MustangForums.com

Ford Mustang V6 and Mustang GT 1994-2004: General Information and Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Whether you want to keep your current Mustang in good shape or are considering purchasing one, knowing more about the car's maintenance schedule and general information will make you a more informed owner.

By Kate Halse - September 24, 2015
Contributors: teej281

This article applies to the Ford Mustang V6 and Mustang GT (1994-2004).

Proper maintenance of your Mustang involves more than just changing the oil every 5,000 miles or so and rotating the tires. Every vehicle has higher maintenance demands as it ages, and the Mustang is no exception. Keep in mind that the maintenance schedule may vary slightly depending on the vehicle's age and mileage as well as your location and driving conditions. Other factors include your driving habits and the vehicle's engine type. This general info and maintenance guide can keep your car running smoothly for years to come.

General Maintenance Schedule

Please note that this chart gives recommended maintenance items for every 10,000 miles the car is driven. Ford suggests changing the oil every 5,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or every 3,000 miles under severe driving conditions. The cabin air filter should be replaced every 15,000 miles. You should change your automatic transmission fluid at the 150,000 mile mark along with the drive belt(s) if this replacement was not done at the 100,000 mile interval.

Maintenance Schedule Intervals
10,000 and 20,000 mi
30,000 mi
40,000 and 50,000 mi
60,000 mi
70,000 and 80,000 mi
90,000 mi
100,000 mi
Change oil and replace oil filter







Inspect tires for wear and rotate







Check and replace fuel filter



Check automatic transmission fluid level



Change automatic transmission fluid level



Inspect parking brake and braking system for signs of leaks and wear and tear



Inspect engine cooling system and hoses



Check wheel end play and turning noise




Inspect exhaust system and heat shields



Inspect non-sealed steering linkage, ball joints, suspension joints, half and drive-shafts and u-joints; lubricate parts as needed



Replace cabin air filter



Inspect drive belt(s)

Replace spark plugs

Replace PCV valve

Replace coolant fluid

Engine Oil

The 1994-2004 Mustang requires an engine oil change every 5,000 miles (or six months, whichever comes first) with up to five quarts of oil. Under severe driving conditions, you'll need to change the oil every 3,000 miles (or three months or 200 hours of engine operation, whichever comes first). Ford defines severe conditions as driving at top speeds for long distances during warm weather, making frequent short trips in freezing temperatures or high humidity, towing or carrying heavy loads, using the vehicle as a police, taxi, or delivery car, and driving in dusty or sandy environments for extended periods.

Figure 1. Oil for the Mustang.

Engine Coolant Fluid

Ford recommends changing the engine coolant fluid with Premium Gold coolant. The fluid should be changed every five years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. After the initial coolant fluid change, the coolant fluid should be changed every three years or 50,000 miles.

Figure 2. Ford recommends Premium Gold coolant fluid.

Additional Scheduled Maintenance

Aside from oil and coolant fluid changes, you'll also want to inspect the brakes (including the parking brake system) for signs of wear and tear. In performance cars such as the Mustang, preventative maintenance is essential for avoiding a potentially hefty repair bill or to keep yourself from getting stranded on the side of the road. If you're purchasing the car used, it's a good idea to make sure that the previous owner(s) has kept up with the scheduled maintenance.

Common Questions

Is the Mustang a good first car?

Between its good looks and ample power, it's no surprise that many teens and first-time drivers consider the Mustang for a first car. Many Mustang owners agree that certain years and models are better starter cars than others. In addition, several suggest starting with the slightly less powerful V6 (automatic transmission) then moving up to the V8 after a few years of driving. At least one Mustang owner suggests starting out with a 1996-1998 Mustang GT if you're intent on starting out with a V8, as this model isn't as powerful as the 1999-2004 GTs.

What is the average gas mileage for a 1999-2004 GT?

Unless you have a lead foot and frequently drive the vehicle shorter distances, many owners report getting between 15-19 city and 22-25 highway.

What is the fastest 1999-2004 (stock) automatic?

The '03-'04 Mach 1 is the fastest stock 1999-2004 Mustang with an automatic transmission. The automatic supercharged Saleen (very rare) also stands out for its speed.

Related Discussions and Site