1FABP42E8KF1755881989 FORD MustangGT
1989 FORD Mustang was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 5 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 116 owner complaints include 12 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
Executive Summary
1989 FORD Mustang
1989 FORD Mustang was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 5 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 116 owner complaints include 12 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
- 5 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
- 12 injuries reported across 116 owner complaints
- Common owner-reported issues: fire, electrical problems
- High fire risk — 35 complaint(s) involved a fire
- Electrical is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
- Complaint language indicates serious real-world safety incidents beyond routine mechanical failures
- Manufacturer delayed recall by 19.9 years after first complaints — pattern of slow response to known defects
116 owner complaints filed — top areas: Electrical (43%), Safety Systems (17%), Body/Structure (9%). Common issues: fire, electrical problems. 3 crashes reported.
Title Brand Check
Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
Vehicle Specifications
Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database
- Make
- FORD
- Model
- Mustang
- Year
- 1989
- Trim / Series
- GT
- Body Style
- Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback
- Vehicle Type
- PASSENGER CAR
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline
- Engine
- 8-cyl 5.0L 225 hp
- Doors
- 2
- Manufacturer
- FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Assembly
- DEARBORN, MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
- GVWR
- Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Assembly Plant Quality
Ford Dearborn Truck Plant (River Rouge)
F-150 Lightning and Bronco assembly. Improved quality after recent retooling.
Safety Intelligence
Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data
- ▸Fire/ignition recall
- ▸35 complaint(s) involved a fire
- ▸1 recall(s) involve fire or ignition risk
- ⚠5 recalls on same component: Electrical
- ⚠12 injuries reported in complaints
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
Deferred Failure Risk
Vehicle-specific risks from this model-year's complaint record, known defects, and service milestones
Owners of the 1989 FORD Mustang report electrical issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 1989 FORD Mustang report safety systems issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 1989 FORD Mustang report body/structure issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA Safety Recalls
5 RECALLSNHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 5 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 5 recalls is ~64%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
FORD completes recalls at a good rate (89%), averaging about 18 months to remedy. Most affected vehicles are fixed.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~18 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
SummaryK2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
SummaryDOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SummarySABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SummaryCERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
SummaryTHE IGNITION SWITCH COULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
Recall Intelligence
Detailed analysis of recall history and severity
⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.
Recall Remedy Effectiveness — Complaints Continue After Fix
RECALL DIDN'T FIX ITOwner complaints filed AFTER recall remedies were issued for the same components
50% of complaints about "EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS" were filed AFTER recall campaign 08E050000 (2008-11-08) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.
Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.
Manufacturer Recall Response Time
Time between first owner complaint and recall issuance
First complaint was filed 19.9 years before the recall was issued — manufacturer was aware of this issue for years before acting.
12 injuries reported across 116 complaints — elevated injury rate for this class of vehicle.
Complaint Intelligence
116 complaints analyzed across 9 system categories
Electrical System leads owner complaints (41%), most reported when the vehicle was 5–7 yrs old. Also common: Seat Belts (17%), Vehicle Speed Control (8%).
Based on 89 complaints with a reported incident date. Too few owners cited mileage (0) to report a reliable failure-mileage range.
Owner Complaints
HIGH VOLUME116 safety complaints filed with NHTSA
I have had the outside sidewall separate from the rest of the tire on two occasions, with these tires. The first time was in May of 2021, the second on June 1, 2023. I currently have the tire that separated on June 1st. Both times I was on the highway driving around 70 when the car began to shake violently, as if I was on an exaggerated rumble strip. I was able to pull into the emergency lane and change to a spare. The first time I assumed maybe the tire was low on air and didn't report it, however now after having a second tire do the exact same thing believe they are defective. Tire size is 225/55/16, for full disclosure I did purchase the tires and wheels off craigslist, however they were in very good condition. I Believe Granada is a Les Schwab brand. Picture of both tires are attached.
