its always been an issue with cylinder 3. I was always repaired by Ford Auto Nation of Fort Worth and Auto World Repair 2021 Engine Failure: Confirmed and repaired blown head gasket 2022 Check Engine Light code P303 - Found faulty as well as ignition coil on cylinder 3 2025 Engine Failure: code P303 - Found faulty as well as ignition coil on cylinder 3 Excessive smoke during idle Cracked engine block due to coolant leak through cylinder wall

Back Over Prevention
Filed Oct 28, 202586,000 milesNY

The contact's daughter owns a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that the rearview camera was inoperable while reversing. The owner received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the vehicle had passed the recall test, even though the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. Additionally, the contact stated that the rearview camera failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the rearview camera needed to be replaced. The dealer advised the contact that the VIN was not included in a related recall; however, the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention). The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 10, 2025FL

Display screen went out after first back up, camera recall. Camera is fixed under the recall by the dealership shortly after the display screen was intermittently going out until the screen became completely black.

Engine
Filed Sep 6, 2025OH

Component/system: Engine (Coolant intrusion into cylinder 1); Inspection available: Yes; Safety risk: Sudden power loss on road; Reproducibility/Confirmation: Dealer verified coolant in cylinder 1 after engine inspection; Manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others inspections: No; Warnings/symptoms: Check Engine light turned on, error code P0301, higher than normal engine temperature, low coolant in reservoir, white smoke, rough idle at turning of engine; First appeared: Around 100,000 miles.

Engine
Filed Aug 29, 2025AZ

Coolant intrusion into the cylinder head. This caused a sudden halt of he vehicle which could have caused an accident and loss of life. The engine coolant overheating temperature warning light came on. Vehicle was inspected by ford dealership and found to have blown head gasket. The car is vat for inspection.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 20, 2025MI

Took car to dealership per recall. Touch screen flickering on and off. Can't depend on back up camera. According to dealer "Recall 22a06a was previously completed on TSB 19-2273. and no other repairs were neede at this time. Note, Sync MyTouch screen is blinking on and off at all times and recommend Diag." they replaced APIN and Screen. According to the repair bill. It was still flickering and replaced FDCIN. Screen no longer flickering. it seems to me this is a safety hazard as it affects the viewing of the back up camera with any accuracy and could cause an accident no matter how careful a person is. It also seems to me that Ford knew extra parts my be needed to rectify the situation they should have been included in the orginal recall

Electrical System
Filed Aug 11, 2025NV

• What failed & is it available for inspection? Air-conditioning system failure. Loss of cabin cooling; dealer recommends compressor replacement (may include related components pending contamination check). Vehicle is at a Ford dealer now; no repairs performed yet. I requested the dealer retain failed parts for inspection. • How was safety put at risk? I live in Las Vegas; ambient temps ~112°F-120 degrees. This is my primary vehicle for transporting my [XXX] and for my work schedule. With no A/C, cabin temps become dangerously high within minutes, creating a heat-related illness risk (child and driver), impaired concentration, and fatigue during necessary trips. • Has the problem been reproduced/confirmed? Yes. An independent shop first advised compressor replacement. A Ford dealer subsequently confirmed loss of cooling and produced an A/C repair estimate after diagnosis. • Inspected by manufacturer/police/insurance? Inspected/diagnosed by an authorized Ford dealer. I opened a Ford Customer Relationship Center case (XXX) and requested goodwill/after-warranty review. No police/insurance inspection. • Warning lamps/messages/symptoms & onset? No warning lights. Symptoms began with weak/intermittent cooling in early August 2025 and progressed to no cold air. Mileage at failure ~87,279. A/C clutch cycles but cabin air remains hot. (Owner context: original owner, [XXX] Vehicle: 2016 Ford Mustang GT 5.0.) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.

Tires
Filed Aug 11, 2025CA

My tire is a 255 / 40 ZR 19 model, speed rated 100W. While rotating my tires I noticed catastrophic tread separation on the inner sidewall of the tire. The separation is scattered, not all in one section, and in total covers about 1/4 of the total diameter. The underlying belt package has separated and steel wire is plainly visible at distance. The tire was still holding normal pressure at the time of discovery and there was no indication of the separation from any pressure devices or anything other than visual identification of the issue, which was only possible due to a routine tire rotation. Driving conditions since installation of the tire have been ~85% dry weather at speeds no greater than 85mph. A long haul trip from San Jose, CA to Los Angles, CA (~675 miles round trip) occurred 1.5 weeks prior to discovery.

Engine
Filed Aug 4, 2025FM

The coolant over temperature warning light of my 2016 ford mustang ecoboost came on and the engine immediately went on limp mode and I stopped the vehicle and switched off the engine. The vehicle quickly lost power and this created safety concern for other drivers who would have bumped me. I towed the vehicle to the nearest ford dealership for inspection and they found that coolant went into the engine and the coolant bottle was empty. As a result the dealership has said that the engine engine needs to be replaced…. a big shock for me as I have never had any prior issue with this car which is only 59k illegal on the clock. After further research of my own, this seems to be a common issue with ford ecoboost engine before year 2020. What surprises me is that there was no other indication or warning before this incident which could have obstructed me to take precautionary action.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 2, 2025NC

