How to Make Power on the 2015–2020 Ford F-150 2.7L & 3.5L EcoBoost: Intakes, Tuners, and Exhaust Upgrades Explained

The 2015–2020 Ford F-150 with EcoBoost powerplants has earned a serious reputation for delivering V8-level performance with impressive fuel efficiency. Whether you have the nimble 2.7L twin-turbo V6 or the more muscular 3.5L variant, both offer tremendous tuning potential. These engines respond incredibly well to bolt-on upgrades—particularly when paired with a quality tune.

In this article, we’ll break down how to unlock real-world horsepower and torque gains with three of the most effective upgrades: cold air intakes, custom tuning, and exhaust systems. We’ll also include dyno-tested numbers and mod-by-mod comparisons so you can decide the best path to more power.

Understanding the 2.7L vs 3.5L EcoBoost

Before diving into upgrades, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two engines:

Specification	2.7L EcoBoost (V6)	3.5L EcoBoost (V6)
Stock HP/TQ (2018+)	325 hp / 400 lb-ft	375 hp / 470 lb-ft (up to 450 hp in Raptor/HO trims)
Configuration	Twin-turbocharged DOHC	Twin-turbocharged DOHC
Fuel System	Direct Injection (Gen1) + Port (Gen2)	Same
Common Use	Daily driving, towing light loads	Towing, performance, Raptor-level power

Both engines are strong, overbuilt, and incredibly tuner-friendly. The 3.5L naturally has more headroom due to displacement, but the 2.7L is a strong contender when tuned properly. Regardless of which one you own, the core mods—intake, tuner, and exhaust—can add substantial performance without compromising reliability.

Cold Air Intakes

A cold air intake (CAI) is often the first upgrade for many F-150 owners. These systems replace the restrictive factory airbox and paper filter with a freer-flowing intake tube and performance filter. The goal is simple: bring cooler, denser air into the engine for better combustion and increased performance.

There are several proven intake kits for the EcoBoost platforms, including popular offerings from companies like S&B Filters, aFe Power, K&N, and COBB. These intakes not only increase airflow but often improve throttle response and turbo spool sound. Some kits are closed-box designs (ideal for keeping intake air temps low), while others are open for maximum airflow and turbo sound.

Power gains from just an intake can be modest on stock tuning, often in the range of 5–10 horsepower. However, when paired with a custom tune, gains of 10–20 horsepower are realistic, especially on the 3.5L.

Keep in mind, some CAI systems require an ECU recalibration to function optimally, while others are safe for use without a tune. Always check if the intake is CARB certified if emissions compliance is important in your area.

Custom Tuners and ECU Recalibration

Of all bolt-on mods available for EcoBoost F-150s, a custom ECU tune delivers the biggest performance gains, dollar for dollar. Modern turbocharged engines like the 2.7L and 3.5L respond incredibly well to tuning because it allows you to increase boost pressure, adjust ignition timing, and optimize fueling for your setup.

Popular tuners for the F-150 EcoBoost platform include SCT X4, COBB Accessport (for Gen2 3.5L), HP Tuners, and devices from companies like 5 Star Tuning, Livernois Motorsports, and MPT. Many of these tuners offer both canned tunes and custom tuning services based on your vehicle's exact configuration.

Typical power gains from a basic 91 or 93-octane performance tune are impressive:

• 2.7L EcoBoost: +40–60 hp / +70–90 lb-ft
• 3.5L EcoBoost: +60–90 hp / +90–120 lb-ft
• 3.5L High Output (Raptor/HO): +75–100 hp / +100–130 lb-ft

These gains are often verified on dynos and can transform the truck’s driving dynamics, especially under throttle and during towing. Turbo spool improves, throttle response becomes sharper, and torque delivery is significantly enhanced at low to mid RPMs.

Tuning does come with considerations—such as the risk of voiding your powertrain warranty and the need to monitor knock, AFR, and transmission behavior. A good tuner will account for safety margins and drivability, not just peak numbers.

Cat-Back and Downpipe Exhaust Systems

Upgrading the exhaust system of your EcoBoost F-150 can enhance performance, reduce backpressure, and improve the truck's sound profile. There are two major categories to consider: cat-back systems and downpipes.

A cat-back exhaust replaces the piping from the catalytic converters to the tailpipe. It improves flow and usually enhances sound without triggering a check engine light (since it doesn’t interfere with emissions equipment). Common brands include Borla, MagnaFlow, Flowmaster, and Corsa. Power gains from a cat-back exhaust alone are modest—typically 5–10 hp—but the benefit in sound and throttle response makes it worthwhile.

For bigger performance increases, high-flow downpipes (HDPs) are the key. These replace the restrictive factory downpipes between the turbo and catalytic converter. Performance catted or catless downpipes can significantly reduce turbo lag and boost peak power.

However, HDPs usually require a tune and may not be emissions legal, depending on local laws. Gains from downpipes can be substantial when paired with a tune:

• 2.7L EcoBoost: +15–25 hp
• 3.5L EcoBoost: +20–35 hp

Downpipe upgrades also improve turbo efficiency and allow higher boost without heat-related issues. For daily-driven street trucks, a catted downpipe with a conservative tune is often the best balance of power, legality, and reliability.

Dyno Comparison – Estimated Gains by Engine and Mod

Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of estimated horsepower and torque gains from common bolt-ons, assuming 93-octane fuel and a custom tune:

Engine & Mod	Estimated HP Gain	Estimated TQ Gain
2.7L – Intake Only	+5–10 hp	+5–10 lb-ft
2.7L – Tune Only	+50 hp	+80 lb-ft
2.7L – Tune + Intake + Exhaust	+70 hp	+100 lb-ft
3.5L – Intake Only	+8–12 hp	+10–15 lb-ft
3.5L – Tune Only	+70 hp	+100 lb-ft
3.5L – Tune + Intake + Downpipes + Exhaust	+100+ hp	+130+ lb-ft

Real-world dyno runs back up these estimates. For example, a 2017 3.5L tuned with 93-octane, upgraded intake, and aftermarket downpipes produced 450+ whp on a Mustang dyno—up from a baseline of roughly 340–360 whp. These are massive gains that significantly change the driving experience.

Conclusion and Mod Recommendations

The 2015–2020 Ford F-150 EcoBoost engines are among the most upgrade-friendly powerplants in the half-ton truck market. Whether you’re daily driving, towing, or just want more grunt under your right foot, an intake, tune, and exhaust system can transform your 2.7L or 3.5L truck.

For the 2.7L, we recommend starting with a tune and intake. For the 3.5L, a full combo—intake, tune, and downpipes—unlocks the engine’s full potential. Always prioritize quality parts and a reputable tuner for safe, reliable gains.

With the right bolt-ons, you can gain 70–100+ horsepower and torque that rivals diesel trucks—all while staying under the hood of a V6.