2015-2020 Ford F-150 Cat-Back Exhaust for Deeper Sound and Better Flow
A truck exhaust upgrade should make the F-150 feel more alive without turning every cold start, highway cruise, or trailer run into a headache. This system is built for owners who want a deeper tone, better rear-end style, and a cleaner exhaust path after the catalytic converter.
This 3-inch cat-back exhaust fits 2015-2020 Ford F-150 trucks with the 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, or 5.0L V8 engine. It is available in polished side exit, polished dual split exit, and black dual split exit styles, so you can match the sound and look to how your truck is actually used.
Key Specifications
| Product Type | Cat-back exhaust system |
| Main Pipe Diameter | 3-inch OD main piping |
| Material | T-304 stainless steel |
| Tip Options | Polished side exit, polished dual split exit, black dual split exit |
| Installation | Bolt-on style installation. Professional installation is recommended. |
| Tuning Required | No ECU tuning required for normal installation |
Built for Better Flow and a Stronger Exhaust Note
The factory F-150 exhaust puts quiet operation first. That is fine until you want to hear more of the engine you paid for. Moving to a 3-inch cat-back changes the exhaust path behind the catalytic converter, giving the rear section a freer-flowing route and a noticeably stronger tone under throttle.
- 3-inch main piping supports smoother exhaust flow through the rear section.
- T-304 stainless steel adds corrosion resistance for year-round truck use.
- Mandrel-bent tubing helps maintain a more consistent internal diameter through bends.
- Polished and black exit options let you match the exhaust to the rest of the truck.
- The factory catalytic converter remains in place.
- No ECU tune is required for a normal cat-back installation.
5.0L V8 vs 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost Sound
Engine choice changes the result more than the tip finish does. A 2015-2020 F-150 5.0L V8 has the deeper, slower exhaust pulse most owners associate with a traditional V8 truck. The 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines produce a tighter, sharper note. They get deeper than stock, but they do not suddenly turn into a 5.0L.
| Setup | At Idle | Under Throttle | Daily-Driving Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Exhaust | Quiet and subdued | Mild | Factory-focused comfort |
| 5.0L V8 + Cat-Back | Fuller V8 note | Deeper and more aggressive | Most noticeable sound change |
| 2.7L / 3.5L EcoBoost + Cat-Back | Deeper than stock | Tighter, stronger turbo-V6 tone | More presence without pretending to be a V8 |
Side Exit or Dual Split Exit?
| Style | Best Match | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Polished Side Exit | Clean, traditional truck layout | Visible polished finish with sound directed toward the side of the truck |
| Polished Dual Split Exit | Owners wanting a more noticeable rear-end change | Classic bright dual-exit appearance |
| Black Dual Split Exit | Dark wheels, black trim, or stealth-style builds | Aggressive dual-exit layout with a darker finish |
What Changes Compared With the Stock F-150 Exhaust?
| Area | Stock Setup | 3-Inch Cat-Back |
|---|---|---|
| Sound | Quiet and restrained | Deeper and more noticeable under throttle |
| Rear-Section Flow | Designed around factory noise and packaging targets | 3-inch free-flow path through the cat-back section |
| Appearance | Factory tailpipe styling | Polished or black side / dual split exit options |
| Catalytic Converter | Factory | Remains in place |
| ECU Tune | Factory calibration | No tune required for normal installation |
Performance Expectations
A cat-back should not be treated like a major engine modification. Its job is farther downstream: reduce restriction through the rear exhaust section, change the sound, and support cleaner exhaust movement after the catalytic converter.
Depending on engine condition, the rest of the exhaust setup, tune status, fuel, testing method, and installation quality, this system supports an estimated gain of approximately 8-16 HP and 6-13 lb-ft of torque. The exact result will vary from truck to truck.
Technician's Note: Buy a cat-back because you want a stronger exhaust note, stainless rear-section piping, and a different exit style. Treat any horsepower increase as a supporting benefit rather than the only reason to install one.
Where This Cat-Back Fits in the F-150 Exhaust System
This system works in the exhaust path behind the factory catalytic converter. It does not replace the exhaust manifolds, turbo downpipes, catalytic converter assembly, or front emissions hardware.
That distinction matters on both the 5.0L and EcoBoost trucks. Owners looking at a 2017 or 2020 Ford F-150 exhaust system diagram can use the same basic reference point: the cat-back is the rear section of the exhaust rather than a complete engine-to-tailpipe system.
Who Is This Cat-Back Best For?
- 2015-2020 F-150 owners within the listed engine, drivetrain, and body fitment.
- 5.0L V8 owners who want a fuller, more traditional truck exhaust note.
- 2.7L or 3.5L EcoBoost owners who want more exhaust presence without expecting V8 sound.
- Drivers who prefer a complete cat-back upgrade rather than changing only the muffler.
- Owners who want a polished or black side / dual split exit appearance.
- Drivers who want a rear-section exhaust upgrade without requiring an ECU tune.
When a Different Exhaust Setup Makes More Sense
- Your F-150 falls outside the listed 2015-2020 fitment range.
- You only need to replace a damaged factory muffler and do not want a full cat-back upgrade.
- Your goal is to replace headers, turbo downpipes, catalytic converters, or other front exhaust components.
- Your truck already has custom-cut or welded exhaust piping that changes the factory connection points.
- You are looking for an extremely quiet, factory-level exhaust note.
Installation Notes
This system uses a bolt-on style installation. A skilled DIY owner with proper lifting equipment and hand tools may be able to complete the work at home, but professional installation is recommended.
