Best Exhaust for Ford F-150 (2018-2024): Top Picks & Buyer’s Guide
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Best Exhaust for Ford F-150 (2018–2024): Make Your Truck Sound the Way It Should
If you own a 2018–2024 Ford F-150, you already know you’re driving one of America’s most capable trucks. But let’s be honest — the factory exhaust doesn’t exactly do justice to that 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, or 5.0L Coyote V8 rumbling under the hood. Finding the best exhaust for a Ford F-150 is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make: better sound, modest power gains, and a look that actually matches the truck’s personality. This guide breaks down the top options across different budgets and goals, so you can make a confident, well-informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Top F-150 Exhaust Systems at a Glance
| System | Type | Best For | Sound Level | Est. Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Borla ATAK Cat-Back | Cat-Back | Max aggression | 🔊🔊🔊🔊🔊 | $700–$900 |
| Borla S-Type Cat-Back | Cat-Back | Balanced tone | 🔊🔊🔊🔊 | $600–$800 |
| MagnaFlow Street Series | Cat-Back | Deep, refined tone | 🔊🔊🔊 | $400–$600 |
| Flowmaster American Thunder | Cat-Back | Classic muscle sound | 🔊🔊🔊🔊 | $350–$500 |
| Gibson Performance Exhaust | Cat-Back | Budget-friendly power | 🔊🔊🔊 | $300–$450 |
| MBRP Installer Series | Cat-Back | Value + dual-tip looks | 🔊🔊🔊 | $250–$400 |
Our Top Picks: Best Exhaust Systems for the 2018–2024 Ford F-150
1. Borla ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust — Best for Maximum Sound
If you want your F-150 to announce its presence before it even rounds the corner, the Borla ATAK is the gold standard. ATAK stands for Acoustically Tuned Applied Kinetics — essentially engineered to be as loud as legally possible without crossing into obnoxious drone territory at highway speeds. Built from T-304 stainless steel with a lifetime warranty, this is a premium product that delivers premium results.
Compatible engines: 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, 5.0L V8 (year-specific fitment kits available)
Tip style: Slash-cut polished stainless — looks fantastic on any F-150 trim.
Check Price on Borla ATAK F-150 Cat-Back
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- ✅ Lifetime warranty — Borla stands behind every weld
- ✅ Zero drone on the highway thanks to precise tuning
- ✅ Significant sound improvement over stock on all F-150 engines
- ✅ T-304 stainless steel resists rust and corrosion for years
- ❌ Premium price — expect to spend $700–$900
- ❌ Very loud — may not suit daily commuters or towing-focused drivers
2. Borla S-Type Cat-Back Exhaust — Best for Balanced Performance
Not everyone wants to rattle the neighbors’ windows. The Borla S-Type is the sweet spot in the Borla lineup — noticeably louder and more aggressive than stock, but refined enough for daily driving without fatigue. You’ll still get that unmistakable Borla tone with a deeper, throatier note under hard acceleration, while staying relatively quiet at cruising speed. Ideal for EcoBoost owners who want the exhaust to complement the turbo spool sound.
Check Price on Borla S-Type F-150 Cat-Back
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- ✅ Perfect daily-driver volume — aggressive without being obnoxious
- ✅ Same lifetime warranty and T-304 stainless construction as ATAK
- ✅ Works beautifully with EcoBoost turbo sound signature
- ❌ Still a premium investment at $600–$800
- ❌ Those wanting maximum sound should step up to the ATAK
3. MagnaFlow Street Series Cat-Back — Best Deep, Refined Tone
MagnaFlow has been a household name in performance exhaust for decades, and the Street Series cat-back for the F-150 is a testament to why. The signature MagnaFlow sound is deep, smooth, and refined — less raspy than some competitors, which makes it excellent for the 5.0L Coyote V8 that naturally produces a rich, full-throated note. Mandrel-bent aluminized or stainless steel tubing ensures proper flow and fitment right out of the box.
Check Price on MagnaFlow Street Series F-150
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- ✅ Deep, smooth tone — sounds refined and premium
- ✅ Excellent build quality with mandrel-bent tubing
- ✅ Widely available and well-supported fitment
- ✅ Strong mid-range pricing makes it accessible
- ❌ Not the loudest option — buyers wanting real aggression may want more
- ❌ Aluminized steel (base tier) won’t last as long as stainless
4. Flowmaster American Thunder — Best Classic Muscle Sound
There’s a reason Flowmaster has been synonymous with American muscle for 40 years. The American Thunder cat-back delivers that iconic, aggressive Flowmaster rumble — a deep, choppy, distinctly American tone that turns heads at every stoplight. It’s a step up in volume from MagnaFlow and hits a price point that’s easier to swallow. Great choice for 5.0L V8 owners who want that classic truck growl.
Check Price on Flowmaster American Thunder F-150
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- ✅ Iconic Flowmaster sound — aggressive and distinctly American
- ✅ Solid mid-tier price range ($350–$500)
- ✅ Proven brand with decades of fitment data
- ❌ Some interior drone at certain RPM ranges — especially on EcoBoost models
- ❌ Finish quality doesn’t quite match Borla or MagnaFlow at this tier
5. MBRP Installer Series — Best Budget-Friendly Option
If you want dramatically improved sound and a set of polished tips without spending $600+, the MBRP Installer Series consistently punches above its weight. It’s built from aluminized steel (not stainless), which is a trade-off at this price point, but the fitment is excellent, installation is straightforward, and the tonal improvement over stock is genuinely impressive. A great entry-level upgrade for F-150 owners who are new to exhaust mods.
