How long will a 2016 Mustang last?

In short, with proper maintenance, a 2016 Mustang can be expected to last well beyond 150,000 miles, often reaching 180,000–200,000 miles, and many owners have reported 250,000 miles or more.

What influences a Mustang's lifespan

Maintenance and service history

Regular maintenance is the single biggest factor in determining how long any car will last. For a 2016 Mustang, routine services such as oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, brake servicing, and transmission fluid changes are critical. Following the factory intervals or scheduling more frequent service in harsh conditions helps keep the engine and drivetrain healthy over the long term.

Engine and powertrain variations

Depending on the model—EcoBoost 2.3L, V6 3.7L, or GT 5.0L—the long‑term durability can vary slightly. All three configurations have shown solid reliability with consistent maintenance, though the EcoBoost’s turbo system adds complexity that benefits from proper cooling and oil management. The natural‑aspirated V8 in the GT is well-regarded for longevity when cared for, particularly around cooling and lubrication.

Driving and maintenance habits

Driving style and maintenance discipline matter as much as the engineering. Frequent aggressive driving, track use, or many short trips can accelerate wear, while mostly highway driving with timely maintenance tends to extend life.

Maintenance practices that maximize lifespan

The following list outlines essential maintenance actions that help a 2016 Mustang reach higher mileages.

• Follow oil‑change intervals precisely, using the recommended oil grade (synthetic oil is common for modern Mustangs) and replace filters on schedule.


• Keep the cooling system in good condition: flush coolant as recommended, inspect hoses, replace any aging components, and ensure the radiator remains clean to prevent overheating.


• Inspect and proactively replace wear items: brakes, belts, hoses, and fluids. Change transmission and differential fluids per schedule or more often if the car is driven hard.


• Address diagnostic codes promptly; do not ignore misfires or warning lights that can lead to premature wear.


• Maintain the fuel system with quality fuel and consider periodic injector cleaning if indicated by diagnostics.

By adhering to a disciplined maintenance routine, owners can maximize the chance of reaching high mileage with a 2016 Mustang.

Common risk factors that can shorten lifespan

Some conditions can shorten the lifespan if not managed, including neglected maintenance, severe driving conditions, and recurring mechanical issues that are not addressed promptly.

• Irregular maintenance or skipped services, which accelerate wear on engines, transmissions, and cooling systems.


• Excessive short trips that prevent engines from fully warming up, leading to higher wear on catalytic converters and exhaust components.


• Rust or frame/subframe issues in climates with heavy road salt usage or poor underbody protection.


• Significant oil consumption due to engine wear that goes unchecked and can cause damage over time.


• Turbocharger wear or issues in EcoBoost models if cooling and servicing aren’t kept up with.

Mitigating these risks through proactive maintenance and timely repairs helps preserve the Mustang's life expectancy.

What owners report and how to think about it

Real-world ownership stories show a broad range: many 2016 Mustangs with thorough maintenance report high-mileage success in the 180,000–250,000 mile range, while others may require substantial work sooner if maintenance history is incomplete. Longevity tends to track closely with upkeep and driving conditions rather than a single model year or trim.

Summary

In summary, a 2016 Mustang can last for many years and tens of thousands of miles if it receives regular maintenance and is driven with care. The most important factor is upkeep: timely oil changes, cooling system care, transmission fluid changes, and addressing issues early. With diligent maintenance, expect 150,000–200,000 miles or more; some owners report figures beyond 250,000 miles. Your vehicle’s exact lifespan will reflect how well you maintain it, your driving style, and the operating environment.

How many miles do 2016 Ford Mustangs last?

A 2016 Ford Mustang can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, though this can vary depending on the engine and how the vehicle is driven and cared for. Some owners have reported their Mustangs exceeding this range, with examples of some reaching over 200,000 miles while still running strong, particularly with meticulous care and regular servicing. 
Factors that influence longevity

• Maintenance: Regular oil changes, fluid flushes (especially coolant and transmission fluid), and following the manufacturer's service schedule are crucial for extending the car's life. 
• Driving habits: Driving styles play a significant role. A car that is frequently driven hard, such as with frequent "redlining," may have a shorter lifespan than one driven more moderately. 
• Engine type: While all models benefit from maintenance, the Coyote 5.0L V8 engine is often cited as being very durable, with many reaching over 200,000 miles. The 3.7L V6 has also proven reliable in various applications. 
• Environmental and usage factors: Stop-and-go traffic and harsh driving conditions can increase wear and tear, so it's recommended to shorten maintenance intervals in these situations. 

