Let’s face it—modding your Ford F-150 isn’t just about turning heads (though, yeah, it does that). It’s about making your truck work better, feel better, and stand out in a sea of stock rides. We’ve rounded up seven killer F-150 upgrades for under $500 to get you started on modding your truck. From added security to more aggressive stance and performance gains, these mods and accessories are affordable, practical, and most importantly, worth it.
1. Console Vault Center Console Safe
- Price: $319–$472
- Heavy-duty construction
- Fits like factory
- Multiple lock options
If your F-150 is your daily driver and weekend warrior, chances are it hauls more than just tools and gear. Whether it's your valuables or important belongings, locking them up in a secure, tamper-proof center console safe just makes sense. This ranks among the best Ford F150 accessories for security.
The Console Vault is custom-fit for your F-150’s center console, giving you peace of mind with rock-solid security. It installs without any drilling and features a triple guard locking system—perfect for keeping your stuff safe at work, the trail, or the grocery store lot.
2. TruXedo Soft Roll-Up Tonneau Cover
- Price: $418.99
- Sleek, low-profile design
- Weather-resistant vinyl
- Manual tension adjusters for a perfect fit
Want to protect your bed cargo without sacrificing style or bed access? The TruXedo soft roll-up cover is one of the best Ford F150 upgrades for both form and function. It delivers clean looks and practical function without breaking the bank.
It installs in under 30 minutes with no drilling, and the low-profile design doesn’t mess with your F-150’s lines. Plus, it’s tough enough to handle weather, dirt, and sneaky eyes—and rolls up tight when you need full bed space.
3. Barricade HD Steel Running Boards
- Price: $461.99
- Rugged styling with real utility
- Bolt-on installation
- Durable enough for work and play
The Barricade HD steel running boards are an instant addition to any list of the best Ford F150 mods. They’re built from durable carbon steel sheet metal, finished in textured black powder coat, and offer wide, grippy steps for easy entry and exit.
Even better, they help protect your rocker panels from trail debris, curbs, and whatever else your off-road adventures throw at you.
4. Rough Country Catalytic Converter Shield
- Price: $169.99
- Theft deterrent
- Lightweight but strong
- Quick install, no welding
Catalytic converter theft is no joke—and F-150s are prime targets. The Rough Country catalytic converter shield is constructed from heavy-duty aluminum and laser-cut for precision. It deters would-be thieves, especially if your truck is parked outside. One of the best Ford F-150 mods for peace of mind.
5. Rough Country N3 2” Leveling Struts
- Price: $349.95
- Full strut replacement
- Smooth ride on and off-road
- Works with stock rear suspension
Tired of that factory nose-down rake? Get level (literally) with Rough Country N3 leveling struts. These struts lift your front end by 2 inches, giving your F-150 a more balanced, aggressive stance—and room for bigger tires if that’s your move.
But this isn’t just about looks. You’ll also get improved ride quality and handling, especially if you hit rough terrain making it among the best budget F150 mods for performance.
6. Roush Cold Air Intake
- Price: $374.99–$414.99
- No tune required
- Performance gain + better sound
- OEM fit and finish
More air = more power. The Roush cold air intake kit is one of the simplest and best Ford F150 mods for extra performance, unlocking more horsepower, better throttle response, and a throatier growl without needing a tune.
With 31% less restriction than the stock airbox, it helps your engine breathe easy—and pull harder. Best part? It looks stock, installs easily, and the dry filter doesn’t need cleaning for up to 100,000 miles.
7. Fukin Tuned Throttle Response Controller
- Price: $279.99
- Eliminates throttle lag
- Customize gas pedal response wirelessly
- Plug-and-play, 100% warranty-safe
Modern drive-by-wire throttle systems are known for lag—and this is arguably the best Ford F150 upgrade to eliminate it. The Fukin Tuned throttle response controller gives you instant control over how your truck responds to your gas pedal input. It recalibrates the stock throttle mapping with software engineered specifically for your Ford F-150.
It offers four driving modes. Fukin Slow is perfect for maximizing fuel efficiency, precision control on slippery surfaces, or when handing over the keys to a valet. Fukin Cruise gives you 1-1 pedal to response ratio, perfect for everyday driving. Fukin Fast delivers a snappier throttle response for more spirited driving, more confident off-roading, and effortless towing. And finally, Fukin Send It—the most aggressive mode with razor-sharp throttle response, unlocking all your F-150 has to offer.
Each mode has nine sensitivity levels, so you get 36 unique ways to find the perfect gas pedal response for your driving style or needs.
Best Way to Boost Your F-150's Security
The Fukin Tuned throttle response controller installs in15 minutes and is controlled wirelessly via Bluetooth with the free Fukin Tuned mobile app. The best part? It comes with a built-in Anti-Theft feature that allows you to disable the gas pedal completely whenever you need extra security. It is subscription-based—FREE for the first 14 days, and then $0.99 a month or $9.99 a year.
The Fukin Tuned throttle response controller is a legit performance and security boost. If you only do one upgrade to wake your truck up, make it this one.