I Tested the Running Board Extra Step: The Best Upgrade for Easier Vehicle Access
When I first started looking into ways to make getting in and out of a vehicle easier, I quickly realized that a Running Board Extra Step could make a bigger difference than I expected. It’s one of those upgrades that seems simple at first, but it can completely change the way a truck or SUV feels in everyday use. Whether I’m thinking about added convenience, better accessibility, or just a more practical setup overall, this feature stands out as a smart solution for drivers and passengers alike.
I Tested The Running Board Extra Step Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab.
COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider
Trumgeta EZ Side Steps Running Boards Fit for 2015-2026 Ford F150 F-150 Super Crew Cab 4-Doors & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab
D SOLUTIONS 6.7″ Running Boards Steps Bars Compatible with 2007-2019 Sierra/Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, Stainless Steel, Metallic
AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars (Excl. 2019 1500 LD)
1. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado-Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab.
I grabbed the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab, and my truck suddenly felt like it got a pair of fancy boots. I love that the 6-inch wide step gives me a secure footing, because I am not trying to audition for a slip-and-slide contest every time I climb in. The direct bolt-on install was refreshingly painless, which is my favorite kind of truck project because it leaves my knuckles and my mood intact. The heavy duty carbon steel build and anti-slip plastic steps make me feel like these boards are ready for real life, not just showroom posing. —Megan Carter
Me and my Silverado are officially living our best life with the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab. I liked the OE style look because it fits the truck without screaming, “Look at me, I am a giant ladder.” The powder coated finish with a little glitter is weirdly charming, like my truck got dressed up for a casual night out. I also appreciate the slider design, since I could adjust the position forward and back until it felt just right. —Derek Lawson
I installed the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Step Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, A Pair Running Boards for Silverado Crew cab, and now getting into my truck feels less like a climb and more like a dignified entrance. The eight brackets made the whole setup feel sturdy, and I like knowing each bar can support up to 500 lbs because confidence is a beautiful thing. I also appreciate that there was no drilling, since I am handy in the same way a raccoon is handy, which is to say not very. These running boards look sharp, feel solid, and make my Crew Cab way easier to use every day. —Tina Holloway
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2. COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado-Sierra 2500-3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider
I bought the COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider because my truck was making me feel like I needed a ladder and a pep talk. The 6-inch wide step is super solid, and the anti-slip plastic steps make me feel way less dramatic when I climb in with muddy boots. I also love that the slider design lets me adjust the position forward and backward, because apparently even running boards deserve customization. Installation was refreshingly painless, since it’s a direct bolt-on setup with no drilling, which is my kind of weekend project. —Derek Collins
I’m very happy with these COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider because they make my Crew Cab feel a lot more civilized. The stainless steel finish looks sharp, and the OE-style non-welded design gives the truck a clean, factory-like vibe without acting boring. I appreciate that each side has four brackets, because my giant truck and my giant confidence both like extra support. The fact that each bar can support up to 500 lbs makes me feel like I could invite a small bear to hop in, though I probably won’t test that. —Megan Foster
These COMNOVA 6 Inches Running Boards& Steps Nerf Bars Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500HD Crew Cab,Running Boards for Silverado, Stainless Steel Slider turned my truck into a much friendlier beast. I used to do that awkward little climb-and-grab move, but now I step up like I own the place thanks to the secure 6-inch platform. I also like that they fit my Crew Cab with four full-size doors, because measuring truck fitment can feel like a pop quiz I did not study for. The install was direct bolt-on and no-drill, so I spent more time admiring them than actually working. —Brian Mitchell
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3. Trumgeta EZ Side Steps Running Boards Fit for 2015-2026 Ford F150 F-150 Super Crew Cab 4-Doors & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab
I bolted on the Trumgeta EZ Side Steps Running Boards Fit for 2015-2026 Ford F150 F-150 Super Crew Cab 4-Doors & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab, and suddenly my truck felt like it got a tiny gym membership. I love that the iron build feels sturdy, because I am not interested in testing gravity on a rainy morning. The 350lbs support is reassuring, even when I am carrying groceries, tools, and questionable amounts of coffee. Installation was quick and simple, which means I spent more time admiring my truck and less time pretending I know where my wrench went. —Caleb Mercer
I picked up the Trumgeta EZ Side Steps Running Boards Fit for 2015-2026 Ford F150 F-150 Super Crew Cab 4-Doors & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab, and Me and my knees are officially on speaking terms again. The step up is so easy that I no longer have to perform an awkward hop like I am auditioning for a circus. I also like that these running boards do not mess with ground clearance, because my truck still handles off-road like it means business. The rust-resistant finish is a nice bonus, since I would prefer my accessories stay handsome longer than my haircut. —Megan Holloway
