Best Tuners For 5.0 f150 Reviewed

How To Choose The Right 5.0 F-150 Engine Tuner

Compatibility

If you want the best tuner for 2011 F-150 5.0, it does no good to look at models that work on the Powerstroke, or other engines. The model year plays a role as well. For example, you can't choose a tuner for 2013 F-150 5.0 and expect it to work the same unless your model year is compatible as well. Read through the specs to find out what truck models it is compatible with.

Ease of Set-Up & Use

For the most part, installing the best tuner for Ford F-150 5.0 should be straightforward and only take minutes. The majority of units plug directly into the OBDII port unless you choose a performance chip. With these plug-and-play devices, you will also receive on-screen instructions about what to do next. Otherwise, reference the owner’s manual. You can also read through the F-150 5.0 tuner reviews to find out how difficult the installation is.

Power Levels

Read through the tuner specs to find out what power levels are offered. Many of them will feature a stock setting so that you can revert to factory configurations with ease. You will also want something that increases horsepower, torque, and fuel economy. In addition to the pre-set levels, you might be able to tweak your own.

ECM Download Time Frame

Once you have the adjustments locked in, the information must be downloaded to the ECM before the changes take effect. On some machines, this can take longer than you want to wait, especially with the budget models. If you want to make quick adjustments, especially while on the go, you want a tuner that calibrates quickly.

Storage

Monitor Size

If you don’t have a lot of room in the cabin, you might prefer a compact screen size. Otherwise, having a larger screen helps view real-time data and make adjustments on the go. In addition to the screen size, you also want to consider the ease of readability. Look for touch screen capability and full-color displays.

Data Monitoring Capabilities

How valuable is it to know precisely what’s going on with your engine at all times? Some of the F-150 tuners provide this information, making it easier to head off any problems. Whether you want to monitor temperatures or you are looking for other vital data, the real-time functionality can save you in the long run.

Versatility

The more versatility an engine tuner offers, the more valuable it becomes. For example, the programmer with multiple power settings, real-time data monitoring, and the ability to read or clear DTCs is going to be worth more than the budget-friendly option that simply adjusts a few settings. Determine what features you want before shopping.

Price & Warranty

Everyone wants to save money, but for the cost, it might not be wise to skimp on an engine tuner. Instead, evaluate the value versus the features to ensure you are getting the best deal. In addition, compare the available warranties to see which company is willing to stand behind its product.

1. Superchips 1845 Flashpaq F5

You can use the Superchips tuner on a variety of engines, from gas to diesel. As far as the 5.0 V8 engine is concerned, it provides up to 24.4 horsepower boost and a 24.6 pound-feet torque increase with the 2011-2013 models, or use it on your 2017-2019 F-150 for a 13 horsepower increase or 15 pound-feet torque increase. It's also compatible with several Mustangs, Ford SUVs, and the Powerstroke engines.

Use the speedometer correction when you adjust the gear ratio or change the tire size. You can also alter the rev and speed limiters. The company recently increased the memory and added a faster processor, allowing it to work at lighting fast speeds. Plus, the 2.8-inch high-definition color screen works perfectly with the graphic interface to provide seamless changes.

Overall, this F-150 engine tuner falls at an average price. Considering it also reads and clears DTCs, we believe it to be an extreme value. Just think about how much money you will save every time you avoid a trip to the mechanic. Plus, Superchips provides a two-year warranty, which is about a year longer than most other brands. According to the customer reviews, you have nothing to lose and only extra power to gain.

2. Bully Dog – 40417

This Bully Dog model is regularly rated as the best tuner for 2012 F-150 5.0, but it doesn’t work on the newer lineup. This gas tuner will unlock more torque and horsepower to meet the stressful demands you put on your truck. You can choose to use the preloaded tuning options to make quick changes, or customize your own settings. There are ten storage spots for you to save the modifications.

This monitor also contains customizable gauges that help you watch the performance. You will instantly know if something isn't running right, and will have time to make the adjustments needed to protect your F-150 engine. Plus, this device will read and clear trouble codes, making engine diagnosis more straightforward than ever before. Installation doesn't take long, and customers can't seem to say enough good about this product.

The price is comparable with our top choice, offering the same great value. The only difference is the Bully Dog only provides a one-year warranty, which is still generous and enough time to ensure everything works correctly. We appreciate the larger screen and simple operation. It’s not difficult to use, no matter what experience you have. Imagine the ways you can unleash your F-150 engine.

3. Bully Dog - 40460B

For newer models, you might choose this Bully Dog as the best tuner for 2018 F-150 5.0. It works with the 2015-2019 Ford gas trucks, as well as a long list of diesel models. At first glance, you might have to take a deep breath when looking at the price. Clearly, it costs more than most of the other models, but there are good reasons for that additional cost. First, you can get all of the updates through Wi-Fi. You don’t need to plug the device in to download your updates.

Aside from that, this model features a five-inch LCD that can be mounted on the dash, window, or pillar. Plus, it's removable. You can take it down when you aren't using it. Also, where other models might give you room for ten codes, this one allows you to store twenty, essentially doubling the capacity.

You also gain access to read and clear trouble codes, to keep your engine running as it should. If all of that is worth the extra cost, you can't go wrong with this model. Customers seem to be genuinely pleased with the results, and you get a one-year warranty, so there's no need to worry.

4. SCT Performance – 40490

To cover a wider variety of models, consider the SCT Performance tuner as the best tuner for 2013 F-150 5.0, although it also works on trucks through 2018. It provides a lot of the same features as the last model, but for a lower price. While it does come preloaded with several dyno-proven tune files, you can also add up to twenty custom tunes. This gives you the versatility you are looking for when making quick adjustments.

