NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Ford Mustang
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Ford Mustang is an American icon that needs little introduction, but its safety story deserves a closer look. This rear-wheel-drive coupe competes in the performance pony car segment, targeting enthusiasts who want V8 rumble or turbocharged punch alongside genuine driving engagement. From the refreshed 2019 model through the seventh-generation S650 that arrived for 2024, the Mustang spans a wide range of buyers, from daily drivers to weekend warriors.
The 2021 Ford Mustang earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, an strong 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 6 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally celebrate the Mustang for its driving dynamics, engine options, and unmistakable character, calling it one of the most engaging and accessible performance cars on the market. Most acknowledge that the cabin and technology have modernized meaningfully over this generation. Opinions on everyday usability and refinement relative to rivals tend to be more divided.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15396
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM25V689000
Risk: Without a low brake fluid warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, reducing braking performance and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C55. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 17, 2025.
Reported 2025-10-10
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP25V455000
Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Interim notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 16, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated 2nd Quarter 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1
Reported 2025-07-07
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE25V442000
Risk: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Reported 2025-06-27
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM23V727000
Risk: Without a low brake fluid warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, reducing braking performance and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C35.
Reported 2023-10-27
AIR BAGS:KNEE BOLSTER22V083000
Risk: An improper air bag deployment can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front passenger knee air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 8, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S07.
Reported 2022-02-16
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN21V980000
Risk: An air bag that does not inflate properly can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the side curtain air bags, free of charge. An interim owner notification letter was mailed on February 3, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 22, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C37.
Reported 2021-12-16
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
55 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.