Why is Your 2020 Ford Mustang Hood Corroding? (DIY Fix)

Here's a guide focusing on hood issues for the 2020 Ford Mustang, based on the provided owner data. This article addresses common symptoms, likely causes, diagnostic steps, and potential fixes reported by owners. "My s550 was the worst quality car I’ve ever owned. Ford didn’t use enough seam sealer on the chassis and it leaked from the bottom driving in rain," one owner shared, highlighting potential build quality concerns.

How to Fix Hood Issues

The 2020 Ford Mustang, while a performance icon, can sometimes present hood-related issues. These issues range from aesthetic concerns to more serious corrosion problems. This guide compiles information from 2020 Ford Mustang owners, providing insights into symptoms, causes, and potential solutions for addressing hood issues. This guide aims to provide you with the information needed to diagnose and potentially fix the problem yourself, or to make an informed decision when seeking professional help.

Symptoms

Owners have reported a range of symptoms related to 2020 Ford Mustang hoods. One common concern is corrosion. Owners reported the hood corroding to the point where it needed to be repainted.

Aesthetic issues are also frequently mentioned. Some owners express dissatisfaction with the appearance of the hood vents. One owner shared, "Love the s650, still don’t know how I feel about the hood vent placement choice." Other concerns include the overall design and potential modifications desired.

Another symptom is hood wiggle, especially during track use or hard cornering. This can be a sign of inadequate structural support. "The Steeda stop the hope kit helped with the wiggles from the rear during hard corners. Hood vents, 19x10 wheels NT01 tires, two piece rotors(track pack brakes), lowering springs and pro action dampers made mine solid on track," one owner explained.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the most likely cause for serious hood issues on the 2020 Ford Mustang, specifically corrosion, is inadequate seam sealer and potentially issues with the hood's paint application during manufacturing. This lack of protection allows moisture to penetrate, leading to rust and corrosion over time, especially in areas exposed to harsh weather conditions. The insufficient seam sealing on the chassis contributed to the leak. "My s550 was the worst quality car I’ve ever owned. Ford didn’t use enough seam sealer on the chassis and it leaked from the bottom driving in rain," one owner explained.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing hood corrosion or structural issues requires a careful visual inspection and potentially some basic tools.

1. Visual Inspection: Start by thoroughly inspecting the hood's surface, especially along the edges, seams, and around any vents or openings. Look for signs of rust, bubbling paint, or any other indication of corrosion. Pay close attention to areas that are frequently exposed to moisture, such as the front edge of the hood and the area around the windshield washer nozzles.

2. Check for Seam Sealant Issues: Examine the sealant along the hood's seams and edges. Look for cracks, gaps, or areas where the sealant is missing. These areas are particularly vulnerable to moisture penetration.

3. Inspect Hood Vents (if equipped): If your 2020 Ford Mustang has hood vents, carefully inspect them for any signs of damage, corrosion, or improper installation. Ensure that the vents are properly sealed to prevent water from entering the engine compartment.

4. Assess Structural Integrity: Open and close the hood to check for any unusual noises or movements. If you notice any excessive flexing or wobbling, it could indicate a structural issue.

5. Consider a Professional Inspection: If you are unsure about the extent of the damage or the cause of the problem, consider taking your 2020 Ford Mustang to a qualified mechanic or body shop for a professional inspection. They can provide a more detailed assessment and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Step-by-Step Fix

Addressing hood issues on your 2020 Ford Mustang can vary depending on the severity and nature of the problem. Here’s a breakdown of potential fixes, based on owner experiences:

1. Cleaning and Surface Rust Removal: For minor surface rust, start by cleaning the affected area with a mild soap and water solution. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub away any dirt or debris. Once the area is clean, use a rust remover product to dissolve the surface rust. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.

2. Sanding and Priming: After removing the surface rust, sand the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections. Be sure to feather the edges of the sanded area to blend it with the surrounding paint. Once the area is sanded, apply a coat of automotive primer to prepare the surface for painting.

3. Painting: Choose a high-quality automotive paint that matches the color of your 2020 Ford Mustang. Apply several thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Once the paint is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish.

4. Seam Sealer Application: If you have identified areas where the seam sealant is missing or damaged, apply a new layer of seam sealer to protect the underlying metal from moisture. Use a high-quality automotive seam sealer and follow the instructions on the product label.

5. Hood Vent Modifications or Replacement: If you are unhappy with the appearance of your hood vents, you may consider modifying or replacing them. There are a variety of aftermarket hood vents available for the 2020 Ford Mustang, so you can choose a style that suits your personal preferences.

6. Structural Reinforcement: As one owner shared, "The Steeda stop the hope kit helped with the wiggles from the rear during hard corners. Hood vents, 19x10 wheels NT01 tires, two piece rotors(track pack brakes), lowering springs and pro action dampers made mine solid on track." This shows that aftermarket solutions exist to strengthen the vehicle's structural integrity.

