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The Best Sounding Exhaust for F150, According to 180+ Customer Reviews

Last Updated on Aug 16, 2023 By Lillian Kazmierczak

The louder the sound of your F150, the greater the thrill. With the best sounding exhaust for F150, you know your vehicle is standing out while the engine noise makes you feel sporty and gives you something to play with even when you’re just driving through traffic.

Our Ford truck enthusiasts reviewed the loudest and most aggressive sounding exhaust systems available today. See which one suits your truck the most!

Our Top 5 Best Sounding Exhausts for F150

01 Roush 421248 Exhaust System (The Badass Choice)

Roush 421248 Exhaust System

Why It Stands Out to Us

We loved this one, particularly for the crisp and high-quality roar we got when installed. It just didn’t feel like noise to us. Besides, Roush is a reputed name. So, we weren’t really surprised by its performance.

Our Experience with the Roush 421248

  • The fit was great. We didn’t need to face any hassle of unnecessary headaches when installing. We have a couple of in-house motorheads. They were easily able to install this thing.
  • A very good air flow combined with the lack of backpressure helped our F150 truck get that extra oomph. That’s why driving around with this beauty was so satisfying.
  • Cool design isn’t something you need to overlook. And that was the case for us with this one. The polished finish gave it a nice-looking design which made us love it even more. This is the one to go for if you want to look badass.
  • You might wonder how much does an exhaust affects your fuel economy. Well, this one doesn’t put a lot of stress on your engine.

So, your fuel economy is going to be pretty good too! That’s good news if you don’t want to blow a full tank in just one driving session.

What We Didn’t Like

  • The reason we like this one might be the very reason some users would shy away from it. It’s a very loud exhaust. And that might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Who Is It Great for?

  • If you want to feel powerful and like a badass, get this one. There is just no other way around it. The ease of installation and feature set make it a perfect choice.

What Could Be Improved and Why

  • If there were a way for future revisions to have a variable sound level, that would be just fantastic.

Our Recommendations

  • You could get noise complaints from your neighbors! If you don’t want to go too loud, see other good options here.

Specifications

  • Brand: Roush
  • Fit: 2010-2014 6.2L V8 F-150, 3.5L V6 F-150’s and 011-2014 5.0L V8
  • Dimensions: 17” x 62” x 12”
  • Weight: 51 pounds
  • Vehicle Modification: Not required

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • No vehicle modification needed
  • Sounds absolutely fantastic
  • Doesn’t stress the engine
  • Polished finish with a good-looking design

Cons

  • Maybe a bit too loud for some

02 BORLA 140616BC Exhaust System (Loud & Aggressive)

BORLA 140616BC Exhaust System

Why It Stands Out to Us

Let’s face it; you won’t be installing an exhaust on your F150 for it to be tame and timid. If you want a hyper-aggressive sound that’s loud, this is the one to get. Borla is a very known brand, and the customer opinions of this one are fantastic.

The materials used to make it are very durable. It uses stainless steel, so you know it has high-quality parts.

Our experience with the BORLA 140616BC

  • The first thing that jumped at us was the sheer loudness. It’s very loud and, as we mentioned, very aggressive. The multicore interior structure gives it quite the bang.
  • Ask any mechanic, and they will tell you how cumbersome a poorly made exhaust can be to install. We didn’t face any problems with this one. Thanks to the precise CNC machining, it was fairly easy to install, and it didn’t take too much effort.
  • The build was also really good. Since it’s made from stainless steel, we were confident every step of the way that this will last. The quality of the part is really impressive.
  • Since it has a polished finish, we appreciated the corrosion-resistant features of this one. It looks like this part will keep its premium polish for longer.
  • All isn’t good and dandy, though. This exhaust is a bit heavy. So, that’s something we needed to keep in mind. It didn’t weigh our trucks down too much.

What We Didn’t Like

  • The weight is the obvious thing that stands out. This exhaust is definitely on the heavier side.

Who Is It Great for?

Those who want everyone around them to know they have a beefy exhaust installed in their Ford F150 will love this exhaust. The sound is super loud and aggressive.

