NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2026 Ford Mustang Gtd
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Ford Mustang GTD is a high-performance coupe positioned at the absolute pinnacle of the Mustang lineup, targeting serious driving enthusiasts who want track-bred capability in a road-legal package. Built around motorsport-derived engineering and aimed squarely at a premium performance audience, the GTD represents Ford's most ambitious take yet on the iconic Mustang nameplate for the 2025 model year.
The 2026 Ford Mustang Gtd earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 90 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally treat the Mustang GTD as a landmark performance achievement for Ford, praising its track-focused engineering and the depth of its driving dynamics. Most professional assessments position it as a credible rival to established European high-performance coupes, with broad agreement that it delivers an exceptional experience for dedicated enthusiasts willing to meet its demands.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 21426
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL26V205000
Risk: An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine for missing or mis-installed circlips and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S23. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 2, 2026.
Reported 2026-03-31
ENGINE25V828000
Risk: An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components increases the risk of a fire. In addition, the loss of oil can result in engine seizure and loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the cylinder head assembly, free of charge. All affected vehicles are still within dealership inventory and therefore no owner notification letters will be mailed. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SD3. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on November 24, 2025.
Reported 2025-12-01
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
3 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.