What to expect

• Typical lifespan: With good care, the average 2016 Mustang can reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles. 
• Beyond 200,000 miles: Many owners have cars that have surpassed 200,000 miles, sometimes with minimal issues beyond routine wear items like brakes and tires. 
• Potential for higher mileage: With exceptional care, even higher mileage is possible. Some exceptional cases have documented Mustangs reaching 400,000 miles or more. 

Can a Mustang last 300,000 miles?

Some properly maintained Mustangs can go for 300,000+ miles, proving that with the right care, your pony car can gallop for many years to come.

What year to stay away from Mustang?

Years to avoid for the Ford Mustang include the 2015-2017 and 2019-2020 models, which have been associated with issues like transmission problems, electrical glitches, and warning light malfunctions. Older models to avoid include the 2005-2010 and 1999-2001 model years for various engine and design-related problems, as well as the entire Mustang II generation (1974-1978) due to poor performance. 
This video explains the issues with the 2015-2023 Ford Mustang S550 and provides a buyer's guide: 59sDiscerning CarsYouTube · Jan 15, 2024
Model years to avoid

• 2015-2017: Debut year of the sixth generation had numerous complaints, particularly for transmission, body panel, and electrical issues. The 2016 model year is noted for potential engine oil loss and air conditioning problems. 
• 2019-2020: Reported issues with cabin warning lights, including blind spot and forward collision warnings. 
• 2011-2012: Some 2011 models had issues after receiving the new "Coyote" 5.0L V8, and the 2012 model year saw further engine problems with the 3.7L V6. 
• 2005-2010: A long-running generation that has been cited for reliability issues. 
• 1999-2001: The 1999 facelift brought new issues, and the 2001 model also faced reliability concerns. 
• 1974-1978 (Mustang II): This entire generation is often considered one of the least reliable due to its poor performance and styling compared to other Mustang eras. 

General transmission issues

• 2011-2019: These years are frequently cited for problems with the MT82/MT82-D4 manual transmission, which can experience harsh shifting and other issues. 

Other notable years

• 1994-1995: These model years are on some "worst of" lists for specific problems. 
• 1996: The 1996 GT is sometimes criticized for a "dull" driving experience due to its new "mod" motor. 

Is a 2016 Ford Mustang a reliable car?

The 2016 Ford Mustang has a mixed reliability rating, with some sources giving it an average score and others a below-average one, and it is also subject to several recalls. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the A/C, driveshaft, radio display, and certain engine components. While it is considered a generally reliable car, these issues are important to be aware of when considering a purchase.
 
This video provides an overview of the Ford Mustang's reliability: 1mGold PonyYouTube · Apr 20, 2020
Reliability ratings

• RepairPal: Rated 3.5 out of 5.0, which is considered average for its class. 
• J.D. Power: Gave a below-average score of 2.5 out of 5.0 for reliability. 
• Consumer Reviews (Cars.com): Some consumer reviews give the 2016 model a high reliability score of 4.6 out of 5.0. 

Common problems

• Air conditioning: Some owners have reported A/C failures at relatively low mileage. 
• Driveshaft: Issues with the driveshaft and driveline vibration have been reported. 
• Electrical and control systems: Problems with the radio display, emissions valve tube device, and traction/stability control have been noted. 
• Engine and powertrain: Some owners have experienced issues like a failing camshaft position sensor or engine oil leaks. 

This video discusses some common issues with the Ford Mustang: 51sDiscerning CarsYouTube · Jan 15, 2024
Recalls

• The NHTSA has issued several recalls for the 2016 Mustang. 
• A notable recall involves a potential oil leak due to a hose separating from the engine oil cooler tube assembly, affecting some models manufactured between February 2015 and August 2016. 

Important considerations

• New generation issues: The 2015 model year was a redesign year, and some of the kinks were still being worked out in the 2016 model. 
• Pre-purchase inspection: Because reliability can vary, getting a thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic is recommended before buying a used 2016 Mustang.