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Ford Mustang GT 2005-2014: Exhaust Modifications

The Ford Mustang GT comes equipped with a performance exhaust system; however, there is always room for improvement. Read on to learn some exhaust system modifications.

By Bassem Girgis - October 29, 2015

This article applies to the Ford Mustang GT (2005-2014).

The Ford Mustang GT comes equipped with performance parts, even the exhaust system is a performance system; however, aftermarket modifications have been known to take your car to the next level. The exhaust system consists of three main parts: the exhaust manifold, which is located under your hood, the exhaust mid-pipe, which goes from the exhaust manifold and covers the middle section of the car, and finally the cat-back, which consists of the mufflers and the tail pipes. All three are upgrade-able and should add power and sound to your car. If you want your Mustang GT to sound like a monster and act like on, read on to learn what mods do what and what's best for you as well as your budget.

Exhaust Modifications

In this guide, we will start from the front of the car to the rear. The first modification is the exhaust manifold under the hood, the second one is the mid-pipe, and finally, we will end with the cat-back system.

Figure 1. Exhaust diagram. (Photo from AmericanMuscle.com)

#1 Exhaust Manifold

DIY Cost – $100-450

Professional Cost –$300-750

Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires the removal of various engine components and working in a very tight area.

A big part of your car loosing power is the back pressure in the exhaust. An aftermarket exhaust manifold improves the flow, and thus increasing the power. The exhaust manifolds are designed to push the exhaust gases out of the engine. They are found under the hood of your Mustang, connected to the engine. Even though replacing them is not the easiest procedure, the benefits are immediate.

The manufacturers design the stock manifold to take the smallest space possible under the engine, which makes the flow of exhaust gases a bit restrictive. Installing a larger exhaust manifold that is designed for your specific Mustang will increase the flow and the power immediately.

Exhaust manifold are considered one of the most effective bolt-on modifications. So if you want to take your exhaust system to the next level to allow the gasses to get out and burn easier, this mod is for you. Recommended for its improved flow.

#2 Mid-Pipe Exhaust

DIY Cost – $150-450

Professional Cost –$350-650

Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires working under the vehicle.

The mid-pipes is the part of your exhaust in the middle between your exhaust manifold and the cat-back exhaust. The exhaust in the GT comes in an H-pipe shape. The mid-pipe has been known to add a deeper sound to your GT. They have also been known to add roughly 12hp to your Mustang's performance. Installing this part is rather easy, you simply have to unbolt it from both sides and replace it with a new one. If you have the luxury of using your Mustang GT on track only, you can purchase a high performance mid-pipe, which does not come with a catalytic converter. This is not legal on the streets; however, on the track, it takes your Mustang to a whole new level.

Aftermarket mid-pipes are known to be 20 pounds lighter, so for the picky racers that pay attention to details, this mod adds a lot to the Mustang GT.

If you feel this modification is for you, be sure to check the part you will purchase to see if it's legal in your state in regards to emissions. Recommended for its sound and horsepower.

#3 Cat-Back Exhaust

DIY Cost – $375-660

Professional Cost – $500-900

Skill Level – Moderate; this job requires working under the vehicle.

The cat-back exhaust is the third and final piece to your puzzle. This part attaches to your mid-pipe, which attaches to your exhaust manifold and it goes to the rear of the vehicle where it sends the gasses out, away from the car.

This modification is best known for the beautiful tone it adds to your Mustang GT. If you think your car sounds good, wait until you put this on. Installing it is simple and requires the removal of some bolts and brackets.

Along with the beautiful sound this exhaust brings, they usually come in a larger diameter than your stock one, which free up the flow of your exhaust and, like the exhaust manifold, prevent back wash, which results in an increase of horsepower and torque.

The best part part about this modification is that it's an investment. Since this allows for a better flow, it makes your engine not work very hard, which results in an increase in fuel economy. This is perhaps the best upgrade you can do to your exhaust system. Recommended for its sound, horsepower, torque and fuel economy increase.

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