Ford Mustang Mods – Guide for Upgrades

Best Mustang upgrades are those mods that increases power, horsepower and handling, upgrades the exterior looks of that already beautiful Mustang body or improves the interior quality and makes daily drives more comfortable and better.

The Ford Mustang isn’t just a car; it’s an icon, a canvas for personalization, and a platform begging for more power, sharper handling, and head-turning looks.

Ready to unleash your Mustang’s full potential? Dive into our big list of ideas, covering everything from bolt-on performance to eye-catching aesthetics.

Mustang Mods That Increase Power and HP

Let’s be real: most Mustang owners are chasing more power. Here’s how to get it.

Cold Air Intake (CAI)

One of the easiest and most popular Mustang performance mods. A CAI allows your engine to breathe better, often leading to a small bump in horsepower and a more aggressive induction sound.

Exhaust System (Axle-Back, Cat-Back, Long Tube Headers)

Beyond just sound, a performance exhaust frees up exhaust flow. Axle-backs are easiest for sound, while cat-backs offer more flow. For serious gains, especially on V8s, long tube headers are the way to go (often requiring a tune). Read our guide about the best exhaust system for your car.

Tuner/ECU Flash

This is where hidden power is truly unlocked. A proper tune optimizes air/fuel ratios, timing, and other parameters for your specific modifications, making them work together efficiently. Essential for many power mods. ECU flash is also called “Stage 1 tune”. There are also Stage 2 and Stage 3 tunes. Read more about Stage 1/2/3 tunes here.

Supercharger/Turbocharger

The ultimate power adder. Forced induction can dramatically increase horsepower and torque, turning your Mustang into a true beast. This is a significant investment but offers incredible returns.

Throttle Body/Intake Manifold

Upgrading these can improve airflow into the engine, especially beneficial on naturally aspirated models when combined with a tune.

Mustang Suspension Upgrades For Handling

A powerful Mustang needs to put that power down and handle the curves.

Lowering Springs

A popular Mustang mod for improved aesthetics and a lower center of gravity. This reduces body roll and gives your Mustang an aggressive stance.

Coilovers

For serious handling enthusiasts, coilovers offer adjustable ride height, damping, and sometimes camber, allowing for fine-tuning of your suspension for street or track.

Sway Bars

Thicker sway bars reduce body roll during cornering, keeping the car flatter and more stable.

Bushings & Control Arms

Upgrading worn or soft rubber bushings with stiffer polyurethane or spherical bearings can dramatically improve suspension responsiveness and feel.

Performance Tires

Arguably the most impactful handling mod. Better grip from high-performance summer tires translates directly to improved acceleration, braking, and cornering.

Mustang Exterior Mods For Aesthetics

Make your Mustang truly unique and turn heads wherever you go. Many people want to upgrade their Mustangs exterior looks with something but may not be sure what mods are the best upgrades. Shop Mustang exterior mods here and get inspired!

Wheels & Tires

A new set of wheels can completely transform your Mustang’s look. Experiment with different finishes, diameters, and widths.

Body Kits & Spoilers

Add aggressive front splitters, side skirts, rear diffusers, or a more prominent spoiler to give your Mustang a race-inspired or custom appearance.

Grille Replacement

Change out the factory grille for an aftermarket version (e.g., Roush, GT350 style) to alter the front fascia’s character.

Hood Scoops/Vents

Functional or aesthetic, hood scoops and vents can add a muscular, aggressive touch.

Window Tint

A classic Mustang aesthetic mod for privacy, heat reduction, and a sleek look.

Headlights & Taillights

Upgrade to aftermarket LED units for a modern look, unique light signatures, and improved visibility.

Chrome Delete/Blackout Kits

For a more stealthy or aggressive look, cover or replace chrome trim with black vinyl or painted parts.

Rear Window Louvers

A popular retro-inspired mod that adds a classic muscle car touch to the rear window.

Interior & Comfort Mustang Upgrades

Personalize your cabin for a better driving experience. For ideas to Mustang interior mods shop products here.

Aftermarket Seats

For better support during spirited driving or a more luxurious feel. For more affordable option you may want to consider just seat covers.

Shift Knob

A simple, affordable mod that changes the feel of your shifts and adds a personalized touch. Carbon fiber, weighted, or custom designs are popular.

Steering Wheel

Upgrade to a D-shaped, carbon fiber, or alcantara-wrapped steering wheel for improved grip and a premium feel.

Digital Gauge Cluster (for older models)

Modernize your older Mustang’s interior with a high-tech, customizable digital instrument panel.

Interior Trim Kits

Add carbon fiber, colored, or brushed aluminum trim pieces to dashboard, door panels, and console.

