Types of Running Board: Choose the Right Style & Function
Running boards are additional accessories that are usually attached to Pick up, SUV, or Jeep. They’re placed at the foot of the doors and act as a step to get in and out of the vehicle.
However, installing a running board is integral to making a comfortable and wider stepping surface. Also, it is a great way to create individual vehicle identities and styling. This part can make a big impact on bold styling.
No doubt, it is a smart decision, yet choosing the suitable one can be an overwhelming task. This industry is broad, so before you drop down your decision, well comprehend which type of running board will be perfect for your vehicle.
Different Types of Running Boards
There are several types of truck running boards, including:
Molded Running Board
Molded running boards are the most popular in the market. Most of them are made of UV-resistant polymer and aluminum framework. The build quality of these running boards is robust, with a smooth finish. They are mostly available in black and gray finishes, or you may paint them later.
Lighted Running Board
This is a regular type of running board, but they have lighting features that make them unique. They are more functional and stylish. The lights are horizontally lined or placed on the ends. Especially lighted running boards especially have a practical purpose. They make the stepping surface more visible at dark hours. Also, many feature a unique glow while you open the door of the car, which I found very interesting.
Retracting Running Boards
Retracting or powered running boards are the latest types of running boards. They are high-tech products that will amaze you and your friend’s expectations. These boards swing out and under the rigs when you open and close the car door. All-in-all, they retract automatically according to your response.
My take on this is these advanced boards are great for styling and impressing the crowd. Also, they are more effective in saving the boards from natural hazards. In contrast, the price is higher than the regular running boards, which can be a disadvantage for fewer.
Aluminum Running Board
When you require high-strength running boards, you can choose this type of board. Aluminum running boards tend to be robust and heavy-duty. They are smoothly finished with different patterns. Also, they’re easier to clean and safer to use. Whether they are covered with snow, slush, or mud, you can wash them easily.
Side Bars or Nerf Bars
Nerf bars improve access to your vehicle. These sidebars are quite different from running boards, but their purpose is the same. They have a tubular design rather than a flat surface. The tubes are constructed from steel and covered with solid rubber foot pads that prevent slippage. Actually, Nerf bars are best for accessing the truck roof or bed.
Nerf bars are available in full lengths or door sizes. Typically, they are lower than the running boards, making them easier to access the seat. But they’re closer to the road, which means more exposure to damage while driving off-road.
Rock Sliders
In terms of purpose, rock sliders are not for stepping; they are more than safety gear for your vehicle. They are metal bars to protect the underneath of the vehicle and doors. The rock slider protects the vehicle from stones and rocks kicked off by the wheels. So many people use them for stepping. However, rock sliders are absolutely a crucial accessory for your truck.
Wheel-to-Wheel
Wheel-to-wheel running boards are a type of running board that extends from the front of the wheel well to the rear wheel well of a truck. They offer a large step area for easy access to the cab of the truck, which makes them a popular choice for truck owners who want a more secure and stable step.
These running boards are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel and are designed to match the contours of the truck’s body for a custom-fit look. They typically feature a wide, flat step area that is covered with a slip-resistant material for added safety.
What are the Benefits of Installing Running Boards?
If you are a pickup, truck, or SUV owner, you can get several benefits from installing running boards. For example:
- Running boards improve access in the vehicle. They are helpful for youngsters, older people, or people with mobility issues. So the additional stepping is a great convenience for them.
- If you want to maintain a smooth finish to your vehicle, you can get them. They look classier than side steps.
- These boards save side panels and doors from damage or discoloration. They prevent debris, nails, and roadside stone from touching the vehicle.
- They help to maintain the truck’s interior. Many running boards are designed in a different pattern that works for the removal of muck and keeps it clean inside.
- Running boards can provide additional traction for people getting in and out of the truck in wet or slippery conditions.
Factors to Consider before Choosing Running Boards
When choosing truck running boards, there are several factors to consider:
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- Material: Running boards are typically made of aluminum, stainless steel, or plastic. Aluminum and stainless steel are more durable and resistant to rust and corrosion, while plastic running boards are less expensive but may not be as durable.
- Style: Running boards come in a variety of styles, including nerf bars, drop steps, hoop steps, and side steps. Consider the look you want for your truck and choose a style that complements it.
- Fit: Make sure the running boards you choose are designed to fit your specific make and model of truck. Some running boards are universal and can be adjusted to fit a variety of truck models, while others are designed for specific vehicles.
- Installation: Consider how easy the running boards are to install. Some running boards require drilling holes into the truck’s frame, while others are designed to bolt on without any drilling.
- Retractable or permanent: Some running boards can be easily installed and removed, while others are permanent. Decide which option is best for you.
- Brand: Research the brand and read reviews to ensure that you are getting a quality product.
- Price: Determine a budget and look for running boards that fit within it while still meeting your other criteria.
- Safety: Look for running boards that have slip-resistant surfaces and have safety features such as being able to hold weight and support.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best running boards for your truck that meet your needs and preferences.
Can I Install Running Boards Myself?
Running boards are external parts of the vehicle that make them easier to install. Even though it may work for a few minutes. Moreover, most of them feature plug-and-play installations. So you can install them by yourself using traditional tools like screwdrivers and a drill machine (if your vehicle is not pre-drilled for running boards). Further, you can read the manual to learn the instructions for installing them.
It would be better if you ensure a helping hand while installing. Because mostly, running boards are heavy, especially metallic ones, and you may not lift them alone. So if you don’t want any injury and ensure a perfect installation, then go for some help or consider a professional.
What are the Cons of Mounting Running Boards?
There are no significant drawbacks to mounting running boards. But it can impact negatively if you don’t choose the best one.
If the running boards are made poorly, they will support a small amount of weight. So they will be useless and break in a short period. Also, you have to make sure the grips are; otherwise, slippery surfaces can cause injuries. On the other hand, high-quality running boards are expensive and may be heavy on your wallet.
One more downside that I found, it is difficult to crawl underneath the vehicle when going for an inspection. So running boards can be a barrier to such type of maintenance.
Last Words
Installing the running boards delivers a lot of benefits. But it is up to you which benefit influences you to get them. I will say installing running boards is necessary for passenger convenience and safety. After knowing the types, you can now better find which running boards will match your pickup van, truck, or sport utility.