1996 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).
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Common 1996 Ford Mustang problems
The 1996 Ford Mustang GT has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These issues range from transmission and air conditioning problems to engine and electrical concerns.
- Air Conditioning Problems: Issues with the air conditioning system are common in the 1996 Ford Mustang GT. These problems can range from leaking hoses to complete system failure, which may require a new air conditioning system. It is recommended to see a certified mechanic if experiencing problems with the air conditioner.
- Engine Problems: The IAC (Idle Air Control) in the 1996-2004 Mustang GT can become worn down over time, particularly if the driver is aggressive.
- Intake Manifold Cracks: Cracks in the intake manifold are common in the 1996-2004 Mustang GT, particularly if the driver has bad shifting habits. These cracks may require replacement of the intake manifold, which can be done by visiting a local mechanic or Ford dealer.
- Electrical Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the electrical system in their 1996 Ford Mustang GT. For example, the Mach 1 radio system in the 1998 Ford Mustang GT does not have an adapter built into the vehicle for aftermarket deck and stereo equipment installation. This may require splicing the wire so it goes directly to the factory harness.
These common problems in the 1996 Ford Mustang GT can be addressed by following the recommended solutions provided by experts and mechanics. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help prevent these issues from arising or worsening over time.
What was the worst year for Mustang?
Top 10 Worst Mustangs Ever Made
- 2022 Mustang. The last Mustang on the list might also be a surprise, and that's the 2022 Mustang.
- 1969-1973 Mustang Grande. ...
- 2010 Mustang. ...
- 2015 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Mustang. ...
- 1980-1981 V8 Mustang. ...
- 2015-2017 Mustang V6. ...
- Mustang SVO. ...
- 1979 3.3 Liter V6 Mustang. ...
How many miles does a 1996 Ford Mustang last?
On average, you can expect your Ford Mustang to last about 200,000 miles.
Are old Mustangs hard to maintain?
Older models of Mustang are easy to maintain. They were built to be tough and are less likely to experience serious mechanical issues from the get-go. Models with minor strain over their lifetimes will be the easiest and cheapest to fix up.
What year Mustang is most reliable?
5 Most Reliable Ford Mustang Model Years (5 To Steer Clear Of)
- 6 Steer Clear - 2006 Ford Mustang. ...
- 5 Most Reliable - 2008 Ford Mustang. ...
- 4 Steer Clear - 2010 Ford Mustang. ...
- 3 Most Reliable - 2019 Ford Mustang EcoBoost. ...
- 2 Steer Clear - 2015 Ford Mustang. ...
- 1 Most Reliable - 2021 Ford Mustang.
What was the worst year for Mustang?
Top 10 Worst Mustangs Ever Made
- 2022 Mustang. The last Mustang on the list might also be a surprise, and that's the 2022 Mustang.
- 1969-1973 Mustang Grande. ...
- 2010 Mustang. ...
- 2015 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Mustang. ...
- 1980-1981 V8 Mustang. ...
- 2015-2017 Mustang V6. ...
- Mustang SVO. ...
- 1979 3.3 Liter V6 Mustang. ...
Are 96 Mustang GT reliable?
A very fun and super reliable car.
It's mainly a fun weekend car, but for a sports car it's also pretty comfy and very reliable.
How many miles does a 1996 Ford Mustang last?
On average, you can expect your Ford Mustang to last about 200,000 miles.
Are old Mustangs hard to maintain?
Older models of Mustang are easy to maintain. They were built to be tough and are less likely to experience serious mechanical issues from the get-go. Models with minor strain over their lifetimes will be the easiest and cheapest to fix up.
