Ford Mustang 4th Generation 1994-2004 Review

Everything You Need To Know Before Buying A Used 4th Gen Fox Body Ford Mustang

Read in this article:

4th Gen Ford Mustang: What Owners Say

  • Owners love the 4th-gen Mustang's bang for the buck
  • Handling and comfort are surprisingly good, despite the live rear axle
  • The Cobra and R models are very fast, but even the standard GT is rapid enough for the enthusiast - if only from 1999 onward
  • Not everybody loves the styling, although the 1999 "New Edge" facelift did improve matters
  • The early V6s up to 1998 are weak and slow
  • There is a dearth of safety features up to the 1999 facelift, with not even ABS brakes being standard

Ford Mustang Fourth Generation Facelifts

A small facelift was applied to the 1996 4th-generation Mustang - the last of the Fox-body Mustang generations, making use of the Fox-4 evolution of this long-running platform, and bearing the SN 95 Mustang model code. As Ford's "New Edge" styling language swept the globe in the late '90s, it was applied in the shape of a comprehensive facelift to the 4th-generation Ford Mustang as well for its 1999 update. Most of the soft, organic lines are replaced with harder edges, sharper creases, and more squared-off shapes.

New Edge Mustang Facelift Front Changes CarBuzz
New Edge Mustang Facelift Front Changes

1996 Ford Mustang Front Changes

在前面,事情呆在本质上是相同的,但是t a retro-inspired honeycomb grille is used for a single model year, before being removed again for 1997.

1999 New Edge Ford Mustang Front Changes

The droopy headlight clusters make way for larger, sharp-edged, and much more aggressive New Edge units1和前面的挡泥板是改编2to accept these new lights. There is also a larger, more angular grille, now with a chrome frame placed around the Mustang logo3. The front bumper gets slightly sharper creases4and a bigger number-plate holder5.

2000, 2001 Ford Mustang Front Changes

The changes to the 2000 MY Mustangs are limited to the Cobra R, which has smoked headlights. The 2000 Cobra R's smoked headlights are standard on all 2001 Mustangs. The 2001 GT gets the 1999 35th Anniversary special edition's non-functional, recessed hood scoop and side scoops.

2003 Ford Mustang Front Changes

For the 2003 model year, V6s get the hood that was first seen on the 1999-2001 Cobra, complete with the rear-facing hood scoop.

New Edge Mustang 4th Gen Facelift Rear Changes CarBuzz
New Edge Mustang 4th Gen Facelift Rear Changes

1996 Ford Mustang Rear Changes

The most noticeable change at the rear is the deletion of the previous three horizontal tail-light slits, reverting to a vertical orientation that the '60s Mustangs had.

1999 New Edge Ford Mustang Rear Changes

屁股看起来很不同和下垂的three-pod tail-light cluster per side with its body-color surround makes way for larger, angular, single-piece units, still with the three-lens theme1, leaning inward toward a more aggressively squared-off and more deeply recessed number-plate holder2. The bumper is all-new, with larger model embossment and a slotted center-lower section to visually break up the expanse of plastic3. The diameter of the GT's tailpipes increases from 2.75 to three inches.

New Edge Ford Mustang Facelift Side Changes CarBuzz
New Edge Ford Mustang Facelift Side Changes

1996 Ford Mustang Side Changes

The revised tail lights can be clearly seen in the profile view as well but other than that, the Mustang looks as it did before.

1999 New Edge Ford Mustang Side Changes

The side sheet metal is restyled with a pronounced and sharply creased C-shaped scallop terminating in a far larger vertical vent on the rear fender, just ahead of the rear wheel1. The new headlights2and tail lights3can also be seen clearly in profile, while a three-color 35th Anniversary badge is placed on the front fender for the 1999 model year only.

New Edge Ford Mustang  Facelift Interior Changes CarBuzz
New Edge Ford Mustang Facelift Interior Changes

1999 New Edge Ford Mustang Interior Changes

The interior is carried over mostly unchanged and all the swooping curves and ovoid shapes are now quite at odds with the sharp-edged new exterior styling, as if the exterior and interior are from two different cars. However, there are new dual cup holders1.

2001 Ford Mustang Interior Changes

The center console is revised and the old single-DIN radio units are replaced with double-DIN units that do away with the overly small buttons used previously. The switches for the fog lights, traction control, and rear defogger are now located underneath this new radio unit. The cup-holder design is much improved and the convertible's hood switch moves to between the cup holder and gear shifter from its previous position behind the cup holders. In the coupe, this switch's position is taken up by a coin holder.

2003 Ford Mustang Interior Changes

The interior of the 2003 Mustang receives a silver finish on the shifter ring, instrument bezels, and door locks; the only other change is that the headrests increase in size.

Engine, Transmission and Drivetrain

Two engines were offered at launch for the 1994 model year, available either with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission: A base 3.8-liter OHV Essex V6 with only 145 hp and a 215-hp 4.94-liter OHV small-block V8, also called the Windsor V8, its capacity rounded up to five liters on the badging. This V8 was only offered for 1994 and 1995 before being replaced by the Modular 4.6-liter SOHC V8 that would become ubiquitous in Ford products over the years. Initially matching the OHV 5.0-liter's 215 hp, it was upgraded to 225 hp for 1998. Before its demise, the 5.0-liter powered the 1994 -1995 Mustang SVT Cobra, tuned for 240 hp in this application. The SVT Cobras all used the DOHC version of the Modular V8 in both naturally aspirated and supercharged formats with up to 390 hp. The 2000 Cobra R used a naturally aspirated 5.4-liter derivative of the Modular V8 with 385 hp. The SVT Cobras all had manual transmissions.

3.8-liter Naturally Aspirated OHV Essex V6 (1994-2004)
145/150/190/193 hp | 215/220/225 lb-ft
Horsepower
145/150/190/193 hp
Torque
215/220/225 lb-ft
Transmission
Five-speed manual/Four-speed automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

Ford's Essex V6 gets its name from Ford's Essex engine plant in Windsor, Ontario, and has been in production since 1981. It is an OHV pushrod design with an iron engine block and aluminum cylinder heads. It has a 90-degree bank angle between its cylinder heads, unlike the unrelated and similarly named 60-degree British Essex V6 with which it is often confused. The 3.8 was the base engine for the 4th-gen Mustang for all of its 11 model years, starting off with a pedestrian 145 hp and 215 lb-ft, with horsepower increased slightly to 150 hp for 1996 thanks to a new powertrain control module (PCM). It takes around ten seconds to reach 60 mph. The 3.8 from 1996 also uses the stiffer engine block derived from the supercharged version of this engine used in the Thunderbird Super Coupe. The 3.8 received a much-needed power boost to 190 hp and 220 lb-ft for 1999, thanks to new split-port cylinder heads. This was further increased to 193 hp and 225 lb-ft for 2001 due to the addition of an Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) - a variable-length intake manifold.

It was paired to the Borg-Warner T-5 five-speed manual transmission or the AOD-E four-speed automatic for 1995. These transmissions were replaced by the computer-controlled 4R70W four-speed automatic for 1996, which was a redeveloped and renamed AOD-E, and the more robust T-45 five-speed manual. Early Essex V6s suffered frequent head-gasket failures and these were only sorted out by 1995, so the first two years of Mustang production were affected.

3.9-liter Naturally Aspirated OHV Essex V6 (2004)
193 hp | 225 lb-ft
Horsepower
193 hp
Torque
225 lb-ft
Transmission
Five-speed manual/Four-speed automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

Halfway through its final model year, the Base Mustang received a slightly enlarged version of the 3.8-liter Essex V6 at 3.9 liters. Outputs remained unchanged. These are extremely rare, because the engine was used for half a model year only; the fifth-gen Mustang 2005 base engine would be the 60-degree 4.0-liter Cologne V6.

