How Does a Ford Musang Decklid Panel Improve Style and Performance?

When it comes to aftermarket modifications, a decklid panel is often the starting point for Mustang owners. It is an easy mod to do, doesn’t require any specialized knowledge or tools, and yet, it can completely transform the look of your Ford Mustang. Beyond that, personalization is a big part of Mustang ownership, and with an aftermarket Mustang decklid panel, your car will stand out from the rest. What’s more, it can even lead to slight performance benefits.

What’s Considered a Decklid Panel?

The decklid panel is the section at the rear of the Mustang that bridges the gap between the two taillight housings. On many factory models, it’s painted body color or fitted with a black plastic insert. On the new Mustangs, the taillights are already divided by a high-gloss plastic panel, which features a silver badge in the middle, usually a “GT” for the V8 models or the classic horse on the EcoBoosts and V6s. Aftermarket decklid panels replace this section, offering different textures, finishes, and even aerodynamic upgrades.

Visual Upgrade

The main reason why Mustang owners go for aftermarket decklid panels is the instant visual upgrade that they provide. First, it makes the rear of the car sleeker, or in some cases adds more contrast. With a carbon fiber finish, it also makes the Mustang look more aggressive. Moreover, most decklid panels allow you to hide the factory badge, which not everyone likes. If you were thinking about a de-chrome kit or complete de-badge, this is another possible option, giving you a cleaner, less cluttered look.

Subtle Performance Benefits

While a decklid panel is primarily a cosmetic modification, certain designs can offer minor functional advantages in terms of aerodynamics. This is because the panel can help smoothen the airflow coming over the rear of the car. With all honesty, the difference may not be dramatic, but it can still make an impact, especially with other aerodynamic upgrades, such as a rear diffuser and spoiler. Together, they can improve stability at high speeds.

Installing Decklid Panels

When it comes to installation, all of our offered decklid panels are mounted with adhesive, and therefore, the mod is easily reversible, while offering a secure fitment. The process itself is straightforward and takes only a few minutes, including prepping the panel. You’ll also be able to find panels that are bolt-on, but we don’t recommend those due to the installation being more difficult and irreversible.

Recommended Mustang Decklid Panels

So that you have a better idea of the options available, here’s a list of our favorite decklids.

MP Concepts Decklid Panels

When it comes to MP Concepts, we have two options for you. Either a gloss black option or faux carbon fiber. This is a budget option, yet high-quality and with a precise fit. It retains the factory backup camera, too.

MMD Matte Black Decklid Panel

Perhaps our bestseller, the MMD decklid panel, is for sure on our recommended list. If you don’t like faux carbon fiber or gloss finishes, then this matte black panel is the perfect choice. Compared to gloss variants, it does not get scratched as easily and stays clean for longer. Like other options, this one also fits the factory backup camera.

Anderson Composites Carbon Fiber Decklid Panel

The Anderson Composites decklid panel is a great choice if you’re after a carbon fiber finish and a true performance look. It is close to the most expensive on our list, but the real carbon fiber is worth it. Also, it comes with a cutout for the factory backup camera.

Ford Performance Decklid Panels

The above options are all high quality and from renowned manufacturers, but if you want something extra, you can get an OEM+ style decklid panel from Ford Performance, which is available in a gloss black finish or made out of real carbon fiber and featuring the Cobra emblem!

Saleen S302 Decklid Panel

Last but not least, we have another big name on the list: Saleen. The S302 decklid panel brings the styling even further with an embossed Saleen logo across the whole panel. If you’re a fan of Saleen, look no further.

Upgrade Your Mustang’s Looks Now

If any of the above options appealed to you, then don’t think and upgrade now. It's an easy and reversible mod with an extensive impact on style. And if you’re already thinking about what to do after your decklid panel install, take a look at decals, bumpers, spoilers, and more.