SEAT BELTS PULL OUT AND LATCH HOWEVER THE CROSS BODY PORTION DOES NOT RECEDE BACK INTO FRAME, ONLY CONTINUES TO LOOSEN AND NOT RETRACT THIS HAPPENS AT ANY TIME YOU ATE USING THE SEAT BELTS, HAPPENS WITH FRONT AND PASSENGER SEAT BELTS, EITHER STOPPED. DRIVING, BREAKING OR EXCELLING. ITS ALL THE TIME . MY BEST GUESS IS THAT THE SEAT BELT MECHANISM IS OLD AND WORE OUT. SPEEDOMETER STOPPED WORKING ABOUT 8 MONTHS AGO. AT THAT TIME THERE WAS 131,000 ORIGINAL MILES ON THE MOTOR. NO IDEA WHY THE SPEEDOMETER JUST STOPPED WORKING AS I WAS DRIVING IN TOWN GOING ABOUT 35 MILES PER HOUR. OVERDRIVE STOPPED WORKING. NO WARNING, NO OCCASIONAL SLIPS. JUST STOPPED WORKING WHILE SWITCHING INTO OVERDRIVE IT WOULD NOT ENGAGE AT ALL. HAVE TO KEEP THE CAR UNDER 50 MILES PER HOUR AS CAR WON'T SHIFT INTO NEXT GEAR. MY GUESS IS CHANGE TRANSMISSION. LOOKING FOR ONE NOW TO EITHER REBUILD IT OR GET A NEW ONE. SWITCHES, DRIVER SIDE SWITCH WOULD NOT CATCH THE WINDOW TO ROLL UP OR DOWN,, THEN THE SWITCH PLATE WOULD STICK AND STARTED SMOKING. I REPLACED THE SWITCH TWICE NOW WITHIN THE LAST YEAR. INTERIOR LIGHTING FOR SPEEDOMETER GAGES ARE NO LIGHTS. UNABLE TO SEE GAGES. ***I DO REALIZE THE CAR IS 31 YEARS OLD NOW. AND MAY JUST BE OLD AGE GETTING TO MY FOXBODY. *** THANK YOU
MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE MUSTANG AND FOLLOWING ME AT NIGHT. SHE HAD THE FOG LAMPS TURNED ON ALONG WITH THE HEADLAMPS AND THE LIGHTS WENT OUT. SHE RAN OFF THE ROAD BEFORE SHE COULD STOP, BUT DID NOT CAUSE ANY DAMAGE. THE LIGHTS KEPT FLICKERING ON AND OFF STAYING OFF FOR SEVERAL SECONDS. WE FINISHED THE TRIP WE WERE ON WITH JUST THE HEADLAMPS AND THEY DID NOT FLICKER. WE DID NOT BRING THE CAR BACK TO TOWN UNTIL AUGUST AND I TOOK IT TO IMMEL MOTORS FORD DEALER IN FREDERICKSBURG, TX. THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG WITH IT. AFTER WE GOT IT OUT IT CONTINUED TO FLICKER IF WE USED THE FOG LAMPS SO WE QUIT USING THEM. I RECENTLY FOUND THAT THERE IS A TSB 891711 AUG 89 THAT IDENTIFIES THAT PROBLEM. I BELIEVE IT AFFECTS MORE THAN JUST THE 1989 MUSTANGS. I ALSO BELIEVE THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AND WOULD NOT BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT THAT IT HAS CAUSED MANY ACCIDENTS AND POSSIBLY EVEN DEATHS. I WAS TOLD BY FORD THAT THERE WAS NOT A RECALL AND THAT I WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYING TO REPAIR IT, BUT IMMEL MOTORS DOES NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO TO REPAIR THE ISSUE. I BELIEVE THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED A LONG TIME AGO. I KNOW THAT THERE ARE STILL A LOT OF VEHICLES OUT THERE BEING AFFECTED. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1989 FORD MUSTANG. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION KEY BECAME EXTREMELY HOT. THE CONTACT HAD NOT TAKEN VEHICLE TO DEALER TO GET A DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1989 FORD MUSTANG. WHENEVER THE KEY IS INSERTED INTO THE IGNITION TO START THE ENGINE, THE VEHICLE WILL NOT START ON THE FIRST ATTEMPT. THE CONTACT MUST REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION AND RETRY IN ORDER FOR THE VEHICLE TO START. HE DISCOVERED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 96V071000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION); HOWEVER, THE DEALER STATED THAT HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 125,000. UPDATED 6/16/08 *CN THE STARTER AND RELAY WERE REPLACED.
