On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission it is imperative that the converter pilot hub be greased with Motorcraft Multi-Purpose Grease Spray XL-5-A even if grease was not applied from the factory. Also verify that the engine/transmission alignment dowel pins are present as well as the engine crankshaft dowel pin, if equipped, when installing the transmission. Failure to adequately lubricate the converter hub greatly increases the likelihood of the flexplate cracking in the future. Missing dowels may cause a misalignment issue also resulting in a premature failure. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 307-01.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 Ford Mustang powertrain problems
severe Owners of the 2013 Ford Mustang have filed 46 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 65,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of August 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
46
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2009 Mustang | 6 |
| 2010 Mustang | 12 |
| 2011 Mustang | 192 |
| 2012 Mustang | 171 |
| 2013 Mustang (this page) | 46 |
| 2014 Mustang | 25 |
| 2015 Mustang | 36 |
| 2016 Mustang | 28 |
| 2017 Mustang | 20 |
2crashes
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 46 powertrain complaints filed for the 2013 Ford Mustang, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 46 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 19 model years of Ford Mustang in our records for powertrain problems, this one ranks #3 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2011 - 2014 Mustang vehicles equipped with a 3.7L V6 engine and MT82 manual transmission may exhibit a vibration felt in the shifter, and/or the seat track and steering wheel, on deceleration between 3500 and 2000 engine RPM. This an operating characteristic of the vehicle and no repairs should be attempted.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗49 CFR Part 579.5 Monthly Communications - January 2016
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗49 CFR Part 579.5 Monthly Communications - March 2016 Air bag warning light illuminated with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B141B and/or B141C
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2013 Mustang powertrain cluster reveals two distinct hardware families with serious, documented flaws.
6R80 Automatic Transmission (V6 and GT 5.0 models): Owners report an output speed sensor failure (molded lead frame inside the transmission) that triggers limp mode, violent downshifts to 1st gear at 40–70 mph, speedometer dropout, and dashboard warning light cascades. Symptoms clear after restart but recur 2–6 times per week. Diagnostic codes P0720 and P0722 confirm the sensor circuit fault. This failure is identical to defects Ford addressed in 2011–2012 Mustang recalls (TSB 13-4-9, 13-6-8; Campaign 19S07) and in F-150 recall 19S07. Ford extended coverage to 10 years/150,000 miles on other models under CSP 16N02 but explicitly refused to extend it to 2013 Mustangs, leaving owners with $900–$1,500+ repair bills and no warranty recourse. One owner reported a separate failure: the transmission vent cap detached three days post-service, causing catastrophic fluid loss and metal debris.
Manual Transmission (MT-82 Getrag, Boss 302): Owners describe grinding on 1st–2nd gear shifts, especially when cold, and inability to engage certain gears (2nd, 3rd, 5th reported). Synchro replacement under warranty is followed by clutch failure. Forum consensus indicates the stock clutch cannot manage the Boss 302's 7,500 RPM redline; aftermarket upgrades (McCleod, Exedy, Mantic) resolve the issue per owner testimony.
Both transmissions show no predictable wear pattern—failures occur at 6,000 to 160,000 miles, making pre-purchase inspection unreliable. Dealerships frequently cannot reproduce symptoms on demand, complicating diagnosis and repair approval.
Same Ford Mustang powertrain reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2012 · 2014 · 2015 · 2016
Failure modes owners describe
Output Speed Sensor (Molded Lead Frame) Failure – 6R80 Automatic
The molded lead frame attached to the valve body in the 6R80 transmission fails, causing the powertrain control module to lose output shaft speed data. This triggers limp mode, violent downshifts (often to 1st gear at highway speeds), speedometer dropout, odometer/trip meter display blanking, wrench light, and temporary loss of acceleration. Symptoms clear after ignition cycling but return. Owners report this exact failure in Ford recalls for 2011–2012 vehicles (TSB 13-4-9, 13-6-8; Campaign 19S07) but their 2013 Mustangs are excluded despite identical 6R80 transmissions and failure signatures.
