1966 Ford Mustang problems

General information about Ford-Mustang
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Ford Mustang is a series of American automobiles manufactured by Ford. In continuous production since 1964, the Mustang is currently the longest-produced Ford car nameplate. Currently in its seventh generation, it is the fifth-best selling Ford car nameplate. The namesake of the "pony car" automobile segment, the Mustang was developed as a highly styled line of sporty coupes and convertibles derived from existing model lines, initially distinguished by "long hood, short deck" proportions.

Originally predicted to sell 100,000 vehicles yearly, the 1965 Mustang became the most successful vehicle launch since the 1927 Model A. Introduced on April 17, 1964 (16 days after the Plymouth Barracuda), over 400,000 units were sold in its first year; the one-millionth Mustang was sold within two years of its launch. In August 2018, Ford produced the 10-millionth Mustang; matching the first 1965 Mustang, the vehicle was a 2019 Wimbledon White convertible with a V8 engine.

The success of the Mustang launch led to multiple competitors from other American manufacturers, including the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird (1967), AMC Javelin (1968), and Dodge Challenger (1970). It also competed with the Plymouth Barracuda, which was launched around the same time. The Mustang also had an effect on designs of coupes worldwide, leading to the marketing of the Toyota Celica and Ford Capri in the United States (the latter, by Lincoln-Mercury). The Mercury Cougar was launched in 1967 as a unique-bodied higher-trim alternative to the Mustang; during the 1970s, it included more features and was marketed as a personal luxury car.

From 1965 until 2004, the Mustang shared chassis commonality with other Ford model lines, staying rear-wheel-drive throughout its production. From 1965 to 1973, the Mustang was derived from the 1960 Ford Falcon compact. From 1974 until 1978, the Mustang (denoted Mustang II) was a longer-wheelbase version of the Ford Pinto. From 1979 until 2004, the Mustang shared its Fox platform chassis with 14 other Ford vehicles (becoming the final one to use the Fox architecture). Since 2005, Ford has produced two generations of the Mustang, each using a distinct platform unique to the model line.

Through its production, multiple nameplates have been associated with the Ford Mustang series, including GT, Mach 1, Boss 302/429, Cobra (separate from Shelby Cobra), and Bullitt, along with "5.0" fender badging (denoting 4.9 L OHV or 5.0 L DOHC V8 engines).

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Common 1966 Ford Mustang problems

The Ford Mustang 1966 is a classic American muscle car that embodies the spirit of the 1960s. However, like any other vehicle, it is prone to certain problems that can affect its performance and safety. Based on the complaints and issues reported by owners, here are some of the most common problems with the Ford Mustang 1966:

Faulty Gas Tank Design: The Ford Mustang 1966 has been the subject of numerous lawsuits due to its faulty gas tank design, which can cause terrible car fires after even modest rear-end crashes.

Suspension and Steering Issues: The Ford Mustang 1966 is known to have suspension and steering issues, which can affect its handling and stability. The car's suspension system can wear out over time, leading to a bumpy and uncomfortable ride. The steering system can also become stiff and unresponsive, making it difficult to control the car.

Engine and Transmission Problems: The Ford Mustang 1966's engine and transmission can also cause problems. The car's six-cylinder engine, while reliable, can suffer from a lack of power and acceleration, making it unsuitable for those looking for a more thrilling driving experience.

Electrical Issues: The Ford Mustang 1966 can also suffer from electrical issues, such as faulty wiring and blown fuses. These issues can affect various parts of the car, including the lights, radio, and gauges. Electrical issues can be difficult to diagnose and repair, making them a common problem for Mustang owners.

In conclusion, while the Ford Mustang 1966 is a classic and iconic muscle car, it is not without its problems. Rusting, faulty gas tank design, suspension and steering issues, engine and transmission problems, and electrical issues are some of the most common problems reported by owners. Regular maintenance and repairs can help mitigate these issues, but it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these problems before purchasing a Ford Mustang 1966.