I JUST FILED A COMPLAINT 10-15-06, AND AFTER GOING OVER MY ACCIDENT THAT INVOLVED MY 1989 MUSTANG ON 11-05,, I DO BELIEVE THAT THE WRECK COULD HAVE BEEN RELATED TO THE FAUTLY EQUIMENT THAT IS IN MY CAR,, LIKE I SAID IN MY FIRST FORM I TRIED TO HAVE THIS FIXED WITHIN A WEEK OR SO OF PURCHACING THE CAR,,AND IT DID THE SAME THING BEFORE I GOT HOME FROM THE FORD DEALERSHIP. MIGHT I ADD IT WENT TO A FORD DEALER TO BE FIXED..I REALLY FEEL AS THOUGH THIS IS A BIG ISSUSE AND I THINK FORD SHOULD BE RESPONABLE TO FIND OUT WHAT IS THE PROBLEM NOT AT MY EXPESNE I HOPE TO HEAR FROM SOMEONE ABOUT THIS MATTER... I THOUGHT MY CAR WAS THE ONLY ONE THAT WAS DOING THIS (ACCELERATES ON ITS OWN, FASTER AND FASTER UNTIL YOU TURN THE CAR OFF AND BACK ON AGAIN THEN IT IS NORMAL AGAIN) UNTIL I SAW YOUR WEB SITE AND READED THE COMPLAITS ON THE 1989 MUSTANG,,, PLEASE HELP,,, THANK YOU SHERRY COOK. *NM
WHILE DRIVING OUT OF NO WHERE THE CAR WILL ACCERATOR ON ITS OWN,,THIS HAPPENS RANDOMLY,,SOME TIMES NOT FOR A WEEK,, AND TEN TIMES IN ONE DAY,, I FEEL IT IS VERY DANGEROUS,,IT DONT JUST JUMP UP AND STOP,,IT WILL KEEP DOING IT AND GO FASTER UNTIL I TURN THE CAR OFF AND RESTART THE CAR,,I HAD A FORD DEALER REPLACE THE THOTTLE BODY,,HOWEVER BEFORE I MADE IT HOME IT DID THE SAME THING,,THIS COSTED ME 500.00 AND THE CAR IS STILL DOING IT UP TO PRESENT DAY..I HAVE ALSO HAD TO BUY MORE STARTERS THAN NORMAL BECAUSE I AM ALWAYS RESTARTING MY CAR WHILE DRIVING,, I PUSH IN CLUTCH AND TURN KEY OFF WHILE A SECOND AND RESTART THE CAR AND LET OUT THE CLUTCH,,LIKE I SAID THIS PUTS ALOT OF PEOPLE IN HARMS WAY AND I FEEL AS THOUGH THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT RECALL,, I TRYED TO HAVE IT FIXED ON MY OWN HOWEVER I DO FEEL THAT FORD IS REPOSIABLE FOR THIS PROBLEM..
THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM AS STATED IN RECALL #96 V 071 000, HOWEVER THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL.*JB
WHEN PRESSURE IS APPLIED ON STEERING WHEEL IT CAUSES ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND VEHICLE TO SHUTDOWN WHILE DRIVING. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE NOT BEEN NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
WHILE DRIVING, AND WHEN CONSUMER HIT BRAKES, DRIVER'S SEAT FULLY RECLINED, DISTRACTING CONSUMER VIEW WHILE DRIVING. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
WHILE DRIVING AND WITH NO WARNING CONSUMER HIT BRAKES AND DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT STAY IN LOCKED POSITION. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AKTHE DRIVERS SIDE BELT WAS REPLACED, BUT WOULD NOT WORK AFTER INSTALLATION. *JG
FRONT PASSENGER LAP SEAT BELT WILL NOT STAY IN LOCKED POSITION ,AND IS CAUSING CONSUMER NOT TO HAVE A SEAT BELT ON WHILE DRIVING. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
UNDER HOT CONDITIONS IGNITION SPARKS AND CLICKS. DEALER HAS REPLACED SWITCH THREE TIMES, AND PROBLEM IS STILL OCCURRING. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
CONSUMER STATES UNDER HOT WEATHER CONDITIONS THE VEHICLES IGNITION WILL SPARK AND CLICK. CONSUMER HAS REPLACED SWITCH 3 TIMES. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*JB
RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE 96V071000. CONTACTED DEALERSHIP AND TOOK VEHICLE ON APPOINTED DATE. AFTER PICKING UP VEHICLE, NOTICED IGNITION ACTED SAME AS BEFORE GOING TO DEALER. OWNER TOOK IGNITION APART AND CONTACTED MANUFACTURER FOR PART NUMBER OF REPLACEMENT. PART WAS NEVER REPLACED BY DEALERSHIP.*AK *TT
