Best Exhaust For F150: Compare Cat-Back and Dual-Exit Systems

#1 · Best Overall

1. MBRP S5262AL

• Material: Metal
• Material Type: Metal
• Weight: 62 lb

Best for: Rugged dual-outlet upgrade.

Why it ranks #1: Its cat-back design pairs 3-inch mandrel-bent tubing and T409 construction with a pre-axle dual outlet; fit excludes regular-cab short-box trucks.

Rugged 16-gauge T409 construction is the defining feature of this MBRP cat-back, giving F-150 owners a system specified to withstand road exposure including salt, rocks, tar, and grime. Its mandrel-bent 3-inch tubing and pre-axle dual outlets provide a substantial, clearly configured exhaust upgrade for compatible trucks.

The 3-inch mandrel-bent tubing gives the exhaust a consistent formed path, while the pre-axle dual-outlet layout establishes where the pipes exit. T409 construction and the XP Series description emphasize resistance to demanding road conditions, a practical consideration for trucks encountering grime and road debris. Bolt-on installation provides a stated mounting approach. Compatibility is limited: the title specifies 2015-and-up F-150s but excludes regular-cab short-box trucks, so cab and bed configuration matter before choosing this system.

Skip it if you have a regular-cab short-box F-150; this system explicitly excludes that configuration, while the Flowmaster 717864 is listed for 2009–2014 trucks.

Choose this MBRP for a compatible 2015-or-newer F-150 when rugged T409 construction and pre-axle dual outlets suit your exhaust plan. Its stated fit excludes regular-cab short-box trucks, making cab and bed configuration an important boundary.

Listed on Amazon as: MBRP S5262AL Exhaust System Cat Back (2015 – UP Ford F150 Excluding Reg Cab Short Box 3", Pre-Axle Dual Outlet)

#2 · Best Stainless Construction

2. Borla 140616BC

• Material: Stainless Steel
• Material Type: Stainless Steel
• Weight: 58 lb

Best for: No-drone stainless touring.

Why it ranks #2: T-304 stainless steel, all-welded construction, bolt-on installation, and a no-drone guarantee stand out; the listing specifies engine, cab, and bed applications.

Borla’s no-drone guarantee is the defining feature of this cat-back, addressing exhaust drone as a consideration for F-150 owners choosing a sound-focused system. T-304 stainless steel and all-welded construction pair that stated sound assurance with a specified material and a fully welded system.

The no-drone guarantee is relevant to buyers concerned about exhaust sound during everyday driving, while the all-welded construction describes how the system is assembled. T-304 stainless steel supplies the listed material, and bolt-on installation provides a stated approach for fitting the cat-back. Compatibility is configuration-specific: the title lists certain 2015–2020 engines and cab-and-bed combinations, excludes the Raptor, and gives separate part additions for some configurations. Buyers should treat those stated limits as central to selection.

Skip it if you own a Raptor; this Borla listing excludes it, while MBRP S5262AL lists 2015-and-up F-150 fitment with its own configuration exclusion.

Borla suits F-150 owners whose engine, cab, and bed match the listed 2015–2020 configurations and who value its no-drone guarantee. The Raptor exclusion and specified configuration limits define the fit boundary.

Listed on Amazon as: BORLA 140616BC Cat-Back '15-'20 Ford F-150 2.7/3.5 LTD '16-'18 EXC. Raptor/ 5.0/ '18-'20 3.3 AT 2&4WD Ext. Cab 6' 7" Bed/Crew Cab 5' 7" Bed. Add 60556 Crew Cab 6' 7" Bed, 60564 Ext. Cab 8' 2" Bed.

#3 · Best Single-Side Exit

3. Flowmaster 717864

• Material: Plastic
• Material Type: Plastic
• Weight: 43.5 lb

Best for: Deep-tone stainless upgrade.

Why it ranks #3: This cat-back kit lists compatibility with several engine options and uses mandrel-bent stainless tubing, a straight-through muffler, and factory hanger locations.

