The Ford Mustang is one of the longest-produced cars in the world, starting production in 1965. This popular automobile is known for its power, style, and affordability. To date, over 10 million Mustangs have been sold worldwide.

Unfortunately, the Mustang is not without its problems, and one of the most common issues is transmission problems. Ford Mustang transmission problems can be caused by many things, including poor maintenance, incorrect fluid levels, and even driving habits.

Transmission problems can manifest in several ways, including slipping gears, jerky shifting, delayed engagement, and even complete failure. This article will discuss the symptoms and causes of transmission problems with the Mustang and how to fix them. There are also several preventative measures you can take to minimize transmission problems.

Symptoms Of Ford Mustang Transmission Problems

Several symptoms may indicate you have transmission problems with your Ford Mustang. These include the following points.

Gear Slipping

One of the most common symptoms is gear slipping. If your Mustang slips out of gear, the transmission is not engaging correctly. This can be caused by various things, including low transmission fluid, worn clutch, or faulty transmission.

Won’t Go Into Gear

Another symptom is when your Mustang won’t go into gear. Many different things could cause this. One possibility is that the clutch is not disengaging correctly. This can be caused by a problem with the clutch pedal or the hydraulic system operating the clutch.

Another possibility is that the gears themselves are damaged or worn. Worn gears can be caused by various things, such as shifting too hard or low or dirty transmission fluid.

Jerking When Accelerating

If your Ford Mustang is jerking when you try to accelerate, it could signal transmission problems. This can be caused by various things, including low transmission fluid, a defective torque converter, or dirty transmission fluid.

Burning Smell

If you notice a burning smell coming from your Mustang, it could signify transmission problems. The burning smell could be caused by leaking transmission fluid. Transmission fluid helps to cool and lubricate the transmission, so a leak can cause the transmission to overheat.

Causes Of Ford Mustang Transmission Problems

Several different things can cause transmission problems with your Ford Mustang. The most common causes are listed below.

Dirty or Low Transmission Fluid

One of the most common causes of transmission problems is dirty or low transmission fluid. Transmission fluid helps to cool and lubricate the transmission, so if it is dirty or low, it can cause the transmission to overheat or not function properly.

To check your transmission fluid, first find the dipstick (usually located under the hood, near the front of the engine). Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a rag. Then, reinsert the dipstick and check it again. The fluid should be dark red and at the correct level on the dipstick. If it is not, add transmission fluid as needed.

Worn Transmission Parts

Another common cause of transmission problems is worn transmission parts. Over time, the components of your transmission can wear out and break, which can cause the transmission to slip or not function properly.

If your transmission is slipping or not shifting properly, you have likely worn transmission parts. The best way to fix this problem is to take your car to a mechanic and have them replace the worn parts.

Prevention Tips For Avoiding Ford Mustang Transmission Problems

You can do a few things to help prevent transmission problems with your Ford Mustang.

Check The Transmission Fluid

The most important thing is to check the transmission fluid regularly and add fluid as needed. Transmission fluid should be checked when the engine is warm. The transmission dipstick will have markings to indicate if the fluid is low, full, or needs to be changed.

If the transmission fluid is low, add the recommended fluid type until it reaches the correct level.

If the transmission fluid is brown or smells burnt, it needs to be changed. Fluid that is dark or has a burnt smell means it has been contaminated and is no longer effective.

Check The Transmission Filter

Another important thing to do is to check the transmission filter and replace it as needed. A clogged filter can cause the transmission to overheat and fail. It’s a good idea to change the transmission filter when you change the transmission fluid.

FAQ

How Long Do Mustang Transmissions Last?

On average, Mustang transmissions will last for around 120,000 miles. However, it’s not uncommon for them to go well over 200,000 miles with proper care.

Mustang transmissions are built to last, and you can expect them to give you many years of trouble-free service. However, driving style and maintenance significantly affect how long your transmission will last.

If you’re a hard driver who likes to push your Mustang to the limits, you can expect your transmission to need more frequent servicing. Conversely, if you take good care of your Mustang and drive it gently, you can expect your transmission to last longer.

How Much Does A Ford Mustang Transmission Repair Cost?

Various factors can affect the cost of a transmission repair, from the severity of the damage to the type of transmission fluid required.

However, transmission repairs can range from $3,500 to $6,000. Of course, this is just an estimate – the actual cost will vary depending on the specific car and situation.

Additionally, if it’s just a simple fluid change that’s needed, the cost will be on the lower end of the spectrum.

Conclusion

A variety of factors can cause Ford Mustang transmission problems. The most common cause is low or dirty transmission fluid. Worn transmission parts can also cause problems.

Symptoms of a bad transmission include slipping, jerking, and grinding. If you notice any of these symptoms, you must take your Mustang to a mechanic as soon as possible.

There are several ways to fix transmission problems, but the best way to prevent them is to perform regular maintenance on your vehicle. Regularly checking the transmission fluid in your Ford Mustang is one of the best ways to keep your transmission in good working order.