When: Typically 50k–160k miles; one owner at 9,000 miles on CPO vehicle; failures reported from initial ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden downshift to 1st gear at highway speeds (40–70 mph) without driver input; Wrench warning light illumination (limp mode); Speedometer needle drops to 0 MPH while driving; Odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge display dashes or blanking; Orange wrench and airbag warning lights simultaneously; Loss of acceleration response (car maxes out at 5–35 mph); Temporary inability to shift or move, then recovery after engine restart; Jerking or violent gear engagement
Codes mentioned: P0720 (Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit), P0722 (Output Shaft Speed Sensor No Signal)
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement of molded lead frame inside transmission; repair costs reported at $900–$950; some owners cite catastrophic internal damage requiring full transmission replacement ($1,500+)
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford extended coverage under CSP 16N02 for 10 years/150,000 miles on other vehicle lines with 6R80; 2013 Mustang excluded despite identical problem. Some dealerships denied warranty coverage citing out-of-warranty status. Ford TSB 13-4-9 and 13-6-8 referenced by owners but no recall issued for 2013 model year.
Unexpected Downshift to 1st Gear – 6R80 Automatic (Electronic/TCM)
The transmission control module or electronic shift logic causes abrupt downshifts to 1st gear at cruising speeds without input from driver. Vehicle may enter sport mode without button press. These events occur randomly 2–6 times per week, are not reproducible on demand at dealerships, and create acute safety hazards. Owners reference recall 12V190000 and F-150 transmission campaigns covering similar events in 2011–2012 vehicles, but 2013 Mustangs are not included.
When: Intermittent, 2–6 times per week per owner reports; mileage varied (30k–160k miles)
Symptoms owners cite: Unintended downshift to 1st gear at highway speeds (40–80 mph); Loss of cruise control with downshift event; Sudden braking sensation or violent deceleration; Wrench light may illuminate during event; Vehicle may enter sport mode without driver activation; Car becomes stuck in lower gear with reduced acceleration; Intermittent failures not reproducible at dealer diagnostics
Codes mentioned: P0720 (sometimes stored), P0722
Repairs/costs cited: No permanent repair identified in narratives; TCM reset attempted but symptom recurrence reported; some owners charged for lead frame replacement; others unable to obtain diagnosis
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford Customer Service refused to extend recall to 2013 model year despite identical transmission. 2011–2012 recalls (12V190000, 19S07) cited by owners but do not cover 2013. NHTSA referral issued to complainants instead of manufacturer assistance.
Limp Mode / Loss of Power (Intermittent)
Vehicle enters limp mode during normal driving, causing sudden and dramatic loss of engine response and acceleration capability. The vehicle becomes effectively immobile (maxes out at 5–35 mph), wrench light illuminates, and sometimes multiple dashboard warnings appear simultaneously (airbag, fuel, odometer blanking). Symptoms resolve only after ignition off/on cycle but recur frequently. Owners note throttle body cleaning and spark plug replacement do not resolve the issue, suggesting electronic control module or sensor malfunction rather than mechanical throttle.
When: Intermittent; daily to weekly occurrence in later stages of ownership; mileage range 30k–112k miles
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of engine response and acceleration; Vehicle will not go faster than 5–35 mph despite full throttle input; Wrench light illumination (limp mode indicator); Airbag, fuel gauge, odometer warning lights simultaneously; Speedometer may read 0 MPH or fluctuate wildly; Condition repeats 5–6 times per week; Occurs unpredictably at highway speeds, traffic lights, or intersections; Recovery only via engine restart
Codes mentioned: P0720, P0722, P0731
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle body cleaning did not resolve issue per owner report; spark plugs, PCV, EVAP purge valve replaced without result; no effective repair documented
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford advised owner to 'keep receipts' when contacted; NHTSA referral provided; TSB investigation suggested but no formal recall or extended warranty issued
Park Gear Failure – 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission's park pawl fails to lock the drivetrain when shift lever is placed in park. Vehicle rolls downhill despite confirmed park selection, creating acute collision and injury hazard. Owner recreated incident and confirmed park held vehicle on same incline when transmission was functioning normally, ruling out external factors. No skid marks or wheel lockup observed, indicating complete drivetrain disengagement in park.