5.0-liter Naturally Aspirated OHV Small-Block/Windsor V8 (1994-1995)
215/240 hp | 285 lb-ft
Horsepower
215/240 hp
Torque
285 lb-ft
Transmission
Five-speed manual/Four-speed automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

The Ford Small-Block V8 can trace its origins to 1961 when it replaced the Ford Y-block engine and it was used for over four decades in countless applications, so it's certainly been around. It was even found under the hood of the South African Ford Sierra - known as the Merkur in North America - where it bore the XR8 badge. It is sometimes referred to as the Windsor V8 to distinguish its 5.8-liter derivative from Ford's physically larger and unrelated 5.8-liter Cleveland V8, and because it was also manufactured in Windsor, Ontario, in the Essex plant, just like the 3.8-liter Essex V6. During the '60s, it was also known as the Challenger V8. It displaces 302 cubic inches - or 4,942 cubic centimeters - so it is a 4.94-liter engine rounded up to "5.0" in the Mustang GT 5.0.

At the 1994 Mustang launch, it developed a modest 215 hp and 285 lb-ft in the 4th-gen Mustang GT 5.0. However, this was improved to 240 hp in the 1994 Mustang SVT Cobra, with torque remaining at 285 lb-ft. In the GT, the customer had a choice between the same two transmissions as the 3.8 V6 Mustang, but the SVT Cobra used the Borg-Warner T-5 five-speed manual transmission exclusively. The 5.0-liter Small-Block was only used in the 1994 and 1995 4th-gen Mustangs and the modern Modular SOHC 4.6-liter V8 replaced it for the 1996 model year. The Small-Block is durable and has lots of aftermarket support for modifications.

5.8-liter Naturally Aspirated OHV Small-Block/Windsor/351W V8 (1995)
215/240 hp | 285 lb-ft
Horsepower
215/240 hp
Torque
285 lb-ft
Transmission
Five-speed manual
Drivetrain
RWD

For the 1995-only Mustang SVT Cobra R, Ford used an enlarged version of the iron Small-Block V8 that was also called the 351W engine for its capacity in cubic inches, and a nomenclature used for it since the first Small-Block 5.8 was developed in the late '60s. Now equipped with modern technology such as a mass air-flow (MAF) sensor, the 5.8 developed 300 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque, capable of catapulting the Cobra R to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds via the only available transmission - a Tremec 3550 five-speed manual.

4.6-liter Naturally Aspirated SOHC Modular V8 (1996-2004)
215/225/260/265 hp | 285/290/302/305 lb-ft
Horsepower
215/225/260/265 hp
Torque
215/225/260/265 hp | 285/290/302/305 lb-ft
Transmission
Five-speed manual/Four-speed automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

Ford's now-famous Modular SOHC V8 with two valves per cylinder replaced the Small-Block/Windsor 5.0 for the 1996 model year gen-4 Mustang GT, matching its 215-hp/285-lb-ft outputs exactly. It was mated to the V6's Borg-Warner T-5 five-speed manual transmission for 1994 and 1995, replaced by the T-45 for 1996-2001, and then the Tremec TR-3650 five-speed manual from 2001-2004. A four-speed automatic was available throughout - the AOD-E for 1994 and 1995, and the 4R70W for the 1996 -2004 Mustang.

The V8 retains cast iron for the engine block and uses a chain to drive the camshafts. New PCM calibration boosted its outputs slightly to 225 hp and 290 lb-ft for 1998. Although it beat the Small-Block 5.0 on paper, it was often criticized for not quite offering the low-down punch of its predecessor. For the facelifted 1999 New Edge Mustang GT, outputs were increased usefully to 260 hp and 302 lb-ft thanks to greatly improved cylinder heads. These outputs were boosted ever so slightly to 265 hp/305 hp in the 2001 4th-gen Mustang Bullitt. Given clean oil frequently and proper maintenance, this engine has been noted to be extremely durable, regularly racking up in excess of 500,000 miles even in high-stress use. There were leaky intake manifolds that were replaced by updated parts and the cam drive can give problems if not properly maintained, but a well-cared-for engine should last a very long time.

4.6-liter Naturally Aspirated DOHC Modular/Romeo V8 (1996-1999, 2001)
305/320 hp | 300/317 lb-ft
Horsepower
305/320 hp
Torque
300/317 lb-ft
Transmission
Five-speed manual
Drivetrain
RWD

Most SVT Cobra derivatives - with the exception of the 1995 and 2000 SVT Cobra Rs - used the DOHC version of the 4.6 Modular V8, with an aluminum block, four valves per cylinder, and natural aspiration for the 1996-1999 and 2001 model and with a cast-iron block and supercharging for the 2003-2004 model. The naturally aspirated engine was hand-built in the Romeo engine plant in Michigan, which is why it's also called the Romeo engine. In the 1996-1998 SVT Cobra, it develops 305 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, allowing the SVT Cobra to reach 60 mph in around 5.4 seconds via the only transmission option - the Borg-Warner T-45 five-speed manual, which replaced the earlier T-5. This engine was also used in the 2003 Mach 1.

Outputs were increased to 320 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque for the facelifted 1999 New Edge Mustang SVT Cobra, as well as the 2001 model; the 2000 Cobra in between these two used a 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 instead. Only the 1999 SVT Cobra still used the Borg-Warner T-45 manual gearbox; this was replaced by the Tremec TR-3650 five-speed manual for the 2001 model. Because earlier Cobra engines were prone to overheating of the number six, seven, and eight cylinders due to insufficient coolant flow - which led to overheating valves that failed to seat properly - the 2001 model's cylinder heads were revised to fix the problem. Ford also recalled all 1999 SVT Cobras to tweak the intakes and exhausts, because it turned out the engines didn't produce the power Ford promised.

5.4-liter Naturally Aspirated DOHC Modular V8 (2000)
385 hp | 385 lb-ft
Horsepower
385 hp
Torque
385 lb-ft
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Drivetrain
RWD

For one model year only, the 2000 SVT Cobra R pays homage to the 1995 SVT Cobra R, but the 5.8-liter OHV Windsor V8 of five years ago makes way for a 5.4-liter derivative of the DOHC naturally aspirated Modular V8 instead, developing 385 hp and 385 lb-ft of torque, and transmitting its power through a Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission. It has a top speed of 177 mph. Unlike other DOHC Modular V8s, the 5.4 uses a tough cast-iron engine block derived from the Modular V8s used in Ford's trucks.

4.6-liter Supercharged DOHC Terminator V8 (2003-2004)
390 hp | 390 lb-ft
Horsepower
390 hp
Torque
390 lb-ft
Transmission
Six-speed manual
Drivetrain
RWD

There was no 2002 SVT Cobra and the ultimate 4th-gen Mustang was the SVT "Terminator" Cobra for the final two model years of 2003 and 2004. It gets the DOHC 4.6-liter V8, but a radically modified one. The engine exchanges the naturally aspirated version's aluminum engine block for cast iron for robustness and Ford bolted on an Eaton M-112 roots-type supercharger to hoist outputs quite dramatically to 390 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque - even more than the 2000 R's outputs. Exclusively using the Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission, it could reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

1994 - 2004 Ford Mustang SN 95 Real MPG

Muscle cars aren't expected to be frugal, but the Ford Mustang fourth generation isn't bad for its era. The six-cylinder cars are, expectedly, more economical than the V8s, all getting at least 20 mpg on the combined cycle, up to 21 mpg, while none of the V8s can do no better than 18 mpg combined. A fuel range of around 270-330 miles can be expected with a total capacity of 15.7 gallons. The rare 1995 SVT Cobra R has a 22-gallon fuel tank.

Not enough Mustang owners have submitted their real-world fuel-consumption figures to the EPA for the organization to publish a meaningful average, so we have just the EPA estimates to go on.

