Used Ford Mustang: a year-by-year guide for Ford Blue Advantage shoppers
Used · Ford Blue Advantage · Ford
Used Ford Mustang: a year-by-year guide for Ford Blue Advantage shoppers
Mustang generations, engines and special models year by year, what EPA rates them, how to spot a hard-driven or modified car, and which used Mustang can be Ford Blue Advantage certified.
The short answer
Most used Mustangs we see are the S550 (2015–2023) or the current S650 (2024 and up). The 2018 refresh brought the 10-speed automatic and dropped the V6. Many shoppers look for 2018–2023 cars, but a Mustang's history (track days, tunes, winter storage) tells you more than the year does.
A used Ford Mustang can be Ford Blue Advantage certified if it meets Ford's limits: Gold (up to 6 years old, under 80,000 miles) or Blue (up to 10 years, under 150,000 miles). Swant Graber Ford is a Ford Blue Advantage dealer: 1697 E Division Ave, Barron, 715-537-9500.
Used Mustang generations and years at a glance
| Model years | What it is | What changed | What to look at |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015–2017 | S550, early | Independent rear suspension arrives. 3.7L V6, 2.3L EcoBoost, 5.0L V8; 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. Shelby GT350 from 2016. | The V6 was dropped after 2017. Check recall completion closely on early-build cars. |
| 2018–2023 | S550, updated | Refresh: 10-speed automatic, updated 5.0L V8, digital cluster available. Bullitt (2019–2020), Shelby GT500 (2020–2022), Mach 1 (2021–2023). | The years many used shoppers ask for. Special models need extra history checks. |
| 2024–2026 | S650, current | New generation: 2.3L EcoBoost and 5.0L V8 (GT, Dark Horse), larger screens, 6-speed manual still on the V8. Coupe and convertible. | Newest cars are the most likely Gold Certified candidates. |
| 2005–2014 | S197 | Previous generation; live rear axle. | Older and outside Blue Advantage age limits; inspect hard and expect normal age wear. |
Summary for shoppers, not a full spec sheet. Equipment varies by trim and package, so the original window sticker for the VIN is the final word.
Used Mustang: what EPA lists by model year
| Model year | Engines EPA lists | Transmissions | Combined MPG range | NHTSA recall campaigns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 3.7L 6-cyl; 5.0L 8-cyl | 6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual | 18–25 | 11 |
| 2016 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 3.7L 6-cyl; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl | 6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual | 16–25 | 5 |
| 2017 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 3.7L 6-cyl; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl | 6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual | 16–24 | 6 |
| 2018 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual | 16–25 | 4 |
| 2019 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual | 16–25 | 6 |
| 2020 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl supercharged | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual, 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | 14–25 | 8 |
| 2021 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl supercharged | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual, 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | 14–25 | 6 |
| 2022 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl supercharged | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual, 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | 14–25 | 9 |
| 2023 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual | 17–25 | 6 |
| 2024 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual | 17–26 | 12 |
| 2025 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl supercharged | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual, 8-speed dual-clutch automatic | 12–26 | 6 |
| 2026 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 5.0L 8-cyl; 5.2L 8-cyl supercharged | 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual, 8-speed dual-clutch automatic | 12–26 | — |
MPG is the EPA combined range across the versions EPA lists for that year, including special models. Winter mileage in northwest Wisconsin runs lower. Recall counts are campaigns for the model and year across all trims; a specific vehicle may not be affected, and "—" means the year is outside our NHTSA pull. Match the VIN to the right row before comparing prices.
Where the Mustang lineup changed (per EPA listings)
- 2016: EPA adds 5.2L 8-cyl
- 2018: no longer lists 3.7L 6-cyl
- 2023: no longer lists 5.2L 8-cyl
- 2025: EPA adds 5.2L 8-cyl
Engine availability by trim isn't shown here. Check the sticker.
Trading in or selling a Mustang?
If you have a Mustang to trade, start with our trade appraisal. Records, both keys, the owner's manual and any removed factory parts (wheels, roof panels, stock exhaust) help the value, so bring them. If you owe more than it's worth, ask us how that affects a new loan before you sign anything.
Which used Mustang fits how you drive
An EcoBoost or GT with the automatic is the easiest to live with.
