Is the 2014 Ford Mustang reliable?

The 2014 Ford Mustang is generally about average for reliability among midsize performance cars of its era; it isn’t widely flagged as troublesome, but there are model-year quirks to consider. With regular maintenance, many owners report solid everyday reliability and satisfying performance.

For readers weighing a used 2014 Mustang, this article explains how reliability is assessed for this year, highlights common issues reported by owners, and offers practical steps to evaluate or maintain a car from that era.

Reliability ratings and what they mean

Below are key takeaways from mainstream reliability surveys and owner experiences that help gauge how dependable the 2014 Mustang tends to be in everyday use.

• Overall reliability tends to be around average for its class and age in consumer surveys, with many cars reaching the expected durability given proper maintenance.


• Electrical and infotainment systems, notably the MyFord Touch interface used in late-2000s to mid-2010s Ford models, can be a source of glitches or delayed responses in some vehicles.


• Powertrain reliability is generally solid for the V6 and V8 options when they’re well maintained, though routine service and timely repairs are important to prevent longer-term wear.


• Recalls and campaigns are part of ownership history for many aging vehicles; verify that all open recalls have been addressed for any used 2014 Mustang you’re considering.

In short, a well cared-for 2014 Mustang typically offers dependable service for daily driving and weekend cruising, but buyers should watch for electrical gremlins and ensure routine maintenance has been kept up.

Model-year issues to check before buying

When evaluating a used 2014 Mustang, use this checklist to target areas that commonly affect reliability or ownership costs.

• Service history and maintenance records, especially oil changes, timing belt/chain (if applicable), and cooling system work.


• Electrical system health, including MyFord Touch responsiveness, instrument cluster behavior, and any stored fault codes.


• Transmission behavior if automated; smooth shifting and lack of unusual noises or shuddering can indicate a healthy drivetrain, particularly in automatic models.


• Suspension and steering components for noise, wear, or looseness, which can signal upcoming maintenance needs.


• Recall status and firmware updates tied to the infotainment system, airbag/safety systems, and drivetrain control modules; verify VIN with Ford’s recall database.

Always pair this with a professional pre-purchase inspection to confirm mechanical soundness and to identify items that may affect reliability down the line.

Maintenance and ownership tips to maximize reliability

Keeping a 2014 Mustang reliable over time hinges on proactive care and informed ownership decisions. The following practices help minimize unexpected issues and extend the car’s life.

• Follow the maintenance schedule for fluids, brakes, and tires; address wear items promptly to avoid secondary damage.


• Prioritize software updates and recall campaigns for the infotainment and control modules to prevent glitches and malfunctions.


• Use quality replacement parts and reputable shops familiar with Ford performance models to ensure proper fit and longevity.


• Document all repairs and service visits; a detailed history can improve reliability outcomes and resale value.


• During seasonal changes, inspect cooling and heating systems, as overheating and temperature swings can stress components over time.

With disciplined maintenance and attentive ownership, the 2014 Mustang can remain a reliable choice within its age bracket.

Summary

Overall, the 2014 Ford Mustang offers average reliability for its era, with notable caveats around electronics and the importance of a complete maintenance and recall history. For buyers, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a strong service record are key to ensuring long-term dependability. For current owners, staying on top of scheduled maintenance and software updates helps preserve reliability and enjoyment of the car.

How long does a 2014 Mustang last?

A 2014 Mustang can last for well over 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting 300,000+ miles, especially with proper care. Longevity depends heavily on factors like regular maintenance, driving conditions, and whether the engine has been abused. The 5.0L "Coyote" engine is particularly known for its durability, while the 3.7L V6 is also very reliable. 
Factors that influence longevity

• Maintenance: Consistent oil changes, fluid flushes, and following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule are critical for a long life. 
• Driving conditions: A car driven in stop-and-go traffic or in a "rust belt" climate with road salt may not last as long as one driven in a milder climate with less frequent starting and stopping. 
• Engine type: The 5.0L Coyote engine in the GT is very durable and has a strong reputation for lasting a long time. The 3.7L V6 is also reliable and has a good track record. 
• Driving habits: Driving the car hard, constantly redlining the engine, or "abusing" it will shorten its lifespan compared to a more gently driven car. 

What to expect for a 2014 Mustang

• Reliability: The 2014 Mustang is generally considered a reliable car. 
• High-mileage examples: It's not uncommon to find 2014 Mustangs with over 150,000 miles, and some V6 models have reportedly reached nearly 200,000 miles. There are even reports of 5.0L models reaching over 400,000 miles. 
• Potential issues: Some potential common issues on higher-mileage examples include the water pump and the purge valve. 

Is the 2014 Mustang expensive to maintain?

The average annual repair cost is $709 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the Mustang.

Is a 2014 Ford Mustang a good car?

Among the 1891 owners who provided feedback on the 2014 Ford Mustang for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 95% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's performance and reliability to be its strongest features and comfort to be its weakest.

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.