1996 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Ford Mustang vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Ford Mustang
The NHTSA has received 330 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Ford Mustang. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Ford Mustang vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-10
- VIN: 1FALP444XTF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON IT REALLY SCARY IT'S BEEN GOING SINCE 05/1/2010 AND TODAY 02/08/2018
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FALP42X0TF
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: DRIVER AND PASSENGER CUSTOMIZED, AND TUNNIING. RIMS CUSTOMS
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-08
- VIN: 1FALP45X5TF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD MUSTANG. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE RADIATOR WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND STEAM STARTED TO EMERGE FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE TEMPERATURE GAGE INDICATED HOT. THE CONTACT STOPPED THE VEHICLE ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN HOME. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE DIAGNOSIS WAS THAT THE WATER CROSSOVER FROM THE INTAKE MANIFOLD AND THE ENGINE WAS FRACTURED AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,242.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1FALP45X0TF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FORD MUSTANG GT CONVERTIBLE '96 - WHILE HEADING HOME ME AND MY FAMILY WERE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD GOING ABOUT 50 MPH. IT WAS A CLEAR SUNNY DAY, 85 DEGREES OUTSIDE WITH NO CHANCE OF RAIN. WE HAD THE WINDOWS AND TOP UP AC GOING. MY FIANCE, THE DRIVER, STARTED SMELLING WATER COMING FROM THE VENTS AND ASKED IF I COULD, BUT I COULDN'T SMELL THE SCENT OF WATER. A FEW SECONDS LATER IT STARTED TO GET SMOKEY INSIDE THE CAR SO HE STARTED TO SLOW DOWN TO PULL OVER AND THE SMOKE GOT THICKER. AS SOON AS WE CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP THE PASSENGER AIR BAG JUST DEPLOYED! WE WERE THE ONLY CAR ON THE ROAD AT THE TIME, WE DIDN'T HIT ANYTHING OR ANYONE... NOT EVEN A POTHOLE! I GO HIT HARD LEAVING BURNS AND BRUISES UNDERNEATH MY CHIN, ON MY ABDOMEN AND ARMS... I WAS 3 WEEKS AWAY FROM GIVING BIRTH! *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-19
- VIN: 1FALP4046TF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SEAT BELT IS STUCK AND WILL NOT RETRACT. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-01
- VIN: 1FALP42X1TF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: CRACKED INTAKE MANIFOLD CAUSED VAR TO OVERHEAT. *TR
PARKING BRAKE,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-31
- VIN: 1FALP4049TF
- Components: PARKING BRAKE,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,TIRES
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 1996 FORD MUSTANG FROM AUTO CREDIT #3 IN AIRWAY HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON. ON 1/2/2011, I RECEIVE THE VEHICLE AND AFTER THREE HOURS OF DRIVING, THE DRIVER SIDE REAR EMERGENCY BRAKE LOCKS UP. THIS PUTS ME INTO AN UNCONTROLLED 180 DEGREE SPIN. ON 1/3/2011, I TAKE THE VEHICLE TO A LES SCHWAB TIRE CENTER. I TOLD THE MECHANIC TO CHECK THE BRAKES. AFTER A FEW MINUTES OF WAITING, I AM CALLED INTO THE WORK AREA, AND I SEE THE FRONT PASSENGER TIRE IS CLEARLY NEEDING TO BE REPLACED, AS IT HAD THE APPEARANCE OF HAVING BEEN SHREDDED. THE SAME MECHANIC THEN TELLS ME THAT BOTH REAR BRAKES MUST BE REPLACED, AS THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS FROZEN IN THE ON POSITION. WHILE THE WORK WAS BEING DONE, I MANAGED TO TAKE A FEW PICTURES OF THE BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS, BUT UNFORTUNATELY, NOT OF THE TIRE IN QUESTION. IN ADDITION, WHEN I RECEIVED THE VEHICLE, THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD NOT STAY LIT, AND WOULD TURN OFF AND ON AT RANDOM. WHEN I COMPLAINED TO THE BUSINESS ON 1/5/2011 AROUND 3:00 PM, THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK AS I SIGNED A CONTRACT. WHAT I SIGNED WAS A LOAN AGREEMENT. EVEN WHEN I TOLD THEM THAT THE VEHICLE WAS RECEIVED IN THESE CONDITIONS, THEY STILL DID NOTHING. FINALLY, I TOLD THEM TO TAKE A LOOK AT THE VEHICLE AND TO TELL ME WHAT WAS WRONG WITH IT THE NEXT DAY, REFERRING TO 1/6/2011. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-16