CONSUMER STATES HOOD LATCH WILL NOT WORK IF HOOD IS NOT CLOSED ALL THE WAY.*JB
CONSUMER STATES HOOD LATCH WILL NOT WORK IF HOOD IS NOT CLOSED ALL THE WAY.*JB
SIDEWALL DISINTINGRATED, INNER AND OUTER, WHILE GOING DOWN THE ROAD. NOTHING WAS IN THE ROAD THAT WAS HIT OR ANYTHING. THERE WERE NO BUMPS OR DEBRIS IN THE ROAD. THE TIRE DID NOT BLOW OUT, IT JUST CAME APART.*AK (DOT NUMBER: EJ9DDMH127 TIRESIZE: 22560R15)
BOTH DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SHOULDER BELTS DO NOT RETRACT PROPERLY OR WILL EITHER JUST HANG UP, CAUSING LOSS OF PROTECTION.*AK
WAS DRIVING VEHICLE 35MPH WHEN IT STARTED OVERHEATING. HOSE HAD BROKEN. THEN IT STALLED OUT WHILE WAITING AT STOP LIGHT. CONTACTED DEALERSHIP, AND INFORMED BY MECHANIC NO RESOLUTION FOR PROBLEM WHICH WAS GETTING WORSE.*AK
WHILE TRAVELING AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION VEHICLE STALLED. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED . PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
I HAVE RECENTLY CONTACTED FORD ABOUT THIS PROBLEM AND I WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS NO PROBLEM. MY FRIEND HAS A 1988 MUSTANG, WHO HAS HAD THE SAME PROBLEM NUMEROUS TIMES. I AM AN ELECTRICAL ENGINEER AND KNOW THAT THIS PROBLEM IS THE RESULT OF A BAD DESIGN (I.E. THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE GETS TOO HOT, WHICH CAUSES THE TRANSISTORS TO FUNCTION IMPROPERLY). THIS IS A REAL PROBLEM AND I HOPE IT DOESN'T TAKE MANY LIVES TO FIGURE THIS OUT. THANK YOU, JOSH SHAW
WHEN SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE LEFT OR RIGHT TURNS, THE ENGINE OF THE VEHICLE SURGES AND CUTS OFF WITH NO WARNING RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND BRAKES. PROBLEM MOST OFTEN OCCURS WHEN THE ENGINE IS HOT AND THE AIR CONDITIONING IS ON.
I HAD ADDED OIL THE PREVIOUS NIGHT, AND I CLOSED THE HOOD. WHILE DRIVING TO WORK THE NEXT MORNING (TRAVELING OVER THE HANOVER STREET BRIDGE IN BALTIMORE), THE HOOD SUDDENLY FLEW UP AND BACK AGAINST THE WINDSHIELD. THE HOOD HAD COME LOOSE BEFORE, BUT THE SAFETY LATCH MIGHT HAVE CAUSED IT TO STAY DOWN. ALSO, I WASN'T MOVING THAT FAST. I WAS GOING 55MPH OVER THE BRIDGE.I CALLED FORD AND THEY SAID THEY WOULDN'T FIX IT BECAUSE IT WASN'T UNDER WARRANTY. I'VE HEARD ABOUT THIS BEING A PROBLEM WITH MUSTANGS, AND I HAVE SEEN EVIDENCE MYSELF. I SAW ONE IN COLUMBIA, MD THAT HAD THE SAME CREASE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HOOD (FROM THE TOP OF THE WINDSHIELD), AND IT ALSO HAD THE VENT IN FRONT OF THE WINDSHIELD BUSTED OUT. IS THIS A MECHANICAL FAILURE? IT SEEMS SO TO ME. I HOPE OTHER PEOPLE HAVE REPORTED THIS PROBLEM. ANY FEEDBACK WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. THANKS FOR YOUR TIME. BRIAN WHEELER. *AK
THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, THE MECHANIC CONCLUDED THAT THE THROTTLE SURGING HAD DAMAGED THE TRANSMISSION, WHICH REQUIRED REPAIR ALSO. *MJS
THE GEAR SHIFT WOULD NOT CHANGE GEARS UNLESS CAR WAS OFF. ALSO CLUTCH CABLE BROKE, AND THE GEARS GRIND GOING IN REVERSE. THERE HAS BEEN 3 REPLACEMENTS OF THE CLUTCH ASSEMBLY, 2 OF THE CABLE, 3 OF THE GEARS AND NOW I'M GOING ON THE 4TH TIME. *AK
FUEL PUMP SAFETY SWITCH WOULD ENGAGE ON ITS OWN & CAR WOULDN'T START UNLESS YOU HIT THE SWITCH. ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED 3 TIMES AND SO HAS BATTERY.