A GT with the manual; check clutch and how it was driven.
Check the top mechanism, seals and rear window; ask how it was stored.
Get an insurance quote on the exact VIN before you shop seriously; an EcoBoost usually costs less to insure than a GT.
What to check on a used Mustang
- Signs of track or drag use: heavy rear tire wear, brake pad and rotor condition, aftermarket wheels or sticky tires.
- Engine tunes, exhaust or intake changes: ask what was done and whether stock parts come with it. Tunes can affect warranty and certification.
- Manual cars: clutch engagement, any slip in a higher gear, and a smooth shift into each gear.
- Automatic: smooth shifts when warm and cold.
- Convertibles: the top should cycle smoothly, and there should be no water stains or a musty smell.
- Low front lip and splitter: scrapes are normal; cracked brackets or missing undertrays are worth noting.
- Winter storage: ask where it was stored and whether it was driven on salted roads.
- Oil level on V8 cars that were driven hard. Some high-rpm cars use oil between changes.
Most Mustangs in northwest Wisconsin are summer cars, and that is usually good for the underbody. A car that was driven through Barron County winters will show it on brake lines, subframes and wheel wells. If you plan to drive it year-round, budget for a set of winter tires on separate wheels.
Not sure about something you found? Ask us to inspect it or call 715-537-9500.
Ford Blue Advantage: Gold, Blue, or our used coverage
Ford models no more than 6 years old with under 80,000 miles. 172-point inspection. 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive and 7-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranties (Ford's terms; coverage dates run from Ford's start dates, so ask what remains on a specific vehicle).
Vehicles up to 10 years old with under 150,000 miles. 139-point inspection. 90-day/4,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty.
Swant Graber Ford takes part in Ford's 14-day/1,000-mile Money Back Guarantee; Ford's conditions apply. Used vehicles that aren't certified get our coverage: 45 days / 5,000 miles powertrain on units less than 10 model years old with under 150,000 miles. See dealer for details. More: Ford Blue Advantage at Swant Graber · Gold vs Blue · what the inspection covers.
Recall campaigns by model year
NHTSA recalls API, Ford Mustang, queried Nov 1, 2026. A campaign covering several model years is counted in each year.
| Model year | Campaigns | Components named most |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 11 | Latches/Locks/Linkages (2), Fuel System, Gasoline (2), Seat Belts (2) |
| 2016 | 5 | Seat Belts (2), Back Over Prevention (2), Engine And Engine Cooling (1) |
| 2017 | 6 | Back Over Prevention (2), Engine And Engine Cooling (1), Air Bags (1) |
| 2018 | 3 | Electrical System (1), Power Train (1), Back Over Prevention (1) |
| 2019 | 6 | Power Train (2), Electrical System (2), Back Over Prevention (2) |
| 2020 | 8 | Back Over Prevention (3), Power Train (2), Forward Collision Avoidance (1) |
| 2021 | 6 | Air Bags (2), Electrical System (2), Back Over Prevention (1) |
| 2022 | 9 | Electrical System (2), Steering (2), Air Bags (1) |
| 2023 | 6 | Electrical System (2), Steering (2), Power Train (1) |
| 2024 | 12 | Electrical System (3), Service Brakes, Hydraulic (2), Fuel System, Gasoline (2) |
| 2025 | 6 | Exterior Lighting (2), Power Train (1), Engine And Engine Cooling (1) |
Campaigns covering the most model years
- 25V442000 (Back Over Prevention), model years 2019–2023: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
- 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention), model years 2015–2019: A rearview camera that displays an inverted, distorted, or blank image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- 23V727000 (Electrical System), model years 2020–2023: Without a low brake fluid warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, reducing braking performance and increasing the risk of a crash.
- 16V779000 (Engine And Engine Cooling), model years 2015–2017: A sudden loss of engine oil may cause engine failure, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, an oil leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.
- 22V082000 (Back Over Prevention), model years 2015–2017: A rearview camera that displays a blank or distorted image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Consequence text is NHTSA's, shortened. Recall repairs are free at a Ford dealer. Full list: used Mustang recalls by year. Run the specific VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How to shop a used Mustang (the steps we'd follow ourselves)
- Decode the VIN. The engine, drivetrain and build plant are in the VIN. Ask us for the original window sticker or build data so you know the exact trim and packages, not just what the badges say.
