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Ford Explorer Exhaust Videos

Ford Explorer Exhaust System Tips

Ford ExplorerThe Ford Explorer is one of the most popular SUVs of all time. Between 1992 and 2001, it was one of the best-selling vehicles on the planet. While sales have tapered off in the last decade, the Explorer is still a great SUV with a lot of solid truck qualities.

The Explorer was available with a few different engine choices since the year 2000:

  • The 4.0L V6 is very common. With good low-end torque, this engine has some performance enhancement opportunities.
  • The 5.0L V8 was available on some AWD models in the late 90’s and early 2000’s.
  • The 4.6L V8, one of Ford’s most popular engines, was also available in the Explorer. Because the 4.6L was also used in the F150 and the Mustang, there are a lot of performance accessories for this engine.
  • Like the F150 and the Mustang, there were a couple of different 4.6L engines used. Since the difference was mostly in the valvetrain, it doesn’t impact the exhaust system.

Because of the Explorer’s body-on-frame construction and powerful V8 engine choices, it’s a popular off-road vehicle and work-ready SUV. A lot of Explorer V8 owners use their SUV to pull a boat, ATVs, motorcycles, etc. Adding an after-market cat-back exhaust system is a great way to boost towing and off-road performance.

One other point about the Explorer that’s worth mentioning: Ford purposefully restricted the exhaust system on the Explorer to make it as quiet as possible. When Ford marketed the Explorer, they were trying to compete with car-based SUVs that were more refined. As a result, the factory exhaust on an Explorer is more restrictive than the exhaust on a Ranger, F150, or Mustang (despite the fact these vehicles may share the same exact engine).

Here are some well-known Explorer exhaust system manufacturers:

Because so many Explorer owners use their SUVs to tow, it’s important to think about the differences between a dual side exit exhaust and a dual rear exit exhaust. Side exits keep the hot exhaust gases away from whatever you’re pulling, an obvious benefit.

Explorer Exhaust System Recommendations

1. 4.6L V8 owners should consider a full performance kit. Because the 4.6L is shared by the Mustang and the F150, there are a few manufacturers that offer power programmers, air intakes, and exhaust kits for the 4.6 that are all tuned to one another. Often times, adding all these parts has a multiplying effect that can really boost performance.

2. After-market exhaust kits aren’t always about power. While adding a new Flowmaster cat-back system will definitely boost horsepower and throttle response, a lot of Explorer owners experience improved fuel economy when they upgrade the restrictive factory exhaust.

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