DecodedCars2023 Ford Mustang
Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2023 models.
- Class
- Subcompact Cars
- Body styles
- Ecoboost 2dr Convertible, Ecoboost 2dr Coupe, GT 2dr Convertible, GT 2dr Coupe
- Engines
- 2.3L 4-cyl turbo, 5.0L 8-cyl
- Transmission
- 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Seats
- 4
- Fuel
- Regular Gasoline
- MPG (best)
- 25 combined · 22 city / 32 hwy
- Length
- 188.2–188.6 in
- Curb weight
- 3,543–3,891 lb
- NHTSA rating
- Not rated
- Recalls
- 6 campaigns
Pros & cons
What's good
- Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
Watch out for
- 6 recallsMore than similar models (about 2). Confirm repairs with the VIN.
Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 8 similar 2023 models — not a review. How we calculate this →
Overview
The 2023 Ford Mustang is a subcompact car offered with 2 engines (2.3L 4-cyl turbo and 5.0L 8-cyl) and rear-wheel drive.
It measures about 188 inches long and 76 inches wide on a 107-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,706 lb (Ecoboost 2dr Convertible).
EPA rates its most efficient version at 25 MPG combined (22 city / 32 highway), 7% better than the 2023 subcompact car average of 23.3 MPG, for an estimated $2,700 a year in fuel.
NHTSA has not published a 5-Star overall rating for this model year.
It has 6 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 15 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the steering.
What changed for 2023
- Engine dropped: 5.2L 8-cyl
Compared with 2022; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2022 Mustang →
Trims, performance & features
Engine–5.0L 8-cyl
Engine–2.3L 4-cyl
Transmission6-speed manual
DriveRWD
Seating4 seats · 2 rows
Trims
GTI4Mach 1
Safety & driver-assist features
Automatic emergency brakingStandard
Pedestrian emergency brakingStandard
Forward collision warningStandard
Blind-spot monitoringStandard
Rear cross-traffic alertStandard
Lane departure warningStandard
Lane keeping assistStandard
Parking assistStandard
Backup cameraStandard
Automatic high beamsStandard
Keyless startStandard
LED headlightsYes
Built in: Flat Rock, Michigan
NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 5 2023 Mustang configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →
Dimensions & weight
| Body | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Track F / R | Curb weight | Weight F/R |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ecoboost 2dr Convertible | 188.2 in | 75.6 in | 54.7 in | 107.1 in | 62.6 / 65 in | 3,706 lb | 52/48 |
| Ecoboost 2dr Coupe | 188.2 in | 75.6 in | 54.3 in | 107.1 in | 62.2 / 65 in | 3,543 lb | 52/48 |
| GT 2dr Convertible | 188.2 in | 75.6 in | 54.7 in | 107.1 in | 62.6 / 65 in | 3,891 lb | 54/46 |
| GT 2dr Coupe | 188.2 in | 75.6 in | 54.3 in | 107.1 in | 62.2 / 65 in | 3,706 lb | 54/46 |
| Mach 1 2dr Coupe | 188.6 in | 75.6 in | 54.3 in | 107.1 in | 62.2 / 63.8 in | 3,867 lb | 54/46 |
Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.
Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →Engines, MPG & running costs
| Version | Engine | Transmission | Drive | City / Hwy / Comb | vs. class | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mustang | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic 10-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 22 / 32 / 25 | +7% | $2,700 | 350 |
| Mustang | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 21 / 29 / 24 | +3% | $2,800 | 371 |
| Mustang | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S10) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 21 / 31 / 24 | +3% | $2,800 | 363 |
| Mustang HO Coupe | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S10) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 20 / 27 / 23 | -1% | $2,900 | 387 |
| Mustang Convertible | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S10) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 20 / 28 / 23 | -1% | $2,900 | 389 |
| Mustang Convertible | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic 10-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 20 / 28 / 23 | -1% | $2,900 | 386 |
| Mustang Convertible | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 20 / 27 / 23 | -1% | $2,900 | 387 |
| Mustang HO Coupe | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 20 / 27 / 22 | -6% | $3,050 | 396 |
| Mustang HO Convertible | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S10) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 19 / 26 / 22 | -6% | $3,050 | 404 |
| Mustang HO Convertible | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 19 / 25 / 21 | -10% | $3,200 | 423 |
| Mustang | 5.0L 8-cyl | Automatic (S10) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 15 / 24 / 19 | -18% | $3,550 | 480 |
| Mustang | 5.0L 8-cyl | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 15 / 24 / 18 | -23% | $3,700 | 498 |
| Mustang Mach 1 | 5.0L 8-cyl | Automatic (S10) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 15 / 23 / 18 | -23% | $3,700 | 493 |
| Mustang Convertible | 5.0L 8-cyl | Automatic (S10) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 15 / 23 / 18 | -23% | $3,700 | 497 |
| Mustang Mach 1 | 5.0L 8-cyl | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 14 / 22 / 17 | -27% | $3,950 | 523 |
5/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
5/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Spend $1,500Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
23.3 MPG2023 Subcompact Cars average
EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2023 EPA class average. How we calculate this →
Safety ratings & technology
NHTSA has not published 5-Star ratings for the 2023 Ford Mustang.
