Various 2020-2026 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) may experience an inoperative blind spot monitoring with a "Blind Spot System Fault" message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC). This may also be accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B118C:11 and/or B118C:15 stored in the driver door module (DDM), and/or B118D:11 and/or B118D:15 stored in the passenger door module (PDM). This may be due to the wiring connector from the mirror to the BLIS module. If diagnostics lead to an internal mirror wiring harness fault, a new lower level BLIS light pigtail is now released for service. It is not necessary to replace the exterior mirror as
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2020 Ford Mustang electrical problems
severe Owners of the 2020 Ford Mustang have filed 20 NHTSA complaints about the electrical at roughly $850 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See electrical across all vehicles →
Complaints
20
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
| Model year | electrical complaints |
|---|---|
| 2016 Mustang | 67 |
| 2017 Mustang | 31 |
| 2018 Mustang | 28 |
| 2019 Mustang | 28 |
| 2020 Mustang (this page) | 20 |
| 2021 Mustang | 5 |
| 2022 Mustang | 7 |
| 2024 Mustang | 28 |
2fires
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical 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.
Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypad, the accessory wireless keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool or from the label printed on the body control module (BCM). The Factory Keyless Entry Code application within the diagnostic scan tool will not provide an applicable master code for the accessory wireless keypad. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is not available, the "Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide" can be referenced and provides direction on how
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) or in Section 303-14 of the Workshop Manual (WSM) has been updated to address this concern.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020-2025 various Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) may experience an inoperative blind spot monitoring with a "Blind Spot System Fault" message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC). This may also be accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B118C:11 and/or B118C:15 stored in the driver door module (DDM), and/or B118D:11 and/or B118D:15 stored in the passenger door module (PDM). This may be due to the wiring connector from the mirror to the BLIS module. If diagnostics lead to an internal mirror wiring harness fault, a new lower level BLIS light pigtail is now released for service. It is not necessary to replace the exterior mirr
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2126. Reason for update: update the Part List and Service Procedure. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to axial movement of the CD
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners report a wide range of electrical system failures. The backup camera is a persistent problem—multiple owners cite a blue or black screen displaying "Camera unavailable" when reversing, with some pointing to Ford recalls for similar issues in later model years. The digital instrument cluster repeatedly goes blank for 5-30 minutes or longer, sometimes happening repeatedly after startup, starting as early as 19,000 miles. Dealers have run through all Ford-recommended diagnostics and reinstalled AS BUILD DATA without fixing it.
APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) failures appear at 30,000+ miles and are described as "very well known"—one owner suggests Ford should replace these components as standard practice rather than wait for owner complaints.
More severe issues include two fires that started under the hood and consumed the vehicle; fire departments and third-party investigators suspected electrical causes. One owner noted a recent software update disabled collision detection and traction control. Owners also report the passenger door unlocking and opening at 75 mph, multiple window motors cycling up and down uncontrolled, a steering lock preventing startup, and the engine stalling with flickering lights at low mileage. One electrical recall (23V727000) was issued but parts remain unavailable.
Same Ford Mustang electrical reports on nearby years: 2017 · 2018 · 2019
Failure modes owners describe
Backup/Rearview Camera Malfunction
Camera display shows persistent blue screen or black screen, displaying 'Camera unavailable. Please contact dealership' message when attempting to use reverse camera. Issue affects visibility when backing up.
When: During reverse operation; recurring on multiple occasions
Symptoms owners cite: Blue screen on display; Black screen on display; Camera unavailable message; Loss of rearview visibility; Screen freeze
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford has released multiple recalls for backup camera malfunctions in model years 2021-2025; owners report identical symptoms to their 2020 vehicles. Campaign numbers referenced but repair status unclear.
Instrument Panel/Digital Cluster Blackout
Instrument panel goes completely black or blank without warning, rendering the dashboard inoperable. Panel may return to functionality after 5-30 minutes, or failure may persist. Occurs during startup, driving in tunnels, or during normal operation.
When: Intermittent; at startup after vehicle running, or during driving at 35+ mph; one owner reports issue since vehicle was brand new at 19,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Digital cluster goes blank; Instrument panel becomes inoperable; Panel blacks out for 5-30 minutes then returns; Loss of dashboard display
Repairs/costs cited: One owner reports dealer completed Ford recommended tests and reinstallation of AS BUILD DATA without resolution. Another owner diagnosed with failed APIM and FCIM requiring replacement and reprogramming; vehicle not repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No TSB available for 2020 GT Mustang with this problem according to owner report.
APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) Failure
APIM unit fails, causing electrical system malfunction. This is reported as a well-known recurring problem by multiple owners.
When: At 47,000+ miles; at approximately 30,698 miles in one case
Symptoms owners cite: Instrument panel inoperability; Electrical system malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: Requires replacement and reprogramming; owner reports components keep failing and suggests Ford should offer discount or full replacement.
Airbag System Malfunction
Airbag system fails; airbag and seatbelt warning lights illuminate on dashboard. Control module issue identified.
