Ford Pinto years to avoid
Across 1971–1980, no single Pinto year stands out as one to avoid by our thresholds. The 1980 drew the most complaints; 1979 the fewest.
5
Total complaints
23
Recall campaigns
1971–1980
Years covered
0
Years to avoid
Complaints by model year
Every Pinto year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | 2 | 1 | |
| 1979 | 0 | 3 | |
| 1978 | 1 | 3 | |
| 1977 | 0 | 5 | |
| 1976 | 1 | 7 | |
| 1975 | 0 | 3 | |
| 1974 | 0 | 3 | |
| 1973 | 0 | 4 | |
| 1972 | 1 | 3 | |
| 1971 | 0 | 5 |
Common questions
What is the best year for the Ford Pinto?
By complaint volume, 1979 has the cleanest NHTSA record among Pinto years with enough data to compare.
How many recalls does the Ford Pinto have?
Across all model years, the Pinto has 23 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 5 consumer complaints on file.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.