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2017 Ford Mustang Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2017 Ford Mustang Report

Overall Score

5.6/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • The door latching mechanism is a critical safety concern, with numerous complaints and recalls indicating a potential for doors to unlatch unexpectedly while driving. This requires immediate inspection.
  • Rearview camera system failures are prevalent, with multiple recalls and complaints related to the camera and its wiring harness. Verify recall completion and monitor for image issues.
  • Engine health warrants close attention due to complaints about coolant intrusion, oil leaks, and potential rod bearing issues. Early detection is crucial to prevent catastrophic failure.
  • The vehicle's below-average reliability verdict, driven by safety-critical system issues, suggests potential for higher-than-average repair costs over time.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Ford Mustang

The 2017 Ford Mustang offers a compelling blend of performance and style, but used-car shoppers should proceed with caution. This model year has accumulated a notable number of recalls (24) and a substantial volume of customer complaints (318), pointing to potential ownership challenges. Key areas of concern include the back over prevention system, body structure, and electrical system. While its 5.0L V8 engine and rear-wheel-drive platform deliver engaging driving dynamics, potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections, particularly for the door latches and rearview camera system, to mitigate risks associated with its below-average reliability verdict. High fuel costs are also a consideration with its combined 18 MPG rating.

Critical Failure Risk

Coolant leaks into the engine cylinders, leading to potential catastrophic engine failure.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$8,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls24
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

318
Back Over Prevention43
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
15
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.6/ 10

Practicality

2.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts who prioritize performance and style and are willing to undertake diligent pre-purchase inspections and potentially manage higher maintenance costs.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Ford Mustang Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Ford Mustang.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
18

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Most Common Issues

1. BACK OVER PREVENTION

Most reported

Usage: 43 reports

2. Structure & Body

Usage: 34 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
24 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Ford Mustang reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Ford Mustang is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 24. Owner complaints: 318.

How practical is the 2017 Ford Mustang for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 2.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Ford Mustang is 5.6/10. Overall score is 5.6/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.1/10. Tuning 7.0/10. Practicality 2.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $8,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

Base MSRP is $37,195.

What engine is in the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 5.0.

What transmission does the 2017 Ford Mustang use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Mustang, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

8 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Mustang, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Mustang, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Ford Mustang use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Mustang, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2017 Ford Mustang good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 7/10. The 2017 Ford Mustang GT presents a compelling platform for enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance. Its robust 5. Popular platforms: 2017 Ford Mustang GT.

What are the most common back over prevention problems on the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

Top complaint category: back over prevention (43 reports, 13.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

This model year has 24 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Ford Mustang?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Chevrolet Camaro and 2017 Dodge Challenger.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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