When: Single owner report; approximately 60 seconds after exiting vehicle
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls downhill despite shift lever being in park; No engine braking or drivetrain lock sensation; No skid marks or wheel lockup; Vehicle impacts building; Shift lever confirmed locked in park position both during and after rolling event
Repairs/costs cited: No repair documented; incident recreated by owner confirming park lock function intermittent
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented in narrative
Manual Transmission: Grinding, Missed Shifts, Gear Lockout (MT-82 Getrag)
Manual transmission exhibits grinding noise on certain shifts (especially 1st–2nd and 3rd), missed shifts or gear lockouts, and difficulty engaging gears particularly when cold. Owners report synchro replacement under warranty and subsequent clutch failure. Ford installed a Chinese-made Getrag MT-82 transmission. Owners on Boss 302 forums document that the stock clutch lacks clamping power for the engine's 7,500 RPM redline and recommend immediate aftermarket clutch upgrades (McCleod, Exedy, Mantic) to prevent transmission failure.
When: Early in ownership; under 60k miles for synchro replacement; symptom onset at low mileage (6k–31k miles noted)
Symptoms owners cite: Grinding noise on shifts, particularly 1st–2nd gear; Hard shift resistance when cold; Difficulty engaging gears or missed shift events; Clutch lockout at high RPM shifts; Inability to shift into 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 5th gear; Clutch pedal remains fully depressed and will not return; Inability to move gear shift lever out of neutral
Repairs/costs cited: Synchro replacement performed under warranty (twice in one case); clutch replacement required; aftermarket clutch upgrades (McCleod, Exedy, Mantic) resolve issues per owner forum feedback; transmission replacement cost $66,000+ vehicle value concern
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford warranty covered synchro replacement; dealer stated rough shifting at cold startup is 'normal operation' when unable to repair; no TSB or extended coverage documented for MT-82 defect
Clunky Shift Feel and Clutch Engagement Issues (Manual)
Manual transmission shifts feel clunky, especially between 1st and 2nd gear and in 5th gear. Slow shifting required, particularly when cold, to avoid grinding. Clutch engagement erratic or incomplete. Issue reported as design defect of stock clutch combined with high-RPM performance engine, creating transmission durability risk.
When: Apparent at low mileage (9,000 miles noted); ongoing throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Clunky, notchy shift feel between 1st–2nd and in 5th gear; Grinding if shifted too quickly when cold; Clutch engagement ineffective or delayed; Must shift slowly to avoid transmission damage
Repairs/costs cited: No OEM repair available; aftermarket clutch upgrade (McCleod, Exedy, Mantic) resolves symptom
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented; stock clutch not addressed in TSBs or recalls
Rough Shifting and Hard Downshifts (Manual)
6-speed manual transmission exhibits rough, jerky shifts particularly in lower gears and during downshifts. Problem worsens in cold weather. Downshift delays force owner to wait for complete stop before engaging lower gear. Dealership unable to replicate issue despite multiple service visits.
When: Early in ownership (~7,200 miles at complaint; prior 2011–2012 Mustang manual recalls suggest design lineage)
Symptoms owners cite: Rough, jerky shift feel in 1st–3rd gears; Exacerbated in cold temperatures; Delayed or difficult downshifts; Unable to downshift until vehicle reaches complete stop; Dealership cannot replicate under controlled conditions
Repairs/costs cited: No repair performed; comparison made to 2011–2012 manual transmission fix that Ford released
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership unable to duplicate; no TSB or extended warranty issued for 2013 model
Transmission Fluid Leak (Vent Cap Missing)
Transmission vent cap becomes detached, allowing pressurized fluid to escape rapidly. This causes catastrophic internal damage, overheating, burnoff of remaining fluid, and metal shavings in the transmission. Failure occurred just three days after dealership transmission service and fluid check, indicating cap may have been reinstalled improperly or with defective retention.