EPA MPG REAL WORLD MPG *
3.8 naturally aspirated OHV V6 five-speed manual (1994-2004) 18/27/21 mpg N/A
3.8 naturally aspirated OHV V6 four-speed automatic (1994-2004) 17/25/20 mpg N/A
3.9 naturally aspirated OHV V6 five-speed manual (2004) 18/27/21 mpg N/A
3.9 naturally aspirated OHV V6 four-speed automatic (2004) 17/24/20 mpg N/A
5.0 naturally aspirated OHV V8 five-speed manual (1994-1995) 15/23/18 mpg N/A
5.0 naturally aspirated OHV V8 four-speed automatic (1994-1995) 15/22/18 mpg N/A
5.8 naturally aspirated OHV V8 five-speed manual (SVT Cobra R, 1995) 12/20/15 mpg N/A
4.6 naturally aspirated V8 SOHC five-speed manual (1996-2003) 15/23/18 mpg N/A
4.6 naturally aspirated V8 SOHC four-speed automatic (1996-2003) 16/21/18 mpg N/A
4.6 naturally aspirated V8 DOHC six-speed manual (SVT Cobra, 1996-1999, 2001) 15/23/18 mpg N/A
4.6 supercharged V8 DOHC six-speed manual (SVT Cobra, 2003-2004) 15/22/17 mpg N/A
5.4 naturally aspirated V8 DOHC six-speed manual (SVT Cobra R, 2000) 12/17/14 mpg N/A

* Real-world mpg and MPGe figures are provided by the EPA. Once a car has been on sale for a significant period of time, the EPA gets real-world figures directly from the customer base. These figures are then provided on the EPA website. Real-world figures are not available for certain models due to a lack of sales, or not enough people partaking in this after-sales survey.

Safety

Safety standards were very different in the '90s and all the crash-test scores available for the Mustang are pre-2011 scores, the year when the NHTSA revised its test to become significantly more stringent. These results can therefore not be compared to modern cars' scores. At launch, the 1994 Mustang coupe was rated four stars for both frontal impacts - driver and passenger. The first time the convertible was tested was in 1996 and it scored five stars for both categories, scores that were maintained for 1997. By 1998, safety was improved but only the coupe was tested; it now achieved a frontal score of five stars for the driver and four for the passenger, with driver and passenger side crashes conducted for the first time for which it scored three out of five in both. 1999 - 2000 Mustangs mostly maintained these scores, except for the driver's frontal crash, which dropped back to four stars. The 2001 coupe received five stars for both frontal crashes and three for both side crashes. The convertible was tested again, but only for the side crashes, for which it scored just two stars for the driver and three for the passenger. These scores held for the 2002 - 2004 model years as well.

Very few standard safety features were fitted to the 1994 Mustang and there were only two airbags. It was the first Mustang with standard disc brakes on all four wheels and the first to offer ABS - although the latter remained on the options list and wasn't standard at the time. Ford's Passive Anti-Theft System using a coded key is standard on the 1997 Mustang. For 1998, second-generation depowered front airbags are used and remote keyless entry is standard. The 1999 facelift gets access to optional switchable electronic traction control and the GT gets standard ABS and traction control. 2000 Mustang coupes and convertibles both receive a child-seat anchoring system. From 2001, the V6 Premium also gets standard ABS and traction control and these become an option on the V6 Deluxe.

US NHTSA Crash Test Result (2004)

Coupe

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating (Driver):
(5/5)
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating (Passenger):
(5/5)
Side Crash Rating (Driver):
(3/5)
Side Crash Rating (Passenger):
(3/5)
Rollover Rating:
(5/5)

Convertible

Side Crash Rating (Driver):
(2/5)
Side Crash Rating (Passenger):
(3/5)

4 Gen Ford Mustang Trims

The two main trim levels are the base V6 cars and the V8 GT cars, both available in either manual or automatic and in coupe or convertible. The SVT Cobra and SVT Cobra R models are the performance editions and these varied quite a lot by year and were limited to the manual transmission. The lineup received barely noticeable exterior tweaks for 1996 - most notably, vertically orientated tail lights echoing those of the '60s Mustangs were added and a retro-inspired honeycomb grille was introduced. The steering and suspension tuning was revised too.

The most noticeable range-wide change for 1997 is the loss of the short-lived honeycomb grille. All 1998 Mustangs lose their dash-top-mounted clock pod - the clock is moved to the radio display - and gain power locks and windows. There aren't any other changes and this is the last year of the "round-body" Mustang before the debut of the New Edge 1999-2004 Mustang facelift. This facelift coincided with a substantial power boost for all engines, as well as retuned steering with more feel and a tighter turning radius and recalibrated suspension with increased rear wheel travel to improve the ride.

For 2000, nothing much changed except for a new glow-in-the-dark trunk-lid release and the return of the Cobra R. All 2001 Mustangs get the 2000 Cobra R's smoked headlights, as well as much-improved cup holders, a revised center console containing a double-DIN audio unit, and a tissue holder in the center armrest's storage area. The switches for the traction control, fog lights, and rear-window defogger were moved to just underneath the radio and in the convertible, the switch to operate the electric top is no longer behind the cup holders, but between the cup holders and the gear shifter. In the coupe, this space is occupied by a coin holder instead. The SVT Cobra was not available for all model years and although some sources state that there was a 2002 SVT Cobra in the US, this is incorrect. Around 100 2001-spec SVT Cobras were made for 2002, but they were all exported to Australia and converted to right-hand drive.

In the below trims section, every trim inherits all the equipment from the previous trim, plus whatever extra we mention.

There were quite a few special editions over the years as well:

