Looking for the best mustang body kits 2017 has to offer is usually the first step for owners who want to break away from that "just off the lot" look. Let's be real—the 2017 S550 is a gorgeous car straight from the factory, but once you start seeing three or four of them at every stoplight, that stock aesthetic starts feeling a little bit too common. Adding a body kit isn't just about being flashy; it's about making the car reflect your own personality and, in some cases, actually helping it perform better when you're pushing it on the highway or the track.
Whether you're driving the 5.0 V8 or the EcoBoost, the 2017 model year is a sweet spot for customization. There is a massive aftermarket scene out there, and you've got everything from subtle lip kits to full-blown widebody conversions that make the car look like it belongs in a GT3 race.
Why Even Bother with a Body Kit?
You might be wondering if it's worth the hassle. I mean, the Mustang already has those iconic lines and that aggressive scowl. But a good kit changes the entire stance of the vehicle. It's like the difference between wearing a standard off-the-rack suit and getting one tailored to your specific build.
Most people start looking into mustang body kits 2017 because they want that "lowered" look without necessarily slamming their suspension to the point where they can't drive over a speed bump. A well-designed front splitter or side skirts can create the illusion of a lower center of gravity while keeping your ground clearance manageable. Plus, if you're into the car show scene, a unique body kit is basically your ticket to getting noticed.
Finding the Right Style for Your S550
There isn't just one way to style a Mustang. Everyone has their own vibe, and the market for mustang body kits 2017 definitely reflects that.
The OEM Plus Look
If you're someone who likes the factory design but just wants it to look "meaner," you're probably looking for an OEM+ style. This usually involves adding pieces that look like they could have come from Ford's Performance division. Think Roush-style hood scoops, subtle chin spoilers, and maybe a clean rear diffuser. It doesn't scream for attention, but car people will definitely notice that your Mustang looks better than the one next to it.
The Aggressive Track Look
Then you've got the folks who want their car to look like it just rolled off the Nürburgring. For this, you're looking at huge front splitters with support rods, vented fenders, and massive rear wings. Brands like Anderson Composites or Shelby-style kits fall into this category. These kits often incorporate carbon fiber, which not only looks incredible but actually shaves off a bit of weight.
The Widebody Revolution
If you want to go all out, widebody mustang body kits 2017 are the way to go. Companies like Liberty Walk or Clinched have made these incredibly popular. We're talking about bolt-on fender flares that allow you to run much wider wheels and tires. It completely changes the silhouette of the car, making it look incredibly muscular and wide. Just keep in mind, this usually involves cutting your factory fenders, so it's a "point of no return" kind of modification.
Materials Matter More Than You Think
When you're browsing for mustang body kits 2017, don't just look at the pictures. You've got to check what the parts are actually made of. It makes a huge difference in how they fit and how long they last.
Fiberglass is usually the cheapest option. It's stiff and holds its shape well, but it's also brittle. If you hit a curb or a stray rock on the freeway, it's likely to crack rather than flex. It also requires the most "prep work" (sanding and filling) before it's ready for paint.
Polyurethane is a favorite for daily drivers. It's flexible and can take a beating. If you scrape your front lip on a driveway—which, let's face it, is going to happen—the polyurethane will usually just bend and pop back into place. The downside is that it can be a bit heavier and sometimes warps if it's exposed to extreme heat for too long.
Carbon Fiber is the gold standard. It's incredibly light, super strong, and looks amazing even without paint. However, it's the most expensive option by a long shot. If you're building a high-end show car or a dedicated track beast, it's worth the investment.
The Reality of Installation
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but most mustang body kits 2017 aren't exactly "plug and play." Even the high-quality ones usually need a little bit of massaging to get the fitment perfect. If you're buying a cheap kit from a random corner of the internet, be prepared to spend some quality time with a sander and a heat gun.
If you aren't comfortable taking your bumper off or drilling into your body panels, you'll want to take it to a professional body shop. And here's a pro tip: always test-fit the parts before you paint them. There is nothing worse than spending $500 on a custom paint match only to realize the bolt holes are an inch off.
Front-End Upgrades: The Gateway Drug
Most people don't jump straight into a full body kit. Usually, it starts with a front chin spoiler or a splitter. It's one of the most cost-effective mustang body kits 2017 upgrades you can do. It sits right at the bottom of the front bumper and gives the car a much more "planted" look.
If you want to go a step further, look into a new grille or a vented hood. The 2017 Mustang has a pretty iconic face, but opening up those grilles or adding some aggressive hood heat extractors can make it look like a whole different beast. It also helps with cooling if you've done any engine mods like a supercharger.
Don't Forget the Rear and Sides
The front gets all the glory, but the sides and back are what people see when you pass them. Side skirts help tie the front and rear of the car together visually. Without them, an aggressive front splitter can look a bit out of place.
As for the rear, a new diffuser is a must. The stock 2017 rear valance is okay, but a more aggressive diffuser with larger fins can really highlight your exhaust setup. Pair that with a decent trunk spoiler—whether it's a subtle "ducktail" or a larger "pedestal" wing—and the transformation is complete.
Living with a Modded Mustang
One thing people don't talk about enough is how mustang body kits 2017 change the way you drive. Once you've got that low-hanging front lip or those wide fenders, you have to be a lot more careful. You'll find yourself taking driveways at an angle and avoiding certain roads with notorious potholes.
But honestly? That's part of the fun. Every time you park your car and look back at it while walking away, you'll realize it was worth it. There's a certain pride that comes with knowing your Mustang doesn't look like anyone else's.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Kit
At the end of the day, the best mustang body kits 2017 are the ones that make you smile when you open the garage door. Don't feel like you have to follow the latest trends or go for the most expensive carbon fiber parts if that's not your style.
Take your time, do your research on fitment, and maybe start small with a few pieces before committing to a total overhaul. Whether you're going for a clean street look or a wild widebody, the 2017 Mustang is an incredible canvas to work with. Get out there, find the parts that speak to you, and make that pony your own.