Dreaming of turning your 2013 Ford Taurus SHO into a head-turning powerhouse? You’re not alone—many owners want to take their SHO beyond stock performance and style. Whether you’re looking to boost speed, upgrade the look, or personalize your ride, knowing how to customize your Taurus SHO is key.
This article breaks down the best ways to enhance your car, from simple mods to advanced upgrades. Discover step-by-step tips, budgeting advice, and inspiration for making your SHO truly yours.
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Customizing Your 2013 Ford Taurus SHO: An Enthusiast’s Guide
If you own a 2013 Ford Taurus SHO, you’re already behind the wheel of an impressive, twin-turbocharged V6 performance sedan. But for many automotive enthusiasts, “stock” is just where the story begins. Whether you want more speed, sharper handling, or a unique look, customizing your Taurus SHO opens up a world of potential.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to approach customizing your 2013 Taurus SHO, discover the popular upgrades, explore practical tips for making smart choices, and tackle the most common questions. Let’s unlock the true potential of your SHO and make it distinctly yours.
Why Customize Your 2013 Ford Taurus SHO?
Customizing your Taurus SHO isn’t just about bragging rights or standing out at the local car meet (though those are perks). There are plenty of compelling reasons to consider modifications:
- Performance Gains: Unleash more horsepower and torque to enjoy quicker acceleration, stronger mid-range pull, and a thrilling drive.
- Personalization: Make your car a reflection of your tastes and style, from subtle tweaks to head-turning transformations.
- Handling and Safety: Upgrade suspension, brakes, and tires for better control, especially if you drive spiritedly.
- Resale Value: Thoughtful upgrades can make your SHO more appealing to future buyers.
- Satisfaction: There’s a unique pride in owning a vehicle shaped by your vision and effort.
Key Areas for Customization
Customization can be as simple as swapping wheels or as complex as engine modifications. Here are some of the most popular and impactful ways to customize your 2013 Ford Taurus SHO:
1. Engine and Performance Upgrades
A. Custom Tuning
Custom engine tuning is the go-to starting point for many SHO owners. Tuning adjusts your car’s computer (ECU) for more horsepower and torque, sharper throttle response, and optimized fuel and boost delivery.
- How it’s done: You can use handheld tuners from reputable companies, which let you upload tuned files tailored for your exact car.
- What it delivers: Gains of 30-70 wheel horsepower are common, plus better midrange power and efficiency.
B. Intake and Exhaust Enhancements
A performance intake brings in cooler, denser air, while a custom stainless steel exhaust system allows spent gases to exit faster, helping the engine breathe better.
- Upgraded cold air intakes can make turbo spool faster.
- Cat-back and axle-back exhausts add power and a sporty sound.
- Aftermarket downpipes further improve turbo efficiency.
C. Intercooler and Hard Pipes
- Upgrading the intercooler helps lower intake air temperatures, especially when tuned for more boost.
- Installing custom hard pipes increases reliability and helps maintain turbo efficiency under higher pressures.
D. Turbo Upgrades & Fueling
For those seeking big power:
– Larger turbos and high-flow fuel pumps unlock 500+ horsepower.
– Supporting mods like upgraded injectors and stronger spark plugs are a must for reliability.
2. Drivetrain and Handling
A. Suspension Mods
- Lowering springs and coilovers reduce body roll and improve cornering grip.
- Adjustable dampers let you tune your ride from comfort to performance.
B. Brakes
- Performance pads and rotors take heat better, stopping your SHO quicker, especially during spirited driving.
- Upgrading to bigger brake kits provides serious stopping power for track days or high-performance driving.
C. Wheels and Tires
- Lightweight wheels enhance both appearance and acceleration.
- High-performance tires maximize grip in both dry and wet conditions.
D. Transmission Tuning
- Some custom tunes also adjust the transmission for faster, firmer shifts.
- Upgraded torque converters or limited-slip differentials can further improve performance.
3. Visual and Aerodynamic Customization
A. Exterior Modifications
- Custom grilles, spoilers, splitters, and diffusers add a sporty, aggressive look.
- Vinyl wraps or unique paint work personalize your SHO without permanent alteration.
B. Lighting
- LED or HID headlight upgrades increase visibility and update your car’s appearance.
- Smoked taillights or sequential turn signals add style and modern flair.
C. Badging and Interior Accents
- Blacked-out emblems, custom SHO logos, or carbon fiber trim make your Taurus stand out inside and out.
How to Start Customizing: Step-by-Step Plan
- Set Your Goals: Decide if you want more power, better looks, or improved handling—the best customizations are those matched to your priorities.
- Establish a Budget: Upgrades can add up fast. Set aside a realistic amount, considering both parts and potential labor.
- Start With the Basics: Often, a custom tune and intake/exhaust combination offer the biggest bang for your buck.
