Dealer visit checklist
2021 Ford Mustang checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2021 Ford Mustang problems to check
- EcoBoost 2.3L turbocharged engine is known for carbon buildup on intake valves requiring periodic walnut blasting around 60,000-80,000 miles
- Rear independent suspension (available on select trims) and solid axle variants both show premature bushing wear on hard-driven examples
- IRS (independent rear suspension) half-shaft and differential seal leaks reported on higher-mileage 2021 units
- SYNC 3 infotainment system can freeze or reboot unexpectedly, often requiring a software update or module replacement
- Paint quality complaints including thin clear coat prone to rock chips and swirl marks, especially on darker exterior colors
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Mustang vehicles.
- AIR BAGS:KNEE BOLSTER: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Mustang vehicles.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Mustang vehicles.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Mustang vehicles repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V727.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $25,000 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away