With both sky high new and used car prices, many car buyers are looking for "older" vehicles as a way to save some significant dollars.
At the time, new upgrades for 2013 included standard xenon headlights with LED accents, painted rocker panels, revised front and rear fascias including a new Shelby-inspired grille, updated taillights and functioning hood vents.
Inside, the 2013 Mustang got a new performance information display and optional Recaro seats which had previously only been available on the Boss 302 and GT500 models.
Mechanically, the automatic transmission was upgraded to also include manual shift control, while the GT's V8 engine was given a boost of 8-horsepower, manual transmission models gained hill-start assist and the GT's optional Track package was updated with more performance hardware.
And it turns out, the 2013 Mustang has proven to be a generally very reliable vehicle, and one which can be expected to reach 250,000 - 300,000 miles when regularly maintained.
Still, all older used cars require maintenance and repairs, so this has to be factored into a buying decision as well.
So here, we'll cover this older Mustang's actual reliability track record all these years later, its potential mechanical issues to check before purchase, and its overall pros and cons.
Also, More On Mustang Reliability
If you'd like to compare different Mustang model years, or engines, etc., be sure to read our Ford Mustang Reliability & Problems: Best Used Mustangs & Years Guide. It highlights the models, best years to buy, common problems, and helps you choose the right vehicle for you.
2013 Ford Mustang Reliability
The 2013 Ford Mustang is one of the most reliable modern muscle cars on the used market. It combines strong performance with durable powertrains and relatively affordable maintenance costs, making it an excellent choice for buyers seeking both excitement and long-term dependability. With proper maintenance, many 2013 Mustangs easily surpass 200,000 miles.
Three engines were available for 2013: a 3.7-liter V6, a 5.0-liter V8 in the GT, and the supercharged 5.8-liter V8 in the Shelby GT500. The 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8 have both earned outstanding reputations for reliability. The 5.0-liter "Coyote" V8 is especially well regarded, delivering impressive performance while remaining one of Ford's most dependable modern V8 engines.
Both the six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions are generally very durable. Manual transmission models should be inspected for normal clutch wear, while automatic models benefit from periodic fluid changes despite Ford's extended service intervals. Suspension, steering, and braking systems also hold up well, although performance-driven vehicles may show more wear than lightly driven examples.
Overall, the 2013 Mustang is an excellent used sports car that combines dependable mechanicals with strong aftermarket support and relatively low ownership costs. As with any performance vehicle, maintenance history and evidence of responsible ownership are more important than mileage alone.
- Overall reliability: Above Average to Excellent
- Expected lifespan: 200,000 to 300,000+ miles with proper maintenance
- Best choice: 5.0-liter V8 GT with documented maintenance records
- Watch for: Modified vehicles, clutch wear, suspension condition, and maintenance history
Bottom line: The 2013 Mustang is one of the best used performance car values available. Whether equipped with the V6 or V8, a well-maintained example offers an excellent combination of reliability, performance, and reasonable ownership costs.
- Why it's a good choice: Durable engines, dependable transmissions, strong performance, and excellent parts availability
- Biggest concern: Abuse, racing, or poor-quality aftermarket modifications rather than factory mechanical defects
- Best version: Stock or lightly modified 5.0-liter GT with complete service records
- Buy only if: The vehicle has been well maintained, shows no signs of abuse, and passes a professional pre-purchase inspection
A carefully maintained 2013 Mustang remains one of the most dependable sports cars of its generation and can provide many years of enjoyable, reliable driving.
Possibly Buying Soon? Avoid These Dealer Traps
Before you sign, learn:
- What you don't know about dealer trade-in offers could cost you - Which dealer fees you must pay, can negotiate, or should avoid - How to avoid giving the dealer the upper hand on a used car price - How to avoid overpaying for a new car
2013 Ford Mustang Common Mechanical Problems
The 2013 Ford Mustang has relatively few widespread mechanical problems compared with many performance cars. Most issues are related to normal wear, high-performance driving, or poor maintenance rather than significant design flaws.
