1,186 of the
11,737 complaints filed about the Ford Mustang
are about the transmission —
10% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2011.
1,186
Complaints
10%
Share of all complaints
52
Crashes
4
Fires
Transmission & Drivetrain complaints by model year
2020 Ford Mustang with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. The vehicle has a documented history of coolant loss with no visible external leak, consistent with the known coolant-intrusion defect in Ford's 2.3L EcoBoost engines where coolant leaks internally into the cylinders. The vehicle previously threw a cylinder misfire code (P0301) and now shows a crankshaft/camshaft timing correlation fault (P0017). A scan tool confirmed the exhaust camshaft is approximately 18–19 degrees out of correlation. A new variable valve timing oil control solenoid was installed and did NOT resolve the fault, confirming the problem is mechanical — a worn/stretched timing chain. This wear is consistent with the oil dilution and contamination caused by internal coolant intrusion. The problem has been confirmed by an independent service center via scan data. The vehicle is available for inspection. Warning symptoms included the check engine light, a loud rattle on cold startup, and occasional hard/no-start conditions. This is a safety concern because internal coolant loss can cause overheating, cylinder head cracking, and potential engine failure or fire while driving. Repair cost quoted at approximately $2,000. Mileage approximately 54,400.
NHTSA complaint #11758368 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2019 Ford Mustang equipped with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine developed a check-engine light, rough startups, engine misfires/rough running, and some engine knocking. The vehicle had approximately 87,453 miles. I took the vehicle to an authorized Ford dealership for diagnosis. The dealer brought the engine to operating temperature, pressurized the cooling system to 21 PSI, removed the ignition coils and spark plugs, and inspected the cylinders with a borescope. The dealer documented coolant intrusion into cylinder #2 due to a failed cylinder head and recommended replacement of the complete long-block engine due to the extent of the damage. The dealer also documented diagnostic trouble codes P0300 and P0316 for misfires, along with P008A and P018C related to low-side fuel pressure. I am concerned that internal coolant intrusion causing misfires, rough operation and engine knocking could result in significant loss of engine power or engine failure while driving, creating a safety hazard, particularly at highway speeds or in traffic. Ford Customer Relations was notified but declined financial assistance because the vehicle is outside the factory warranty and stated that there is no applicable recall for my vehicle. The vehicle has not been repaired and is available for inspection. The Ford dealership's written diagnostic report and photographs of the cylinder inspection are available.
NHTSA complaint #11757812 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Was driving my vehicle roughly 10-15mph after a stop, noticed vehicle wasn’t shifting into the gears properly as it was only in 2nd gear and the RPMs kept climbing, when it finally shifted into 3rd gear my transmission proceeded to lockup cause my rear tires to skid and stop in the middle of traffic and in the middle of an intersection disrupting the flow of traffic. Vehicle displayed a wrench light on the dash saying “see manual” as related to a Powertrain issue. Vehicle is in limp mode and barely drives, any shifting after 1st gear will cause the vehicle to lockup and lose all power for several seconds. ONLY HAS 28,330 MILES, DID NOT REACH THE FIRST SERVICE INTERVAL FOR MAINTENANCE ON THE TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA complaint #11754868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to a low gear. The check engine warning light illuminated and remained illuminated after the first failure. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road, restarted, and the contact continued driving. The contact stated that during the last failure, while attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the residence, and a hand-held diagnostic machine retrieved DTC: P1500. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 138,000.
NHTSA complaint #11754392 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The 10-speed automatic transmission on my 2020 Mustang failed internally at approximately 18,073 miles. The vehicle began shifting harshly at low speeds with an intermittent clunk. While driving, the transmission would slip slightly and then either surge forward or hesitate with a dull thud before engaging. The behavior was unpredictable and worsened over time. No warning lamp ever appeared and no diagnostic trouble codes were stored, so the driver gets no advance notice of this condition. This is a safety hazard when pulling into traffic, turning across an intersection, or merging. When power arrives late, abruptly, or not at all, the driver cannot judge a gap in traffic reliably. An authorized Ford dealer verified the concern on a test drive, confirmed the vehicle failed the CDF clutch cylinder leak test, and documented an internal tapping noise in Drive and Reverse. Fluid level was in spec. The dealer performed Ford TSB 25-2475, which addresses harsh and delayed shifting on this transmission: the unit was removed, torn down on the bench, the CDF cylinder replaced, and the unit reassembled and reinstalled. It did not correct the concern. The dealer's written notes state the concern was still present, the TSB did not cure it, and the transmission has an internal failure requiring replacement. Independent transmission specialists I consulted all recommended full replacement rather than rebuild, citing known problems with this transmission in this model year. Ford has revised multiple technical service bulletins on harsh and delayed shifting for this transmission over several years. My vehicle failed at roughly 18,000 miles, far under the 60,000-mile powertrain warranty limit, but Ford declined assistance because the five-year time limit had passed.
