Is the 2010 Mustang Still a Good Used Car in 2026?
With both sky high new and used car prices, many carbuyers are looking for "older" vehicles as a way to save some significant dollars. And it turns out the 2010 Mustang has proven to be a generally reliable vehicle. When properly maintained, it's been reaching around 200,000 miles, often with only some minor hood paint corrosion and A/C system issues.
Still, all older used cars require maintenance and repairs, usually more than more recent ones, so this has to be factored into a buying decision as well.
So here, we'll take a look at its reliability, the more common mechanical problems reported by owners, its pros and cons, and a feature overview of how it was originally released.
Also, More On Ford Reliability
If you'd like to compare different Ford models, or years, be sure to read our Ford Reliability & Problems: Best Used Fords & Years Guide. It highlights the models, best years to buy, common problems, and helps you choose the right vehicle.
2010 Ford Mustang Reliability
The 2010 Mustang is generally regarded as a reliable sports coupe, offering solid build quality, proven engines, and relatively affordable maintenance costs. While it marked a significant redesign inside and out, it retained much of the dependable mechanical foundation of earlier models, making it a good choice for buyers seeking an enjoyable and durable used performance car.
The standard 4.0-liter V6 is a proven, long-lasting engine that can easily exceed 200,000 miles with routine maintenance. The optional 4.6-liter V8 found in the Mustang GT is also highly regarded for its durability and delivers strong performance with few widespread mechanical concerns. Both the five-speed manual and five-speed automatic transmissions have good reliability records when properly maintained.
Most reported issues are minor and age-related rather than major design flaws. Buyers should inspect for worn suspension bushings, aging engine mounts, occasional water pump leaks, and normal clutch wear on manual-transmission models. Interior trim pieces and electrical accessories may also show wear as these cars age.
- Overall reliability: Above average
- Expected lifespan: 200,000 to 300,000+ miles with proper maintenance
- Best choice: Mustang GT with the 4.6-liter V8, or the V6 for lower ownership costs
- Watch for: Suspension wear, cooling system maintenance, clutch condition, and signs of hard driving or aftermarket modifications
Bottom line: This Mustang is one of the more dependable used sports cars from its era. A well-maintained, unmodified example can provide many years of reliable performance, making it a smart choice for buyers who want classic Mustang styling without excessive ownership costs.
Possibly Buying One? Knowledge Is Leverage
Before you negotiate, know how much dealers may move on price, the best way to get the lowest price, and what your trade-in is really worth. See my used car buying strategies, new car buying strategies, or trade-in value guide.
Mechanical Problem Watchlist:
While the 2010 Mustang has proven to be generally reliable over time, like all cars, owners have reported specific, but not widespread, mechanical issues. It's important to note that these issues do not affect every car, and their severity can vary widely. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can often prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
Additionally, models and manufacturing batches may differ, so not all Mustangs from this year experienced the same issues.
Manual Transmission Issues: Some owners reported issues with the manual transmission, such as grinding gears or difficulty shifting.
Automatic Transmission Flare: There were occasional reports of the automatic transmission experiencing a flare between gear changes. A flare is when the engine RPMs rise after an upshift before settling down to a lower number and can be a sign of clutch or band failure.
Hood Corrosion: Reported by some owners at about 50,000 miles, paint can start to corrode and peel.
Spark Plug Blowout: This issue was more common in earlier models, but some 2010 Mustangs experienced spark plug blowouts, which could damage the cylinder head.
Engine Misfires: Some drivers reported instances of engine misfires, potentially attributed to various factors like spark plugs or ignition coil problems.
Strut Mount Problems: Premature wear or failure of strut mounts, causing noise or vibration in the front suspension.
Power Steering Issues: Occasional complaints about power steering problems, including leaks or power steering pump failure.
Water Leaks: Some owners reported issues with water leaks, particularly around the windows or sunroof, leading to interior damage.
Faulty Electronics: Some drivers experienced issues with various electrical components, such as malfunctioning gauges, window motors, or infotainment system glitches.
2010 Mustang Pros
Design: The 2010 Mustang received a restyled exterior that paid homage to its classic roots while offering a modern look.
Performance: The GT model was equipped with a powerful V8 engine, delivering strong acceleration and performance. The V6 option also offered decent power.
Handling: Improved handling and a refined suspension system compared to its predecessors, making it more agile and responsive on the road.
Interior Upgrades: The interior received upgrades in quality and features, making it more comfortable and appealing than previous models.
Variety of Options: Ford offered various trim levels and packages, allowing buyers to customize their Mustang to suit their preferences.
2010 Mustang Cons
Fuel Economy: The V8 engine in the GT model, while powerful, tended to have lower fuel efficiency, especially in city driving.
Interior Space: While the front seats were comfortable, the rear seats lacked sufficient space, making them cramped for adults.
Quality of Materials: Despite improvements, the interior materials are still less refined compared to some competitors.
Ride Comfort: The suspension, while improved for handling, could feel a bit firm for everyday driving, leading to a stiffer ride quality.
Limited Tech Features: Although it had some modern features, the Mustang's tech offerings were not as advanced as some of its rivals during that time.
2010 Mustang Overview
The updated 2010 Mustang was a bit of a tale of two cars. The GT V8 offers just tremendous performance value for the dollar. The V6 model, however, while certainly attractive with the new exterior styling and a much needed interior upgrade, lags in performance and remains a bit outdated.