A straight-through Flow FX muffler paired with a deep tone inside and outside the vehicle defines this Flowmaster cat-back, giving F-150 owners a clear sound-focused choice. The 3-inch stainless tubing and large black ceramic-coated tip add specified construction and a bold visible exhaust finish.

The straight-through performance muffler is paired with mandrel-bent stainless tubing, connecting the system’s flow-oriented layout to its stated performance configuration. Factory hanger locations and included hardware support installation using existing mounting points, while the listing describes installation as quick and easy. A 4.5-inch black ceramic-coated stainless tip provides a prominent single-side-exit finish. Fitment is specifically listed for 2009–2014 F-150s with 3.5L EcoBoost, 4.6L, 5.0L, or 5.4L engines.

Skip it if you have a 2015-or-newer F-150; this Flowmaster is listed for 2009–2014, while Borla 140616BC covers specified 2015–2020 configurations.

Pick this Flowmaster if your 2009–2014 F-150 matches a listed engine and you want a deep tone with a single-side-exit black tip. The specified years and engines set the key fit boundary.

Listed on Amazon as: Flowmaster 717864 FlowFX Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 Inch 409 Stainless Steel 4.5 Inch Black Ceramic Coated 304 Stainless Steel Tip Compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 3.5L Ecoboost 4.6L 5.0L 5.4L

#4 · Best Dual-Exit Kit

4. Rough Country 96010

• Material: Stainless Steel
• Material Type: Stainless Steel
• Weight: 68 lb

Best for: DIY dual-exit installation.

Why it ranks #4: The dual cat-back offers side or rear exits, corrosion-resistant 409 stainless tubing, black 304 stainless tips, and installation into OEM hangers without welding.

Installation into OEM hangers without welding is the clearest draw of Rough Country’s dual cat-back, enabling a home installation workflow using the truck’s existing hanger locations. Its side-or-rear exit choices also give 2009–2014 F-150 owners flexibility in how the dual exhaust is routed.

The OEM-hanger installation and no-welding requirement make this kit relevant to owners who want to avoid fabrication during installation. Its dual cat-back layout offers side or rear exits, letting the chosen route shape the exhaust’s visible placement. Corrosion-resistant 409 stainless 16-gauge tubing is paired with a 409 stainless muffler and clamps, while the dual-wall 304 stainless black tips complete the specified materials and finish. The listing identifies compatibility with 2009–2014 2WD and 4WD F-150s.

Skip it if you own a 2015-or-newer F-150; this kit is listed for 2009–2014, while the MBRP S5262AL covers 2015-and-up trucks with stated exclusions.

This Rough Country kit suits 2009–2014 2WD or 4WD F-150 owners seeking dual exits and a no-welding, OEM-hanger installation. Its year range is a firm fit boundary, so it does not cover later F-150s.

Listed on Amazon as: Rough Country Dual Cat-Back Exhaust for 2009-2014 F-150 2WD/4WD | V8-96010

#5

5. MBRP S5261AL

• Material: Alloy Steel
• Material Type: Alloy Steel
• Weight: 47 lb

Best for: Aluminized pre-axle dual outlet.

Why it ranks #5: A 3-inch cat-back with a pre-axle dual outlet serves listed F-150 applications; aluminized construction makes material choice an important consideration.

A 3-inch pre-axle dual-outlet layout gives this MBRP cat-back a specific exhaust-routing identity for 2009–2014 F-150 owners. Its aluminized construction and stated aggressive sound profile make it a straightforward option for drivers seeking dual outlets and a more commanding exhaust note.

The pre-axle dual outlets determine the system’s exit arrangement, while the 3-inch tubing specifies its diameter. MBRP attributes improved exhaust flow to performance and potential fuel-efficiency benefits, and describes an aggressive sound profile intended to give the truck a distinctive presence. Aluminized construction is the stated material choice, and installation is listed as bolt-on. The title places this system in the 2009–2014 F-150 range, so it is not the listed choice for newer model years.

Skip it if you own a 2015-or-newer F-150; this system is listed for 2009–2014, while MBRP S5262AL is listed for 2015-and-up trucks with an exclusion.