THE CAR AT ANY SPEED WILL JUST SUDDENLY DIE ... USUALLY ITS WHEN IT IS REALLY WARM OUTSIDE......IVE RECENTLY READ A REPORT ABOUT DISTRIBUTER -MOUNTED TFI MODULES AND I BELEIVE ( SINCE MY MECHANIC CAN NOT FIND A PROBLEM ) THAT THIS COULD BE THE CAUSE. ITS VERY SCARY WHEN DRIVING 55MPH AND THE CAR SUDDENLY DIES AND I HAVE NO POWER STEERING OR BRAKES TO STOP THE VEHICLE !!! I HOPE YOU WILL RECONSIDER A RECALL ON THIS SITUATION
HAD RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE 96V071000 AND CONTACTED DEALER. TOOK VEHICLE FOR REPAIRS OF IGNITION SWITCH. 4 YEARS LATER, IGNITION SWITCH HAD A SHORT. DEALER REFUSED TO REPAIR, WAS NOT TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR PROBLEM. MANUFACTURER AGREED WITH DEALER.*AK
RECALL 96V071000/ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IGNITION SWITCH. VEHICLE HAD A BROKEN IGNITION SWITCH, AND CONSUMER BELIEVED THAT THE RECALL WAS THE REASON FOR THIS PROBLEM. ALSO, MSNUFACTURER INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
A FIRE STARTING IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT DUE TO A DEFECTIVE WIRING HARNESS AND ALTERNATOR WITHOUT ANY WARNING. *AK *ML
SUDDEN ACCELERATION, UPON APPLYING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, CAUSED VEHICLE TO LOSE CONTROL. DRIVER WAS ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL AND TURN VEHICLE OFF. NO DAMEGES OR INJURY REPORTED. DEALER NOTIFIED, AND REPAIRS WERE BEING MADE.*AK
HOLE IN THE GAS TANK CAUSED FUSE INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND FUEL TO SPILL OUT OF THE TOP RESULTING IN A RUSTED MUFFLER AND BRACKETS, CONSUMER ALSO NOTICE STRONG GAS ODOR INSIDE VEHICLE. NLM
THE FUSE BOX CAUGHT ON FIRE WHEN CONSUMER ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED A PENNY INTO THE CIGARETTE LIGHT. CONSUMER FEELS THE FUSE SHOULD HAVE BLOWN TO PREVENT THE FIRE FROM OCCURING. NLM
CAR WAS PARKED IN THE PARKING LOT AT PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT ON 1/31/96. APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES LATER I WAS INFORMED THAT THE CAR WAS ON FIRE IN THE PARKING LOT. THE FIRE COMPLETELY CONSUMED THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND INTERIOR DASHBOARD AREA. THE PALM BEACH GARDENS FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE, HOWEVER THE CAR WAS TOTALED DUE TO THE EXTENSIVE DAMAGE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT INCIDENT REPORT INDICATED THAT THE FIRE WAS CAUSED BY A FAULTY IGNITION RELAY. THE CAR WAS REMOVED BY A TOWING SERVICE AND DELIVERED TO A JUNK YARD. A TOTAL OF $100 WAS PROVIDED FOR THE CAR FOR USED PARTS. THERE WAS NO INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR THIS INCIDENT. ON SEPT. 1996, WE RECEIVED A SAFETY RECAL NOTICE FROM THE FORD MOTOR CO. STATING THAT 1988-93 MODEL MUSTANGS COULD EXPERIENCE A SHORT CIRCUT IN THE IGNITION SWITCH LEADING TO OVERHEATING AND POSSIBLY FIRE. WE HAVE ATTEMPTED SEVERAL TIMES TO CONTACT FORD MOTOR CO. BUT HAVE RECEIVED NO SUPPORTING RESPONCE. ALSO, THE DISPUTE SETTLEMENT BOARD HAS BEEN CONTACTED, BUT INDICATED THAT OUR APPLICATION DOES NOT FALL WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE BOARD. WE HAVE A COPY OF THE FIRE REPORT AND PHOTOS OF THE VEHICLE. PLEASE ADVISE.
WHILE MY WIFE WAS GETTING INTO THE CAR THE LEFT FRONT STUD BROKE OUT OF THE SEATBACK FRAME. FROM THE SUDDEN MOVE TO THE REAR SHE PULL HERE BACK. THE PART THAT BROKE DID NOT HAVE ANY RUST. ALSO THE STUD WAS NOT SQUARED TO THE NUT. I HAVE NOT CHECK THE OTHER STUD YET. ALSO I NEED TO CHECK THE OTHER SEAT. I MAY SEEK LEGAL ACTION . JUST HOW MANY TIME HAS THIS SEAT FAILED IN A DRIVING ACCIDENT. FORD SHOULD BE MADE TO CHECK ALL MOUNTS. THIS WILL BE MY SECOND ROUND WITH FORD. I AM 1 TO 0 FOR THEM. THANK YOU. *AK
VEHICLE RECEIVED RECALL REPAIR WORK ON THE IGNITION SYSTEM (96V-071) ON APRIL 21, 1999 ON APRIL 26, 1999 VEHICLE FIRE DUE TO ELECTRICAL FAILURE. MJS
HAS CAR BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENTS, AND ALSO HOW MANY PREVIOUS OWNERS. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED, INFORMATION REQUEST ONLY. *AK
THE PLASTIC DESIGN OF THE HEADLIGHTS GETS FADED AND OPAQUE, CAUSING THE HEADLIGHTS TO BE DIMMER, AND MAY RESULT IN VISUAL DIFFICULTIES AND IN A POTENTIAL ACCIDENT. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
YOU PEOPLE ARE IDIOTS. THE REASON YOU HAVE PROBLEMS IS BECAUSE YOUR CARS ARENT BEING TAKEN CARE OF. I'V HAD MYSTANG FOR TWO YEARS AND HAD NO MAJOR PROBLEMS. DONT BLAME THESE PROBLEMS ON FORD, BLAME THEM ON YOURSELF.
