Running boards are attachment features for vehicles, typically SUVs and trucks, which make it easier for passengers to get in and out. They also offer a bit of extra protection from road debris kicked up by the tires. In this article, we will talk about the meaning of
running boards on cars, their pros and cons, and the common types of running boards.
What are Running Boards on Cars?
A running board is a platform attached to a vehicle's side door that assists passengers in getting in and out of the car with ease. They are normally used on trucks and SUVs, where the ground clearance is high with these larger vehicles.
It is often useful when someone has a condition and needs some more support to hold their weight while getting in or out of the vehicle.
Besides providing additional support at the entrance and exit of the vehicle, running boards are also stylish accessories that give vehicles a rugged and modern look.
When it comes to the material, you will usually find running boards made of steel or some molded plastic.
What are the Types of Running boards?
There are many different types of running boards available on the market today. Here are some of the most common types of running boards you can buy:
Traditional Running Boards
Traditional running boards are mostly function-based and are cheaper than power running boards. Anyone who requires additional support to get in or out of the vehicle can use these.
There are also different types of traditional running boards. Here are some examples:
Running Boards
- These are flat and wide steps positioned at the bottom of the vehicles (trucks, SUVs, and off-roaders) to help people get in the vehicle quickly. The main identifier of a running board is you can place your foot anywhere on the board to get in the vehicle. For the same reason, these boards are usually wider than the other traditional boards.
Nerf Bars
- Nerf bars, also called side steps, have extra support only at the main entrance points of the vehicle. They are designed to resemble oval tubes attached below truck doors and use flat cutouts that help people get in the vehicle with better support. It means there are only specific points where you can get that support.
Rock Sliders
- They are usually made of steel and are used in heavy-duty off-roaders. The rock sliders are attached to the chassis of the vehicle and are a bit shorter than running boards. The main function of rock sliders is to protect the door bottoms while passing through heavy objects. That is the reason why they are called rock sliders.
Electric Running Boards
Electric running boards, also known as retracting running boards, are the ideal option for those who need running boards but do not want them to be there all the time. These are high-tech running boards that can automatically swing out when you open the doors and retract when the doors are closed.
They are the most expensive type of running board on the market.
Lighted Running Boards
Another interesting type of running board is the lighted running board that comes with LEDs that make it easier to find the running board in the dark. This thing is helpful for those who struggle to get in the vehicle or struggle to find the running boards at night. It also gives a unique look to your vehicle with different LED patterns.
The best thing about the lighted running boards is you can get these boards with automatic movement as well. All you need is to make sure you can find a suitable running board for your vehicle.
Running boards on Car: the Pros and Cons
Now, let's check out the advantages and disadvantages of using running boards on a car or truck. It will give you a preview of what you can expect from these running boards and how you can utilize them in the best possible way.
Pros of Running Boards
Easy to Get in or Get out of Vehicles
The most basic function of a running board is to help people with the easy entrance and exit from large trucks and off-roader vehicles. A person who does not have a running board will have to jump to the driver’s seat in an SUV.
Protection from Road Debris and Dirt
If you often worry about dirty shoes while getting in your vehicle, a proper running board can help. You can easily clean off the dirt from your shoes with these running boards and keep the interior clean. Hence, it works as a doormat for your vehicle which also protects it from the dirt kicked by the wheels.
Providing Better Look
You can easily find some attractive running boards that you can attach to your vehicle to improve its look. There are many exclusive running boards for high-end vehicles that give a completely new look to your ride.
Cons of Running Boards
Need to be Cleaned Regularly
You can not just install the running boards and forget about them. They require proper cleaning as they can become slippery after some rain and you may lose your balance. There are many cases where running boards end up doing the opposite of what they are supposed to do (to help people get into vehicles).
Takes More Space
You will need to be more careful while driving your vehicle after installing running boards. It is because they take up more space and people often end up scratching other vehicles while parking with running boards.
What Kind of Running Board Should I get?
What factors do you need to consider while buying running boards for your vehicle?
Here we have pulled together a quick buying guide to help you get an idea.
Check out these factors before you buy a running board for your vehicle:
Fitting-
It is crucial to check whether the set of running boards fits your vehicle or not. Buying the running boards made exclusively for your vehicle will ensure you can have a smooth installation process.
Material-
Steel is one of the most preferred materials for running boards. However, only a few manufacturers offer steel-based running boards for most vehicles. So, always check out the material before making the final decision.
Design-
If you are someone who is more often into the style of your vehicle, you need to check the design of the running boards as well.
Best Running Boards Recommended
You can always check the best running boards here at SuncentAuto. Here are the two most recommended running boards that you can get for your Jeep Gladiator and Toyota 4 runner SR5:
KYX® 2020-2022 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors Quad Cab Steel 2Drop Running Boards
These running boards are made of high-quality steel that gives your Jeep Gladiator the look and support it deserves. It will make the entrance and exit more convenient than ever. It is impact-resistant and comes with rust-proof material. So, you can get it without worrying about its durability.
Here are some of the features of this pair of running boards:
Holds up to 500lbs
- It can hold up to 500 lbs weight on both sides. It means you won’t have to worry about the durability of your running boards anymore
Rust-resistant
- It is coated with black powder to protect from rust and scratches
Patented Design
- It gives you a unique patented design that is so different than most running boards
KYX® 2010-2022 Toyota 4Runner SR5 4 Door 2Drop Running Boards
Here is another great set of running boards manufactured for Toyota 4runner SR5 vehicles. These are compatible with most vehicles as it is a general design. They are more like nerf bars as it gives you a specific area at the door to make your entrance and exit convenient.
If you want something specific for your vehicle, we recommend you check on the SuncentAuto website by entering your vehicle’s model.
High-quality Rust-proof Material
- These running boards are made of high-quality steel with an additional coating of black powder to protect them from rusting
Patented Design
- These running boards from KYX are patented to give you a unique design with better looks
Final Thoughts
The use of running boards depends on the needs and preferences of a person. Due to some medical reasons, people often go for running boards. On the other hand, some people use running boards to improve the vehicle’s look.
Either way, a running board can be useful in trucks and off-road vehicles. We recommend you check out the buying guide before making any decision as it will give you a better way to choose the best running board.
