This page covers 3 recalls, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2026 Ford Mustang.
18–26 mpg combined
9–13.1 L/100km
Subcompact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 3 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The 2026 Ford Mustang has 3 recalls, the most serious being an engine defect where pistons can fail and cause a sudden loss of drive power, raising the risk of a crash. This recall only affects vehicles equipped with the 2.3L engine.
A separate engine recall covers a cylinder head issue where small ball plugs can fail and allow oil to leak onto hot engine or exhaust components, creating a fire risk.
At a glance
What can fail
The circlips that hold pistons to connecting rods may be missing or improperly installed. This can damage pistons and cause engine failure, resulting in loss of power.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the engine if needed before delivery to customers.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
At a glance
What can fail
Engine piston circlips may have been installed incorrectly during manufacturing, causing pistons to fail and damage the engine, resulting in loss of driving power.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the engine for missing or incorrectly installed circlips and replace the engine if necessary, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The cylinder head may have been made improperly, causing the ball plugs inside to fail and leak oil.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace the cylinder head assembly at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