Sound System Upgrades

Improve audio quality with new speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers

The world of Ford Mustang mods and upgrades is limited only by your imagination and budget. From subtle enhancements to complete overhauls, each modification allows you to tailor your Pony to your exact specifications. Start with what excites you most, and enjoy the journey of making your Mustang truly one-of-a-kind!

Browse best Mustang mods at CarsKeepMeBroke! We have a curated list of all types of mods, accessories and upgrades for Mustangs.

Beginners Guide to Upgrading Mustang With Mods

So, you’ve got your “Big List of Ideas” for Mustang mods and upgrades – awesome! But where do you start? Modifying your Ford Mustang can be an incredibly rewarding journey, transforming your car into a reflection of your style and performance desires. However, approaching it strategically will save you time, money, and potential headaches.

This guide will walk you through a smart approach to upgrading your Mustang, ensuring you get the most out of every modification.

Step 1: Define Your Goals (The “Why”)

Before you turn a wrench, ask yourself: What do you want your Mustang to be? Your vision for the final product – whether it’s a daily driver, a weekend warrior, a track machine, or a show car – will guide your choices and how you approach each project.

Step 2: Set Your Budget (The “How Much”)

Modifications involve not just parts, but often tools and potential labor costs. From here you can get an idea about how much car modding typically costs on different levels.

• Factor in Installation: Will you be doing the work yourself, or will you need professional installation? Complex Mustang upgrades can have significant labor costs.
• Tools: Don’t forget to budget for any specialized tools you might need. Sometimes, renting a tool is more cost-effective than buying.

Step 3: Research, Research, Research (The “What Exactly & How To”)

Once you’ve chosen your mods, the real research begins on the installation process.

• Installation Guides & Videos: Before starting any job, search for detailed written guides and video tutorials specific to your Mustang model and the mod you’re installing. YouTube, dedicated Mustang forums, and product manufacturer websites are invaluable resources.
• Required Tools: Most good installation guides will provide a list of necessary tools. Make sure you have everything on hand before you begin.
• Difficulty Assessment: Be honest with yourself about your mechanical skill level. Some Mustang upgrades are simple bolt-ons, while others require specialized knowledge or equipment.

Step 4: DIY vs. Professional Installation (The “Who & Where”)

Deciding who will do the work and where it will be done is crucial.

• DIY-Friendly Mods: Many Mustang mods are designed for the enthusiast to install in their garage or driveway. These typically involve basic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers), require minimal specialized equipment, and have straightforward instructions. Examples often include aesthetic changes or simple bolt-on performance parts that don’t involve deep engine work or critical safety systems.
• When to Go Pro: For complex installations like internal engine work, forced induction systems, advanced suspension geometry adjustments, or anything requiring specialized alignment, diagnostic tools, or heavy lifting equipment, it’s often best to seek out a reputable performance shop. This ensures the job is done correctly, safely, and often comes with a warranty on labor.
• Choosing Your Workspace:
  • Garage/Driveway: Ideal for DIY projects, offering space and protection from the elements. Ensure it’s well-lit and you have stable jack stands and a good jack if working underneath the car.
  • Rented Bay/Lift Access: Some communities or shops offer hourly rentals of lifts and tools, which can be great for jobs that benefit from under-car access.

Step 5: Essential Tools & Safety (The “Must-Haves”)

Regardless of the specific mod, a basic set of tools and safety precautions are universal.

• Basic Hand Tools: A good socket set (metric and standard), wrench sets, screwdrivers, pliers, and a torque wrench are foundational for most jobs.
• Lifting Equipment: A reliable floor jack and sturdy jack stands are non-negotiable for any under-car work. Never rely solely on a jack.
• Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and appropriate clothing are always recommended.
• Diagnostic Tools: For any performance-related mods, an OBD-II scanner can be incredibly useful for checking codes and monitoring engine parameters.
• Specialized Tools: Some mods might require specific tools like spring compressors for suspension, or specialized wrenches. Check your installation guide!

Step 6: Test, Tune, & Enjoy! (The “After”)

After installation, the job isn’t quite done.

• Double-Check Everything: Go back over all bolts, connections, and clips. Ensure everything is secure.
• Test Drive: Start with a gentle test drive to listen for unusual noises or feel for odd behaviors. Gradually increase intensity if all seems well.
• Professional Tune (for performance mods): If you’ve installed significant performance Mustang upgrades (like a new intake, headers, or forced induction), a custom tune from a reputable tuner is almost always required to optimize performance, drivability, and engine longevity.
• Maintenance: Remember that modifications can alter wear patterns. Stay on top of your Mustang’s regular maintenance schedule.

By following this guide, you can embark on your Mustang modification journey with confidence, building the car of your dreams one smart Mustang mod at a time!