1985 Ford Mustang problems
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).
Social links
Common 1985 Ford Mustang problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1985 Ford Mustang SVO, several common problems have been reported:
- Power Deficiency: Some owners have noted that the 1985 Mustang SVO lacks sufficient power, particularly when trying to control oversteer situations. This power deficiency can impact the overall performance and driving experience of the vehicle.
These problems with the 1985 Ford Mustang SVO can significantly affect the driving dynamics and overall satisfaction of the owners. It is essential for potential buyers or current owners to be aware of these issues to address them promptly and ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
What year Mustang has the least problems?
The 2008 year is one of the standouts of the fifth generation Mustang and deserves to be called the most reliable Ford Mustang year. For starters, the 2008 Mustang received a perfect reliability score of 5.0 out of 5.0 from Consumer Reports.
What engine was in the 1985 Mustang?
1985 Mustang Specifications
Engine | HP | Torque |
---|---|---|
3.8L V6 | 120 hp @ 3,600 RPM | 205 lb-ft@ 1,600 RPM |
5.0L V8 EFI | 165 hp @ 3,800 RPM | 245 lb-ft @ 2,000 RPM |
5.0L V8 4V | 210 hp @ 4,600 RPM | 265 lb-ft @ 3,400 RPM |
2.3L 4-cyl (SVO) | 175 hp @ 4,400 RPM | 210 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM |
What is the most desirable year Mustang?
The 1968 Ford Mustang Bullitt, the 1969 Mach 1, and the 1967 Ford Mustang GT500 are among the most desirable Mustangs, each with their own unique features and performance statistics.
Are old Mustang worth it?
Overall, classic Mustangs are a strong investment. Classic car values increase over time, making them worthwhile purchases. Mustangs also have unique traits that improve their investment value, like: Easy maintenance: Mustangs are known for their durability and simple maintenance.
What engine was in the 1985 Mustang?
1985 Mustang Specifications
Engine | HP | Torque |
---|---|---|
3.8L V6 | 120 hp @ 3,600 RPM | 205 lb-ft@ 1,600 RPM |
5.0L V8 EFI | 165 hp @ 3,800 RPM | 245 lb-ft @ 2,000 RPM |
5.0L V8 4V | 210 hp @ 4,600 RPM | 265 lb-ft @ 3,400 RPM |
2.3L 4-cyl (SVO) | 175 hp @ 4,400 RPM | 210 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM |
How reliable are Foxbody Mustangs?
Reliability Rating: 9/10
After an up-and-down lifespan, the final model year of the Fox Mustang went out with a bang.
What year Mustang has the least problems?
The 2008 year is one of the standouts of the fifth generation Mustang and deserves to be called the most reliable Ford Mustang year. For starters, the 2008 Mustang received a perfect reliability score of 5.0 out of 5.0 from Consumer Reports.
What years of Mustang are good?
- 2005-2010 gt with the 4.6L. These engines have been shown to be extremely reliable and can easily hit over 200k and some people even hitting 400k. ...
- 2015-2017 gt. This gets the second spot due to having upgraded engine components. ...
- 2011-2014 gt. This was the first year of the modern 5.0.
1985 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Electrical system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Ford Mustang vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Ford Mustang complaints
The NHTSA has received 20 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Ford Mustang.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-30
- VIN: 1FABP27M1FF
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: FUEL PUMP INTERMITTENTLY WORKS. SOMETIMES I HEAR IT KICK IN AND SOMETIMES IT DOESN'T, LIKE TODAY AFTER WORK. I REPLACED THE FUEL PUMP IN 2004 AND THE FUEL FILTER TO THE TUNE OF $550.00. I WAS NOT GIVEN THE OLD PARTS. I AM WORRIED I MAY HAVE TO GET IT DONE AGAIN TOMORROW. I THINK THE FIRST REPAIR SHOP ROBBED ME. THEY CHARGED ME 189.59 FOR THE PUMP AND 16.48 FOR THE FILTER. THE CONSEQUENCE OF THE FAILURE IS CAB FARES, BUMMING RIDES AND THE MENTAL ANGUISH OF WHETHER OR NOT IT WILL START. I AM FEMALE AND WORRIED ABOUT IT. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE VEHICLE HAD REAR SUSPENSION PROBLEMS. *NM THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED AN ACCIDENT WHEN THE ROADWAY WAS DAMP. THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE SLID MAKING THE CONSUMER LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND HIT A TREE. *SC *JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-27
- VIN: 1FABP2734FF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT WAS RECALLED IN 1992. THE PROBLEM WAS REPAIRED, AND THE RECALL LETTER STATED THAT REPAIRS WERE FOR THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE. CURRENTLY, SEAT BELTS WERE NOT LATCHING PROPERLY, AND THE MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT REPAIR THE PROBLEM FREE OF CHARGE.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-02
- VIN: 1FABP28A0FF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I TOOK MY CAR TO THE DEALER TO CHECK ON CAMPAIGN # 92V063000. HE SAID HE COULDN'T HELP BECAUSE MY VIN # DIDN'T COME UP. *NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MULTIPLE CLUTCH FAILURES, TRANSMISSION AND ENGINE MALFUNCTIONS, AND THEN CRANKSHAFT BROKE AT 160,000 MILES.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: AFTER AUTO WAS DRIVEN FOR ABOUT 10 MINUTES SMELLED SMOKE AND SAW IT, PULLED TO SIDE OF ROAD AND IT WAS FLAMES IN THE STEERING COLUMN. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FABT28T1FF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PARKED VEHICLE IN DRIVEWAY, UNDERHOOD FIRE IGNITED; ALL WIRES MELTED DOWN; ACCORDING TO FIRE DEPT, COULD BE CAUSED BE ELECTRICAL SHORT. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FABP27M9FF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE (ENGINE COMPARMENT FIRE). *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-10-01
- VIN: 1FNBP26A6FF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT RETRACTORS FAIL.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-01
- VIN: 1FNBP26A6FF
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DISTRIBUTOR REPLACED SIX TIMES.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-10-01
- VIN: 1FNBP26A6FF
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CAR STALLS INTERMITTENTLY, DUE TO FAILED CARBURETOR. *DSH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-10-01
- VIN: 1FNBP26A6FF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY FAILED THREE TIMES.
INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-10-01
- VIN: 1FNBP26A6FF
- Components: INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DOME LIGHT SHORTED OUT SIX TIMES.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-24
- VIN: 1FABP2738FF
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ENGINE SURGED. *DSH
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-26
- Crash: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED/KEYS WERE REMOVED VEHICLE THEN ROLLED OUT INTO THE MAIN TRAFFIC, CAUSING VEHICLE TO BE STRUCK BY A VAN. *SD
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-10
- VIN: 1FABP27M9FF
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR IS DIFFICULT TO OPEN . *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FABP26A1FF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER RECEIVE A RECALL # 92V063000 TOOK CAR TO BE REPAIR DEALER REFUSE TO FIX THE SEAT BELT BECAUSE THERE WAS THE PEICE IN THE BUCKLE . TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-22
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: UNDERHOOD FIRE CAUSED BY POOR CLAMPING OF FUEL LINE TO THE FUEL FILTER. PLEASE EXPLAIN. TT
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-01
- VIN: 1FABP0442FW
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: REAR WINDOW SHATTERED AFTER REAR DEFROSTER WAS ON FOR 5 MINUTES. *SKD
1985 Ford Mustang recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1985 Ford Mustang.
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
- Consequence: A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: THE PLASTIC SLEEVE IN THE FRONT SAFETY BELT TONGUE ASSEMBLY WHICH RETAINS THE LOCK BAR CAN DETERIORATE FROM PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO SUNLIGHT AND BECOME DISPLACED, CAUSING THE TONGUE TO DETACH FROM THE SAFETY BELT WEBBING.
- Consequence: IF THE TONGUE DETACHES FROM THE SAFETY BELT WEBBING, THESAFETY BELT WOULD NOT ATTACH TO ITSELF, RESULTING IN INCREASED RISK OF INJURYTO THE SEAT OCCUPANT IN THE EVENT OF A SUDDEN STOP OR VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: FORD WILL REPAIR THE SAFETY BELTS EXPERIENCING THIS CONDITION REGARDLESS OF VEHICLE AGE OR CONDITION.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: BRAKE BOOSTER REAR SHELLS MAY HAVE REDUCED WALL THICKNESSES WHICH COULD CAUSE THE SHELL TO BREAK. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: REPEATED BRAKE USE COULD CAUSE THE SHELL TO CRACK AND THE BOOSTER ASSEMBLY TO COME APART. SERVICE BRAKES CAPABILITY WOULD BE TOTALLY LOST WITHOUT WARNING AND COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: INSPECT AND IF NECESSARY REPLACE THE POWER BRAKE BOOSTER ASSEMBLY.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1985 Ford Mustang problems:
I'm Am Considering Buying A 1985-1993 Mustang | Mustang Forums ...
Aug 12, 2014 ... ... for some of the most common problems and upgrades for 5.0 Fox body Mustangs. http://www.stangnet.com/mustang-forums/threads/the-official ...
what are common problems with the 302 | Ford Mustang Forum
Oct 31, 2007 ... Rear main seals and timing chains. 1979 Pace Car - Build in Progress 1985 Oxford White Mustang - SOLD 1985 Maroon Red Mustang - ...
Quick! Fox body common problems? What to look out for? | Mustang ...
Mar 19, 2008 ... I'm taking a friend to go see an '89 Fox GT. Ad says it has wires, cap/rotor, flowmaster, and some gauges. It has 150k on it.
Looking for info on common issues with 2006 Mustangs - The ...
Sep 27, 2016 ... ... common issues with these cars so I know kind of what to look for. I have owned 1966 Mustang and 1985 Mustang, and have some basic mechanical ...
1985 Mustang GT Carb Issues | Ford Mustang Forum
Sep 11, 2010 ... Its a non-taken care of virgin and both of those descriptions wont take long to fix. "If Im damned if I do and damned ...
Leave your review of 1985 Ford Mustang