Is a 1966 Ford Mustang reliable?

The first two generations of the Ford Mustang created a legacy in the automotive industry. There is a reason you still see so many classic Mustangs on the road today. They are one of the most reliable classic cars out there. As with any older vehicle, there needs to be proper maintenance and upkeep.

What was special about the 1966 Mustang?

The new 66's were outfitted with a new front grille, side grille, side ornamentation, gas cap and wheel covers. The new side ornamentation is perhaps the most identifiable mark on a 66 Mustang. Many would describe it as a chrome ornament that looks like the letter "E", as opposed to the 65 Model's "little L" shape.

What is the common problem with Mustangs?

Valve Cover Gasket Leaks. Watch for oil leaks as your Ford Mustang grows older. Specifically, you'll want to check engine valve cover gaskets for cracks. Some vehicle generations like the fifth-generation SN95 and New Edge Mustangs are prone to their valve cover gaskets leaking oil.

How much should you pay for a 1966 Mustang?

According to Hagerty the 1966 Ford Mustang 2 door hard top with no major operating problems and no readily notable flaws in body or paint, garage kept but less than perfect show room condition is worth the average price of 15,000 to 17,000. This is open market value.

Is a 1966 Ford Mustang reliable?

What is the common problem with Mustangs?

What are disadvantages of Ford Mustang?

Things We Don't Like

Steering Feel. The Mustang offers three settings for steering effort, but it's hard to notice much difference between them. ...
Carbon-Fiber Knockoff. ...
Snug Seats.

What was special about the 1966 Mustang?

1966 Ford Mustang car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Mustang problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Tires problems
Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1966 Ford Mustang vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1966 Ford Mustang complaints

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1966 Ford Mustang.

2008-05-12

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2008-05-11
Components: TIRES
Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1966 FORD MUSTANG. THE VEHICLE HAS COOPER COBRA RADIAL G/T TIRES, SIZE P215/60R14. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE TREAD SEPARATION WAS DOWN TO THE STEEL BELT. THE TREAD WAS BEATING AGAINST THE FENDER AND DAMAGED AND FLATTENED THE TIRE. THE CONTACT HAS PICTURES. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 80,316.

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2004-09-15

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2004-08-21
Components: TIRES
Summary: DRIVING ON HIGHWAY WHEN STEERING WHEEL BECAME SHAKE BACK AND FORTH HARD TO CONTROL. STOPPED AUTO FOUND THAT BELTS HAD BROKEN IN THE TIRES AND THAT TREAD HAD SHIFTED TO WHERE IT WAS NO LONGER STRAIGHT.*AK

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2000-12-07

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2000-08-24
Components: TIRES
Summary: THE MICHELIN TIRE (P195 75 R14) EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION, DAMAGING THE FENDER. *SLC

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2000-12-07

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2000-08-24
Components: TIRES
Summary: THE MICHELIN TIRE (P195 75 R14) EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION, DAMAGING THE FENDER. *SLC