This MBRP fits the stated 2009–2014 F-150 use case for buyers wanting a bolt-on, aluminized system with pre-axle dual outlets. Its listed model-year range is the key boundary when comparing newer trucks.

Listed on Amazon as: MBRP S5261AL Exhaust System Cat Back (2009-2014 Ford F150 3" Pre-Axle Dual Outlet, AL)

#6

6. DNA Motoring CBE-F150-15-27L

• Material: Stainless Steel
• Material Type: Stainless Steel

Best for: T-304 performance-focused fit.

Why it ranks #6: T-304 stainless steel, mandrel bends, and a stated fit for select 2.7L and 3.5L applications are useful, though warranty details require seller confirmation.

T-304 stainless steel with computerized mandrel bends gives this DNA MOTORING cat-back its defining construction, supporting a durable exhaust path for specified 2015–2017 F-150 2.7L and 3.5L models. Its listing also states a dyno-proven 15–25 horsepower increase and low-end torque gains.

Computerized mandrel bends form the stainless tubing, while TIG-welded CNC-machined flanges are specified for pressure and corrosion resistance. Together, those details support buyers prioritizing material and joint construction in a cat-back system. The product description also attributes smoother exhaust flow and a deep, smooth tone to its setup. Included hardware is listed with the system, but the supplied information does not specify an installation method. Fitment is restricted to 2015–2017 F-150s with 2.7L or 3.5L engines.

Skip it if you have a 5.0L F-150; this listing covers 2.7L and 3.5L engines, while Borla 140616BC lists specified 5.0L configurations.

This DNA MOTORING system suits owners of compatible 2015–2017 2.7L or 3.5L F-150s seeking T-304 construction and the listed performance claims. Its stated engine and year coverage is narrow, so other configurations fall outside the supplied fitment.

Listed on Amazon as: DNA MOTORING CBE-F150-15-27L Stainless Steel Cat Back Exhaust System [Compatible with 15-17 Ford F150 2.7L 3.5L]

#7

7. MBRP S5209AL

• Material: Alloy Steel
• Material Type: Alloy Steel

Best for: Large single-side exhaust outlet.

Why it ranks #7: This cat-back listing identifies a 4-inch tube and 5-inch tip for select engine options, with a single-side exit and bolt-on installation.

A 4-inch cat-back paired with a 5-inch tip gives this MBRP system its defining large-diameter exhaust presentation for 2021-and-newer F-150 listings. Its single-side exit offers a clearly stated outlet layout for owners of the listed 2.7L, 3.5L, or 5.0L engines.

The 4-inch cat-back tubing and 5-inch tip specify a large-diameter path and outlet, helping buyers distinguish this system by its dimensions and visible finish. Its single-side exit gives the exhaust a defined routing arrangement, and bolt-on installation is listed as the mounting approach. MBRP also states improved torque and horsepower, lower exhaust-gas temperatures, and increased throttle response. The title identifies 2021-and-newer F-150s with 2.7L, 3.5L, or 5.0L engines as the intended range.

Skip it if you have a 3.3L F-150; this listing names 2.7L, 3.5L, and 5.0L engines, while Borla 140616BC lists specified 3.3L configurations.

This MBRP suits 2021-and-newer F-150 owners with a listed 2.7L, 3.5L, or 5.0L engine who want a large 4-inch system and single-side exit. Those engine limits define the supplied fitment.

Listed on Amazon as: 21- Ford F150 2.7/3.5/5.0L Cat Back Exhaust

#8

8. MBRP S5217AL

• Material: Alloy Steel
• Material Type: Alloy Steel
• Weight: 57 lb

Best for: 2021 EcoBoost and V8 upgrade.

Why it ranks #8: The listing identifies a 3-inch cat-back with aluminized steel and a 2.5-inch dual pre-axle tail pipe; confirm the stated exit details and exact fit.

A 3-inch cat-back with 2.5-inch dual pre-axle tubing is the defining layout of this MBRP Armor Lite system, listed for 2021 F-150 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, and 5.0L engines. Its 4-inch tips and race-profile description specify a performance-oriented finish.

