Running Board

What running boards are for

As trucks and SUVs get taller, the climb into the cab gets harder, especially with kids, older passengers or a lift kit. A running board gives a stable platform below the door sill. It also keeps mud and spray off the passenger's clothing and adds a finished look to the side of the vehicle. Unlike rock sliders, most running boards are a convenience and styling item, not a heavy-duty trail armor.

Styles to consider

• Full-length boards: flat platforms that run along the cab with a textured or diamond plate surface.
• Tubular step bars: round or oval tubes with step pads, lighter and a common choice for a clean look.
• Drop-step boards: have a lower step section at each door for tall vehicles.
• Side guards and rockcrawler designs: built from thick plate with step pockets, aimed at off-road use and more rugged than a standard board.

Specs to compare

Material and finish affect durability and appearance. Aluminum is light and corrosion resistant, galvanized or powder-coated steel is tougher, and stainless is bright but can show scratches. Check the step surface for traction, since a smooth tube can be slick when wet. Look at the board width and length, such as cab-length versus crew cab coverage, and the load capacity if listed. Note whether the mounting brackets are included, because some boards require a separate mount kit that is sold under its own part number.

Installation notes

Most running boards bolt to the underside of the body or frame using vehicle-specific brackets. Many are no-drill designs, but some require drilling or trimming. Confirm that the brackets do not interfere with your suspension, body mounts or exhaust. Use all supplied fasteners, apply threadlocker if the instructions call for it, and torque to specification. Recheck the hardware after the first few hundred miles, since loose brackets can cause rattles.

Fitment and use

These are vehicle-specific products. Confirm fitment for your exact year, make, model, cab style and door count, and check the manufacturer's specifications for any required mount kits. If you carry heavy loads on the boards or wheel on rough trails, choose a heavier design than a light-duty step bar, and do not use a decorative board as a jacking or recovery point.

Everyday practicality

Think about who uses the vehicle. Children, older passengers and anyone with limited mobility benefit from a wide, grippy step, while a narrow tube may feel unstable. Consider a board that has a textured surface and edge lip, because wet shoes slip on smooth metal. Also consider where the vehicle is parked, since long boards can catch on curbs and steep driveways.

Cleaning is easy but matters. Road salt and mud settle on and behind the boards, so rinse the brackets and hardware regularly to avoid corrosion. If you go off-road, remember that a board hanging below the body can be bent by rocks, which is why some owners choose a heavier slider-style design instead. Check the mounting hardware occasionally, since vibration can loosen it and cause rattles.