- Run the VIN for recalls. Use nhtsa.gov/recalls or our recall check by VIN guide. A recall listed for the model year does not mean a specific vehicle is affected, and a fixed recall won't show as open.
- Read the history. A vehicle history report shows title brands, reported accidents, owners and some service visits. It does not show everything, so treat it as one input.
- Ask for service records. Oil changes on time, fluid services and recall repairs are the best evidence of how a vehicle was cared for.
- Test-drive it cold and warm. Start it cold if you can. Drive on the highway, over rough pavement and in a parking lot at full steering lock.
- Get it inspected. Ask us to put it on a lift with you there, or bring it to a mechanic you trust for a pre-purchase inspection. We're fine with that.
- Check the Wisconsin Buyers Guide on the window. It states whether the vehicle is sold with a warranty or as-is.
Northwest Wisconsin: rust, salt and winter wear
Barron County roads see salt and brine from November to April, so the underbody matters on any used Mustang. Rust isn't automatically a deal-breaker; surface scale on a frame or exhaust is normal for a Wisconsin vehicle. What we look for:
- Brake and fuel lines: flaking or swelling lines get replaced, not ignored.
- Frame, subframes and suspension mounts: surface rust is common; perforation or heavy scaling is a concern.
- Rocker panels, wheel-arch lips and the bottoms of doors and the liftgate or tailgate.
- Exhaust hangers and heat shields: a rattle on the test drive often starts here.
- Battery and terminals: winter starts are hard on them, so ask for a battery test.
Undercoating can protect a vehicle, but fresh undercoating can also hide problems, so ask when it was applied. If you're keeping the vehicle long term, see our winter rust protection options.
Flood, salvage and title checks
After big storms elsewhere in the country, flood-damaged vehicles can be retitled and moved. Signs to look for: a musty smell, silt under the carpet or in seat tracks, corrosion on seat bolts or under-dash connectors, and fogging inside headlamps. Check the title for brands such as salvage, flood or rebuilt, and read the history report. If anything looks off, ask us. We'd rather you ask.
What we'll do on a used Mustang for you
- Show you the inspection sheet and any reconditioning we did.
- Pull the original sticker or build data when Ford has it.
- Run the VIN for open recalls and tell you whether a recall repair can be done here.
- Put it on a lift with you, or let you take it to your own mechanic.
- Tell you which Blue Advantage tier it qualifies for, or that it isn't certified, before you talk numbers.
We won't tell you any used vehicle is guaranteed to last a certain number of miles. Nobody honestly can. Maintenance records and an inspection are the best predictors you have.
Paying for it: trade, financing and GAP
Get a value on your current vehicle with our trade appraisal. We work with national and local lenders on used and certified vehicles, and certified vehicles can sometimes qualify for special financing rates from Ford Credit. Ask what applies that month. If you finance with a small down payment, read about GAP coverage before you decide; it's optional. Tax, title and registration are extra.
Year-by-year notes for used Mustang shoppers
2015–2017: S550, early
Independent rear suspension arrives. 3.7L V6, 2.3L EcoBoost, 5.0L V8; 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. Shelby GT350 from 2016. The V6 was dropped after 2017. Check recall completion closely on early-build cars.
2018–2023: S550, updated
Refresh: 10-speed automatic, updated 5.0L V8, digital cluster available. Bullitt (2019–2020), Shelby GT500 (2020–2022), Mach 1 (2021–2023). The years many used shoppers ask for. Special models need extra history checks.
2024–2026: S650, current
New generation: 2.3L EcoBoost and 5.0L V8 (GT, Dark Horse), larger screens, 6-speed manual still on the V8. Coupe and convertible. Newest cars are the most likely Gold Certified candidates.
2005–2014: S197
Previous generation; live rear axle. Older and outside Blue Advantage age limits; inspect hard and expect normal age wear.
Whatever the year, the VIN tells you more than the year does. Ask for the original window sticker or build sheet, the service records and the recall status of the specific vehicle.
Test-drive checklist for a used Mustang
- Start it cold if you can. Listen for knocks, rattles or a rough idle in the first minute.