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1999-08-12

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1998-07-15
Number Of Injuries: 1
Number Of Deaths: 1
Crash: 1
Fire: 1
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: VEHICLE INVOLVED IN A REAR IMPACT COLLISION. VEHICLE GAS TANK RUPTURED ON IMPACT, SPEWING FUEL INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. OCCUPANT, MY 16 YEAR OLD SON, DIED OF "EXCESSIVE CHARRING." ON SCENE WITNESS (A FORMER FIREFIGHTER) REPORTED THAT THE FIRE WAS CONTAINED INSIDE THE VEHICLE. PREVIOUS NHTSA ODI CASE 098 OF DROP-IN-FUEL TANK AND VENT SYSTEM 1960-1970 FALCON, FAIRLANE, COMET, MONTEGO, MUSTANG AND COUGAR PASSENGER CARS APPLICABLE AS CRASH TEST INFORMATION WAS WITH-HELD BY THE MANUFACTURER DURING THE INVESTIGATION (CRASH TEST 301). RECENT 60 MINUTES 2 PROGRAM, TO BE RE-AIRED ON 17 AUGUST, ADDRESSED DETAILS OF THIS AND RELATED INCIDENTS (OVER 70 LAWSUITS FILED AS A RESULT OF POST REAR-IMPACT FIRE RELATED INJURIES/DEATHS IN LATE MODEL FORD MUSTANGS). FORMER HEAD OF NHTSA, MRS. JOAN CLAYBROOK, INTERVIEWED ON PROGRAM CONFIRMING THAT FMC WITH-HELD INFORMATION PERTINENT TO AND REQUESTED FOR THE NHTSA INVESTIGATION ON THE CRASHWORTHINESS OF THE EARLY MODEL FORD MUSTANG DROP IN FUEL TANK SYSTEMS. OVER 2 MILLION MUSTANGS PRODUCED WITH THIS TYPE OF SYSTEM AS WELL AS OTHER MODELS BY THE FMC. THE GREAT POPULARITY OF THE EARLY PRODUCTION FORD MUSTANG MAKES THIS A CONTINUING AND GROWING PROBLEM IN REGARDS TO PASSENGER/HIGHWAY SAFETY. THE CONDUCT OF THE FMC IN THEIR CONTINUEING REFUSAL TO ADMIT THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM IN THIS DESIGN CONSIDERING THAT THEY HAVE KNOWN OF THIS PROBLEM FOR YEARS, NOT TO MENTION THEIR WILLFULL AND WANTON DISREGARD OF BOTH THE LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY IN THEIR WITH-HOLDING OF INFORMATION ON THEIR OWN CRASH TESTS AFTER HAVING BEEN ASKED FOR THIS INFORMATION BY NHTSA, IS EGGREGIOUS, NOT TO MENTION POSSIBLY CRIMINAL. WHAT IS BEING DONE? APPROXIMATELY 11 MILLION VIEWERS SAW THE 60 MINUTES 2 PROGRAM. WERE NONE OF THESE INDIVIDUALS ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA?

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1966 Ford Mustang recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1966 Ford Mustang.

2019-02-09

Manufacturer: Drake Automotive Group LLC
Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM
Summary: Drake Automotive Group, LLC (Drake) is recalling certain Scott Drake left and right wheel spindles, part numbers C5ZZ-3106-L, C5ZZ-3105-R, C70Z-3106-L, C70Z-3105-R sold for use on 1965-1966 Ford Mustang V8s and 1967-1969 Ford Mustangs (all vehicles with drums). The spindle may fail resulting in the wheel and tire detaching from the vehicle's steering system.
Consequence: Spindle failure can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Drake Automotive Group, LLC will notify owners and will replace all of the recalled units, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2019. Owners may contact Drake automotive at 1-800-999-0289.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1966 Ford Mustang problems:

1966 Mustang unpredictable steering | Ford Mustang Forum

https://www.allfordmustangs.com/threads/1966-mustang-unpredictable-steering.1096651/

May 10, 2021 ... The tires are oddly worn from the pervious alignment problems but I can't imagine uneven wear causing that much unpredictability. Any thoughts ...

1966 Mustang 289 starting issues. | Ford Mustang Forum

https://www.allfordmustangs.com/threads/1966-mustang-289-starting-issues.1076861/

Oct 2, 2018 ... It almost sounds like the timing may be too far advanced. Check to see if the damper looks like it is shifting, as that could throw off your ...

66 mustang convertible top problem? | Vintage Mustang Forums

https://www.vintage-mustang.com/threads/66-mustang-convertible-top-problem.1160430/

Jul 9, 2019 ... Is this a common problem and if so is there an easy fix? I have an underdash ac system and i would like for it to be sealed up a little better.