What Could Be Improved and Why

  • A lighter version of this will be a good improvement.

Our Recommendations

Get this one; you won’t be disappointed. We loved the sound and the sheer quality. Just be ready for the weight of this beast.

Specifications

  • Brand: BORLA
  • Fit: F150s with 145″ wheelbases
  • Dimensions: 0” x16.0” x 13.0”
  • Weight: 58 pounds
  • Vehicle Modification: Not required

Pros

  • Precise CNC machining
  • Fits perfectly
  • Very easy to install
  • Durable stainless-steel build-quality
  • Sounds monstrously loud and aggressive

Cons

  • A bit on the heavier side

03 Flowmaster 817707 Outlaw Extreme Kit (The Budget King)

Flowmaster 817707 Outlaw Extreme Kit

Why It Stands Out to Us

Okay, look, we know that tinkering and modifying cars can become an expensive hobby. But not everyone has hundreds of dollars to spend on whatever things and modifications they want to buy for their trucks or cars.

That’s why we included this one. The Flowmaster 817707 is the best budget option you can get for your F150. And guess what? You will love every bit of it and have some money left in your pocket.

Our Experience with the Flowmaster 817707 Outlaw Extreme

  • Want to feel like an outlaw in the best way possible? Let us tell you; it does not get better than this one. The sound is so great; you will just instantly fall in love with it. And that’s high praise for a budget exhaust.
  • The construction is on par with all the other products on this list as well. It’s made from stainless steel. So, you can be sure that this thing will last you for a long time to come.
  • We also loved how this exhaust is compatible even during cold seasons. Installation is easy as well. In fact, it took us just over an hour to complete the whole process. If you’re a DIY enthusiast and like getting hands-on, you will love it just as much as we did.
  • One side benefit of having an aftermarket exhaust on your truck is that the tip can stick out a little bit. That makes your vehicle look even cooler.

Unfortunately, the tip of this one is pretty short. So, it doesn’t stick out as much. That was a bit of a bummer for us, but it’s nothing major.

  • What about the sound, then? That’s the main idea behind any exhaust. Well, this is a review of the best-sounding exhaust. You know we wouldn’t have picked this one if it sounded bad.

Rest assured, you will love the roar from this budget unit because we loved it too! It sounds powerful, to say the least.

What We Didn’t Like

  • Since the tips are a bit short, it doesn’t stick out. A tip that sticks out could have been a nice little aesthetic upgrade for your truck.

Who Is It Great for?

Anyone who is looking to save a little money and get an exhaust that performs great will love this one.

What Could Be Improved and Why

  • It would really help with the aesthetics of this exhaust if the tips were a little longer.

Specifications

  • Brand: Flowmaster
  • Fit: F150s 2011 – 2014 models
  • Color: Black
  • Weight: 32 ounces
  • Vehicle Modification: Required

Pros

  • Durable stainless-steel build
  • Easy to install
  • Roaring sounds
  • It comes with a muffler and tips

Cons

  • Short tips

04 Roush 421711 F-150 Cat-Back Exhaust

Roush 421711 F-150 Cat-Back Exhaust

Why It Stands Out to Us

All the ones mentioned in this review have been pretty easy to install. But if you’re just a very busy person and are looking for the easiest way to install an exhaust for your beloved F150, you can’t do any better than the Roush 42171.

Yes, it’s another Roush exhaust, but we loved it just as much as our first pick. It does require a bit of trimming in some models.

Our Experience with the Roush 421711

  • We loved how easy it was to install. From start to finish, it only took us a couple of hours. Do note that some models will need a bit of trimming. We didn’t have to trim ours, though.
  • The build quality is what you would expect exactly from Roush. It uses solid materials like stainless steel. That ensures you will get pretty long use out of this exhaust.
  • It also is corrosion resistant. The ‘409’ stainless-steel build held its own against corrosion and did well even in different weather conditions. Just because it’s easy to install doesn’t mean it’s a weak product.
  • What about the sound, then? Oh, the sound. It was like music to our ears. The exhaust was crisp and loud. But not unnecessarily loud. It has a powerful exhaust note that made driving the F150 pure joy.
  • It also increases the airflow of your truck. That will give you more out of your engine. Since there is little back pressure, you can get the most horsepower and torque out of your truck!