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON MY 1996 FORD MUSTANG GT WITH THE 4.6L ENGINE 3 SPARK PLUGS BLEW OUT OF THE ENGINE. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE LOCAL FORD DEALER AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT IT WAS A PROBLEM THAT FORD WAS AWARE OF AND THAT IT WOULD BE $1,341.98 TO REPAIR THE DAMAGE. I LOOKED IT UP ONLINE AND SAW THAT FORD BLAMES THE DAMAGE ON IMPROPER TORQUING OF THE SPARK PLUGS. AS THE CAR ONLY HAS 49,000 MILES IT HAS NEVER HAD THE PLUGS CHANGED IN ANY WAY. THREE BLEW OUT AND 2 MORE WOULD NOT COME OUT OF THE ENGINE AS THE ALUMINUM HEAD AND ALUMINUM SPARK PLUGS HAD SEIZED. FORD KNOWS ABOUT THE PROBLEM AND REFUSES TO FIX IT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-04
- VIN: 1FALP45X6TF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD MUSTANG. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON JUNE 4, 2010, WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH, THE INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED, THE ANTIFREEZE SPILLED AND HE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT HAD TO USE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 136,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-14
- VIN: 1FALP42X4TF
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD MUSTANG. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME RESISTANT AND LOSS POWER STEERING ASSIST. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO COAST THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROADWAY WHERE IT WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC MADE REPAIRS TO THE FRONT STRUTS, LOWER BALL JOINTS, STABLE BAR LINK AND THE CONTROL ARM. THE CONTACT STATED A POLICE REPORT WAS AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 169,886 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 171,702.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-04
- VIN: 1FALP42X0TF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAD BOUGHT THE CAR IN 2008 AND TWO MONTHS LATER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD(OEM) DEVELOPED A CRACK AND HAS A RESULT ANTIFREEZE WAS BEING BURNT WHICH CAUSED A MISFIRE ON THE 3RD CYLINDER AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT THEN STARTED TO FLASH (INDICATED MISFIRE) DROVE IT HOME TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND INSTALLED A NEW INTAKE MANIFOLD WHICH HAD UPDATED FEATURES TO PREVENT THE INCIDENT FROM HAPPENING AGAIN THE FAILURE COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A BLOWN UP ENGINE IT WAS COMMON IN 1996-2001 FORD 4.6L 2V V8 MOTORS. *TR
POWER TRAIN,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-15
- VIN: 1FALP45XXTF
- Components: POWER TRAIN,TIRES
- Summary: VIBRATION ON MY 1996 MUSTANG GT CONVERTIBLE BETWEEN 60-80 MPH TOOK TO DEALER SAID I NEEDED NEW TIRES BEFORE THEY COULD CHECK COULD NOT AFFORD THE TIRES AT THAT TIME GOT NEW TIRES AND BROUGHT TO DEALER AGAIN AND SAID IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY BUT WAS TOLD EARLIER THAT IT WAS COVERED UNDER RECALL TRIED TO ARGUE BUT THEY WANTED TO CHARGE ME FOR A RECALL AND I GOT ANGRY AND LEFT!!!! CAN YOU HELP? *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-10
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FIRST MY ENGINE SEEMED TO OVERHEAT A BIT THEN EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE IT WOULD SOUND LIKE THE ENGINE WAS GRINDING ON SOMETHING AND WOULDN'T STOP.. SOUNDED LIKE A BUNCH OF CHAINS IN MY HOOD. BUT THEN ON OCCASIONS THE STUPID THING WOULDN'T SHUT OFF WHEN IT WAS MAKING THE CHAIN SOUND, EVEN WITH MY KEY OUT. IT JUST HAPPENED AGAIN AND NOW THE THING SMELLS LIKE SOMETHING IS BURNING AND I HAVE NO POWER WHAT SO EVER IN MY VEHICLE. BEFORE WHEN IT FINALLY SHUT OFF IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS ABOUT TO SPARK. THEN IT WAS MAKING A CLICKING NOISE THAT WASN'T COOL. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-05
- VIN: 1FALP4046TF
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE PAINT IS BUBBLING UP AND PEELING OFF THE TRUNK LID OF MY CAR. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-16
