2016 Ford Mustang Won't Start

Resolve Starting Issues with Your 2016 Ford Mustang

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
38% chance it's the
Battery
0%
27% chance it's the
Alternator
0%
20% chance it's the
Starter
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Ford Mustang won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
  • Battery: A weak or failing battery can result in difficulty starting the engine and electrical system malfunctions.
  • Alternator: A failing alternator can result in insufficient electrical power, leading to battery drain and electrical system malfunctions.
  • Starter: A faulty starter motor or a weak battery can prevent the engine from cranking properly, leading to starting issues.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

What steps should I take to diagnose why my 2016 Ford Mustang won't start?

When diagnosing why your 2016 Ford Mustang won't start, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the battery, as a weak or dead battery is a common culprit for starting issues. Use a multimeter to measure the voltage; a healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts. If the battery is fine, proceed to inspect the starter motor, as a malfunctioning starter can prevent the engine from cranking. Next, examine the fuel system to ensure there’s enough fuel in the tank and listen for the fuel pump's activation when you turn the ignition key. If fuel delivery seems adequate, check the ignition system components, including spark plugs and the ignition coil, as these can also lead to starting problems if faulty. Additionally, assess the alternator's performance, since a failing alternator may not charge the battery effectively. Finally, consider using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve any error codes that could provide further insight into the issue. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the reasons your Mustang won't start.

What are the common problems that could cause a 2016 Ford Mustang to not start?

When your 2016 Ford Mustang refuses to start, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue effectively. One of the first things to check is the battery; a weak or dead battery is often the culprit, so ensure the connections are clean and secure, and consider testing the battery's charge. If the battery is in good condition, the next component to investigate is the starter motor, which may fail due to wear or electrical issues, preventing the engine from turning over. Additionally, the fuel system plays a crucial role in starting; a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can hinder fuel delivery, making it impossible for the engine to start. Don't overlook the ignition system either; faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can disrupt the spark needed for combustion. Lastly, consider the vehicle's security system, as a malfunction here can inadvertently prevent the engine from starting. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify and resolve the starting issues with your Mustang, empowering you to tackle the problem head-on.

How urgent is it to address the starting issue in a 2016 Ford Mustang?

When dealing with a starting issue in a 2016 Ford Mustang, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial. The severity of the problem plays a significant role; if the vehicle fails to start consistently or produces unusual sounds, it may indicate a serious underlying issue that requires immediate attention. Safety is another critical factor; unreliable starting can pose risks not only to the driver but also to passengers, making prompt resolution essential. Additionally, neglecting these symptoms can lead to further damage, resulting in more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Finally, the inconvenience of a starting issue can disrupt daily life, making it imperative to address the problem swiftly to restore the vehicle's reliability. In summary, while the urgency may vary based on specific symptoms, it is generally advisable to tackle starting issues in a timely manner to ensure safety, prevent additional damage, and maintain the convenience of your Mustang.

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