The 3-inch cat-back tubing transitions to 2.5-inch dual pre-axle tail pipes, giving buyers concrete dimensions for the system’s exhaust path. The listed 4-inch tip diameter and race-profile description identify its outlet presentation, while MBRP attributes improved torque and horsepower, lower exhaust-gas temperatures, and increased throttle response to the system. Bolt-on installation is specified. Although the title calls it single-side-exit, the feature and description state dual pre-axle outlets, so the supplied exit details conflict.

Skip it if you require an unambiguous single-side exit; MBRP S5209AL explicitly lists single-side exit, whereas this listing also describes dual pre-axle outlets.

This MBRP is aimed at 2021 F-150 owners with the listed 2.7L, 3.5L, or 5.0L engine seeking a 3-inch cat-back. Resolve the conflicting exit descriptions before choosing it for a specific outlet layout.

Listed on Amazon as: MBRP 2021 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost / 3.5L EcoBoost / 5.0L 3in Cat Back Single Side Exit Alum

#9

9. ShopLine M3DFF9804S10NT00RE0

• Material: Aluminum
• Material Type: Aluminum
• Weight: 55 lb

Best for: Older-truck dual rear exit.

Why it ranks #9: Its 3-inch mandrel-bent muffler-back dual system is limited by a requirement for a compatible factory inlet and exclusion of some dual-inlet trucks.

A 3-inch mandrel-bent, muffler-back dual system with standard dual rear exit makes this ShopLine kit a clearly specified choice for F-Series F-150 owners from 2004 through 2014. The muffler-back layout focuses the upgrade behind the muffler rather than describing a complete cat-back replacement.

The muffler-back configuration and 3-inch mandrel-bent pipes define the portion and routing of the exhaust being replaced. Mandrel bending is paired with the stated aim of fewer restrictions and maximum flow, while standard dual rear exits provide a symmetrical outlet arrangement. Fitment is not universal: the supplied details say it does not fit trucks with a factory dual-inlet muffler unless specified. Trucks without an existing 3-inch muffler inlet pipe require a separately sourced adapter.

Skip it if you lack a 3-inch muffler inlet and do not want to source an adapter; the Rough Country 96010 lists OEM-hanger installation without welding.

Choose this ShopLine kit for a compatible 2004–2014 F-Series F-150 when a 3-inch dual rear-exit muffler-back system fits your plan. Check the factory muffler inlet configuration: an adapter is needed if it is not 3 inches.

Listed on Amazon as: Truck Exhaust Kits – ShopLine Dual Exhaust 3" Fits F-Series F150 04'-14'

#10

10. ShopLine AM25DR9403FL2

• Material: Stainless Steel
• Material Type: Stainless Steel

Best for: Hardware-included dual exhaust.

Why it ranks #10: This 2.5-inch aluminized-pipe system has installation hardware and a stainless muffler, but the listing omits a clear F-150 application in the supplied details.

Included installation hardware and no-welding installation distinguish this ShopLine dual system, letting buyers approach the exhaust job without a welding step. Its 2.5-inch mandrel-bent aluminized tail pipes and straight-through stainless Flow II muffler specify a mixed-material, dual-exhaust configuration.

The 2.5-inch mandrel-bent aluminized tail pipes establish the listed pipe size and construction, while the Flow II muffler is described as a high-performance straight-through stainless option. Included hardware and the statement that welding is not required support a more direct installation workflow. The listing includes two chrome-plated tips and a five-piece tail pipe. Fitment has limits: the supplied facts exclude factory dual-inlet mufflers unless specified, and a 3-inch muffler inlet is needed or an adapter must be sourced.

Skip it if you do not have a 3-inch muffler inlet and will not source an adapter; Truck Exhaust Kits ShopLine M3DFF9804S10NT00RE0 instead uses a 3-inch inlet connection.

Choose this ShopLine system if its truck-specific fitment matches and you want a hardware-included dual setup without welding. The 3-inch inlet requirement and factory dual-inlet exclusion are important boundaries before installation.

Listed on Amazon as: Truck Exhaust Kits – ShopLine Dual Exhaust System 2.5" Aluminized Pipe