The Ford Explorer ST is already a performance-oriented SUV, but with a few affordable modifications, you can unlock its full potential without breaking the bank. Whether you want more power, better handling, or enhanced sound, these five budget-friendly upgrades will take your ST to the next level.
1. Performance Tuner (ECU Tune) – $500-$800 🚀
One of the best bang-for-your-buck modifications, an ECU tune unleashes hidden horsepower and torque by optimizing boost levels, fuel mapping, and throttle response. Ford leaves plenty of room for improvement in its factory tune, and companies in no particular order like Livernois Motorsports, 5 Star Tuning, ZFG Racing and Palm Beach Dyno offer custom calibrations tailored to your driving style.
What You Can Expect:
✔ Horsepower Boost: Stock 400 HP → Tuned 450+ HP
✔ Torque Gains: Stock 415 lb-ft → Tuned 500+ lb-ft
✔ Improved 0-60 MPH Times (Shaving ~0.5 seconds off)
✔ Faster Throttle Response & Smoother Shifting
✔ Options for 93 Octane, E30, or Flex-Fuel Tunes
A plug-and-play tuner like an SCT X4 or HP Tuners device makes installation simple. A custom tune also optimizes shift points and turbo efficiency for maximum performance without compromising reliability.
2. High-Flow Air Intake – $250-$400 🌬️
A cold air intake (CAI) improves airflow to your twin-turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost, resulting in better combustion efficiency and a more aggressive turbo spool sound. While the stock intake isn’t terrible, upgrading to a high-flow intake from AEM, K&N, or JLT provides more air volume and cooler temperatures.
Benefits of an Aftermarket Intake:
✔ Adds 5-10 HP (More with a Tune)
✔ Increases Turbo Induction Noise for a Sportier Sound
✔ Enhances Throttle Response
✔ Reusable High-Flow Air Filters (No Need for Costly Replacements)
✔ Easier Maintenance & Improved Engine Longevity
Pairing an intake with a performance tune maximizes the power gains and throttle feel.
3. Downpipes (High-Flow or Catted) – $500-$900 🔥
The factory downpipes on the Explorer ST are restrictive and limit exhaust flow. Upgrading to high-flow catted or catless downpipes improves turbo efficiency, allowing the engine to breathe better and spool faster. Brands like CVF, SPD, and CR Performance offer bolt-on solutions for maximum gains.
Why Upgrade to Performance Downpipes?
✔ Adds 15-30 HP (More with a Tune)
✔ Improves Exhaust Flow & Turbo Response
✔ More Aggressive Exhaust Sound
✔ Reduced Turbo Lag
✔ Works Best When Paired With an Intake & Tune
Keep in mind that catless downpipes may not be emissions compliant in some states, so high-flow catted options are a good balance between performance and legality.
4. Blow-Off Valve (BOV) Upgrade – $150-$250 🔊
A blow-off valve (BOV) vents excess boost pressure when lifting off the throttle, creating that iconic turbo “whoosh” sound. While the stock BOV does the job, an aftermarket option like Turbosmart or GFB provides a more responsive and durable alternative.
Why Add a BOV to Your Explorer ST?
✔ Classic Turbo “Whoosh” Sound for a Sportier Feel
✔ Reduces Compressor Surge (Protecting Your Turbos)
✔ Faster Throttle Response Between Shifts
✔ Stronger Construction Than the Stock BOV
✔ No Tune Required (Simple Bolt-On Install)
If you want to add audible personality to your ST while improving turbo reliability, a blow-off valve is an easy and affordable mod.
5. Lowering Springs or Sway Bars – $300-$600 🏎️
The Explorer ST handles well for an SUV, but there’s still noticeable body roll and front-end dive under hard braking. Upgrading to lowering springs (Eibach, H&R) or sway bars (Steeda, Whiteline) improves cornering ability, ride quality, and overall road feel.
What Suspension Upgrades Can Do:
✔ Reduces Body Roll for a More Planted Feel
✔ Improves Cornering Stability at High Speeds
✔ Enhances Steering Precision & Response
✔ Lowers the SUV’s Stance for a Sportier Look
✔ Retains Comfortable Ride Quality for Daily Driving
If you love the ST’s power but want more control in corners, upgrading the suspension should be high on your list.
Combining Mods for Maximum Performance
Each of these affordable modifications offers noticeable improvements on its own, but pairing them together can transform your Explorer ST into an entirely different beast. Here’s a recommended mod package depending on your goals:
Best Budget Mod Combo ($750-$1000) 💰
✔ ECU Tune – Immediate power & throttle gains
✔ High-Flow Air Intake – Better turbo sound & airflow
✔ BOV Upgrade – Adds sound & reduces turbo lag
Best Sound Upgrade ($700-$1200) 🔊
✔ Downpipes – Aggressive turbo spool & exhaust sound
✔ BOV Upgrade – Loud “whoosh” noise on throttle release
✔ Resonator Delete (Optional) – Even deeper exhaust note
Best Handling Upgrade ($600-$1000) 🏁
✔ Lowering Springs – Improved cornering & stance
✔ Sway Bars – Reduces body roll in turns
✔ Performance Tires (Optional) – More grip for launching & cornering
Final Thoughts: Budget Mods, Big Gains
The Ford Explorer ST is already an impressive performance SUV, but these affordable modifications can take it to the next level. Whether you want more power, better handling, or a sportier sound, there’s an option to fit every budget.
Recap – The Top 5 Affordable Mods:
1️⃣ ECU Tune – +50 HP, better throttle response ($500-$800)
2️⃣ Cold Air Intake – More turbo sound & airflow ($250-$400)
3️⃣ Downpipes – +15-30 HP, louder exhaust ($500-$900)
4️⃣ Blow-Off Valve – Sporty turbo sound, less turbo lag ($150-$250)
5️⃣ Lowering Springs/Sway Bars – Better handling & stance ($300-$600)
Pairing a tune, intake, and downpipes can push your Explorer ST into the mid-12s in the quarter-mile while keeping it daily-driver friendly.
What’s your favorite Explorer ST mod? Share your build in the ExplorerST.Club forums! 🚀🔥