7. Professional Body Work: For more severe corrosion or structural issues, it is best to seek the assistance of a qualified body shop. They have the expertise and equipment to properly repair or replace damaged panels and ensure a high-quality finish.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Cleaning Supplies: Mild soap, water, soft cloths, sponge
• Rust Remover: Automotive rust remover product
• Sandpaper: Fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 400-grit, 600-grit)
• Automotive Primer: Compatible with your paint
• Automotive Paint: Matching the 2020 Ford Mustang's color code
• Clear Coat: Automotive clear coat
• Seam Sealer: High-quality automotive seam sealer
• Masking Tape: To protect surrounding areas
• Spray Gun or Aerosol Can: For applying primer, paint, and clear coat
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes
• Gloves: To protect your hands

Real Owner Costs

The cost of addressing hood issues on your 2020 Ford Mustang can vary greatly depending on the severity of the problem and whether you choose to do the work yourself or hire a professional.

• DIY Surface Rust Repair: For minor surface rust repair, you can expect to spend around $50 to $100 on supplies such as rust remover, sandpaper, primer, paint, and clear coat.

• DIY Seam Sealer Application: Applying new seam sealer is a relatively inexpensive project, costing around $20 to $50 for the seam sealer itself.

• Professional Body Work: For more severe corrosion or structural issues, professional body work can cost anywhere from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on the extent of the damage and the labor rates in your area.

• Hood Replacement: Replacing the entire hood can be a significant expense, with costs ranging from $500 to $1500 or more, depending on the type of hood and the labor required for installation. Aftermarket carbon fiber hoods can increase costs. As one owner shared regarding a potential purchase: "That's probably too much. At face value I don't hate the looks, but I'd have to get a new hood, modify/fabricate the exhaust to get rid of those dumps; I've never driven skinnies on the street, but that doesn't seem ideal for a daily."

Prevention

Preventing hood issues on your 2020 Ford Mustang involves proactive maintenance and care.

• Regular Cleaning: Wash your 2020 Ford Mustang regularly, paying close attention to the hood and surrounding areas. This will help remove dirt, debris, and road salt that can contribute to corrosion.

• Waxing: Apply a coat of wax to the hood regularly to protect the paint from the elements and prevent corrosion.

• Touch-Up Paint: If you notice any small chips or scratches in the paint, touch them up promptly to prevent rust from forming.

• Garage Parking: Park your 2020 Ford Mustang in a garage or under a carport whenever possible to protect it from the sun, rain, and snow.

• Inspect Seam Sealant: Periodically inspect the seam sealant along the hood's edges and seams. If you notice any cracks or gaps, repair them promptly to prevent moisture from entering.

• Address Leaks: If you notice any water leaks in the engine compartment, address them promptly to prevent moisture from accumulating and causing corrosion. The original owner noted that "My s550 was the worst quality car I’ve ever owned. Ford didn’t use enough seam sealer on the chassis and it leaked from the bottom driving in rain." This highlights the importance of ensuring proper sealing to prevent water damage.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from FORD owners:

Success Stories

"Less important: started to think the locks were attracting mice into places. Sticky traps worked just as good." — Stocomx (source)

"Sticky traps worked just as good. Most importantly." — Stocomx (source)

Owner Experiences

"Wanted to show these photos, What is your favorite hood for the S550? I am debating on a Carbon GT350 hood or something else." — Blkpwrlftr2 (source)

"My s550 was the worst quality car I’ve ever owned. Ford didn’t use enough seam sealer on the chassis and it leaked from the bottom driving in rain." — diskfunktional (source)

"And the hood was corroding to the point it needed to be repainted. It was 3yrs old when I sold it." — diskfunktional (source)

Real Repair Costs

"I'm sure people do it, but no, so new wheels/tires are needed. I just think I might be able to get something I can just get in & drive for $30K." — Puzzleheaded_Pipe979 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix hood corrosion?

A: The time required to fix hood corrosion depends on the severity of the damage. Minor surface rust can be addressed in a few hours with DIY methods. More extensive corrosion or structural issues may require several days or even weeks to repair, especially if professional body work is needed.

Q: Can I drive with hood corrosion?

A: Driving with minor surface rust is generally safe, but it is important to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading. Severe corrosion or structural issues can compromise the hood's integrity and pose a safety risk. If you notice any significant corrosion or structural damage, it is best to have your 2020 Ford Mustang inspected by a professional before driving it.

Q: Is this a common issue on 2020 Ford Mustangs?

A: While not every 2020 Ford Mustang experiences hood corrosion, it is a known issue that can occur, particularly in areas with harsh weather conditions or where road salt is used. The severity of the issue can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle's age, usage, and maintenance history. One owner stated, "And the hood was corroding to the point it needed to be repainted. It was 3yrs old when I sold it," indicating that corrosion can occur relatively early in the vehicle's lifespan.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: DIY repairs are suitable for minor surface rust and seam sealer application. More extensive corrosion, structural damage, or paint work is best left to a qualified mechanic or body shop. Professional repairs will ensure a high-quality finish and address any underlying structural issues.