- MT82 manual transmission concerns: Some GT models equipped with the six-speed MT82 manual transmission develop notchy shifting, gear grinding, or difficulty shifting into higher gears, particularly during aggressive driving. Many owners improve shift quality with updated transmission fluid or aftermarket shifters.
- Clutch wear: Manual transmission cars that have been raced or driven aggressively may require clutch replacement sooner than expected. Check for slipping during hard acceleration and verify smooth clutch engagement.
- Differential noise: Some Mustangs develop rear differential whine or limited-slip differential chatter as mileage increases. Regular differential fluid changes help reduce wear.
- Suspension wear: Worn struts, shocks, sway bar links, control arm bushings, and ball joints become more common after 100,000 miles or on vehicles driven aggressively.
- Water pump failure: Although not widespread, some V6 and V8 engines require water pump replacement as they age. Watch for coolant leaks or overheating.
- Air conditioning problems: Compressors and blend door actuators occasionally fail on higher-mileage vehicles. Confirm the climate control system operates properly during your inspection.
- Electrical accessories: Power window motors, door lock actuators, and SYNC infotainment components may require occasional repairs as the vehicle gets older.
- Modified vehicles: The biggest concern isn't a factory defect—it's previous owner modifications. Poorly installed performance parts, aftermarket tuning, or evidence of drag racing can significantly reduce long-term reliability.
Overall, the 2013 Mustang avoids the major engine and transmission failures that affect many sports cars. Most repairs involve normal wear items, making it one of the more dependable performance vehicles available on the used market.
Buyer Tip: Look for a Mustang that is as close to stock as possible with complete maintenance records. Inspect carefully for evidence of racing, aftermarket tuning, suspension modifications, or oversized wheels. A well-maintained, unmodified Mustang is far more likely to provide years of reliable performance than one that has been heavily modified.
2013 Ford Mustang Pros
Powerful engines: Whether opting for the V6 or a V8, all the engine choices offer plenty of wallop. Even the base V6 packs enough power to more than satisfy the typical driver as well as most driving enthusiasts.
The 3.7-liter V-6 pumps out 305-horsepower and 280-pound-feet of torque, enough to propel it from a standstill to 60 mph in about a quick 6.5 seconds. A V6 outfitted with the Performance package and 3.31 gear ratio can do the same sprint in just 5.6 seconds.
Stepping up to the GT's 5.0-liter V8 boosts output to 420-horsepower/390-lb-ft of torque and with the 3.73 ratio can go from 0 - 60 in a blazing 4.7 seconds. The Boss 302's 5.0-liter V8 is good for 444-horsepower, 380-lb-ft of torque and a 0 - 60 time of 4.8 seconds.
Still not fast enough? Under the hood of the Shelby GT500 is a 5.8-liter supercharged V8 that pumps out a massive 662 horses, 631-lb-ft of torque and a top speed in excess of 200 mph.
Capable handling: The Mustang isn't just powerful, it's light on its feet and can turn and stop quicker than most of its rivals. On those back curvy roads, the Mustang's steering responsiveness and overall level of driver engagement is readily apparent and lots of fun.
If possible, choosing a manual transmission is recommended because it gets the most out of every engine and is also easy to drive.
Useful Ford Sync system: The high-tech Sync "infotainment" system connects to a cell phone and allows the driver to use voice commands for things like making calls and playing MP3 files or using the radio, navigation system and climate controls.
Not only is this voice-activation quick and convenient, it enhances safety because the driver's eyes are always on the road.
Strong performance customization options: Some used models can be found with the V6 Performance package which includes a 3.31 rear axle ratio, suspension and brake upgrades, a revised stability control system and 19-inch wheels with summer tires.