NHTSA complaint #11754618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Clutch assembly failed, the metal bracket weld cracked/failed resulting in the clutch pedal being inoperable. It's not available for inspection since I had it replaced and the defective assembly disposed of. My safety was at risk since I had extreme difficulty shifting gears on the road. The issue was confirmed at an independent service center - AAMCO of Huntsville, AL. No other entity inspected the part. The vehicle gave me no warning or indication of a problem other than the difficulty with starting and operating it.
NHTSA complaint #11754275 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2018 Ford Mustang EcoBoost with the 10R80 automatic transmission began experiencing hesitation, delayed engagement, and harsh jerking during low-speed acceleration (15-20 mph), especially when cold. Engine RPM would increase, but the vehicle would hesitate before engaging. The condition worsened over time and eventually the vehicle entered limp mode, causing a significant loss of power and illuminating a wrench warning light. An authorized Ford dealership diagnosed DTC P07F6 (Gear 9 Incorrect Ratio). The dealer verified fluid level, updated the PCM, and performed adaptive relearn procedures, but the problem remained. The transmission fluid was found to be dark with a burnt odor, and the dealer diagnosed an internal transmission failure requiring complete transmission replacement at an estimated cost of $9,250. This created a safety concern because the vehicle did not consistently accelerate as expected when entering traffic, crossing intersections, or merging onto roadways. Delayed engagement and loss of power reduced the ability to accelerate when needed. The vehicle has approximately 82,256 miles and has been maintained according to Ford's recommended service schedule. I am also aware of numerous publicly documented owner reports, technical discussions, and litigation involving the Ford 10R80 transmission used in vehicles from this generation. One of the commonly discussed concerns involves the CDF drum design in earlier 10R80 transmissions. My understanding is that Ford later revised the CDF drum design in subsequent production; however, when I contacted Ford regarding this transmission failure and requested assistance with repair const, they advised that my vehicle was not covered by any recall, customer satisfaction program, or warranty extension related to this issue. I am submitting this report so that my experience can be considered together with other reports to determine whether a broader safety-related defect exists.
NHTSA complaint #11752476 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2025 Ford Mustang. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V122000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to complete the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle stalled, jerked forward, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The force of the jerk propelled the contact onto the steering wheel. The vehicle was restarted, and the check engine warning light was no longer illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The contact stated that the vehicle required several attempts to start on some occasions. A dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that the recall remedy was unavailable. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or a dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000.
NHTSA complaint #11749328 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Description On your vehicles engine, one or more of the clips that retain the engines pistons to their connecting rods may be mis-installed or missing. Safety Risk A mis-installed clip may result in an audible knocking noise that increases over time. Progression of this issue can lead to piston failure and engine damage, resulting in a loss of motive power and increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy Parts are available to repair your vehicle. Ford Motor Company has authorized your dealer to inspect your vehicles engine for evidence of mis-installedmissing clips. If found, the engine long block assembly will be replaced free of charge. Recall service not available right now. We have a remedy but parts are not available right now. We will inform you when the service is available. Or, you can contact your dealer.
NHTSA complaint #11744348 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My car has always been a little rough on shifting since around 40k miles when I got it. I never really noticed after awhile and never had any problems. No lights flashing or codes no issues with anything under the hood. The other day my trans light popped on, but nothing was wrong the car was still driving fine. I took it in to get looked at the first shop said no codes were popping up and then I took it to another and they said the whole transmission now needs to be replaced. I went to look around and apparently a lot of people have issues with the transmission on the 2020.
NHTSA complaint #11739282 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rebuilt transmissions are bad. Two in the last four weeks have been placed in my 2019 California Special Edition Mustang, and both are bad. They both came from the Ford manufacturer. The transmission locks up at any point while driving at any speed, causing the car to jerk to a standstill, and only while you are driving. We were on 465, and the car automatically stopped in the middle of the highway while other vehicles were flying by and behind me. We were almost hit by several vehicles. This also occurred while the mechanic test drove the car with the second rebuilt transmission placed in my car. No warnings, nothing before this occurred. This is a huge safety hazard and risk for many. The dealership is aware and advised me to contact Ford Motor Company and not to drive my car until something can be done. I have contacted Ford Motor Company, and they have yet to do anything or reach back out to me regarding this safety issue. The car is available for inspection at any time needed since it is still sitting at the dealership with the second rebuilt transmission in it that is no good.
NHTSA complaint #11736526 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I have a 2013 ford mustang with 6R80 transmission as my wife was driving down the high way the suddenly shift down to 1 or second at 65 miles per hour and the car skidded out of control almost killing her and the people in the other lain I checked on recalls for this problem and I am getting conflicting answer. It says that some mustang have been recalled for the TCM and most all 6R80 transmission in the f150 and a couple other Ford vehicals that support the same transmission. My question is why would my 2013 ford mustang not be in the recall when clearly when I resurch it there is many issues out there with this car and TCM. Is this a wait until someone gets killed by the grace of God no one was hurt in my wife's situation and the car has to be parked until something is done to it so it doesn't happen again but like any dealer ship they want a very large amount of money to repair or replace the TCM. AKA lead frame is what I am told. I would like an answer on why this has been over looked please. Thank you God bless.