What We Didn’t Like

  • A bit of modification is needed for it to fit some models. That might be a hassle for some, but it really isn’t a big deal.

Who Is It Great for?

  • Those looking for an easy-to-install exhaust for their Ford F150 should give this one a close look. And the fact that it sounds so good makes it all the better.

Our Recommendations

  • If you’re in the market for a no-hassle and easy exhaust to work with for your F150, this one will be right up your alley. It gets an easy recommendation from us.

Specifications

  • Brand: Roush
  • Fit: F150s 2011-2014 models
  • Color: Silver
  • Weight: 5 pounds
  • Vehicle Modification: Required

Pros

  • Super easy to install
  • Great sound
  • Durable build quality
  • Corrosion-resistant
  • Trusted brand name

Cons

  • Requires some modification on some models

05 MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 19080

MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 19080

Why It Stands Out to Us

How does a super cool exhaust that looks like a complete looker sound? Hey, no one said your exhaust only has to sound cool.

It can look cool as well. That’s what this one from the guys over at MagnaFlow exactly is. It has a great build and a pretty sound. The installation is easy too!

Our Experience with the MagnaFlow 19080 Cat-Back Performance Exhaust

  • Looks-wise, this one impressed us the most with sharp angles and a great finish; this one looks as cool as it sounds. You will get some serious style points if you install it on your F150.
  • The sound is aggressive but not that much. MagnaFlow made sure you don’t get any noise complaints. So, they decided to make an interior, friendly exhaust. That’s quite thoughtful of them.
  • We also loved how robustly built this thing is. The kit uses stainless steel as its primary material. And if you have been paying attention, we love stainless steel exhaust. This one felt just as well built as all the others on this list.
  • The fit can be very bad with some exhausts out there. Thankfully, we didn’t feel like pulling our hair out when installing this one. The brand uses 3D scanning to ensure the perfect fit. And that’s what we exactly got. It was super easy and practically fit like a glove.
  • While the fit is easy, the installation took us a bit longer. It wasn’t hard or anything; it just took us a bit longer than we expected. Not a deal-breaker by any means, though.

What We Didn’t Like

  • A quicker installation process would have made it easier. Thankfully, you only have to do it once.

Who Is It Great for?

Enthusiasts who want the looks, as well as the sounds, will love this one from MagnaFlow. The design and features are great overall.

What Could Be Improved and Why

  • A faster installation process will make it much more accessible.

Our Recommendations

If style matters to you, then you can’t go wrong with MagnaFlow’s exhaust. The best part is you’re not sacrificing sound and performance for the sake of style either.

Specifications

  • Brand: MagnaFlow
  • Installation: Bolt-on
  • Color: Silver
  • Weight: 53 pounds

Pros

  • Durable construction
  • Great looking exhaust
  • Sounds superb
  • It fits like a glove

Cons

  • It takes a bit longer to install

Best Sounding Exhaust for f150: Buying Guide

Sounding Exhaust for F150

1. Build and Material Quality

Build material and quality are important. You want your exhaust to be well-built for it to last. There are mainly two materials to look for.

a) Stainless-Steel

Stainless steel exhausts are robust and very durable. In fact, most of the ones we reviewed in our list are made from stainless steel. They last very long, but some can be a bit heavy.

b) Aluminized Steel

Then you have an aluminized steel. This a lighter material but is still just as good. You can’t go wrong with either one. You need to make sure that you pick an exhaust that uses high-quality build materials that ensure longevity.

2. Performance

Of course, you can’t forget the performance! That’s the whole point of an exhaust system. When it comes to performance, you can pick what kind of sound the exhaust makes. Some are very loud and aggressive. Others can be a bit mellow but still pretty powerful.

This will depend on your preference. But at the end of the day, you need to remember to get one that sounds right to you.