When: Early ownership; one owner experienced within days of purchasing used vehicle on 9/24/2023
Symptoms owners cite: Airbag warning light illuminated; Seatbelt warning light illuminated
Repairs/costs cited: Repair required; one owner waited three days for repair after purchase
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall exists for this issue but not all 2020 model year vehicles included; owners report they were not called for recall repair.
Window Regulator/Motor Failures
Multiple window system failures including passenger-side rear window that will not roll up completely, and front passenger window that continuously rolls up and down on startup and during driving. Rear triangle windows (quarter lights) do not fully retract after being lowered.
When: At approximately 68,000 miles in one case; intermittent on startup and during driving
Symptoms owners cite: Rear window fails to roll up completely; Front passenger window continuously cycles up and down; Quarter windows do not fully retract; Windows operate intermittently
Repairs/costs cited: One owner reports dealer lubrication of window tracks attempted without success; vehicle not repaired.
Engine Stall and Loss of Motive Power
Vehicle loses power and stalls unexpectedly while driving at low speed. Loud clicking sound from vehicle precedes failure, followed by interior lights and headlights flickering.
When: At 20,318 miles; while pulling into parking spot
Symptoms owners cite: Loud clicking sound; Interior lights flickering; Headlights flickering; Loss of motive power; Vehicle stalls without warning
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer attributed failure to battery; vehicle not repaired despite diagnostic confirmation.
Door Lock and Window Control Malfunction
Passenger-side and driver-side doors unlock and open by themselves while vehicle is in motion at highway speeds, accompanied by warning lights and intermittent horn activation.
When: At highway speed (75 mph); incident repeated within one hour with opposite door
Symptoms owners cite: Door unlocks and opens by itself; Door not closed warning light; Warning chime activation; Horn blowing in 2-quick-beep intervals
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford campaign number 21N10 exists for this issue; dealer able to service vehicle immediately.
Engine Fire/Electrical Fire
Vehicle caught fire and burned completely, with fire spreading to carport, shed, and mobile home. Fire originated from underneath engine hood. One owner suspects electrical origin; another owner notes recent software update with collision detection and traction control disabled and unable to re-enable.
When: After 22 miles of driving in one case; at unknown mileage in another case
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle caught fire; Smoke from under hood; Flames consuming entire vehicle; Fire starting from left side of hood area
Repairs/costs cited: Fire department investigation indicated possible electrical cause. Third-party investigation (RIMKUS) completed for one incident but revealed nothing.
Wiper Relay Failure
Windshield wiper relay fails, disabling wiper operation.
When: At approximately 68,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Windshield wiper relay malfunction; Trunk warning light illuminated; Hood warning light illuminated
Steering Lock Malfunction and No-Start Condition
Steering lock engages unexpectedly, preventing vehicle startup and leaving driver stranded.
When: At startup; owner stranded for 10 hours
Symptoms owners cite: Steering lock malfunction message; Vehicle will not start; Steering locked
Codes mentioned: Steering lock malfunction
Engine Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine Light)
Engine malfunction indicator light illuminates and remains on despite troubleshooting attempts. Owner successfully troubleshot but light persisted, indicating ongoing issue.
When: Shortly after vehicle purchase (September 2023)
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminated; Light remains on persistently
Seat Heater Noise/Malfunction
Abnormal sound originating from rear seats when front passenger-side and driver-side seat heaters are engaged.
When: At approximately 68,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Abnormal sound from rear seats; Seat heater activation triggers noise
Drive Assist/Hill Assist Malfunction
Drive assist and hill assist systems malfunction sporadically, preventing dealer diagnosis and repair.
When: Sporadic failures
Symptoms owners cite: Drive assist malfunction; Hill assist malfunction; Timing issue when shifting gears; Spark knock
Repairs/costs cited: Sporadic nature prevents dealership diagnosis and repair.
Electrical System Recall Delay
Owner notified of NHTSA Campaign 23V727000 (Electrical System) but required parts not available from manufacturer, extending repair timeline beyond reasonable period.
When: At time of recall notification
Symptoms owners cite: Recall issued but parts unavailable
Repairs/costs cited: Parts not available; dealer confirmed limited stock
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 23V727000 issued; parts unavailable for extended period.
Engine Noise - High-Pitched Squeal
Loud, high-pitched squeal coming from front right engine area when vehicle is off.
When: When vehicle is off
Symptoms owners cite: High-pitched squeal from front right engine area
Synthesized from 20 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Mustang. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V727000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The…
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Mustang. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH in inclement weather, the instrument panel went black for approximately 5 seconds and then started operating as designed. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred on several occasions. The contact stated that on one occasion, while driving through a tunnel, the instrument panel went black and…
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to bring to your attention some serious safety issues that I have encountered with a 2020 Mustang that I purchased from CarMAX, West Valley on September 24, 2023. Soon after taking possession of the vehicle, I noticed a malfunction with the airbag system. It is disheartening to report that I had to endure a three-day wait to have the necessary…
Had electrical trouble with your 2020 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 electrical problem on the 2020 Ford Mustang?
It's a meaningful issue. 20 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Based on the 20 complaints filed, electrical issues most often appear around 39,672 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical 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 electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical 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/2020/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.