Similar 2023 subcompact cars
| Model | Best MPG / range | NHTSA overall | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Ford Mustang (this car) | 25 MPG | Not rated | 6 |
| 2023 Toyota Camry | 52 MPG | ★★★★★ | 2 |
| 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | 25 MPG | Not rated | 0 |
| 2023 Nissan GT-R | 18 MPG | Not rated | 0 |
| 2023 Dodge Challenger | 23 MPG | ★★★★★ | 2 |
| 2023 Nissan Maxima | 24 MPG | ★★★★★ | 0 |
| 2023 Kia Stinger | 25 MPG | ★★★★★ | 1 |
Recalls (6)
Electrical System › Body Control Module/Bcm · Oct 10, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V689000 · 2,101 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Mustang vehicles repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V727. The brake fluid level sensor may not activate the visual warning indicator when the brake fluid is low. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
- Risk
- 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.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C55. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 17, 2025.
Back Over Prevention › Software · Jun 27, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V442000 · 200,237 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
- Risk
- 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.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Steering › Electric Power Assist System · Feb 14, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V096000 · 332 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Ford Mustang vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-493. The secondary steering torque sensor may not be calibrated properly, which can cause the steering wheel to turn side to side against the driver's intentions.
- Risk
- A steering wheel that turns unintentionally can cause a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the power steering control module (PSCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S11.
Steering › Electric Power Assist System · Jun 28, 2024
NHTSA campaign 24V493000 · 30,735 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Ford Mustang vehicles. The secondary steering torque sensor may not be calibrated properly, which can cause the steering wheel to turn side to side against the driver's intentions.
- Risk
- A steering wheel that turns unintentionally can cause a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the power steering control module (PSCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S44.
Electrical System › Body Control Module/Bcm · Oct 27, 2023
NHTSA campaign 23V727000 · 187,922 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Mustang vehicles. The brake fluid level sensor may not activate the visual warning indicator when the brake fluid is low. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
- Risk
- 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.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C35.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · Feb 10, 2023
NHTSA campaign 23V070000 · 1,138 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Bronco, and 2023 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. The transmission may contain a loose bolt which could prevent the transmission from engaging the park gear, although the gear shifter position may indicate that the vehicle has been shifted to "PARK."
- Risk
- The inability to secure the vehicle in the park position can result in a rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transmissions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S06.
Not every 2023 Ford Mustang is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.
Owner-reported problems
15Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
5Involved a crash
0Involved a fire
0Injuries reported
14,000 miTypical mileage at failure
Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.
Used 2023 Ford Mustang buyer's checklist
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 6 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
- Steering — 5 owner reports. Turn lock-to-lock while parked and on the road; listen for noises and feel for heavy or loose steering.
- Electrical System — 5 owner reports. Test every window, lock, light, screen and USB port; check the battery age.
- Service Brakes — 4 owner reports. Brake firmly from speed; check for pulling, pulsing pedal or ABS warning light.
- Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 14,000 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
- Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.
Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2023 Ford Mustang. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.
Other Mustang years
Compare all years →| Year | MPG (best) | Length | Overall | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Mustang | 26 | 189.4 in | Not rated | 5 | 8 |
| 2025 Mustang | 26 | 189.4 in | ★★★★★ | 6 | 19 |
| 2024 Mustang | 26 | 189.4 in | ★★★★★ | 12 | 84 |
| 2022 Mustang | 25 | 188.2 in | ★★★★★ | 9 | 50 |
| 2021 Mustang | 25 | 188.2 in | ★★★★★ | 6 | 55 |
| 2020 Mustang | 25 | 188.2 in | ★★★★★ | 8 | 121 |
| 2019 Mustang | 25 | 188.2 in | ★★★★★ | 6 | 151 |
| 2018 Mustang | 25 | 188.2 in | ★★★★★ | 3 | 196 |
| 2017 Mustang | 24 | 188.2 in | ★★★★★ | 6 | 268 |
| 2016 Mustang | 25 | 188.2 in | Not rated | 5 | 380 |
| 2015 Mustang | 25 | 188.2 in | Not rated | 11 | 437 |
| 2014 Mustang | 23 | 188.2 in | Not rated | 3 | 335 |
Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Ford. How we calculate this →