AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2021 Ford Mustang
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $8,000–$12,000
The 2021 Ford Mustang has several critical recalls relating to safety features such as brake fluid sensors and airbag deployment. Complaints are mainly about the fuel system and power train, suggesting reliability issues.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| fuel pump | 20,000–40,000 miles | $400–$700 | very common |
| rearview camera | 15,000–30,000 miles | $200–$500 | common |
| brake system | 30,000–50,000 miles | $300–$600 | occasional |
| knee airbag | 10,000–20,000 miles | $250–$450 | rare |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil and filter change every 5,000 miles
- Brake fluid replacement every 2 years
- Tire rotation every 10,000 miles
- Transmission fluid change at 50,000 miles
- Coolant replacement at 5 years
- Spark plug replacement at 60,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Fuel pump failure symptoms
- Brake warning light that stays on
- Rearview camera malfunctions
- Rough engine idling
- Unusual brake noises
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.