Rusty factory clamps, seized hardware, previous exhaust repairs, or non-stock piping can add work. Support the exhaust before loosening the old system, leave the new connections slightly loose during initial alignment, center the tips, and tighten the system only after hanger and body clearance look correct.
Warranty & Support
1-Year Warranty: This product is backed by a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
Fitment Support: Contact customer support if you need help matching your year, engine, drivetrain, body configuration, or selected exhaust style before ordering.
Shipping & Returns
Free U.S. Shipping: Orders are typically processed within 1–2 business days and delivered within 7–9 business days. Additional charges may apply to remote areas.
30-Day Returns: Unopened and unused items in their original packaging may be returned within 30 days of receipt. Return shipping is covered for verified quality issues.
Worry-Free Delivery: Optional protection against eligible loss, theft, delay, or transit damage is available at checkout.
More Ford F-150 Exhaust Options
Shopping for a different F-150 year or exhaust layout? Compare the available Ford F150 cat-back exhaust systems instead of forcing a system outside its listed fitment.
Fitment & Compatibility
| Year | Make / Model | Engine | Drivetrain | Body | Exit Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2020 | Ford F-150 | 2.7L EcoBoost V6 | RWD / 4WD | 2 / 4 Door | Side Exit / Dual Split Exit |
| 2015-2020 | Ford F-150 | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD / 4WD | 2 / 4 Door | Side Exit / Dual Split Exit |
| 2015-2020 | Ford F-150 | 5.0L V8 | RWD / 4WD | 2 / 4 Door | Side Exit / Dual Split Exit |
Fitment Tip: F-150 exhaust routing can vary with body and wheelbase configuration. Match your year, engine, drivetrain, body configuration, and selected exit style before installation. Trucks with previously modified exhaust piping may require additional fitting work.
2015-2020 Ford F-150 Cat-Back Exhaust FAQs
Q1: Will this cat-back fit my 2015-2020 Ford F-150?
A1: Listed fitment covers 2015-2020 Ford F-150 trucks with the 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, or 5.0L V8, with RWD and 4WD applications and 2/4-door body configurations represented. Check your exact vehicle configuration before ordering.
Q2: Does this fit a 2020 F150 2.7L EcoBoost?
A2: Yes. The 2.7L EcoBoost is included in the listed 2015-2020 F-150 engine fitment. Match your drivetrain and body configuration as well as the model year.
Q3: Does this fit a 2015-2020 F150 5.0L V8?
A3: Yes. The 5.0L V8 is included throughout the listed 2015-2020 F-150 range. It also produces the deepest, most traditional V8-style tone of the three listed engines.
Q4: Will it fit a 2021 or newer F-150?
A4: No. This system is listed for 2015-2020 Ford F-150 trucks. Choose a system specifically listed for a 2021 or newer truck.
Q5: Does this cat-back exhaust require a tune?
A5: No. An ECU tune is not required for a normal installation because the system changes the exhaust farther downstream and keeps the factory catalytic converter section in place.
Q6: Does this exhaust replace or delete the catalytic converter?
A6: No. This is a cat-back exhaust system. It works behind the catalytic converter and does not replace the factory catalytic converter assembly.
Q7: How will a 5.0L F150 sound compared with a 2.7L or 3.5L EcoBoost?
A7: The 5.0L V8 produces the fuller, deeper truck tone. The EcoBoost engines become stronger and deeper than stock but keep the tighter exhaust character of a turbocharged V6.
Q8: Will this exhaust drone on the highway?
A8: Cabin sound can increase with any aftermarket cat-back. What you hear at cruising speed also changes with engine, truck configuration, road speed, tires, and other exhaust modifications. Drivers who are especially sensitive to cabin noise should consider that before moving away from the factory exhaust.
Q9: Is this exhaust too loud for a daily-driven F150?
A9: It is intended to sound deeper and more noticeable than stock, especially under throttle. It is still a muffled cat-back system rather than a straight-pipe or simple muffler-delete setup, but sound preference is subjective.
Q10: Is this the same as replacing only the F150 muffler?
A10: No. A muffler-only repair or upgrade changes one section of the exhaust. A cat-back system changes a larger part of the rear exhaust path and also gives you different tailpipe and exit styling.
Q11: Where does this part sit on a 2017 or 2020 Ford F150 exhaust system diagram?
A11: It sits in the rear exhaust section behind the catalytic converter area. It does not replace the manifolds, EcoBoost turbo downpipes, catalytic converters, or other front exhaust hardware. See the Ford F150 exhaust diagram guide for a full front-to-rear layout.
Q12: How much horsepower can this cat-back add?
A12: Estimated gains are approximately 8-16 HP and 6-13 lb-ft of torque depending on engine condition, exhaust setup, tune status, fuel, testing method, and installation quality. Sound and rear-section flow are usually the more noticeable everyday changes.
Q13: Can I install this cat-back exhaust at home?
A13: A skilled DIY owner with proper tools and safe lifting equipment may be able to install the system. Professional installation is recommended, especially when the factory hardware is rusty or the truck already has exhaust modifications.
Q14: Will it connect to a stock F-150 exhaust setup?
A14: The system is designed as a bolt-on style cat-back for the listed applications. Previously cut, welded, or modified exhaust piping can change the connection points and may require additional fitting work.
Q15: Which exit style should I choose?
A15: Choose the polished side exit for a cleaner traditional truck look. The polished dual split exit puts more visual emphasis at the rear, while the black dual split exit works well with darker trim, black wheels, and stealth-style builds.