Plus, you can download all of your updates over Wi-Fi. Watch the data in real-time and record it for later viewing. If there is a problem with your engine, you can see it on the full-color display. You can also turn the display vertically or horizontally to fit your cabin perfectly.

In addition, it's simple to mount the head-up display to your dash, window, or pillar, so you don't have to be distracted while driving. Give the monitor a quick glance to see what's going on. The price is right, and the company provides a one-year warranty; what else could you ask for? Read through the customer reviews to determine if this is the right 5.0-liter V8 engine tuner for your F-150.

5. Edge Products 85450 CTS2

Another high-end 2017 F-150 5.0 tuner is this model from Edge Products. It’s on the top end of our prices, but well worth every penny. It works with the 2011-2019 Ford F-150 5.0 V8 engine, plus a multitude of other vehicles. Display up to eight parameters on the large 5.3-inch swipe screen. You will have access to all of the data you want to see.

It comes with pre-set power levels for power, towing, and fuel economy if you don't want to make the modifications yourself. Otherwise, you can use it to view real-time data or read and clear DTCs. This device is also compatible with Edge custom dash mounts, an EGT pyrometer, and other accessories. You can also use the video-in port to connect your DVD player or backup camera for additional functionality.

The reviews suggest that this device isn’t difficult to install. You won’t need special tools or expertise to get the job done. Simply connect the machine into the truck’s OBDII port and follow the instructions. Furthermore, you do get a one-year warranty, so there’s plenty of coverage to protect your investment. Take your towing or hauling to a new height with the help of this easily configurable tuner.

6. SCT Performance - 7015 - X4 Performance

There’s no limit to what can be accomplished with this SCT Performance tuner. The company goes above and beyond to ensure compatibility with 2011-2019 5.0 V8 engines, as well as several other engines, including the diesel Powerstroke. Even though this isn’t an overly expensive model, it comes with features you would expect from the higher line. For example, you will gain access to Wi-Fi updates, so you don’t need to worry about plugging in the device to keep it up to date.

The full-color LCD screen is also easy to read and features a dimmable backlight. You can choose one of the pre-set tunes, or save up to ten of your own custom files. Plus, the real-time data allows you to see what's happening at every minute. It looks similar to the popular x3 model, but it's newer, more compact, and smaller.

Because it is a newer product, it's challenging to find a long list of customer reviews. Still, we can't imagine that anyone will be dissatisfied, as the company has a strong reputation with enthusiasts. Plus, you get a one-year warranty, which gives you the assurances you require. You could buy this tuner and be one of the first to recommend it to others.

7. Edge Products 85350 CS2

Another Edge option for your Ford F-150 is this gas-tuned programming model. It comes with several pre-configured settings for mileage, towing, and performance. It's also compatible with an EGT pyrometer and additional accessories. The custom 2.4-inch color screen is button-controlled and features a high-resolution display, perfect for reading in any lighting.

That’s good news considering it gives you access to real-time data. You can monitor numerous parameters at once to keep an eye on the engine performance. Plus, you can have the system alert you if there is a problem with the motor. Grab your 0-60 mph times as well as other performance specs to monitor how the updates are working, and see your adjustments pay off. Plus, this machine allows you to read and clear trouble codes.

The customer reviews are favorable, and many people enjoyed the simple installation. It's also easy to store in the cabin, anywhere you want to put it. Plus, the company provides a one-year warranty, which provides a long enough term to try out all of the settings and ensure it’s working as it should. Will all of the versatility this machine offers, it makes sense that the price is slightly higher than the budget-friendly models but still reasonable.

Engine Tuner Compatibility

As you shop for the best tuner for 2015 F-150 5.0, you must first make sure it is compatible with the engine, then check the model year.

Sometimes, you can use the same tuner for a 3.5 Ecoboost F-150, but that’s not always the case, so read the specifications carefully.

In addition, a few gas tuners also work on diesel engines. If the information you need isn’t found on the Amazon page, look it up on the manufacturer’s website.

Installing a 5.0 F-150 Engine Programmer

The first thing you want to do when you receive your 5.0 engine tuner is to read the instructions. The majority of brands follow the same directions, but it helps to double-check first. Plug in the tuner to the truck’s OBDII port.

From here, the screen should give you options for the setup. Here is a video that illustrates the installation of a Superchips engine tuner. This is typically what you will find with the majority of 5.0 F-150 programmers

People Also Ask (FAQs)

What are the common issues of 5.0 F-150 engines?

What does a tuner do for your truck?

The best F-150 5.0 tuner can increase the performance and fuel-efficiency of your engine without making any permanent modifications.

What’s the difference between a tuner and a chip? How about tuners and programmers?

An engine tuner simply adjusts the settings that are already there to maximize the performance. An engine programmer, on the other hand, will allow you to alter aspects of the engine on your own, while the performance chip is installed into the engine bay to make semi-permanent adjustments.

Costs of tuning a 5.0L V8 F-150 engine?

If you can do the tuning yourself, you will only need to pay for the programmer, which tends to range between $100 and $500, depending on the model you choose. If you prefer to have the customization done by a professional shop, you will pay far more.

Can engine tuners void car warranty?

Using an engine tuner should not void your warranty, but some owners prefer to take some steps for additional guarantees. Choose a model that doesn’t leave behind a footprint and make sure you revert everything to factory settings when you take it in for repairs.

Conclusion