This isn't to say V6 models should be avoided. They just don't perform as a traditional "muscle car" and the interior quality, while improved, still doesn't quite measure up to similarly priced rivals. While V6 models are "decent cars" overall, and certainly earn extra points for looking good, it's the Mustang GT V8 model that really shines and is likely the best performance-oriented vehicle starting under $30,000 on the planet.
New for 2010 is a refreshed design, both interior and exterior, as well as standard stability control, bigger wheels and a power boost for the V8 GT. Handling has also been improved for both models, while the GT in particularly now gets the suspension tuning from the discontinued Bullitt edition.
There's also an optional GT TrackPack that even further tunes the Mustang GT's suspension for still better performance. Ford's voice-activated Sync multimedia integration system has also now been made available for the Mustang.
Trims, Standard Features And Options:
The 2010 Mustang is offered in coupe or convertible forms, each with four trims: V6, V6 Premium, GT and GT Premium.
The base Mustang V6 is already fairly well equipped with standard features that include full power accessories, cruise control, air conditioning, keyless entry, 17 inch alloy wheels and a CD stereo system with an auxiliary audio jack.
The V6 Premium adds the Sync multimedia system, a 6-way power driver seat with lumbar adjustment, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, color-adjustable gauges, upgraded interior trim and a Shaker 500 audio system with a 6-disc CD changer.
Standard features on the V8-powered GT include everything from the base V6 plus foglamps, dual exhaust tips, 18 inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and a limited-slip rear differential. The GT Premium comes with the GT's features, all of the V6 Premium's equipment and a different set of 18 inch wheels.
Optional features for the base Mustang V6 include an anti-theft system as well as an exterior appearance package. There are a number of available packages for the V6 Premium including the Comfort Package (heated front seats, power passenger seat and auto-dimming rearview mirror), the Pony Package (a number of exterior design upgrades), and the Electronics Package (a voice-activated navigation system and automatic climate control).
Other offered optional features include a glass roof, remote start, a tonneau cover for the convertibles, xenon headlamps and a back-up camera (if you have the Electronics Package). In addition, the GT has a 3.73 Rear Axle Package that adds a more performance-oriented 3.73:1 axle ratio, a recalibrated stability control system and upgraded front brakes.
The top-of-the-line GT Premium can be outfitted with all V6 Premium and GT options plus a 3.55 rear axle, various 18 and 19 inch wheel choices and a still more powerful Shaker 1000 audio system (not offered with the Electronics Package).
Lastly, the TrackPack for GT models adds the 3.73:1 axle package, 19 inch summer tires and a number of suspension adjustments for improved handling.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
The 2010 Ford Mustang is a rear-wheel drive vehicle that comes with either the standard 5-speed manual transmission or the optional 5-speed automatic. Powering the Mustang V6 is a 4.0-liter V6 engine good for 210-horsepower and 240-lb-ft of torque.
Under the hood of the Mustang GT is a 4.6-liter V8 that pumps out 315-horsepower and 325-lb-ft of torque. The GT can go from a standstill to 60 mph in a very fast 5.2 seconds, while the V6 can cover this sprint in a respectable 6.6 seconds.
Even with its power advantage, the GT's EPA gas mileage numbers do not fall sharply as compared to the V6, coming in at 15 mpg city and 22 mpg on the highway with the automatic and 15 city and 23 highway with the manual. Gas mileage ratings for the V6 models are 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with the automatic and 17 city and 26 highway with the manual.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all Mustang models include antilock four-wheel disc brakes (ABS), stability control and front-seat side airbags.
Also, this Mustang earned the U.S. government's top 5-star safety ratings, which includes 5-stars for driver and passenger in front and side crash tests, as well as for rollover performance.
Interior:
The 2010 Mustang's interior still maintains its signature retro design and there's been a fairly significant upgrade in materials quality. The overall design is attractive, user-friendly and certainly a welcomed step up from previous interiors. The available Sync system, with its innovative voice-integration for music and Bluetooth functions, is also a well-received addition.
Seating is comfortable and supportive for the most part, particularly in the GT's front seats with their extra side-bolstering. While offering seating for four, it should be kept in mind that the rear seats for both the coupe and convertible are a bit tight for average-size adults.
The trunk's storage room is adequate, however, coming in at 12.3 cubic feet in the coupe and 9.7 cubes in the convertible.
Drive:
While the acceleration in the V6 is respectable, the performance in the Mustang GT is much more enjoyable, and nearly as fuel efficient. It's hard to think of a comparable engine in this price range with the same kind of pull, or sound.
This Mustang continues to provide a generally comfortable drive with fairly responsive handling while still employing its more cost-efficient solid-axle rear suspension, especially in the GT. And for driving-enthusiasts looking for that extra sharpness, the TrackPack makes a good choice.
Before You Buy: Knowledge Is Leverage
The price on the window is only part of the deal. Knowing how much you can negotiate, the method to use to get the lowest possible price, and what your trade-in is really worth can potentially save you thousands.
Get the Best Price on Your Next Car
Buying used? See my Used Car Price Negotiation Guide to learn how much you may be able to negotiate and the strategy I recommend for getting the lowest possible price.
Buying new? My New Car Price Negotiation Guide explains how much dealers may be willing to discount as well as the method used that gets the best possible deal.
Know What Your Trade-In Is Really Worth
Your trade-in can change the deal by thousands of dollars. Before accepting an offer, see my Fair Trade-In Value Guide to learn how dealers determine trade-in prices and how to recognize a fair offer.