- Prioritize Safety: If you plan on increasing power significantly, also upgrade brakes, tires, and suspension.
- Make It Your Own: Add personal touches with exterior and interior styling elements.
- Ask for Expert Help: Some modifications may require experienced installers or professional tuners to achieve the best—and safest—results.
Benefits of Customizing Your Taurus SHO
- Performance You Can Feel: Even modest upgrades transform your daily drive into a genuinely exciting experience.
- Unique Style: Stand out with a Taurus that’s unmistakably yours.
- Community Support: The Taurus SHO enthusiast community is active and supportive, making it easy to find ideas, advice, and inspiration.
- Potential for Value Retention: A well-maintained, tastefully modified SHO can retain value better than a neglected stock vehicle.
Challenges & Considerations
Customizing isn’t without its challenges:
- Warranty Implications: Some modifications, especially engine tunes, can affect your factory warranty.
- Legal Requirements: Certain engine or lighting upgrades may run afoul of local laws—always check compliance.
- Insurance: Custom parts can impact coverage or premiums; notify your insurer of major modifications.
- Reliability: Chasing high horsepower numbers can strain factory parts if not upgraded accordingly.
- Upfront & Hidden Costs: Labor, tuning, custom fabrication, and potential shipping fees can add up beyond the price of parts.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Buy Quality Parts: Invest in reputable brands to avoid reliability issues down the road.
- Use Reputable Shops: For complex installs or tunes, partner with experienced performance shops.
- Upgrade in Stages: Start with foundational upgrades before moving to advanced mods—this helps you spot and fix issues early.
- Keep Records: Document all modifications and services for resale, warranty, or troubleshooting.
- Ship Smart: When buying parts online, look for bundle deals or free shipping offers to save on costs—especially on heavy parts like exhausts.
- Stay Informed: The aftermarket for the Taurus SHO is active and evolving; keep up with forums and enthusiast groups for the latest info.
Budgeting and Cost Tips
- Start Small, Scale Up: Begin with bolt-on modifications (like intakes or tunes) if you’re on a budget.
- Watch for Seasonal Sales: Many shops offer discounts or free shipping during automotive holidays.
- Used Parts Market: Gently used performance parts can deliver savings without sacrificing quality.
- Factor in Installation: Some upgrades, like exhausts or hard pipes, are labor-intensive; ensure your budget covers professional installation if you’re not doing it yourself.
- Plan for Shipping: Bulky or heavy items (exhausts, wheels) may come with steep shipping fees—include these in your calculations before purchasing.
Conclusion
Customizing your 2013 Ford Taurus SHO is an exciting journey, offering spirited performance, tailored looks, and personal satisfaction. Whether you crave the rush of added horsepower, crave a sharper-handling ride, or simply want to make a statement, the right modifications can unlock your Taurus’ hidden potential. With careful research, quality parts, and a dash of creative flair, your SHO can truly become one of a kind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I install most SHO performance upgrades myself, or should I use a professional?
Some simple upgrades, like air filters or cosmetic changes, are DIY-friendly. More complex modifications (such as custom tuning, exhaust installation, or forced induction upgrades) often require specific tools and knowledge. For best results and safety, consider using a professional for any major mechanical or electronic modifications.
2. How much additional power can tuning and bolt-on upgrades provide for my 2013 Taurus SHO?
With a quality custom tune, intake, and performance exhaust, you can expect gains of 40–80 horsepower at the wheels, depending on supporting modifications and fuel quality. More advanced upgrades like larger turbos or ethanol fuel systems can push gains much higher, provided supporting components are upgraded as well.
3. Will customizing my Taurus SHO void the car’s warranty?
Certain modifications, especially engine and transmission tunes, can impact your powertrain warranty. Other upgrades like wheels, tires, and suspension changes may have less impact. Always check your warranty terms and discuss planned mods with your dealership or warranty provider before proceeding.
4. Are there specific brands or products known to work well with the 2013 Taurus SHO?
Many enthusiasts gravitate toward established brands specializing in Ford performance, offering quality tuners, intakes, exhausts, and more. Look for products that clearly state compatibility with the 2013 Taurus SHO 3.5L Ecoboost to ensure proper fitment and results. Reading reviews and joining SHO forums can also help you make informed decisions.
5. Is it safe to run higher boost or horsepower levels on the factory Taurus SHO engine?
The stock 3.5L Ecoboost is robust and can handle moderate power gains safely with supporting modifications and proper tuning. Pushing past mild upgrades (for example, increasing boost significantly or installing larger turbos) calls for internal engine upgrades, improved cooling, and high-quality fuel to maintain reliability.
By taking a thoughtful approach, following best practices, and leveraging high-quality parts, your 2013 Taurus SHO can evolve into the ultimate expression of your automotive passion. Enjoy the journey, and happy modding!