  • 1994 Indy 500 Pace Car Replica edition. The Indy 500 selected the 1994 Mustang SVT Cobra as its pace car, so Ford turned all 1,000 of the 1994 SVT Cobra convertibles they made into Indy 500 Pace Car editions instead, not selling them in standard form. This special edition comes in Rio Red only and has brown Saddle leather upholstery, a matching vinyl soft top, Indy 500 badging and seat embroidering, and "Official Pace Car" decals (supplied to the buyer but not installed).
  • 1995 SVT Cobra R. Joining the normal SVT Cobra for 1995 was a special one-year-only SVT Cobra R, fitted with a 300-hp 5.8-liter V8 mated exclusively to a Tremec 3550 five-speed manual transmission and in only one color scheme, namely white paintwork and Saddle cloth upholstery. A bespoke, taller fiberglass hood is used to clear the large engine. To save weight, it has no fog lights, back seat, air-conditioning, or power adjustment for the windows or seats. The slots vacated by the fog lights cool the front brakes, set inside 17-inch, five-spoke 'R' alloy rims. The chassis features progressive heavy-duty springs, a front strut-tower brace, and thicker stabilizer bars. Only 250 were manufactured and they could only be obtained if you had a valid competition license.
  • 1996 Mystic Cobra. Serving as a limited-edition technological showcase for its new Modular SOHC 4.6-liter V8, the coupe-only Mystic Cobra is painted in color-shifting BASF paint. Of the 1,999 made, only nine have black cloth upholstery; the other 1,990 have black leather.
  • 1997 SVO Woodward Dream Cruise. This Detroit-area dealer special commemorates the 1995 one-day Woodward Avenue Dream Cruise from Detroit to Pontiac conducted by a small group of fans and then made into an annual event. The car uses the 1965-1966 Mustang Shelby GT-350's blue-over-white color scheme with white for the paint and 17-inch wheels, and blue Shelby-style Razor Blue center-body stripes. It has a BORLA stainless-steel exhaust, chrome hood pins, Shelby-style quarter-panel air intakes, Woodward Dream Cruise badging, and a numbered plaque; only 58 were made.
  • 1998、2000 GT春季版。只有在GTs in either coupe or convertible, the Spring edition is a cosmetic package comprising 17-inch alloy wheels and factory-applied black hood stripes. For 1998, only the Spring edition and the Cobra had access to the Chrome Yellow exterior paint job. The Spring edition returns for 2000, gaining the side scoops and hood of the 1999 Limited Edition 35th Anniversary and 2000 GT, and carrying over the available retina-searing yellow paintwork. For 2000, 3,091 of these packages were made available.
  • 1999限量版35周年。这接近于d edition was quite freely available, with 2,318 coupes and 2,310 convertibles equipped with this package. It previewed a few features that would only become available later on the 2001 GT, such as a raised rear spoiler and a taller hood scoop. The only available paint colors are white, black, silver, or red. There is a blacked-out panel between the tail lights, it has five-spoke 17-inch alloys, and the upholstery is in black leather and vinyl with a pony logo, as well as satin-silver finishing on the shift knob and door trims. Both the bespoke gauge cluster and floor mats bear the 35th Anniversary logo.
  • 2000年SVT眼镜蛇r . race-ready野马SVT眼镜蛇R returns after five years and instead of the old 300-hp 5.8-liter Windsor OHV V8, it is now powered by a 5.4-liter version of the new DOHC Modular V8 that produces 385 hp and 385 lb-ft of torque. To be eligible to buy one of the 300 made, a buyer had to be in possession of an NHRA or SCCA license. All 300 were painted red and equipped with cloth Recaro bucket seats, lowered Eibach springs, Bilstein shocks, Brembo brakes with four-piston front calipers, a removable front splitter, smoked headlights, 18-inch alloys, and a race-style fuel cell.
  • 2001 Bullitt. We list it as a trim lower down too - and you can read more about it there - but the Bullitt is also a special edition, inspired by the 1968 GT-390 driven by Steve McQueen in the movie of the same name. Because it was built in relatively large numbers - 5,582 in total - it is often just regarded as a normal 2001 trim level.
  • 2003 Centennial Special Edition. For Ford's centenary celebrations, it created Centennial Special Edition models of some of its trucks and cars, including the Mustang. This Mustang, based on the GT Premium, cost only $995 at the time and adds 100th Anniversary fender badges and seat embossing, and Premium Verona-grain Imola leather upholstery. The only paint color is black. Ford made 1,323 convertibles and 717 coupes.
  • 2003 SVT Cobra 10th Anniversary Edition. The 2003 SVT Cobra with its 390-hp supercharged V8 celebrates ten years since SVT introduced the 1993 SVT Cobra R - its first product. Available as a coupe or convertible, it has unique 17-inch alloys in Dark Argent paint, a choice of red, black, or silver paintwork, red brake calipers, SVT 10th Anniversary badging inside and out, red leather upholstery, and fake carbon-fiber interior finishes. Only 2,003 were made.
  • 2004 40th Anniversary special edition. Although Ford made 5,700 of them - which doesn't make them that rare - the 40th Anniversary package that celebrates 40 years since the first Ford Mustang, was limited to 2004. Offered in both V6 and GT trim, paint colors were limited to Crimson Red (exclusive to this package), Black, and Oxford White, with Arizona Beige rocker stripes, matching dual trunk and hood stripes, a Parchment interior, aluminum pedals, metallic gray finishes for the door-lock knobs and the shifter bezel and boot, and silver interior trim.
  • 2004年Mystichrome眼镜蛇。和其他40anniversary special editions for 2004, the 2004 Mystichrome Cobra also celebrates this milestone, but as a reboot of the 1996 Mystic Cobra, this time with reformulated and improved color-shifting paint made by DuPont and supplied to Ford by BASF.
Mach 1
2003 - 2004
Engine
4.6L V8 Gas
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

The 2000s 4th generation's Mustang Mach 1 forebear was the famous 1969-1978 Mach 1 and the nameplate returns for the 2003 and 2004 model years coupe body only with a 305-hp V8, lowered sports suspension, 17-inch Magnum 500 alloys, a Shaker hood scoop, a flat-black stripe from the front of the hood to the scoop, a low-gloss black Mach 1 stripe above the rocker moldings, a black spoiler, and rolled exhaust tips similar to those of the 2001 Bullitt. Interior features include front seats with more aggressive bolstering, comfort-weave black leather upholstery that hark back to previous Mach 1s, and the Mach 460 audio system with a six-disc changer. The Mach 1 is often listed as a special edition, but it's really a trim, available for two model years, and made in significant numbers - 9,652 for 2003 and 7,182 for 2004.

V6 Base/Standard
1994-2004
Engine
3.8-/3.9L V6 Gas
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

基本V6作为1994年推出模型,这必须的ang has standard 15-inch steel wheels with plastic covers (15-inch alloys optional), halogen headlights, and power mirrors. Standard fare includes a manually tilting steering column, an electrically adjustable driver's seat, cloth upholstery (leather optional), folding rear seats, and an AM/FM radio, the latter item massively upgradable to various powerful audio systems that were available. The electrically adjustable driver's seat is removed for 1995, becoming an extra-cost option. The subtle 1996 refresh sees the introduction of the new vertically orientated tail lights and a honeycomb grille. Said grille is short-lived and disappears again on the 1997 model, at which time the standard upholstery changes to a flecked design, and an anti-theft system with a coded key is added. The dashtop-mounted clock pod disappears on all 1998 Mustangs and the clock is now in the radio display; they also gain power windows and door locks. The base V6 finally gets standard 15-inch alloy wheels for 1998.

Besides the 1999 Mustang's facelift and extra power, the steering and suspension are retuned for better feel and comfort, respectively. The 2001 V6 coupe is the first offered with a choice of Standard, Deluxe, or Premium packages; only the latter two are available on the V6 convertible and all the V8s. An optional Sport Appearance Group package with 16-inch alloys, a trunk-lid spoiler, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel was also made available for the V6s for the first time in 2001 - but the V6 convertible all get standard 16-inch alloys. A single-disc CD player is added to the radio's cassette deck.

In a slight complication of the trim structure, the base 2001 base coupe now gets a name - Standard - and is joined by two additional up-specced options packages to create the V6 Deluxe and Premium; the Standard trim is only available on the V6 coupe, not the V6 convertible or any of the V8s. 2002 V6s all get 16-inch alloy wheels but there were no other changes except the availability of the Pony Package on the V6s, adding unique 16-inch alloys, "MUSTANG" lettering in black on the rear bumper, Mustang stampede decals applied to the lower doors, the scoop-adorned hood of the GT, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Deluxe
2001 - 2004
Engine
3.8-/3.9 V6 Gas
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

Compared to the V6 standard, the V6 Deluxe adds features such as a rear spoiler, a power driver's seat, and access to more optional extras, such as the Sport Appearance Group, a tape stripe, an upgraded Mach 460 audio system with in-dash six-CD changer, and ABS brakes with traction control.

Premium
2001 - 2004
Engine
3.8-/3.9L V6 Gas
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

The V6 Premium has everything that the V6 Deluxe has and also gets most of its optional extras. It has ABS, traction control, a tape stripe, a powerful Mach 460 audio system with an in-dash six-CD changer, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. Additional options only available on the Premium include leather upholstery and a Mach 1000 audio system.

GT
1994-2000
Engine
5.0-/4.6L V8 Gas
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

The GT is similarly equipped to the V6 but has the 16-inch alloy wheels (17 inches optional), stiffer suspension, rectangular fog lights, a decklid-mounted incandescent third stop light, dual exhaust outlets, and additional body bracing in the engine compartment. Inside, it has a 150-mph speedometer with black dial faces.

For 1995 only, a GTS sub-trim based on the GT was available from midway through the model year; it is a stripped-down version with a focus on performance and not luxury, similar to the 3rd-generation Mustang 5.0 LX. It loses the GT's handling package but retains the sports seats, fog lights, and rear spoiler; as for the rest of its interior, it was as per the base V6. Having been on the market for only six months, it is very rare. However, from 1996, the 248A delete package was available that, when specified, would essentially produce the 1995 GTS spec, so check whether you are looking at a decontented 1996 GT or not. The facelifted 1999 GT finally gets standard ABS brakes and traction control.

