The "First 3" Mods: How to Wake Up Your 2015–2020 F150
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You bought the 2015–2020 Ford F-150 because it’s a workhorse. But whether you chose the screaming 5.0L Coyote V8 or the torque-monster 3.5L EcoBoost, you’ve probably noticed something: it feels... restrained.
You step on the gas, and there’s a delay. You tow a trailer up a grade, and the power seems to fade near the top.
That isn't your imagination. It’s factory programming. Ford tunes these trucks for average drivers and 87-octane fuel, leaving a massive amount of performance locked away.
In this guide, we break down the Top 3 Performance Upgrades that give you the most "Bang for Your Buck." From the 5-minute install of a Throttle Controller to the massive gains of an ECU Programmer, here is how to make your F-150 drive like it should have from the factory.
Compare Power Upgrades
Where is the best bang for your buck?
|
Upgrade |
HP Gain (Approx) |
Install Difficulty |
Best For |
|
Tuner / Programmer |
+50 to +100 HP (EcoBoost) |
Easy. Plug & Play. |
Max Power. The single biggest upgrade for Turbo trucks. |
|
Cold Air Intake |
+10 to +15 HP |
Easy. 30 Mins. |
Efficiency. Better throttle response & turbo sound. |
|
Throttle Controller |
0 HP |
Easiest. 5 Mins. |
Drivability. Fixing the "dead pedal" / lag feeling. |
|
Intercooler |
Sustainability. |
Hard. Bumper removal. |
Towing. Prevents power loss on hot days/hills. |
|
Catch Can |
Longevity. |
Easy. Bolt-on. |
Maintenance. Stopping carbon buildup on valves. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Performance)
Will a tuner void my warranty?
Potentially, Yes. If you blow an engine and the dealer sees the ECU was flashed, they can deny the claim. However, you can flash the truck back to "Stock" before service. Note: Most Cold Air Intakes and Cat-Back Exhausts do NOT void warranties under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
Do I need a Cold Air Intake if I have a Tuner?
No, but they work well together. The tuner asks the engine for more air (boost); the intake makes it easier for the engine to get that air. Doing both maximizes your gains and lets you hear the turbo spool (on EcoBoost models).
Why do I need a Catch Can?
The EcoBoost engines are Direct Injection. This means fuel doesn't wash over the intake valves to clean them. Over time, oil vapor from the PCV system coats the valves in carbon "gunk," killing performance. A Catch
Stop lagging behind.
Eliminate throttle delay and unlock massive horsepower gains. Shop our verified collection of 2015–2020 F-150 Performance Parts.