In the next couple of days I'll get my 2012 V6 base Mustang delivered. I might consider installing 3.31 gears. I'm not planning to race, but 2.73 seem a bit long, which I noticed even during the test drive (6th gear at 60-70mph was a no-go, 1500rpm on an uphill section).

Question 1: can this be done for a coupe without voiding any warranty (heard it's not possible for convertibles)?

Question 2: what is my safest bet in terms of choosing a shop? Ford dealerships? Something else?

Question 3: how much would this cost approximately? Got quoted by a dealership here in San Diego (the only one that responded to my e-mail) at $1690+tax. I think that's a ridiculous price.

Question 4: does anyone have suggestion of a shop in San Diego/SoCal? If advertising shop names is against the rules, please send me a private/visitor message.

Thanks

 

Just buy the perfomance packedge you get 3:31 rear limited slip, and full GT/GT500 suspension upgrade..that's what I would do...wait I did yeah dude you will love it

 

I got a deal for a base Mustang that I had to take (18.5k base price for a 2012), so going for performance package is not an option.

 

Darn 779, I just bought a 2009 V6 that has the "Pony Package", it
really rocks! Would you consider a used Stang? Mine only has
28,332 miles, barely broke in.

 

I asked Ford Corporate about upgrading my Gears and this is their reply.

"Thank you for contacting the Ford Motor Company, my name is Kevin and I have taken the opportunity to address changing the rear end gearing without affecting the warranty of your 2012 Mustang Convertible.

Any alteration done to the vehicle would not in of itself affect warranty. If a mechanical issue arises on the vehicle due to the alteration then it could affect warranty. Please consult your dealer for any technical questions about the alteration. We appreciate you taking the time to write us and hope everything works out for you. Thank you for contacting Ford.

Sincerely,
Kevin
Customer Relationship Center
Ford Motor Company"

 

I drive at 40 mph in 6th gear at 1100 rpm (40mpg), so 60-70 in 6th with 2.73 (29mpg) is easy and has passing power acceleration power if you dont want to shift.

 

This has been covered ad nauseum. You will need a tuner to bring your odometer / speedometer back into spec. No dealer will do that for you. If you're considering gears, just go to 3.73s. You'll thank me later. I get 28mpg with them on the highway and the pull they provide is near 5.0 like.

By the way, if you're paying over $600 for the gear swap including parts and labor, you're probably getting ripped off.

Welcome to the forum. Hope you love your mustang as much as I do. Search is your friend.

 

Question 1: can this be done for a coupe without voiding any warranty (heard it's not possible for convertibles)?
ANS: Yes, it has been done by the dealer for coupes, not for convertibles. Ask your dealer if they can do it before taking delivery.

Question 2: what is my safest bet in terms of choosing a shop? Ford dealerships? Something else?
ANS: 4x4 shop or speed shop that does lots of gears. I would not take it to a dealer.

Question 3: how much would this cost approximately? Got quoted by a dealership here in San Diego (the only one that responded to my e-mail) at $1690+tax. I think that's a ridiculous price.
ANS: $400 is the average price for gear install, but varies by area - your area may be more expensive.

Question 4: does anyone have suggestion of a shop in San Diego/SoCal? If advertising shop names is against the rules, please send me a private/visitor message.
ANS: Good luck with your search.

 

Believe me, 2.73's are the worst. I had 3.31's in mine stock. You'll get more pull, but still maintain gas mileage. You'll be around 1800 if iirc at 60mph and about 2000-2100 at 70mph. If you're interested, I just removed the 3.31's last night from my 2011 to install 3.73's and I have them sitting right here. Offer me via pm if you are interested. I also have an install kit with it.

 

You're going to love those 3.73s.

And, no, no dealership is going to honor your drivetrain warranty if you swap gears out.