GT Deluxe
2001-2004
Engine
4.6L V8 Gas
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

The 2001+ GTs are subdivided into Deluxe and Premium trims and there is no Standard trim such as the V6s have. 2001 GTs inherit some of the 1999 Limited Edition 35th Anniversary kit, such as the side scoops, hood, and rear pedestal spoiler. The very popular 17-inch alloy wheel option that resembles the 1960s five-spoke Torq-Thrust wheels was also a 2001 addition and selected by many owners. Even without this option, all GTs have 17-inch alloy wheels from 2001. Deluxe means standard features very similar to the V6 Deluxe, in addition to the V8 engine, variable-rate rear suspension with Quadra-shocks, fog lights, cloth-upholstered sports bucket seats, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

GT Premium
2001-2004
Engine
4.6L V8 Gas
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

GT溢价股票基本规范细胞系t with the V6 Premium and its mechanical hardware, wheels, and suspension with the GT Deluxe. In addition, it gets standard leather upholstery.

Bullitt
2001
Engine
3.6L V8 Gas
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain
RWD

灵感来自于the 1968 Mustang GT-390 with Steve McQueen behind the wheel from the movie "Bullitt" and based on the GT trim, the 2001 homage to that 1968 car was offered in Black, True Blue, or Dark Highland Green. It has Bullitt-style 17-inch alloys, bespoke side scoops, lowered suspension with Tokico shocks and struts, model-specific stabilizer bars, frame-rail connectors, unique quarter-panel and C-pillar moldings, Bullitt badging, rolled and polished exhaust tips, and a brushed-aluminum filler cap. Its SOHC 4.6-liter V8 is massaged to develop 265 hp (or 270 hp, depending on whom you ask) and 305 lb-ft of torque. Inside, it has Dark Charcoal leather upholstery, bucket seats, and a unique GT-390-inspired gauge cluster, among many other details. Although often regarded as a limited edition, especially because it was available for one model year only, there were, in fact, 5,582 of them built, so we list the Bullitt as a 2001 trim here.

SVT Cobra
1994-1999, 2001, 2003-2004
Engine
5.0-/4.6L V8 Gas
Transmission
5-Speed/6-Speed Manual
Drivetrain
RWD

The 1994 SVT Cobra coupe was only introduced midway through the model year and has everything from the GT, but adds the 5.0-liter V8 engine, a Cobra-specific front bumper with round fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels with larger brakes, sports suspension tuning, a trunk-lid spoiler with an integrated LED stop light, Cobra badging, a 160-mph speedometer with white dial faces, leather trim on the shift knob, its boot, and the parking brake, lightweight magnesium seat frames, and Cobra floor mats. It is only available in red, black, or white. There is no similar, normal SVT Cobra convertible for 1994; instead, only 1,000 1994 convertibles were made, all to the Indy 500 Pace Car Replica spec mentioned above under the special editions.

The 1995 SVT Cobra is very similar to the previous year's car but gains a new chrome SVT decklid badge and new vertical spats on the rocker panels' leading edges. The 1995 SVT Cobra convertible is now similar to the coupe and no longer a special edition, but they are all painted black with black vinyl tops, and numbers were still limited - 1,003 units this time - so it's still very rare. An optional hard top that could be fitted in place to turn the convertible into a coupe during the winter months was sold on only 499 of the 1,003 cars and is a worthwhile addition, but they are very thin on the ground.

The Modular 4.6-liter SOHC V8 with 305 hp replaces the old Windsor 5.0-liter in the 1996 SVT Cobra and it gains an additional paint color - Mystic Clearcoat Metallic - with the convertible available in all the colors at last and with a choice of black, Saddle, or white vinyl tops. Production was capped at 10,000 Cobras in total. The 1997 model is similar, save for an enlarged grille opening and the deletion of both the front honeycomb grille and rear spoiler; the spoiler remained optionally available, so might have been fitted to a used car. Pacific Green is added as a paint color. The 1998 model adopts similar alloy wheels to the 1995 Cobra R and picks up the other annual Mustang changes. It also gains a singe-disc CD player. Subsequent annual changes mostly follow those of the GT models. The 2002 SVT Cobra is unavailable in the US with all of the 100 cars made for 2002 essentially being 2001-spec Cobras sent to Australia and converted to right-hand drive for that market.

The 2003 SVT Cobra is mechanically completely overhauled with its 390-hp/390-lb-ft Terminator supercharged V8 and gains firmer springs and a tubular cross brace. It is available as either a coupe or convertible. The standard transmission is a six-speed Tremec T-56 manual. For 2004, all SVT Cobras received 40th Anniversary badges to commemorate four decades of Mustangs and a few extroverted new colors become available, such as Screaming Yellow, Mystichrome, and Competition Orange.

Fourth Generation Mustang Features

Mach 1 Standard Deluxe Premium SVT Cobra Coupe SVT Cobra Coupe 10th Anniversary Convertible SVT Cobra 10th Anniversary GT Deluxe GT Premium GT Bullitt GT
ABS N/A N/A O N/A N/A O N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A O
A/C N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Cruise Control N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Keyless Entry N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A O
MP3 Player N/A N/A O N/A O O N/A O N/A O N/A O O
Power Driver Seat N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Premium Sound System N/A N/A O N/A O O N/A O N/A O N/A O O
Remote Trunk Release N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Traction Control N/A N/A O N/A N/A O N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A O

Interior, Trim And Practicality

福特野马4日创内部概述 Ford
福特野马4日创内部概述

The 4th-gen Mustang scored high marks for its interior and although it cannot be regarded as impressive by today's standards, the interior was comfortable, spacious, and a nice place to spend time by '90s standards. Thanks to comfortable seats, an attractive design, and acceptable materials, Ford never made wholesale changes to the interior but only detail refinements to make it easier to use while changing up colors and materials. However, it started showing its age in its twilight years and by 2004 it was dated, the seating position was slightly awkward, and ergonomics had started to lag behind.

Be that as it may, space is good and the Mustang coupe's front and rear legroom measurements of 42.6 and 29.9 inches compare favorably to the tighter Camaro's 43 and 26.8 inches, respectively. Be that as it may, the rear seat is no place for adults, even if it offers three inches more legroom than a Camaro. Its trunk space of ten cubic inches is less than the Camaro's 13 cubes though. The Camaro's advantage holds when the convertibles are compared, but there's little in it - the Mustang convertible offers seven cubic inches and the Camaro, eight.

Mach 1 Standard Deluxe Premium SVT Cobra Coupe SVT Cobra Coupe 10th Anniversary Convertible SVT Cobra 10th Anniversary GT Deluxe GT Premium GT Bullitt GT
Bucket Seats N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Cloth Seats N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Leather Seats N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Leather Steering Wheel N/A N/A O N/A N/A O N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Premium Synthetic Seats N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O
Vinyl Seats N/A N/A N/A N/A O N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A O

4th gen Mustang Maintenance and Cost

The Mustang's lubrication services are 5,000 miles apart and should cost less than $300 at an independent dealership. The 30,000-mile service is a bigger one and also requires the replacement of the cabin and engine air filters, as well as the fuel filter - this will probably amount to more than $800. The spark plugs last 100,000 miles. Cam chains should last between 120,000 and 150,000 miles and should be replaced sooner at the faintest hint of a chain rattle.