SEATBELT NOT RETRACTING TO PROPER POSITION. *AK
SEATBELTS DO NOT RETRACT PROPERLY, AND CAN TANGLE. FRONT SEAT DRIVERS SIDE ANCHOR BROKE, METAL SUPPORTING SEAT RAIL WAS SPLIT. REPAIRED VIA BRAZING. SPEEDOMETER NEEDLE CLICKED FROM DELIVERY, DEALER SAID WAS NORMAL, AT MILEAGE THE NEEDLE EXITED THE ASSEMBLY AFTER A SHORT PERIOD OF WILDLY ERATIC MOVEMENT. *AK
A PENNY WAS DROPPED INTO THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER AND IT CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE WIRING WAS BURNED. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN VEHICLE. *AK
EACH WINTER I REPLACE 1 OR BOTH OF THE EXT. HANDLES. THE INT. HANDLES BECOME HARD TO OPERATE AND EVENTUALLY REQUIRE SERVICE. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY FORD PERSONNEL THAT THEY HAVE TO "POUND THE HINGES BACK IN" TO FIX THE LATER PROBLEM.
WHILE DRIVING THE ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE WHICH ALMOST CAUSED INJURIES. CANNOT DETERMINE PROBLEM. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE DETAILS. *AK
APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES AFTER PARKING FIRE STARTED UNDER HOOD. DURING EXTINGUISH NOTICED SPARKING AT ALTERNATOR WIRE HOOKUPS.
WHILE DRIVING THE FACTORY INSTALLED SUN ROOF SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE BRACKET RUSTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
COOLING FAN/ROOF CRACKED AT UPPER LEFT CORNER OF HATCH AREA/SEAT BELT RETRACTORS MALFUNCTIONED/ DRIVER'S SEAT FEELS WOBBLY.
LEFT FRONT SEAT BELT FAILED 3 TIMES.
CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL FOR IGNITION SWITCH, STATES THAT DEALER WILL REPLACE SWITCH WITH NEW ONE. DEALER DID NOT, THEREFORE 10 MONTHS LATER VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO THIS.*AK
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM HOOD.OWNER PULLED OVER AND FIRE STARTED, CAUSING VEHICLE TO BURN UP COMPLETELY. *AK
PAINT OS PEELING OFF THE VEHICLE. *AK
ALTERNATOR FIRE.
CRYSTAL BLUE PAINT PEELED OFF MAINLY IN SEVERAL LARGE SECTIONS OF THE ROOF/HOOD. *AK
2 DRIVER'S DOOR HANDLES PAINT PEELING DUE TO ENGINEERING FLAW. *AK
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND DURING SHIFTING GEARS, VEHICLE ACCELERATES. THE ONLY WAY TO STOP IS BY TURNING OFF THE IGNITION. *AK
DRIVER'S SEAT ROCKED BACKWARDS AS A RESULT FROM NOT BEING SECURELY BOLTED TO THE FLOOR. AK
ELECTRICAL FIRE.
WHILE DRIVING AN ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE WIRING, CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CATCH ON FIRE. *AK
5 MONTHS AFTER RECALL CAMPAIGN 96V071000 WAS DONE, WIRING HARNESS WITHIN STEERING COLUMN WHICH CONTROLS HIGH BEAMS/ FLASHERS AND WINDSHIELD WIPERS BURNED, RENDERING WIRING HARNESSINOPERATIVE AS RESULT OF SHORT CIRCUIT. *AK
WHEN VEHICLE EXCEEDS 55-60 MPH, THE VEHICLE REAR END SWAYS RIGHT TO LEFT CONTINUOUSLY. MECHANIC TOLD HIM HE DOES NOT HAVE A SWAY BAR. ALSO, HAD TO REPLACE SHOCK ABSORBERS 3 TIMES.
VEHICLES CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE PARKED DUE TO A SHORT IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IN THE AREA OF THE UNDERHOOD. *AK
IGNITION SWITCH FIRE.
VEHICLE FIRE DUE TO IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE.
THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE IGNITION SWITCH. VEHICLE HAD A RECALL FOR THE IGNITION SWITCH. *AK
DUE TO A SHORT CIRCUIT HEADLAMP WIRING THERE IS A MALFUNCTION IN THE HEADLIGHTS AND FOG LIGHTS, CAUSING THE HEADLIGHTS TO FLASH ON A OFF. THERE IS A TSB PUT OUT FOR THAT PROBLEM TSB NUMBER 8917-11. *AK
VEHICLE FAULTY IGNITION FAILED AFTER RECALL REPAIR CAUSING IT TO CATCH ON FIRE.
