Few cars get your pulse racing quite like a Mustang. That long hood, those aggressive lines, and the promise of V8 thunder make this American icon a dream car for so many drivers. Buying a used one brings that dream within reach without the new-car price tag. Whether you're after weekend fun or a daily driver that makes every commute feel special, the used Mustang market has something for every budget and preference.
- Fifth-generation Mustangs (2005-2014) offer strong reliability and affordable entry points, with 2011-2014 models getting serious props for their 412-horsepower V8 and surprisingly capable 305-horsepower V6 options.
- Watch for common wear items like alternators (usually die around 80,000 miles), clutches (expect 80,000-mile lifespan on manuals), and those notorious two-piece spark plugs on 2005-2007 models that can snap during removal.
- Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic, dig into maintenance records, and spend real time test driving to check for smooth shifting and listen for any weird noises.
What Makes Mustangs Different Across Generations
Six generations of Mustangs have hit the roads since 1964, and each brings its own personality. Right now, fifth-generation models (2005-2014) hit a sweet spot for used buyers. Those cars brought back retro-inspired styling that made people remember why they loved Mustangs in the first place. You'll find three engine options: a 4.0-liter V6, a 4.6-liter V8, and later models packing that seriously good 5.0-liter Coyote V8 cranking out 412 horses.
Sixth-generation S550 models (2015-2023) stepped up handling with an independent rear suspension that transformed how these cars corner. Ford tossed in an EcoBoost four-cylinder turbo option that gets decent mileage but needs premium fuel. Newer models come with better interior materials and tech features. Just expect to pay more for these later generations in today's used market.
What To Check Before You Buy
Some Mustangs live easy lives as daily drivers. Others spend weekends getting thrashed at drag strips. Neither is automatically bad, but both deserve different levels of scrutiny. Start by reviewing service records. A well-maintained performance car that's been driven hard beats a neglected garage queen sitting under a cover.
Models from 2005-2008 came with two-piece Motorcraft spark plugs that snap during removal if nobody's changed them yet. Not a deal-breaker, just something you'll want to know about upfront. High-mileage examples might show timing chain wear or cam phaser issues on those 4.6-liter three-valve engines. Alternators tend to die around 80,000 miles, and manual transmission clutches rarely make it much past that mark either.
Sixth-generation S550 Mustangs bring their own quirks. Owners report notchy shifting with MT82 manual transmissions, occasional rear differential noise, and interior rattles in early production models. EcoBoost engines sometimes leak a bit of oil at higher mileage. None of these kill the car, but check for them during your inspection.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Needs
Think about how you'll actually use this car. Want a daily driver that's fun but practical? V6 or EcoBoost models deliver plenty of punch while keeping fuel costs reasonable. Craving pure performance? GT models with their V8 engines remain the most popular choice for good reason. Special editions like Boss 302s or Shelby variants hold their value better but command premium prices.
Test drive multiple examples if you can. Pay attention to how smoothly the transmission shifts, listen for weird noises, and feel how the car responds when you punch the throttle. A used Ford Mustang should feel tight and responsive, not loose or sloppy. Don't rush this part just because you're excited about finally owning one.
Making the Smart Purchase
Get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic who knows performance cars. That hundred bucks you spend now could save you thousands down the road. Look for signs of modification, especially on GT models. Aftermarket parts aren't necessarily bad, but they tell you how the previous owner treated the car.
Check history reports for accidents, title issues, and service records. Clean history doesn't guarantee a perfect car, but it's a solid starting point. If sellers have maintenance receipts going back years, that's an even better sign someone actually cared for this thing.
Pricing varies wildly depending on generation, mileage, and condition. Clean fifth-gen examples run $15,000-$25,000, while sixth-gen models start around $20,000 and climb from there. Special editions and low-mileage examples command more, sometimes significantly more.
Worth the Wait
Finding your perfect Mustang takes patience. Don't settle for the first one you see just because you're eager to own one. That ideal example is out there, whether it's a V6 with low miles and meticulous records or a GT that's been loved and maintained by an enthusiast who knew what they had.
At S&H Auto Group, we understand what makes a quality used performance car. Our three locations across Elkhart, Goshen, and Osceola give you convenient access to our carefully inspected inventory. We take the time to evaluate every vehicle that comes through our doors, checking for those common Mustang issues before they ever hit our lot. Our service center has the experience to handle everything from routine maintenance to more involved repairs, so your Mustang stays running strong long after you drive it home. Come see what we have available, take one for a test drive, and let our financing team work out a plan that fits your budget. We're here to help you find the right car without the usual dealership pressure.