Otherwise, you might end up regretting the whole decision. We reviewed exhaust with different sound profiles. So, choosing one that’s right for you shouldn’t be a problem.

3. Easy Pairing

Easy pairing and installation are something you will thank yourself for later. Some options can get very tedious. That isn’t something you would want to go through yourself.

Get one that comes with easy pairing and is easy to install. You will love it! It will save you time and also energy, and you won’t curse yourself for not choosing something easier to work with.

If you want to be extra diligent, you can check out the manufacturer’s guidelines to see how the installation and setup process is like.

4. The Exhaust Type

Then comes the exhaust type. There are mainly two types – cat back and header back. We will dive into a bit more detail later. What you need to know now is cat-back exhausts don’t require any modifications.

These also help you get more horsepower and improved torque. Header back is more like a total system and may need modification. This system also includes a couple of separate components.

5. Exhaust Legality

Exhaust legality is a real thing and something you should definitely consider. Consider the state laws and your local laws. Although not all places are very strict regarding exhausts, you always need to remain on the legal side of things.

Of course, you aren’t getting an exhaust not to use it. So, if you’re going to use it, it’s better to make sure you won’t get in trouble for it. Look into how loud it can be and what other things it requires to be legal in your state.

6. Price

The price can vary between $100 to $500. This means there should be an option for everyone out there. Don’t go spending all your money on an exhaust that just looks cool. Get one that actually fits your needs.

Benefits of a Good Sounding Exhaust Systems on a Ford F150

1. Controls Noise

Perhaps one of the best things about having an exhaust system is the ability to control the noise. You can have it loud and aggressive, which can feel very nice. You can also have it more subtle. The choice is yours.

2. Boosts Engine Horsepower

Some exhausts will help your truck make the most out of the horsepower and torque. That’s something you want if you want the best experience driving your beloved truck. And hey, if an exhaust system can help improve the performance, why not go for it?

3. Increases Longevity

You want your truck to last, don’t you? A sound exhaust system won’t put too much stress on the engine. That will effectively increase longevity. And we don’t think anyone would complain about that.

Differences Between Cat-Back and Header Back

Cat-back systems are the advanced form of axle-back systems. They have a very aggressive sound. Users can also feel a little bit of improvement in horsepower and torque with these.

They give you an aesthetic lift as well. A vehicle with a cat-back exhaust system will look pretty cool and not to mention expensive.

Header-back systems are a bit more hands-on to install. They are a premium kit. Normally, these aren’t recommended for those who don’t have a lot of experience.

Header-back systems are something that needs you to touch on almost every aspect of the vehicle.

Some components of a header-back system are mid-pipes, catalytic converters, tailpipes, and mufflers. It also may require heavy modifications.

FAQs

1. Can my sounding exhaust increase horsepower?

Ans. In some cases, yes, since it relieves your engine of pressure. But determining the exact amount of gain is pretty hard.

2. Can stainless-steel exhaust improve the sound?

Ans. Stainless steel is more known for its durability. The sound is great as well, but they can be tinny.

3. What is the better exhaust – single or twofold?

Ans. Since a twofold exhaust will allow the gases to exit from two pipes, it can sound better than a single one. They can also give you more horsepower gains.

4. Does the shape of the muffler affect the sound of the exhaust?

Ans. The muffler shape will have very little effect on the sound of the exhaust.

5. How long does a stainless-steel exhaust typically last?

Ans. A high-quality stainless-steel exhaust should last you around 8 years or so. But there can be many variables like how well you maintain it.

About the author

Lillian Kazmierczak

As far as I can remember, I would say I have been a car nut for my whole life. My father was a car dealer who used to change and repair his cars himself. This gave me the opportunity to get around all sorts of cars and get my hands dirty repairing vehicles from an early age.

A great fan of Japanese quality and German preciosity, my deep passion lies in older models that I believe have a flair that takes me back to my childhood! I also love their extraordinary durability and reliability when compared to today’s modern models.

When not out taking a ride, I enjoy socializing with fellow motorheads online and consuming any car facts and figures I can get my mind on!

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