PARKED CAR AND A FIRE BROKE OUT, FIRE ORIGINATED FROM UNDER THE HOOD . *AK
DOOR LATCH/STRIKER FAILED. (PENNSYLVANIA POLICE REPORT)
ACCIDENTAL FIRE RESULTING FROM A CROSS OVER HOSE FAILURE AT THE FRONT LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD.
VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE.
LAP/SHOULDER BELTS ON DRIVER'S/ PASSENGER'S SIDES AND REAR ARE BROKEN, WILL NOT RETRACT. *AK
WHILE DRIVING THE ENGINE INCREASES IN SPEED WITHOUT ANY WARNING. *AK CONSUMER STATES ENGINE STARTED TO INTERMITTENLY INCREASE IN SPEED THERE SEEMED TO BE NO COMMON DENOMINATOR ENGINE WOULD HOT OR COLD DRY OR WET WEATHER, HAPPENS RANDOMLY AND IS ALWAYS A SURPRIS, WHEN THE ENGINE RPM INCREASE IT LEVELS OUT ANYWHERE FROM 1,500 TO 3,00 RPM, IN ORDER TO STOP THE PROBLEM THE ENGINE MUST BE TURNED OFF AN RESTARTED, THIS USUALLY CORRECTS THE PROBLEM BUT NOT ALWAYS SOMETIMES SEVERAL RESTARTS, CONSUMR STATES HE TOOK IT IN FOR SERVICE AND WAS CHARGED $200 AND PROBLEM STILL REMAINS.JB
TURNED OFF THE HEADLIGHTS AND VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE RESULTED IN FIRE PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE.
WHEN SEAT BELTS ARE REMOVED FROM USE, THEY DO NOT RETRACT; WHEN ONE TRIES TO USE THE BELTS, AFTERWARDS, SLACK FROM NON-RETRACTING REMAINS LOOPED OUTSID EOF DOOR, BELTS FEEL TIGHT FROM BEING CAUGHT IN THE DOOR. *AK
WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
RECALL ONLY INCLUDES 1991-93 DUE TO BROKEN TRANSMISSION THROTTLE PASSING GEAR GROMMET PLASTIC PART, ACCELERATOR STUCK IN OPEN POSITION, RESULTING IN DRIVER LOSING CONTROL, RUNNING OFF ROAD. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS.*AK
FAILURE OF THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT RETRACTORS, SEAT BELTS WILL NOT RETRACT.*AK
CONSUMER STATES THAT WHEN YOU START THE VEHICLE GAS LEAKS FROM THE TANK AND ALSO WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PARKED.*AK
FAILURE OF THE REAR LAP BELT, THE BUCKLE WOULD NOT RELEASE, HAD TO CUT THE BELT TO GET CHILD OUT. *AK
THE ELECTRICAL IGNITION SWITCH WAS STICKING, HAD IT REPLACED, THE CAR STARTED OVERHEATING AFTER REPLACING THE SWITCH , THE RECALL LETTER WAS SEND OUT . PLEASE DESCRIBE.*AK
SEAT BELTS FAIL TO RETRACT. *AK
VEHICLE WAS DOUBLE PARKED ON SLIGHT INCLINE, BOTH PASSENGER'S/DRIVER'S DOORS OPEN, EMERGENCY BRAKES ON, KEY WAS NOT IN IGNITION, SUDDENLY WITH NO ANY WARNING, VEHICLE STARTED ROLLING DOWN HILL, PASSENGER'S DOOR BENT BACKWARDS.*AK
FRONT AUTOMATIC SEAT BELTS DO NOT LOCK UPON IMPACT. *AK
DRIVER'S SEAT MOUNTING BOLT TORE AWAY FROM BODY FRAME RAIL.
IGNITION SWITCH FIRE AFTER RECALL REPAIR.
VEHICLE FIRE DUE TO FAULTY IGNITION SWITCH (ELECTRICAL) PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE.
FRONT PASSENGER SIDE FRAME FRAME IS UNSTABLE AND COULD SEPARATE AT ANY TIME (DEALER OWNED). *AK
FAULTY WIRING FROM FACTORY DRAINS BATTERY, ALSO CAUSES FAILURE OF BATTERY/ALTERNATOTOR. *DH
THE SIDE SEATBELT WILL NOT RETRACT SO THAT IT MAY RESTRAIN OCCUPANT IN AN ACCIDENT. *AK
THE DRIVERS SEAT ANCHORS HAVE COME OUT AND TAKING SOME OF THE FLOORBOARD WITH THEM. PLEASE DESCRIBE.