4th gen Mustang Basic Service

Lubrication services for the Mustang are spaced out at 5,000-mile intervals and generally cost less than $300. The oil and filter together cost between $62 and $72, depending on the engine. To determine the oil capacity and type for your model, consult your owner's manual. The 30,000-mile service is a bigger one and also requires the replacement of the cabin and engine air filters, as well as the fuel filter - this will probably amount to more than $800. The spark plugs last 100,000 miles, at which time the PCV valve and engine coolant must also be replaced. This service will likely exceed $1,100. Spark plugs cost around $30 per set on the V6 and the Windsor V8, while the naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8's spark plugs are around $40 per set and the supercharged Cobra's $48 per set. Although many manufacturers prescribe lengthy or no fluid changes for automatic transmissions, we would not postpone these beyond 60,000 miles on performance vehicles such as the Mustang to ensure transmission longevity. For the record, Ford prescribes a 150,000-mile interval for automatic transmission oil changes.

1994 - 2004 Gen Ford Mustang Tires

Coupe
Tire Size:
P205/65R15
Wheel Size:
15" x 6.5"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
SVT Cobra
Tire Size:
P245/45ZR17
Wheel Size:
17" x 8.0"
Spare Tire:
T155/70R17
Convertible
Tire Size:
P205/65R15
Wheel Size:
15" x 6.5"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
GT
Tire Size:
P225/55R16
Wheel Size:
16" x 7.5"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
Standard
Tire Size:
P205/65R15
Wheel Size:
15" x 7.0"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
Deluxe
Tire Size:
P205/65R15
Wheel Size:
15" x 7.0"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
Premium
Tire Size:
P225/55R16
Wheel Size:
16" x 7.0"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
GT Deluxe
Tire Size:
P245/45ZR17
Wheel Size:
17" x 8.0"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
GT Premium
Tire Size:
P245/45ZR17
Wheel Size:
17" x 8.0"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
GT Bullitt
Tire Size:
P245/45ZR17
Wheel Size:
17" x 8.0"
Spare Tire:
T125/90R15
Mach 1
Tire Size:
P245/45ZR17
Wheel Size:
17" x 8.0"
Spare Tire:
17"
SVT Cobra 10th Anniversary
Tire Size:
P275/40ZR17
Wheel Size:
17" x 9.0"
Tire Size:
P275/40ZR17
Wheel Size:
17" x 9.0"

Check Before You Buy

Technical Service Bulletins according to the NHTSA. Check service book for:
Here is the list of 1994-2004 Ford Mustang 3.8L V6 and GT recalls:

Several 1994-2001 recalls were for non-compliant or missing reflectors or aftermarket combination lamps and should have been attended to long ago. There were a few Ford Mustang airbag problems, with recalls issued for faulty airbag inflators and improperly deploying airbags on many 1994-1997 Mustangs. The parking-brake pawl on 1994-2001 Mustangs with manual transmissions can skip a few teeth, allowing a vehicle to roll away; this recall affected more than 400,000 vehicles in total. The bond between the inner and outer hood panels on 1994-1996 models were known to fail, resulting in the separation of the parts - a recall for this issue covered nearly 770,000 vehicles.

Some 1994 Mustangs can suffer damaged front-seat wiring, which could short out can cause a fire. Various 1995 Fords, including the Mustang, were recalled for the bearing in the engine's cooling fan that may overheat, melt an electrical connector, and potentially cause an engine fire. Only 1,300 1995 Mustangs were recalled to replace incorrectly manufactured tie-rod ends of which the balls studs may fracture, leading to a loss of directional control and increasing the risk of an accident. Another suspension-related recall was for replacing 1999 and 2000 Mustangs' rear-suspension knuckles that may fracture. Some 1998-2004 Mustangs fitted with aftermarket Purolator fuel filters were recalled because the filters' quick connectors could leak fuel, posing a fire risk. There were a few misdiagnosed Ford Mustang V6/GT fuel-pump problems that were, in actual fact, the result of the fuel-filter problem. In another fuel-related issue, some Ford Mustang fuel-injector problems were noted, with 1998 models with the V8 engine recalled for a bad joint on the fuel-rail body that could cause a fuel injector to become dislocated, resulting in a fuel leak and fire risk.

In a big cruise-control recall affecting many Fords, 1998-2000 Mustangs were included due to a throttle cable that may jam, preventing the cruise control from disengaging and potentially causing an accident. In another speed-control-related recall, apparent 2003 and 2004 Ford Mustang cruise-control problems - only relevant to Cobra models - had less to do with the cruise control and more due to an accelerator pedal that may jam open by getting stuck on the floor mat. A small number of 1998 Mustangs were recalled to replace a damaged steering input shaft that could cause heavy steering and difficult vehicle control - this is one of the few Ford Mustang power steering problems reported. The 1999 and 2000 Ford Mustang seatbelt recalls were issued to replace faulty seatbelt retractors. A recall of 2000 MY Mustangs related to the HVAC system removed a coolant-system blockage at the heater core that prevents the climate control system from producing warm air and/or effectively defogging the windshield.

Here are a few useful OBDII error codes you may encounter:

  • The Ford Mustang P0122 code means there is a problem with the throttle position sensor (TPS).
  • On any 4th-gen Ford Mustang V6/GT, a P0136, P0155, P0156, P0420, P0430, P1131, P1143, or P1151 code indicates a problem with the oxygen (O2) sensors, their circuits, or their readings.
  • The 1994-2004 Ford Mustang OBD II codes P0171 and P0174 both indicate the presence of vacuum leaks.
  • The Ford Mustang P0175 and P0193 error codes indicate fuel-injection problems. P0175 means the system is running too richly and P0193 means the fuel-rail pressure is too high.
  • On any 1994-2004 Ford Mustang V6 or GT, a P0301, P0302, P0303, P0316, P0320, P0340, or P0351 code would all indicate problems with the ignition system. The first four are misfire codes, P0320 means the distributor/ignition engine-speed circuit is malfunctioning, P0340 means there is something wrong with the camshaft-position sensor, and P0351 means an ignition coil is malfunctioning.
  • The Ford Mustang P0411 error code means that there is a problem with the flow of the air-injection system.
  • 在1994 - 2004年福特野马V6或GT, P0442 P0445, P0455, P1443, and P1444 indicate problems with the evaporative control emissions system. P0442, P0445, and P1443 indicate problems with the EVAP system purge-control valve's flow, P0455 means an EVAP hose is leaking, and P1444 indicates a problem with the purge-flow sensor circuit.
  • On a 1994-2004 Ford Mustang V6 or GT, OBD 2 codes P0453, P0460, P1233, P1237, or P1450 indicate fuel-tank-related problems and often occur in conjunction with the EVAP codes listed at the previous point. P0453 means the fuel tank pressure is too high, P0460 is for a fuel level sensor malfunction, P1233 means the fuel pump driver module is disabled, P1237 means there is a problem with the fuel pump secondary circuit, and P1450 indicates a failure to bleed up the fuel tank vacuum.
  • P0500 on a Ford Mustang means that there's an issue with the vehicle's speed sensor.
  • On a Ford Mustang P0708, P0712, and P0720 are all automatic transmission error codes. P0708 means there is a transmission-range error, P0712 is a fluid temperature sensor issue, and P0720 is an output shaft speed sensor error.
  • The Ford Mustang P1000 code means the OBD-II monitor test has not been completed, possibly due to the battery having been disconnected.
  • On a Ford Mustang, P1260 usually indicates a problem with the immobilizer.

1994-2004 Ford Mustang Common Problems

Essex V6 Engine Problems

1994 and 1995 Ford Mustang 3.8 engine/motor and overheating problems are well-known and are mainly related to frequent head-gasket failures. These are mainly due to old-style head gaskets not being up to the expansion and contractions characteristics of the iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. Old engines upgraded to the new head gaskets do not suffer the same problems. Extended warranties were offered on various Fords using the engine (1994-1995 Taurus, 1994 Continental, 1994-1995 Windstar) but not the Mustang. We'd rather avoid a 1994 or 1995 V6, unless you can obtain proof that the updated gaskets have been installed, that the car has a full service history, and that the engine exhibits no tell-tale signs that it might have suffered blown head gaskets and subsequent damage. Other than that, it's a simple, robust, and reliable engine that can last a long time if properly maintained.