And some GTs can be found with upgraded Brembo brakes and either 3.55:1 or 3.73:1 performance axles for faster acceleration. Also available for GT coupes with manual transmissions was the Track package that adds the radiator and engine oil cooler from the Boss 302, Brembo brakes and a Torsen limited-slip differential with the 3.73:1 rear axle.
Surprising gas mileage: Even though the base Mustang Coupe V6 engine delivers brisk acceleration thanks to its robust 305-horsepower output, it still gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg on the highway with the automatic transmission (19 mpg city). The manual comes in at 19 mpg city and 29 highway.
The GT gets a respectable (given the power) 18 city and 25 highway with the automatic and 15 and 26, respectively, with the manual. Of course, bear in mind that choosing a more aggressive rear differential gear ratio will lower these numbers.
And even the super-performing Shelby GT500 has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of a fairly reasonable 15 mpg city and 24 on the highway.
Comfortable interior: The Mustang offers a comfortable and well-designed interior with supportive front seats, making it suitable for long drives.
Cargo space: Compared to some other sports cars, the Mustang has a reasonably spacious trunk, which is practical for daily use.
Affordable base price: The Mustang has historically been competitively priced among its peers, making it accessible to a broad range of buyers.
Simple mechanicals: The Mustang's design is relatively straightforward, which can make repairs and maintenance more accessible and cost-effective.
Availability of parts: Given the Mustang's popularity and longevity, finding replacement parts and aftermarket upgrades is generally easy, which can help keep maintenance costs in check.
Enthusiast community: The Mustang has a passionate and dedicated enthusiast community. This can be beneficial in terms of sharing knowledge, tips, and advice on maintaining and modifying the vehicle.
2013 Ford Mustang Cons
Some lower-quality interior materials: The Mustang's interior still lags the market in terms of materials quality. A significant portion of the door panels and center console, for example, consists of cheaper hard plastic.
Cramped rear seats: While technically the Mustang can seat four adults, the rear quarters is definitely on the tight side, even for people who aren't particularly tall. You may want to think twice if you anticipate carrying more than two adults on a regular basis, particularly on long trips.
The steering wheel doesn't telescope: While the front seat generally provides adequate accommodations for most occupants and the lack of a telescoping steering wheel will not impact most drivers, it can be an issue for some ... larger/taller prospective buyers should check this out carefully on a test drive.
No paddle shifter: The new auto-manual toggle control for the automatic transmission is a nice addition, but its mounted on the shifter. Instead, a sport coupe would really be better served with paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Complicated Sync system: The Sync infotainment system, while impressively useful and convenient, takes some practice and getting used to. There is a learning curve on its user-friendliness and the control and gauge layout is a bit complicated.
Harsh ride: Some drivers may find the Mustang's ride quality to be on the firm side, especially if it has performance-oriented suspension and tires.
Rear visibility: The Mustang's sloping roofline and small rear window can limit visibility, which may be a drawback for some drivers, particularly during lane changes and parking.
Interior quality: While the 2013 Mustang's interior is comfortable, it may not meet the same level of quality and refinement found in more expensive sports cars.
Lack of modern tech: Depending on the trim level, the 2013 Mustang may lack some of the latest technology features that have become common in more recent vehicles.
Safety: The 2013 Mustang received average safety ratings, and it may lack some advanced safety features available in more modern cars.
Relative Reliability:
If you'd like to see which are the most historically reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs from this time, be sure to read our Most Reliable Vehicles Guide: Best Used Models & Years. This comprehensive guide highlights the top-rated models, best years to buy or avoid, common problems, potential maintenance costs, and more, and may help you make the right choice to meet your needs.
Overall:
Having been updated and refreshed, the 2013 Ford Mustang is as brash as ever but also sports sophisticated handling abilities and is again the top muscle car available. It's also especially appealing for its bang-for-the-performance-buck. Other contenders worthy of consideration would include the Chevy Camaro, Dodge Challenger and Hyundai Genesis Coupe.