IGNITION SWITCH FIRE PRIOR TO RECALL. *SD
ELECTRICAL SHORT OR SHOCK IN IGNITION SWITCH, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO CATCH ON FIRE. *AK
WHILE PARKED, WIRES IN THE STEERING COLUMN CAUGHT ON FIRE. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE, UNKNOWN SOURCE OF FIRE. *AK
PULLED KEY OUT OF IGNITION VEHICLE CONTINUED TO RUN. AFTER REPAIR SMOKE CAME FROM STEERING COLUMN. *AK
THERE WAS A FIRE IN THE VEHICLE AROUND THE STEERING COLUMN AREA. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
WIRING HARNESS FIRE AFTER RECALL REPAIR.
THE OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLE ON PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE BROKE AFTER COLD WEATHER . TT
DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE LAP/SHOULDER FAILED DID NOT RETRACT, IMPACT 1:00 POSITION SPEED 35 MPH. TT
BOTH FRONT DRIVER/PASSENGER SEAT BELTS FAIL TO RETRACT. BELTS HAVE EXTREME SLACK. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
ONE OF THE FOUR ANCHOR STRAPS SPILT IN HALF, ALLOWING THE SEAT TO MOVE FREELY. TT
ELECTRICAL FIRE STARTED UNDER DASH AND STEERING COLUMN. *AK
THE SEAT BELT DON'T RETRACT BACK TO POSITION. TT
CRUSE CONTROL FAILURE. *AK
PARKED VEHICLE, TURNED IGNITION OFF AND UPON RETURN VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO IGNITION WIRING FAILURE. *AK
DIFFERENTIAL FAILURE, WHILE DRIVING THERE IS A LOUD NOISE UNDER THE VEHICLE. TT
BODY WELDS FAILED DURING ACCIDENT, CAUSING VEHICLE'S BODY TO BREAK APART, ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT. *AW
SEAT BELT DOES NOT RETRACT PROPERLY. RESULTING IN DRIVER HITTING NOSE ON STEERING WHEEL. TT
DRIVER'S SEAT BELT RETRACTOR FAILS TO RETRACT OR HOLD TENSION, CAUSING BELT TO BECOME TOO LOOSE. *SKD
WHEN LIGHTS OR HEATER ARE ON HIGH WILL DAMAGE BATTERY. TT
IGNITION SWITCH WIRING SHORTED OUT, RESULTING IN A FIRE. *AK
ELECTRICAL FIRE, CAUSED BY A SHORT OR GROUND IN THE IGNITION SWITCH. *SKD
ENGINE REPLACED DUE TO OIL LEAKS. (OTHER VEHICLE ON 468999) *SKD
ELECTRONIC VALVE ON CARBURETOR FAILED INTERMITTENTLY.
Complaint Severity Analysis
NLP analysis of complaint language — not all complaints are equal
45 complaints use high-severity language including fire, sudden acceleration, burned — these are not minor inconveniences.
Complaint & Reliability Timeline
Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red
The blue line shows 116 total NHTSA complaints filed over 16 years, with the worst year being 1996 (33 complaints, including 1 crash report).
The amber reliability line averaged 99/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 91/100 in 2006.
The red dashed lines mark recall issuance — the first recall came 19 years after owners began filing complaints, a lag that indicates the manufacturer was slow to formally acknowledge these problems.
Red dots on the amber line flag 3 years (1995, 1996, 2006) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
Legal & Regulatory Actions
Known class action lawsuits, settlements, and manufacturer extended warranty programs
5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate
Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs
Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $43,114 (~$719/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
Negotiation Ammunition
Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Tailored for the 1989 FORD Mustang — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list
Recall Probability Forecast
Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals
15% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.
- ▸Multiple prior recalls — pattern of safety issues on this model
Maintenance Schedule
OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Insurance Cost Estimate
Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
Manufacturer NHTSA Penalty History
Federal fines issued for recall delays and safety violations
FORD has been fined $17M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2015: Failure to timely file Early Warning Reports on defect data.
State-Specific Legal Protections
What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Complete Data Table
All decoded fields in a single flattened view
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | 1FABP42E8KF175588 |
| Model Year | 1989 |
| Make | FORD |
| Model | Mustang |
| Trim | GT |
| Vehicle Type | PASSENGER CAR |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Displacement (L) | 5.0 |
| Horsepower | 225 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | FORD MOTOR COMPANY |
| Assembly City | DEARBORN |
| Assembly Country | UNITED STATES (USA) |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | 1FA |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 8 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | K |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | F |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 175588 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 5 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 116 |
VIN Structure Decode
ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 10/2/2026, 3:50:03 PM.