- Check the dash for warning lights after start-up. Every light should come on briefly, then go out.
- Run the heat and A/C on high, and check the defrost. You'll want both in Barron.
- On the highway, check for pulling, vibration at speed and wind noise.
- On rough pavement, listen for clunks from the suspension or steering.
- In a parking lot, turn to full lock both ways, slowly. Listen for binding or popping.
- Check 4WD or AWD engagement, if equipped, on gravel or a safe surface.
- Test every camera, sensor, screen, window, lock and seat heater. Small electrical items add up.
- Look at the tires: matching brand, even wear and enough tread for winter.
Certified, used or new: which makes sense?
| Gold Certified | Blue Certified | Used, not certified | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age and miles | Up to 6 years, under 80,000 miles | Up to 10 years, under 150,000 miles | Any |
| Inspection | 172-point Ford inspection | 139-point Ford inspection | Our reconditioning inspection |
| Coverage | 12 mo/12,000 mi comprehensive + 7 yr/100,000 mi powertrain (Ford terms) | 90 days/4,000 mi comprehensive | Our 45 days/5,000 mi powertrain on eligible units, or as-is per Buyers Guide |
| Who it suits | Shoppers who want newer and longer coverage | Shoppers who want a lower price with some coverage | Budget buyers comfortable with an independent inspection |
Sometimes a new Mustang with current incentives is close in monthly payment to a late-model used one. We'll show you both side by side if you ask. See CPO vs used vs new.
Ownership costs to plan for
The purchase price is only part of it. On any used Mustang, ask about or budget for: tires (especially winter tires), brakes, the next scheduled maintenance visit, a battery if it is older, and insurance on the exact VIN. If a big service is due soon, such as fluids, spark plugs or tires, that's fair to factor into the deal. Book maintenance with our service department.
Used Mustang questions
What are the best used Mustang years?
Many used shoppers look for 2018–2023 S550 cars, because the 2018 update added the 10-speed automatic and the updated 5.0L. The current S650 starts with 2024. History and condition matter more than year, so run the VIN for open recalls and get a history report.
Is a used Mustang GT reliable?
The 5.0L Coyote V8 has been in production since 2011 and is widely used. Any individual car depends on how it was maintained and driven. Ask for service records and have it inspected. We won't promise mileage figures for any used car.
Is a modified Mustang a bad buy?
Not always. Ask what was changed and who did it. Tunes and certain parts can affect Ford warranty coverage and Blue Advantage eligibility. A stock or lightly modified car is easier to finance, insure and certify.
Can I drive a used Mustang in Wisconsin winter?
Yes, with winter tires; on all-seasons or summer tires, a rear-drive car struggles. Many owners store theirs in winter.
Can a used Mustang be Ford Blue Advantage certified?
Yes, if it is within Ford's age and mileage limits and passes inspection. Ask which tier a specific car qualifies for.
What does a used Shelby or Mach 1 need checked?
The same checks as any Mustang, plus extra attention to track use, tires, brakes and cooling, and documentation of any special-model equipment. Ask us to put it on a lift.
Can I take a used vehicle to my own mechanic before buying?
Yes. Ask us and we'll set it up. A pre-purchase inspection by someone you trust is smart on any used vehicle.
Does a clean history report mean no accidents?
No. A history report only shows what was reported to it. Look at the vehicle and the records, and have it inspected.
How do I check a used Ford for open recalls?
Enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free at a Ford dealer, including ours.
Keep reading
- Ford Mustang buyer's guide (new models)
- Used Mustang recalls by year
- Ford Blue Advantage at Swant Graber
- Wisconsin winter checklist
- Vehicle history reports
Swant Graber Ford, 1697 E Division Ave, Barron, WI 54812 · 715-537-9500 · Ford Blue Advantage · Value your trade · GAP coverage
Sources
- EPA, fueleconomy.gov web services (queried Nov 1, 2026)
- NHTSA recalls API, recallsByVehicle (queried Nov 1, 2026) and nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Ford Blue Advantage Gold and Blue certification pages and FAQ (ford.com, as archived Sept–Oct 2026)
- Wisconsin Buyers Guide requirement, Wis. Admin. Code Trans 139