Hello everyone. I just bought a 2014 Mustang GT C/S and I couldn't be happier. I have 600 miles on it and can't wait much longer to start playing with it. I'm looking for some simple beginner upgrades that are relatively inexpensive (under $1,000 a piece spread out in the next few years) and that I could do myself. So far have just been looking at cold air kits and mufflers, but looking for more suggestions. I'd like to add HP without having to do a tune right away or break the bank. Looking for a few other ideas that are a sure fire way to get me past the local camaros quicker. What parts/brands work the best?

Thanks.

 

I bought and installed an Airaid CAI from americanmuscle on my '14 because it has a Venturi tube that when installed allows the CAI to run without a tune....Shortly after, I bought an SCT tuner, removed the Venturi tube, and was certainly glad that I did. CAI was ~$300, tuner was ~$375. I also bought gt500 axlebacks for ~$300, and had my resonators replaced with straight pipe. Much more aurally pleasing without being obnoxious, and without drone. Not terribly expensive, and significantly noticeable improvements in my eyes. Hope this helps ya. Happy modding, and post some pics of the CS when ya get a chance. Welcome to TMS.

 

I stumbled on the airaid webiste and looked at their cold air intakes and was debating between that and a K&N set up. I've seen that a lot of people like the GT 500 axle backs and was looking at the roush mufflers myself. Those were about $475. I've never played with a tuner before but might have to read up on it. Thanks for the advice.

 

There are no significant HP increases that can be had without a tune.

Some of your best dollars spent are on small things that make owning the car easier.

Best $80 you'll spend will be on Redline Tuning hood struts.

 

This. And certainly no CAI is going to add power.

 

Normally a CAI will not add much horsepower, if any at all. Be careful of adding a tune, since that will void your power train warranty. Best bang for the buck without voiding the warranty is to change your exhaust...roush or GT500 axle backs are very popular. From there go with cosmetic changes that makes your car unique and you like.

If your not concerned about the power train warranty, then save up and get a blower. A tune will get you 30-50 HP, but a SC will net you 150-175 HP.

 

My advice would be to take your time, drive and enjoy your new car for a few thousand miles and get used to it's quirks and personality before you make any mods. Attend a few Mustang Club meetings or Mustang car cruises and ask around. Whatever mods you decide on installing, check with your dealer service department about warranty issues that might arise.

 

I like all the above advices. Don't forget about the MGW shifter along with the exhaust and struts

 

Thanks for the replies. I know it'd be smarter not to void the warranty, especially with less than 1,000 miles. Its my new toy so its hard not to tinker. I suppose exhaust may be the first thing I look at now considering the replies about the CAI. The Roush and GT500 I've seen the most consistent positive feedback about.

Thanks.

 

You could certainly do an axleback just to give your car some personality. That will keep your warranty intact.

 

Borla S-type axle backs. Folks who choose the GT500's and other AB's often later switch to the Borla S-types. Also - the MGW is amazing and the Redline hood struts are a must.

 

Is the sound quality better with the borla s? youtube videos dont do these things justice. all the gt500 reviews have been positive so thats why i was leaning that way. i also started checking out the advice on the MGW and thats been nothing but positive too. i might have to table that until the warranty runs out. hows the install difficulty on a 1-10 for a beginner?

 

Perfect!
First mod, exhaust! It'll change your driving experience (IMO) the most.
Second, I feel like if you don't do a tune (which is smart warranty wise) then anything you want!

It seems exhaust is the best first mod on these forums. Next, is really whatever your preference is! Sound, trim pieces, stripes, wheels, springs, etc. Anything!

 

I bought my 2014 GT in August and have done a few small mods. First thing I did was install a Roush AB. I listened to a lot of youtube videos before making my decision. It sounds bad *** and everyone that has heard it, loves it. The Borla S series was my second choice but at over $700 from most places, I just didn't have the money. Borla makes quality stuff and I have had a Borla cat-back on my 98 Chevy truck for the past 10 years with no problems. I also had a Borla cat-back on the 2004 Monte Carlo SS that I traded in on the Mustang. If these Roush's ever rust out, I will seriously consider the Borla S series the next time.

My second mod was my UPR oil catch can. Then a factory STB. Then a Ford aluminum finned diff cover. I plan on getting some hood struts at some point and maybe Performance Automatic's tranny dipstick kit and possibly their deep tranny pan. That will probably be it for me. I don't plan on installing a tune or CAI. Have fun modding yours.

Wayne

 

I recently put the Roush AB on my 13 GT and I absolutely love the sound. I could not be happier!

 

You must be a pastor... Because you just preached the good word!!!

I have repeatedly said across this forum, take it from someone who's lived the situations described above. I had the GT500 abs... For a year. Then went to borla s types. No comparison. Period. Borla ftw.

MGW is self explanatory. Cars should have come stock with this. Period.

Yes to your first question.

Install for MGW is about a 7 for a beginner. Doable.

 

If you are planning to go only axle back, and nothing in the future, go Roush. However, with the Borla S types, you will have room too add more stuff beyond the axle back. Do that with the Roush and it will be NASCAR obnoxious.

The biggest mistake for me was when I put on the S types with the O/R Lethal H pipe, Then got pulled over (luckily, wasn't even checked for cats. That wouldve been a huge fine here in treehuggin' Cali.) and decided to go axle back only - now I am really really bugged by the S types on alone, even though I get alot of comments on it.

It's like sleeping with a gorgeous pornstar then returning to your semi-hot wife.

 

Fair analogy....