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Thermal R&D Exhaust

2020-2027 Ford Explorer ST - 3" Catback Exhaust w/ Carbon Fiber Tips

2020-2027 Ford Explorer ST - 3" Catback Exhaust w/ Carbon Fiber Tips

B917-C917-F

$1,699.99
$1,699.99
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Why Thermal R&D?

  • Drone Free
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Top Quality Construction
  • 4.8 ★ Customer Rated
  • Manufactured In The USA
  • Free Shipping To Lower 48 States

2020–2027 Ford Explorer ST 3" Front Pipe Back Exhaust System — Carbon Fiber

Upgrade your Ford Explorer ST with a full 3" front pipe back exhaust system engineered for maximum flow, a deeper exhaust tone, and true everyday drivability — from the catalytic converters all the way to the tips.

Also fits 2020–2027 Ford Explorer Platinum models equipped with the 3.0L EcoBoost. The system uses the factory hanger locations and exits through the factory rear valance with no modifications required, making it a true direct bolt-on for both Explorer ST and 3.0L Platinum owners.

Unlike a traditional catback, this system runs 3" tubing from the front pipes back, giving the Explorer ST's turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost engine a more aggressive sound profile and a measurable improvement in exhaust flow. Under acceleration, the tone is deep and throaty. At cruise, it stays refined and comfortable — exactly what True Helmholtz Technology is built to deliver.

At the core of the system is our True Helmholtz Technology, a proprietary resonance-tuning design that targets and smooths out the low-frequency exhaust frequencies that cause cabin fatigue on long drives. The result is a sound profile that feels intentional — commanding under throttle, relaxed when you're not pushing it.

Constructed from mandrel-bent T304 stainless steel throughout, this Explorer ST exhaust system is built for long-term durability and corrosion resistance. The tubing features a mill finish, the front muffler carries a matching mill finish, and the rear Helmholtz chambers are finished in brushed stainless for a premium look under the vehicle.

The system connects directly to the OEM catalytic converters and downpipes, mounts using factory hanger locations, and is designed to fit the OEM rear valance on both the Explorer ST and 3.0L Explorer Platinum with no cutting or welding required. Emissions are not affected — the front pipes install after the factory catalytic converters.

Topped off with premium carbon fiber tip finishes, the dual 4" angle cut tips bring a high-end, motorsport-inspired aesthetic to your Explorer ST build. Also available in black coated and polished stainless tip finishes.

  • Fits 2020–2027 Ford Explorer ST 3.0L EcoBoost
  • Also fits 2020–2027 Ford Explorer Platinum 3.0L EcoBoost models
  • Full 3" front pipe back system for maximum exhaust flow
  • Mandrel-bent T304 stainless steel construction throughout
  • True Helmholtz Technology for a refined, fatigue-free exhaust note
  • Deep, aggressive exhaust tone under throttle, refined at cruise
  • Dual 4" angle cut tips in carbon fiber finish
  • Also available in black coated and polished stainless tip finishes
  • Connects after OEM catalytic converters — no emissions impact
  • Direct bolt-on using factory hanger locations, fits OEM valance
  • No cutting or welding required
  • Lifetime Manufacturer's Warranty

Contact us before ordering and we'll help you confirm compatibility.

Sound Clip & Install Videos:

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2020-2027 Ford Explorer ST - 3" Catback Exhaust w/ Carbon Fiber Tips has a rating of 5 stars based on 26 reviews.

Overall rating: 4.9615383 / 5 from 26 reviews.

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Reviews

Thermal 3 inch Exhaust on 2023 Ford Explorer ST

"Installed the exhaust and I'm very happy with the fitment and sound of this exhaust. Zero drone inside the cabin. It sounds amazing when you get on the throttle or when using the paddle shifters. Down shifting also sounds great! Love the carbon fiber tips! I'm very impressed with the quality, fitment, and sound of this exhaust on my ST!"

— Terrence G. (5/5)

Thermal R&D 2025 Explorer

"Sounds great, no drone which is nice in long trips. Super easy install, one of the pipes was slightly dented, but it’s covered under a coupling. Beware that it will come in two separate boxes. One box was delayed, so timing was not perfect. All in all great choice, wife loves them and just what she was looking for."

— Joshua K. (5/5)

Christmas morning

"the process was very easy to order once my order was placed i received a call from thermal just to double check make sure everything was good thank you !!!!! Shipping was amazing thank you UPS !!!!! Package got here very quick. . had my best employee check out the package make sure it all arrived he did a fantastic job."

— Jose D. (5/5)

Perfect

"Putting the 3" Thermal exhaust on my 2022 Explorer ST was my first upgrade, and it didn't disappoint! It sounds great over 3,000rpm, but nice and quiet cruising down the road. I would recommend this exhaust system for anyone who wants to hear the sound actually coming from the exhaust, not the speakers in the vehicle."

— Allen j. (5/5)

best sounding exhaust

"Just bought this 3 inch exhaust for the wifes 2021 explorer st. It came packaged very well and went on easily and sounds great."

— John (5/5)

‘22 Explorer ST

"I honestly don’t even know what to say…system showed up in 3 days, installed 2 days later…looks great, sounds AMAZING, a great throaty drone, not TOO loud but not too low either. Wish I could give more than 5 stars!"

— Joshua W. (5/5)

"I'm liking the sound under full throttle, it definitely gives the car character"

— Ivan (5/5)

Very satisfied

"Looks great. Sounds great. Hardest part of the install was just removing the stock exhaust. The rest was easy peasy. Sound levels are barely noticeable when cruising, but it opens up when you step on it. No regrets on this purchase"

— Austin H. (5/5)

3 inch carbon tip cat back explorer st

"Great quality and sound from exhaust easy to install no issues"

— Charles E. (5/5)

3" cat back exhaust, 2020 exsplorer st

"Your parts and quality are fucking awesome!!!!"

— Curtis G. (5/5)

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