Some pre-1999 Ford Mustang V6 vibration problems have been reported, but these are often just tired motor mounts; also, this engine gained balancer shafts in 1999, so the earlier ones are more prone to vibrate and it doesn't mean there is anything wrong with them. Cam chains should have a long service life if the oil is changed frequently and less than 150,000 would be unusual.

Mileage:Head-gasket failure can occur from 65,000 miles.

Cost:A remanufactured Essex V6 would cost about $1,600 to buy, before installation. Repairs can cost between $800 and $2,200 - and reach $4,000 if the engine has to be replaced.

How to spot:Blown head gaskets will cause overheating, coolant and/or oil loss, misfiring, white steam/blue smoke from the exhaust, catalytic converter damage, coolant and oil mixing, and eventual engine failure if ignored.

小型砌块/温莎5.0升和5.8升V8 Engine Problems

传说中的福特小木块V8,也称为Windsor - even though they weren't all built in Windsor - is regarded as one of Ford's most durable and long-lasting engines and its simple and robust construction makes it very reliable. The problems list for these engines is short and can be applied to many other engines. They are easy and cheap to repair too. Oil leaks with age are not uncommon, especially as cam-cover gaskets and other seals get older. A few exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) tube blockages have been reported. On the V8 or V6 Ford Mustang, the OBD II code P0401, P0402, P0406, or P1409 may accompany EGR problems. On the 5.0, vacuum leaks can also cause uneven running. No more Ford Mustang 5.0 overheating problems are reported than is the average for old engines and mainly revolve around lax maintenance, so just replace the coolant periodically and keep an eye on aging hoses. Parts are commonplace, problems are few, and repairs are generally not expensive. There aren't many differences between the 302 5.0-liter and the 351 5.8-liter in terms of construction and dependability, but the 302 is more common, parts are easier to source, and aftermarket mods more plentiful.

Mileage:Mileages vary and problems typically only occur at very high mileages.

Cost:Aftermarket replacement exhaust manifolds on the 5.8 cost around $250 for a set, before labor. A new EGR tube should cost no more than $80.

How to spot:EGR failure will trigger the Check Engine light. Leaking exhaust manifolds will cause a ticking sound and emit raw exhaust fumes from under the hood.

Modular 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter V8 Engine Problems

Being a far more complicated power plant, there are more Ford Mustang 4.6 problems than earlier Windsor 5.0 problems, but it's still a tough engine if cared for; it just needs more preventative maintenance. There was quite a common problem of failing plastic intake manifolds that can cause coolant leaks on 1996-2001 Mustangs with the Modular V8 engine because the alternator bracket attaches to the plastic manifold and puts additional stress on it until it cracks around this mounting point. If not noticed in time, coolant loss can lead to overheating and engine damage. Unfortunately, there was no Ford Mustang GT intake-manifold recall issued as this is not regarded as a safety problem, so this repair will be for your account. On a 1994-2001 Ford Mustang, P1518 and P1519 OBD-II error codes often accompany intake-manifold problems. From 2002, a manifold with aluminum reinforcement and a strengthened alternator mounting fixed these problems. Check for proof of the work having been done and check for low coolant levels and/or a coolant leak at the intake manifold. That said, there aren't many actual 1994-2001 Fox-body Ford Mustang alternator problems, despite its rickety mounting. Coolant leaks may also originate at the temperature sensor or coolant hose, so check that these are secure.

Spark-plug problems also seem to be a recurring issue on the Modular V8, although relatively few of these seem to plague the DOHC version with four valves per cylinder used in the 4th-gen Mustang SVT Cobras. Spark plugs in the SOHC engine with three valves per cylinder used in other Fords (not this Mustang) can become stuck so tightly that they break when trying to remove them, making the labor bill add up with all the work needed to extricate the broken plug from the cylinder head. The SOHC version with two valves per cylinder used in the gen-4 Mustang may also be afflicted by stuck spark plugs, but it's far less common; however, Ford Mustang ignition-coil problems are quite common and failures may occur prematurely at around 70,000 miles. More than a few owners have reported spark plugs popping out and damaging the comparatively shallow thread in the head, so a thread-repair kit with new thread inserts is quite common online.

The Modular V8 uses a timing chain that is pretty tough, but it can wear out at around 150,000 miles, which is a good mileage to replace it. More problematic than the chain is its tensioner and chain guides, the latter made of plastic in these engines. Never ignore a chain rattle and rather replace the chain, tensioner, and guides in one go. It is critical to use the correct viscosity oil on these engines, as cold-start chain slap caused by a slowly pressurizing hydraulic chain tensioner due to the incorrect oil will wear out the chain guides more quickly. To prolong the service life of these components, stick to the oil changes. On the topic of oil, oil-pressure problems may occur from time to time, so never ignore the oil-pressure light and stop immediately before engine damage can occur. Sometimes, it's just the oil-pressure sending unit, but it can also be the oil pump, so don't take the chance. The Triton 5.4-liter version of the Modular V8 used in the 2000 SVT Cobra R can also suffer oil-pan gasket leaks.

The DOHC 4.6-liter Modular V8 with 320 hp used in the 1999 Mustang SVT Cobra is best avoided. Not only was it recalled for additional intake, exhaust, and ECU work because it was found not to produce the 320 hp advertised, but it was also prone to overheating around cylinders six to eight, causing the valve seats to seat improperly and causing pinking problems. On a Ford Mustang, the P1285 and P1289 error codes usually accompany such an overheating condition, although P1289 may indicate that there's only a problem with the cylinder-head temperature sensor. Take no chances either way. Do not consider a 1999 SVT Cobra without proof that the overheating heads have been replaced and the performance tweaks were done to restore the full 320 hp.

There isn't a lot of data out there on supercharged Terminator engine failures, so this robust iron-block version of the DOHC 4.6 seems tough and lasts well with the proper care. The same basic chain drive is used, though, so the same provisos apply in terms of maintenance to prevent problems.

Mileage:Timing chains can wear out from 150,000 miles, but guides and tensioners can fail sooner. An intake manifold usually makes it past 115,000 miles before cracking but it apparently also depends on driving style and abusive driving can see it fail before 50,000 miles.

Cost:Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and chain guides will cost around $400 in parts and at least $500 in labor. The updated 2002+ OEM intake manifold costs around $500 but there are some aftermarket options for up to $300. Due to labor requiring up to six hours, this will likely add an additional $400 to the bill - and this may further rise to around $1,200 at a Ford dealership. Replacing the intake manifold with the correct part and replacing blown cylinder-head gaskets due to overheating can collectively add up to over $2,000. A spark-plug thread-repair kit costs around $200-$230.

How to spot:定时链问题可能出现在一个摇摇晃晃und, the Check Engine light, rough idling, and P0300 misfire codes when the timing starts to go out. Failed intake manifolds may cause low coolant, visible coolant leaks, overheating, and misfires. Misfires and ignition-coil failures are responsible for most Fox-body Ford Mustang idle problems. Low oil pressure will trigger the oil-pressure light and if ignored, knocking sounds and overheating will follow as the engine fails.

Transmission Problems

Quite a few 1994 Mustang owners complained about the AOD-E four-speed automatic transmission exhibiting shudders and vibrations when accelerating slowly between third and fourth gears from around 35 mph. This can usually be corrected by draining the fluid and refilling it with the correct Mercon fluid as prescribed by the manufacturer. Some 1994 and 1995 Mustangs with this gearbox may also suffer transmission slippage and/or shift flare - which is when the engine revs flare up between shifts. There were quite a few 1994-2001 Ford Mustang neutral safety switch problems due to a problem with the TR/MLP (transmission range or manual lever position) sensor. Torque-converter failures are rare. Other than that, few Fox-body Ford Mustang 3.8 V6 or V8 automatic transmission shifter or acceleration problems are reported, other than the reality that it's simply slow with only 145 hp on tap on the early cars, which is why we'd opt for the interactivity of a manual.

