Ford GT
5.0L V8 Coyote Gen3 4951cc. Character engine of the Mustang GT. 421 hp (2015–2017) and 460 hp after the 2018 facelift. Naturally aspirated, high-revving, sporting sound.
V8 with Automatic
The 10-speed automatic takes away some involvement, but 426 hp V8 still delivers.
Engine Weaknesses 7
The direct injection high-pressure fuel pump on the 5.0 Coyote Gen3 can fail, leading to starting difficulties or power loss. Known failure tendency especially after 80,000 km.
Symptoms: Difficult cold starting, power loss, rough idle, check engine light
The Coyote 5.0 V8 from 2011 is known for head gasket failures, especially after overheating events. Engine overtemperature from cooling system problems leads to warping of the aluminium head.
Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust; oil level rising with coolant mixed in (mayonnaise effect at oil filler cap); coolant loss without visible external leak.
2024 recall covering approximately 91,000 vehicles from model years 2021–2022 with the 5.0 Coyote due to possible intake valve fractures. Engine failure and power loss possible.
Symptoms: Sudden power loss; engine failure while driving; warning lights.
Ford TSB 18-2360 for 2018/2019 Coyote Gen3: Bank 2 exhaust VCT control solenoid faulty. Causes power loss and idle problems. Solenoid replacement by the dealer.
Symptoms: Rough idle; engine stumbling; power loss; ticking at bank 2; fault code P0022.
The Gen3 Coyote shows increased oil consumption in some examples from piston rings, especially with frequent full-load or track use. Check oil level before every track session.
Symptoms: Oil level drops between changes, bluish smoke during high-rpm operation
The four camshaft position sensors on the Coyote Gen3 V8 are prone to faults. Fault codes P0340/P0345 occur sporadically and cause rough idle. Often caused by corroded connectors.
Symptoms: Rough idle; check engine light with P0340 or P0345; occasional start delay; engine stumbles briefly after starting.
The ignition coils on the Coyote Gen3 V8 in the Mustang GT fail under high thermal loads. Misfires occur particularly on track use. Motorcraft coils are more susceptible than aftermarket alternatives.
Symptoms: Cylinder misfires at full load; check engine light with P0351–P0358; noticeable power loss at high rpm.
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
The 6- or 10-speed automatic gearbox in the Mustang S550 exhibits harsh shift clunks, slip and delayed gear changes. Total failure occurs from 80,000–120,000 km in some cases. Cooling problems and incorrect fluid specification can contribute to failure.
From 2015 many S550 owners report propshaft vibrations from centre joint play and balancing faults. The issue was particularly strong on 2015–2016 models and partially improved from 2017. Driveline misalignment is possible.
On the Mustang S550, the left rear wheel bearing needs replacing multiple times on some vehicles. Long-term tests document the third replacement of the same bearing. Elevated wear relates to the rear axle geometry.
Early paint corrosion has been reported particularly on the aluminium bonnet and front wings. Blistering and rust formation on poorly sealed edges of the S550 are typical findings at used-car inspections.
On the Mustang S550, AC compressor failures cluster between 60,000 and 100,000 km. Leaking high-pressure hoses or compressor failure require extensive repairs.
The centre silencer of the Mustang S550 exhaust system rusts through in European climates between 70,000 and 100,000 km. Road salt and moisture attack the pipe bends and housings in particular. Heat shields and mountings are also affected.
Electric window regulators on the S550 fail between 60,000 and 90,000 km, especially on rear windows (fastback). Wiring issues can also cause seat heater malfunction, sometimes accompanied by a burning smell.