- VIN: 1FALP4046TF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL NOT GO OFF EVEN AFTER SERVICE. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X7TU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1996 FORD EXPLORER, 4X4. DRIVING IN DESERT WENT OVER A BUMP A LITTLE FAST, WHICH SET OFF MY AIRBAGS. MY RIDER IS IN THE HOSPITAL FOR BROKEN NOSE, CHEEK AND SOME KIND OF SMOKE INHALATION. MY WINDSHIELD IS BROKEN BECAUSE THE BAG HIT THE MIRROR WHICH THEN HIT THE WINDSHIELD. MY STEERING WHEEL IS DESTROYED, CRUISE CONTROL AND HORNS ARE OUT OF SERVICE. BEFORE I COULD DRIVE THE CAR AGAIN I HAD TO CUT THE AIRBAGS OUT. WHAT THE HELL IS THIS! NO DAMAGE TO THE CAR EXCEPT WHAT THE AIRBAGS DID. I WANT THIS ALL FIXED AT FORD'S EXPENSE. I HAVE HAD THIS CAR 10 YEARS WITH NO PROBLEMS EXCEPT; RECALLED TIRES, STEERING BARS AND BRAKES (ALL RECALL). *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-10
- VIN: 4M2DV11W2TD
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: MY 1996 MERCURY VILLAGER DEVELOPED A FAILURE IN THE AIR FLOW SENSOR (PART $330) THAT RESULTED IN VEHICLE STALLS, INCLUDING STOPS ON THE HIGHWAY, THAT NEARLY RESULTED IN CRASHES. THE REQUIRED REPAIRS EXCEEDED $500. I KNOW FORD HAS A SIMILAR RECALL OUT NOW FOR THE 1997-2003 (/) MODELS). *TR
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-15
- VIN: 1FALP4047TF
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: I READ ABOUT A RECALL FOR PARKING BRAKES FOR 1996 FORD MUSTANGS WITH MANUAL. I HAVE AN AUTOMATIC I BOUGHT ONLINE IN JANUARY 2007 THAT HAS PARKING BREAK ISSUES IT WONT KEEP THE CAR FORM MOVING. I HAD IT TOWED ONE TIME AND THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER SAID IT WAS FAULTY. IS THE RECALL STILL AVAILABLE FOR AN AUTOMATIC? *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-05
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FALP42X1TF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD MUSTANG GT. WHILE PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE UP TO THE DASHBOARD WAS DESTROYED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. FORD WAS NOTIFIED AND THEY STATED THAT NOTHING COULD BE DONE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 152,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-29
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X0TZ
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE ON 2 CASES BLEW THE TREAD AND BELT, THE LATER OF THE TWO INCIDENCES WHICH RESULTED IN A CRASH THAT TOTALED THE VEHICLE, AND RESULTED IN TWO INJURIES TO BOTH THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER. BOTH NEEDED TO BE HOSPITALIZED.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
- VIN: 1FALP4045TF
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE SPEEDOMETER BECAME STUCK AT 40 MPH. THE SPEEDOMETER HAS BEEN REPAIRED TWO TIMES IN THE PAST 2 YEARS AND THIS PROBLEM HAS RECURRED. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE SINCE IT WAS PURCHASED. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-12
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FALP42XXTF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: ON 4/12/06 I WAS GOING WESTBOUND TOWARD TACOMA, I MADE A LEFT TURN INTO A HIGHWAY DIVIDE TO CROSS TRAFFIC TO GO TO THE DOCTORS OFFICE. TRAFFIC WAS HEAVY BECAUSE OF THE TIME OF DAY. SO I DECIDED TO MAKE A LEFT HAND TURN AND GO ANOTHER DIRECTION. I WAITED FOR TRAFFIC SO I COULD PROCEED. I MADE A LEFT HAND TURN INTO TRAFFIC AND IT FELT LIKE MY CAR 1996 MUSTANG, FISHTAILED (SUNNY DAY DRY PAVEMENT) SO I TRIED TO CORRECT IT AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS LOCKED AND THE CAR TOOK OFF, SO I PROCEEDED TO STEP ON THE BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD BUT IT MADE NO DIFFERENCE. THE CAR WENT APPROXIMATELY TWO CITY BLOCKS, IT WENT FROM MY LANE TO THE OTHER RIGHT HAND LANE, WE WERE HEADED FOR THE LIGHT POLE AND ALL OF A SUDDEN (WITH THE STEERING STILL LOCKED) MADE A SHARP LEFT AND THROUGH ME ACROSS THREE LANES OF TRAFFIC, OVER THE CEMENT DIVIDE (AIRBORNE) AND INTO ANOTHER CAR AND HE HIT ANOTHER CAR. ON IMPACT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. MY CAR WAS TOTALED THE OTHER TWO CARS THAT WERE INVOLVED WERE REPAIRED. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-04