When: ~150 miles into a trip; 3 days post-service
Symptoms owners cite: Tach red-lines during downshift attempt; Transmission will not engage in certain gears (5th and 6th)
Repairs/costs cited: Full transmission replacement required; burned smell and metal shavings present; only 1 quart of fluid remaining when diagnosed
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented
Stuck Clutch Pedal (Manual)
Clutch pedal becomes fully depressed and will not return to resting position. Gear shift lever cannot engage any gear (only moves freely in neutral). Engine start function unaffected. Condition persists after overnight parking, indicating mechanical/hydraulic failure rather than transient stiction.
When: Single owner report; occurred during acceleration from traffic light
Symptoms owners cite: Clutch pedal remains fully depressed and does not return; Manually raising clutch with shoe under pedal produces no change; Gear shift lever cannot engage any gear, only neutral; Condition persists after overnight rest; Engine start/stop and power steering/brakes unaffected
Repairs/costs cited: No repair documented
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented
Failure to Shift Into Specific Gears (Manual)
Manual transmission refuses to engage certain gears (frequently 2nd, 3rd, or 5th) during driving. Synchro or internal damage suspected. One owner reports inability to shift from 4th to 5th and lockout from 2nd gear, requiring synchro replacement.
When: Early in ownership (31,000 miles for rebuild; 222 miles for recurrence; variable onset)
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle cannot shift into 3rd gear at higher RPMs; Grinding noise when attempting to engage locked gear; Shift lever grinds but does not latch; Inability to shift from 4th to 5th; 2nd gear lockout / missed shift; Cannot get into 5th gear during freeway merging
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission rebuild performed; synchro replacement; failure recurred shortly after repair ($5,000+ suggested cost range)
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified; no extended warranty or TSB documented
Erratic Gear Selection and Neutral Drop (6-Speed Automatic)
Transmission sporadically refuses to engage desired gear or unexpectedly drops into neutral during acceleration or normal driving. Vehicle loses power without warning, creating hazard during merging, intersection crossing, or freeway driving. One owner reports inability to shift out of reverse, requiring engine-off restart to disengage.
When: Intermittent throughout ownership; variable mileage (18k–79k miles)
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle goes into neutral unexpectedly during acceleration or driving; Loss of power and acceleration response; Unpredictable gear engagement; Inability to shift out of reverse (clutch fully depressed, car moves forward); Must restart engine to regain normal shifting; Occurs 4–5 times inconsistently
Repairs/costs cited: No successful repair documented; dealership unable to replicate issue
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented
Synthesized from 46 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
I was driving down I-35 in the arbuckle mountains in oklahoma going 70mph when my car suddenly disengaged the cruise control and downshifted to first gear. It felt like the brakes were being applied forcefully and then the car returned to driving normally. This happened two more times until I was able to pull off on the shoulder as I had almost gotten into an accident the first time it did it.…
12-9-13 transmission issue brought to Ford deale email to Ford: subject: repair order 43617 I would appreciate Ford to have a consideration of the following: 1. I would like to see a new transmission put into this 2013 boss 302 laguna saga with under 6000 miles. 2. Resurface fly wheel. 3. Replacing the clutch and pressure plate. I paid over $66,000k for this vehicle . And for Ford…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2013 Ford Mustang?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2013 Ford Mustang?
It's a meaningful issue. 46 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 30 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 31,000 and 90,000 miles, with the median around 65,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 31,000; a quarter make it past 90,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/Ford/Mustang.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.