Check Price on MBRP Installer Series F-150
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- ✅ Best value in the cat-back category — strong performance per dollar
- ✅ Easy installation with quality clamp connections
- ✅ Available in single and dual-tip configurations
- ❌ Aluminized steel — not as corrosion-resistant as stainless
- ❌ Sound is improved but not dramatic — moderate upgrade only
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best F-150 Exhaust
1. Know Your Engine First
The 2018–2024 F-150 lineup covers several very different engines: the turbocharged 2.7L EcoBoost V6, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (including the High Output version in the Raptor), the naturally aspirated 5.0L Coyote V8, the 3.3L V6 base engine, and the 3.0L Power Stroke diesel. Every exhaust system is engine- and cab/bed-configuration specific. Always verify fitment before purchasing — a system designed for the 5.0L will not fit the 3.5L EcoBoost correctly.
2. Cat-Back vs. Axle-Back — What’s the Difference?
Cat-back systems replace everything from the catalytic converter back — midpipe, muffler, and tips. They offer the most significant sound and performance improvement. Axle-back systems only replace the muffler and tips, which is a cheaper, easier install but a more modest upgrade. For most F-150 owners looking for a real transformation, cat-back is the way to go.
3. Sound Level: Be Realistic
The loudest exhaust isn’t always the best exhaust. Consider how you use your truck. Daily highway commuter? Look for low drone ratings. Weekend canyon runner or show truck? Go for the loudest you can find. Most manufacturers publish decibel ratings or demo videos — always listen before you buy.
4. Material Matters
- T-304 Stainless Steel: Best corrosion resistance, lifetime durability — found in Borla, MagnaFlow stainless tiers
- Aluminized Steel: More affordable, decent rust resistance — found in budget and mid-tier options like MBRP Installer
5. Cab and Bed Configuration
Exhaust routing is different for Regular Cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew body styles, and varies across 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8-foot bed lengths. Always filter by your exact configuration when ordering.
Brief Install Overview
Installing a cat-back exhaust on a 2018–2024 F-150 is a manageable weekend DIY job for most mechanically inclined owners. Here’s a general overview:
- Gather your tools: Penetrating oil (PB Blaster), a socket set, exhaust clamps, and ideally a floor jack with jack stands or ramps for clearance.
- Soak the factory bolts: Spray all connection points with penetrating oil the night before — this is the biggest time-saver on any exhaust job.
- Remove stock components: Start from the rear tips and work forward toward the catalytic converter connection point. Hangers slip off with a flathead screwdriver.
- Install the new system: Work from the cat connection backward. Hand-tighten all clamps before fully torquing to allow alignment adjustments.
- Check fitment and tip alignment: Make sure tips are centered and level before final torque. Start the truck and check for leaks.
Estimated install time: 1–3 hours. Professional installation is available at most muffler shops for $100–$200 if you prefer.
FAQ: Ford F-150 Exhaust Systems
Will a cat-back exhaust void my 2018–2024 F-150 warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealer cannot void your powertrain warranty simply because you installed an aftermarket exhaust — they must prove the part caused the specific failure. That said, exhaust-related components may no longer be covered. Always check with your dealer and keep your factory exhaust for resale or reinstallation if needed.
How much horsepower does a cat-back exhaust add to an F-150?
On a naturally aspirated 5.0L V8, expect modest gains of 5–15 horsepower at the wheels. On turbocharged EcoBoost engines, gains are typically smaller from exhaust alone, since the turbo acts as a natural restriction point. The real benefit is improved sound, throttle response, and exhaust flow — not massive power numbers.
Is there exhaust drone inside the cab on EcoBoost F-150 models?
Drone can be more noticeable on EcoBoost models due to their firing interval. Borla systems are specifically engineered to minimize drone, and the S-Type is an excellent choice for EcoBoost owners concerned about interior noise on long drives. Flowmaster systems tend to produce more drone on EcoBoost trucks — worth noting before you buy.
Do I need a tune after installing a cat-back exhaust on my F-150?
No — a cat-back exhaust does not require an ECU tune. The system only modifies components downstream of the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors, so your F-150’s engine management system will not be affected. A tune is generally only recommended if you’re also modifying intakes, intercoolers, or removing catalytic converters.
What’s the best exhaust for the F-150 5.0L Coyote V8 specifically?
The 5.0L Coyote V8 responds exceptionally well to exhaust upgrades. The Borla ATAK produces a ferocious, high-revving V8 sound that complements the Coyote’s character perfectly. The MagnaFlow Street Series gives a deep, refined V8 tone if you prefer something more subtle. Both are excellent choices for 5.0L owners.
Final Verdict: Which F-150 Exhaust Should You Buy?
The best exhaust for your 2018–2024 Ford F-150 ultimately comes down to your priorities — sound, budget, and how you use the truck.
- Want the loudest, most aggressive sound with zero drone? Go with the Borla ATAK — it’s worth every penny.
- Daily driver who wants a meaningful upgrade without going overboard? The Borla S-Type is the perfect balance.
- Love a deep, smooth V8 tone without a premium price? The MagnaFlow Street Series delivers.
- Classic American muscle rumble on a mid-range budget? Flowmaster American Thunder is a proven winner.
- Getting your feet wet with exhaust mods on a tight budget? MBRP Installer Series gets the job done.
Whatever you choose, an aftermarket exhaust is one of those upgrades you’ll appreciate every single time you turn the key. Your F-150 deserves to sound as tough as it looks — make it happen.