The manual transmission seems to be quite tough and as long as you treat it with a measure of mechanical sympathy and occasionally change the oil, it should last a long time. Clutches generally make it up to around 130,000 miles if they're not abused, although a few clutches have worn out prematurely. This could also be down to driver error, considering the low numbers. Very rarely, a throwout bearing might fail. Early V6s with the four-speed auto are really slow, so you'll be pleased to know that, if you opt to do the shifting yourself, you won't have many potential Ford Mustang 3.8 manual/clutch or flywheel problems to contend with.

Mileage:A faulty TR/MLP sensor on the automatic can fail at any time. A clutch lasts for around 130,000 miles and it costs just over $1,000 to replace the clutch, flywheel, and pressure plate.

Cost:TR / MLP传感器AOD-E或4 r70w自动TRansmissions costs around $65 before labor and a torque converter costs around $650 to replace. Replacing a throwout bearing on the manual's clutch costs around $300.

How to spot:An automatic with shudders and vibrations under light acceleration over 35 mph.

Paint And Body Problems

The problem of Ford aluminum hoods rusting and corroding is quite common, but it only affects the 2002-2004 model years of the 4th-gen Mustang, because these are the only models with aluminum hoods. Ford's widespread use of aluminum for their cars' hoods only started in 2000. There can be problems with galvanic coupling due to inadequate treatment of iron-based fasteners and hinges when they meet aluminum hoods, giving rise to rust and corrosion. Not only that, but paint can peel, crack, and flake on these hoods too. Look out for rust in general, as these cars are now old and rot could be invasive on ones that were left outside or used in rust-belt states. Another hood-related problem covered in our recalls section may cause the outer hood panel to separate completely. Besides the hoods, there have been some reports of substandard paintwork, particularly blistering paint on the front bumper, as well as the clear coat peeling.

Mileage:Hood corrosion can start from around 30,000 miles.

Cost:Dependent on the extent of the damage and how many affected panels must be repainted or replaced. Having the hood removed and repainted entirely costs around $700.

How to spot:Carefully inspect the body of a Mustang to determine whether the paintwork is in reasonable condition for its age. Pay special attention to the hood of later models and look for corrosion, especially around the fasteners and hinges, and for flaking and peeling.

Suspension Problems

There seem to be some suspension-related problems on Mustangs, specifically worn tie-rod ends. There was no suspension recall and the situation should not be dangerous, as the tie-rods give fair warning of their failure by audibly squeaking when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps below 15 mph. There was a 1995 recall for such a problem but it was reported on 2000 model-year Mustangs as well.

Mileage:From around 80,000 miles.

Cost:It should cost between $20 and $60 per side for tie-rod ends and a few hours' labor to fit them.

How to spot:Squeaking when the steering wheel is turned and when going over bumps at low speeds.

HVAC Problems

There are quite a few Ford Mustang heating/heater and air-conditioning or AC problems reported, including leaks of the heater core. A recall was issued for a restriction at the heater core that prevents the heater from working and providing hot air. Test the HVAC system properly - both the heater and AC. On a 1994-2004 Ford Mustang, P0645 and P1708 are HVAC error codes you might have to be on the lookout for, meaning there is an issue with the AC clutch relay and clutch switch, respectively.

Mileage:From around 133,000 miles.

Cost:Varies wildly, depending on what must be repaired.

How to spot:A lack of heat or inoperative AC.

Less Common Problems And Problem-Free Areas

Some owners of Mustangs equipped with the five-speed manual transmission on 1994-2001 cars have complained of vibrations through the clutch pedal and apparently, these are both commonplace and normal, not indicating a fault with either the clutch or the gearbox. There seem to be several cases of the clutch packs in the Traction-Lock limited-slip rear differential of 1994-1996 Mustangs having been over-shimmed, leading to chattering noises that can be heard and felt when making tight turns after having driven on the highway. Quite a few cases of the magnet used in the camshaft-position sensor dislodging have been noted, or the entire sensor coming loose, around the 102,000-mile mark, causing chirping noises at idle; in a Ford Mustang, the P1309 OBD-II error code usually accompanies this problem. Replacing the magnet and synchronizers costs around $110.

The serpentine accessory drive belt on 2000-2002 V8 Mustangs with manual transmissions seems to derail quite easily in wet weather conditions, presumably exacerbated by engine movement during gear shifts. The belt tensioner, water pump, and water-pump pulley must be replaced by updated components that prevent this from happening. As expected from an old car, there are various random 1994-2004 Ford Mustang electrical problems and charging, starting, battery, and stalling issues. Quite a few 1999 Mustangs' exhaust rattles were traced to a loose muffler heat shield that costs around $650 to replace. Owners have noted some OBD-II Ford Mustang GT P1401 and P1405 throttle-body problem codes so have this item checked if throttle response is inconsistent. You're also likely to come across an increasing number of Mustang muffler problems as these cars' exhaust systems age and start to rust through, especially in rust-belt states.

Some areas remain largely problem-free and have reported few issues:

  • Despite the well-documented head-gasket issue of earlier engines, 1994-2004 Ford Mustang 3.8L V6 PCM, power, vibration, and intake-runner control problems are rare.
  • There aren't any more than average Ford Mustang Convertible problems, but all soft tops deteriorate with age if exposed to the sun a lot and mechanisms can play up, so test the roof on the test drive.
  • The number of 1994-2004 Fox-body Ford Mustang V6 or V8 anti-theft system, fuel-gauge, ECU, PCM, GEM-module, charging, ignition switch, instrument cluster/fuel gauge/tach, speedometer, odometer, lighting, Mach 460 audio, power-window, starting, and other electrical problems reported are no more than what is average, although all of these occasionally play up, especially because the 4th-gen Mustang is now quite old.
  • In terms of the power-steering system, Ford Mustang 4th-gen models don't seem prone to any premature failures, but being a hydraulic system and not a modern electric system, it may develop leaks with age and the pump may fail if the fluid is low.

Which One To Avoid

We would avoid all the V6s up to 1998. The 1994 and 1995 V6s still had a tendency to blow their head gaskets and all the way to 1998, they remained weak, not offering the type of performance expected of a Mustang. The Modular 4.6 V8 in its 1996-1998 format is best avoided too because it simply offers too little power for a Mustang and lacks the bottom-end punch of the old 5.0-liter 302 V8 - in addition to not even coming standard with ABS brakes. All V6s up to 2000 also lacked ABS, so if safety is important to you, lacking even this basic feature should kick them off your shortlist.

Which One To Buy

1999 and newer seems to be the way to go; not only does this year introduce the more attractive New Edge styling, but ABS brakes become standard on the V8 GT. Only from 2001 is ABS also standard on the V6 Premium. All 1999+ engines are adequately powerful to satisfy and if you don't mind the 193-hp V6, we'd suggest going for a manual 2001 Premium, which has a good spec sheet and standard ABS. A V8 performs well enough with the automatic transmission if you opt for the 1999+ 260-hp engine, in which you also get standard ABS. The 1999-2001 models offer a good balance of value for money and relatively few problems. Newer models are also good, but watch out for hood rust from 2002 onward.

4th Gen Fox Body Ford Mustang Verdict

The fourth-generation Mustang was a bit soft around the edges for enthusiasts but this was addressed by the 1999 facelift, which brought more power and better safety. A manual facelifted GT is a fast and satisfying performance coupe and excellent value for money. If you can get your hands on one of the special editions, you'll pay more, but the Bullitt is not too rare and is likely to appreciate in the future. But you can enjoy a proper V8 muscle car in the GT without having to opt for some rare special edition. It's the affordable and accessible V8 American muscle car that the Mustang has always been. Opt for later models to get more safety and keep our provisos in mind and you'll have an old-school muscle car in the best American tradition.

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