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Ford Mustang: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2026 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2025 (87/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2025 87 · 2019 77 · 2018 76 · 2020 68

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202688/100
Too New

3 complaints · 3 recalls

202587/100
Buybest year

12 complaints · 5 recalls

202461/100
Caution

70 complaints · 11 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202264/100
Caution

48 complaints · 9 recalls

202164/100
Caution

55 complaints · 6 recalls

202068/100
Buy

113 complaints · 8 recalls

201977/100
Buy

141 complaints · 6 recalls

201876/100
Buy

184 complaints · 4 recalls

201768/100
Buy

260 complaints · 6 recalls

201666/100
Caution

367 complaints · 5 recalls

201556/100
Caution

434 complaints · 11 recalls

201464/100
Caution

356 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201364/100
Caution

271 complaints · 6 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201264/100
Caution

469 complaints · 7 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201164/100
Caution

466 complaints · 5 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

Zeroing in on the 2025?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2025 Ford Mustang’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2026 Ford Mustang head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Ford Mustang as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.