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INLET MANIFOLD COOLANT TRANSFER PASSAGE ON MY 1996 FORD MUSTANG WITH 4.6L 2V FAILED. AS THIS OCCURRED AT SPEED AND RESULTED IN OBSCURED FORWARD VISION, IT CREATED SOME HAZARD - AS WELL AS THE SUBSEQUENT INCONVENIENCE OF AN IMMOBILE VEHICLE. THIS FAULT HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO CLASS ACTION IN THE USA, BUT A SIGNIFICANT PROPORTION OF AFFECTED VEHICLES, INCLUDING MINE, HAVE BEEN EXCLUDED ON BASIS OF AGE. THE FLAMING FORD WEBSITE HAS REQUESTED THESE INCIDENTS BE REPORTED VIA YOURSELVES. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-20
- VIN: 2FMDA5148TB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH WAS LEAKING FLUID. THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL ON OTHER FORD VEHICLES. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A SERVICE DEALER, THE REPAIR WERE MADE FOR A FEE. ALSO EVERY 25000 MILES, THE OIL PAN GASKET NEEDED TO BE CHANGED DUE A SMALL LEAK. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. THIRD, THE EXHAUST AND INTAKE MANIFOLDS WERE LEAKING CAUSING A NOXIOUS SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO THE SAME SERVICE DEALER. THE DEALER REPLACED BOTH MANIFOLDS, AND DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS AN OIL LEAK DRIPPING ONTO THE EXHAUST SYSTEM.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-15
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH PEDAL CHATTERS WHEN ENGINE AT ABOUT 1500 RPMS. SEEMS TO OCCUR MORE FREQUENTLY ON COLD DAYS. *NM
1996 Ford Mustang recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the 1996 Ford Mustang.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
- Manufacturer: TRADESONIC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.
- Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: POLI-AUTO, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: CERTAIN POLI-AUTO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. 11-728, 11-728D, 11-710, 11-419, 11-713, 11-703, 11-704, 11-708P, 11-735, 11-725, 11-726, 11-716 (P&C), 11-721-1, 11-733, 11-729, 11-730, AND 11-732, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: POLI-AUTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE HEADLAMPS AT ITS ORIGINAL PURCHASE PRICE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT POLI-AUTO AT 305-477-1356.
- Manufacturer: ANZO USA, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES THAT HAVE HAD THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG MODULE REPLACED AFTER APRIL 5, 2000. THE REPLACEMENT DRIVER'S AIR BAG MODULE INFLATOR MAY HAVE INSUFFICIENT WELDS THAT COULD PREVENT PROPER INFLATION OF THE AIR BAG.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG MAY NOT PROPERLY DEPLOY WHICH COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN LESS THAN THE INTENDED LEVEL OF OCCUPANT PROTECTION.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 5, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. IF A VEHICLE IS PARKED WITH THE PARKING BRAKE NOT FULLY APPLIED AND NOT IN FIRST GEAR, AS DIRECTED IN THE OWNER GUIDE, AND THE SELF ADJUSTMENT PAWL SUBSEQUENTLY SKIPS ONE OR TWO TEETH, THE VEHICLE COULD MOVE ON SOME GRADES.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT AND A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE PARKING BRAKE CONTROL AND INSTALL A PLATE OR OVER-BRACKET TO THE CONTROL TO LOCK THE SELF ADJUST MECHANISM IN POSITION FOLLOWING ADJUSTMENT.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI VANS. TEARING OF THE BOND BETWEEN THE INNER AND OUTER HOOD PANELS DURING MINOR FRONT END COLLISIONS CAN RESULT IN A GAP AT THE LEADING EDGE OF THE HOOD. AIR FORCED BETWEEN THE INNER AND OUTER PANELS CAN PRODUCE ENOUGH PRESSURE TO FORCE THE OUTER PANEL UPWARD.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN TOTAL SEPARATION OF THE OUTER HOOD PANEL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE HOOD AREA FOR ANY DAMAGE ALONG THE LEADING EDGE OF THE HOOD. IF THERE IS ANY EVIDENCE OF BOND SEPARATION, THE HOOD WILL BE REPLACED. IF THERE IS NO EVIDENCE OF BOND SEPARATION, ADDITIONAL ADHESIVE WILL BE APPLIED BETWEEN THE INNER AND OUTER HOOD PANELS.