NHTSA complaint #11735968 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2019 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Premium Fastback is having an issue with the transmission. When I shift from park to reverse or from reverse to drive, the car makes a clunking noise. There are times when i do a doubletake in my rear view mirror to see if someone has hit me in the back, this happens sometimes when i shift into reverse. Also, I have to stay back at least a car length behind vehicles as the car will sometimes lunges forward which can cause an accident. Will be taking my vehicle into service for this problem.
NHTSA complaint #11735768 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My vehicle would suddenly downshifted to first, constantly seek for gears, loss of traction from not finding gears, and transmission died at 120k miles.
NHTSA complaint #11735913 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
IMRC actuator rod broke causing the air/fuel mix to be sporadic. Creating a misfire on random cylinders. Major loss of power and very jerky motions, causing the vehicle to loose control. Luckily it was on an open spacious road. Unfortunately this has been an ongoing problem and there is nobody selling updated parts the electronics will recognize and very difficult to find oe replacement parts, real costly. And may fix the issue for a short period of time. I have a brand new manifold off of a same totaled mustang since Dec 2025 and the same part broke.
NHTSA complaint #11734247 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Car has delayed shifting and is still down shifting when the car has already stopped. 2011-2012 mustangs have some extended coverage for this problem. 16N02. My 2013 was manufactured at flat rock in 2012 but not covered.
NHTSA complaint #11733618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I purchased this vehicle CPO and shortly after purchase the vehicle experienced a major mechanical failure involving the clutch/transmission. The vehicle had a prior safety recall (Recall #24S36) listed as “completed” before I purchased it. However, the issue has now reoccurred despite that recall being marked as repaired. The dealership is now claiming the failure is due to “wear and tear,” but the failure occurred after only approximately 1,000 miles of driving since purchase, which raises concern that the defect existed prior to sale or that the recall repair was not properly completed. The vehicle is currently unsafe to drive due to the risk of sudden loss of power and drivability issues. I do not feel safe operating the vehicle. I am requesting that this issue be investigated as a potential recall-related defect or improper recall repair, as it poses a safety risk.
NHTSA complaint #11732865 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While completing a turn at a T-intersection, the vehicle experienced a complete loss of motive power for several seconds, leaving the car stationary in the path of oncoming traffic. The transmission (10R80) failed to engage, a known symptom of internal CDF Drum sleeve failure (TSB 24-2254). This follows a 'Green' inspection by a dealer on March 23rd where an axle seal leak and shifting issues were overlooked. The failure to engage gear during a turn creates an unreasonable risk of a T-bone collision.
NHTSA complaint #11732274 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2020 Ford Mustang Ecoboost has a (P008A) AND (PO18B/PO18C) The fuel pressure fuel system you low and fuel pressure Sensor B is a well documented defects and has a customer satisfaction program 21N10 (or related TSBs). The dealer said there are no recalls under my vin number and vehicle was not repaired. I sent a certified letter to ford March 29, 2026 to Ford Motor Company and I have had no response. 2015 thru 2022 Mustangs have this well known defect. I am not sure why the 2020 mustang has not been issued a recall. It's the same identical part as the other years Mustangs that have been recalled
NHTSA complaint #11732166 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am filing a safety complaint regarding an open manufacturer recall on my vehicle that has not been completed despite being scheduled for repair. On or about 2/16/2026, I scheduled the recall repair with an authorized dealership/service center. The repair was accepted and scheduled; however, the repair has not been completed to date. It has now been approximately 50 days (or more) since the scheduled appointment, and the recall remedy remains unresolved. Despite multiple attempts to follow up, the repair has not been performed, and no reasonable timeline has been provided for completion. This ongoing delay leaves the vehicle in an unrepaired condition subject to a known safety-related recall issue. Safety Concern: The unresolved recall defect presents a potential safety risk, as the manufacturer has identified the issue as significant enough to warrant a recall. The continued delay in remedy increases the risk of operating a vehicle with a known safety defect. Dealer / Manufacturer Response: •Recall repair was scheduled and acknowledged by the dealer - suburban ford of Ferndale. •Repair has not been completed after an extended period. •No adequate resolution timeline has been provided. •Communication regarding the delay has been insufficient. Impact: •Vehicle remains in an unsafe or potentially unsafe condition. •Loss of use / inability to rely on manufacturer recall remedy. •Unreasonable delay in addressing a safety recall. Requested Action: I am requesting that NHTSA: •Review this matter as a potential failure to timely remedy a safety recall •Ensure the manufacturer and/or dealer fulfills its obligations to complete the recall repair promptly •Investigate whether systemic delays or failures are occurring in the recall remedy process Additional Notes: This issue is not merely about the existence of a recall, but rather the failure to complete a scheduled recall repair within a reasonable timeframe after acceptance by the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11729817 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.