Backup Camera doesn’t work after purchasing a new camera from dealership and new wires. dealership said they didn’t know what was wrong after 3 months of working on car and new parts purchased

Steering
Filed Jul 20, 2025AL

The steering wheel has a very distinct wobble. It moves in every direction as if the locking bolt is loose.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 17, 2025TX

Brake Stop Lamps Remain On When I was driving, my car was having throttle/acceleration issues. When I had my foot on the gas, my car would accelerate and the RPMs would rise, but then all of a sudden the acceleration stopped as if I was not applying throttle. I had to constantly take my foot off the gas and reengage for the car to drive home. When I parked my car, I noticed that my brake lights were all on even though my car was turned off & it is draining the battery out. I did some research & found out there is a recall for this issue (22S02) for the 2015 Ford model & Dealership mentioned that recall doesn't apply to my vehicle. So I have to get the repair done by replacing the break light switch & Break pedal bumper assembly with my local Auto zone shop and pay from my pocket.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 17, 2025FL

The brake sensor position pad sensor deteriorated. Causing the system to read that the brakes were being applied. This makes the Brake lights staying on even when the key is turned off. This is safety since with the lights always being it there is no way for others to know when you are actually stopping. And it also makes the car be able to be started by accident. Even with no key fob. It also causes the lights being on and the ignition to be ready start to drain the battery. Ford used inferior material for the stop pad. It is a hard plastic piece instead o being either metal or rubber. There is a lot of info on mustang form sights about this happening around the 8 year mark.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Jul 14, 202559,700 milesNV

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that upon shifting the vehicle into reverse, the rearview camera displayed a distorted image and a blue screen, compromising the back-over prevention system. The message “Camera Not Available” was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was repaired. The contact stated that the dealer called back and informed the contact that the rearview camera failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the only the decklid wiring harness was replaced. The dealer refused to repair or replace the rearview camera. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,700.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Jul 7, 202589,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the rearview camera became inoperable. The contact stated that the rearview camera image appeared blank. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 89,000.

Engine
Filed Jul 1, 2025CA

The engine on this 2016 Mustang GT is a 5-liter V-8. The 2015-2017 model years were equipped with plastic valve covers. This is a known defect with these vehicles. The plastic valve covers warp/melt/distort over time, causing motor oil to leak in significant amounts onto the exhaust manifold creating smoke and odor. There is a potential for fire in the engine compartment because of this leak. Ford issued a service bulletin regarding this known defect but has not as yet issued a recall.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 30, 2025FL

Rear View Camera, distorted or doesn't work at all at times. This has tried to be corrected 5 or 6 times at dealership, works for awhile, then happens again. Dealer does not give me a copy of what was done to attempt to fix problem. Now I see this same issue is for other Ford vehicles, just doesn't include the Mustang.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 28, 2025NY

Broken break pedal stop, causing break lights to stay on, other malfunctions as the car thinks the breaks are pressed when they aren't.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 3, 2025TX

Ford is aware of the AC Evap Core issue on the 2015-2017 mustangs. This is a costly repair which comes out to $4,000 every year. This then causes failures on all other AC parts. There have been many complaints regarding this issue and no remedy has been issued in 8 years.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Mar 20, 202599,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that while at a stop sign, the vehicle lost automotive power. The check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle had a rough start prior to the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle was pushed into a nearby local independent service center, where it was diagnosed with a coolant leak intrusion into the engine. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was left for further investigation at the owner's expense. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V779000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000. The VIN was not available.

Complaints 1-50 of 380, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2005
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20268500Routine
202520600Routine
2024851200Do not drive
202315600Routine
202250910Routine
202155600Routine
2020122850Routine
2019152610Routine
2018196410Routine
2017268680Above average
2016 — this page380572Fatalities reported
20154391170Above average
2014359410Do not drive
2013271620Do not drive
2012469721Do not drive
2011466510Do not drive
2010261622Do not drive
2009181620Do not drive
2008347800Do not drive
2007615951Do not drive
2006424932Do not drive
2005705970Do not drive
2004116600Routine
2003145640Routine
2002118660Routine
2001173822Fatalities reported
2000311992Fatalities reported
19992131022Fatalities reported
199823614121Fatalities reported
19971761132Fatalities reported
19962461260Above average
199560216297Fatalities reported
199435613191Fatalities reported
19931017292Fatalities reported
1992695210High concern
1991776220High concern
1990855290High concern

Compare every Mustang year →

2016 Ford Mustang: questions buyers ask

Is the 2016 Ford Mustang a good car?

It is not among the Mustang years to avoid. Owners filed 380 complaints, against about 225 for a typical Mustang year. The most common complaint is about the engine (19%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2016 Ford Mustang?

The engine: 74 of the 380 complaints (19%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (35%), leaks oil or fluid (28%) and turns on the check engine light (23%). The typical report comes at 46,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2016 Ford Mustang have?

5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Sep 12, 2025. The largest, 25V572000, covered 1,456,417 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2016 Ford Mustang problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 35,600 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 46,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2016 Ford Mustang?

Yes, once. EA21002 ("Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture") was opened Sep 17, 2021 and is still open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2016 Ford Mustang?

The manufacturer filed 167 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (40), the engine (19) and the transmission (11). They include a service campaign, 25N15 S1, filed Apr 20, 2026. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

2 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Sep 12, 2025. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.