Negative 1996 Ford Mustang car reviews
Positive 1996 Ford Mustang car reviews
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I can tell you really love your stang! It sounds like you've made some great upgrades with the aftermarket exhaust, air intake with K&N filter, electronic distributor, thicker spark plug wires and better spark plugs. It must be a blast to drive and I bet it sounds amazing with the true dual exhaust!
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Overall, it has been an awesome car. The car looks great and always turns heads. It feels great to speed up with the 5-speed manual. Although there were some minor issues such as the intake manifold cracking at 58K, it was taken care of under recall and there have been no serious mechanical problems. Some of the interior plastics squeak on bumpy rides and there is a slight lack in horsepower, but it is acceptable being the first of the 4.6L. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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I love my '96 GT! Despite the bad reviews, I believe that with proper maintenance, it can be a great car. I have kept up with all the regular maintenance and mine is still running great. The only issue I have had is with the plastic intake crossover, which I unfortunately broke 2 weeks after getting the car. It cost me $700 to replace the manifold, but if you buy one of these cars, try to get one that already has the aluminum replacement. Other than that, it's a great car. It may not be the fastest v8 out there, but it's definitely not slow either, and it handles much better than expected. I absolutely love my pony!
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I've owned the car for a year and had to replace the radiator and power steering pump. Despite the need for repairs, it's a great car to drive. However, it's important to keep in mind that maintenance costs can add up.
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Wonderful car to own! It's great to hear that you've had several Mustangs in the past 8 years. I've had V-8's and 1 V-6, and all of them have been a pleasure to own. If you're looking for a V-6, I highly recommend spending the extra money for the extra HP - you won't regret it! While the back seat is mainly for looks, the handling is wonderful and the speed is great. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Ford Mustang problems:
1995-2000 Mustang GT Common Problems | Ford Mustang Forum
Jun 26, 2011 ... There are some issues with the IAC valve and Throttle Position sensor but those are easy and relatively cheap fixes. Some have also had cracked ...
1996 Ford Mustang Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Ford Mustang? Our list of 13 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Ford Mustang.
Any common problems with Mustang GT (94-98) "SN95"? : r/Mustang
Nov 28, 2019 ... The only recommendations I can give are the same for any car - look for rust if you're in a place that has lots of snow and/or they salt the ...
Ford Mustang GT 1996-2004: Common Problems | Mustangforums
Common issues include everything from leaking hoses to a complete system failure, which would require you to need a new air conditioning system. See your ...
What to look for in a GT? Reliability? Common Problems ...
Jan 21, 2009 ... 4.6L (1996-2004 Modular) Mustang - What to look for in a GT? Reliability? Common Problems? - Hi guys, I used to have a 2001 V6 and its time ...
Other years of Ford Mustang
Are you having problems with your 1996 Ford Mustang?
Garry Boehm 2024-11-06
The heater core has gone out three times since 2000, and it's been in two accidents. Despite its flaws, I still love my GT.
Hugh Vandervort 2024-10-23
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my 96 Mustang. I bought it because I wanted a sporty car before getting a family car. However, it has had quite a few problems since then and I'm considering selling it. I've learned that maybe a Toyota or Honda would have been a better choice for me. Thanks for listening!
Eliezer Denesik 2024-09-06
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I bought this car used 3 years ago and it's been great! The only issue I had was with the alternator which went out at 63000 miles, but it wasn't a major problem and I was able to replace it. Now everything is running smoothly.
Raymond Skiles 2024-08-06
At 32k miles, the transmission failed due to a defective converter, despite my careful driving and maintenance. Unfortunately, the warranty had already expired at 30k miles, leaving me with a repair bill of almost $2k. Now, at only 100k miles, I have been informed that the engine needs to be rebuilt, which is a common issue among Ford owners. These repair costs and problems have been extremely frustrating. As a result, I have decided to dispose of this car and will not be considering Ford for my next purchase.
Tony Kutch 2024-06-09
I am thrilled to share that my '96 Mustang 6 cylinder has clocked over 275,000 miles and is still going strong! I purchased it in '98 with only 29,000 miles on it and have been driving it 135 miles daily round trip to work. Although the manual transmission went out at 185k and the heater core started leaking at 225k, the vehicle has been overall excellent. Even after replacing the transmission, the speedometer cable burned into, but that didn't stop my Mustang from running. In fact, I estimate that I have closer to 285k on this car and it is still going!