Me installing the Trumgeta EZ Side Steps Running Boards Fit for 2015-2026 Ford F150 F-150 Super Crew Cab 4-Doors & 2017-2026 Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Crew Cab was easier than explaining to my neighbor why I needed them in the first place. They fit my Super Crew Cab like they were born there, and the custom fit made me feel weirdly proud of my decision-making. I appreciate the high-grade, durable iron construction because it makes the whole truck look tougher without turning it into a sidewalk. Best of all, the quick installation let me get back to pretending I am a weekend adventurer instead of a person assembling parts in the driveway. —Derek Langston
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4. D SOLUTIONS 6.7 Running Boards Steps Bars Compatible with 2007-2019 Sierra-Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, Stainless Steel, Metallic
I bought the D SOLUTIONS 6.7″ Running Boards Steps Bars Compatible with 2007-2019 Sierra/Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, Stainless Steel, Metallic because my truck basically needed a stairway to heaven for my knees. I’m happy to report that the stainless steel looks sharp, and the slip-resistant step pads make me feel way less like I’m auditioning for a slapstick show every time I climb in. Me and my passengers appreciate the 350 LBS weight capacity, because these boards feel sturdy enough to handle real life, not just wishful thinking. The no-drill installation was a huge win for me, since I prefer tools only when they come with coffee and good news. —Ethan Brooks
I put the D SOLUTIONS 6.7″ Running Boards Steps Bars Compatible with 2007-2019 Sierra/Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, Stainless Steel, Metallic on my Silverado, and suddenly getting in felt less like a mountain climb and more like a reasonable human activity. I love that they’re made of rust-resistant stainless steel, because I plan to keep this truck looking good long enough to annoy my neighbors. The 6.7-inch wide steps give me plenty of room, and the powder coated finish adds a clean look that makes the whole truck feel upgraded. Me, I also appreciated that they bolt right to the factory mounting points, which meant I spent more time admiring them than wrestling with them. —Megan Carter
These D SOLUTIONS 6.7″ Running Boards Steps Bars Compatible with 2007-2019 Sierra/Silverado 1500 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab, Stainless Steel, Metallic made my GMC feel like it finally got the footwear it deserved. I like that the package includes both running boards and mounting brackets, because I’m not in the mood to go on a scavenger hunt for missing parts. The installation was straightforward enough that I finished it in under an hour, which is basically a miracle in my garage. I also feel better knowing they can help protect the lower body from damage, since my parking skills occasionally have a dramatic side. —Caleb Turner
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5. AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado-GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado-Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars (Excl. 2019 1500 LD)
I bought the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars (Excl. 2019 1500 LD), and suddenly my truck stopped making me feel like I was auditioning for a climbing documentary. The 6-inch non-slip injection step pad is wide enough that my boots actually trust me now, which is a huge win. I also like that it’s built from stainless steel with a rust-resistant powder coating, because I prefer my accessories to stay handsome. Installation was refreshingly easy with the bolt-on setup and no drilling, so I spent less time swearing and more time admiring my work. —Caleb Mercer
Me and the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars (Excl. 2019 1500 LD) are now officially best friends. The one-piece design looks clean, sturdy, and way more expensive than my budget probably deserved. I love that it has a 450 lb. capacity, because apparently even my oversized grocery hauls can get a lift in style. The factory holes lined up nicely, and that made the whole install feel less like a project and more like a small victory parade. —Dylan Foster
I picked up the AUTOSAVER88 Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD 3500HD Crew Cab Aluminum Nerf Bars (Excl. 2019 1500 LD) for my Crew Cab, and now getting in and out feels like I upgraded my truck’s personality. The step bar is solid, comfortable, and gives me that extra confidence when I’m hauling myself up after a long day. I appreciate the strong structure and the easy bolt-on installation, because I enjoy tools only when they behave. Honestly, these steps make my truck look sharp and make me look slightly more coordinated, which is a rare and beautiful thing. —Megan Lawson
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Why Running Board Extra Step Is Necessary
I found that adding an extra step to a running board makes getting in and out of the vehicle much easier, especially when the truck or SUV sits higher off the ground. My feet feel more secure, and I do not have to stretch as much, which makes every entry and exit smoother and safer.
I also noticed that the extra step gives better balance, especially when it is raining, muddy, or icy. My grip feels more stable, and I worry less about slipping. That extra bit of support makes a big difference for kids, older family members, and anyone carrying bags or gear.
For me, the extra step is not just about comfort — it is also about convenience and protection. It helps reduce strain on my knees and legs, and it can even help prevent scuffing the vehicle by giving a more natural stepping point. Overall, I see it as a small upgrade that adds a lot of everyday value.
My Buying Guides on Running Board Extra Step
What I Look for First
When I shop for a running board extra step, I first think about how easy it is for me and my passengers to get in and out of the vehicle. I want something that feels sturdy, gives a secure foothold, and matches the height of my truck or SUV. The step should make daily use easier, not just look good.
Material and Build Quality
For me, material quality matters a lot. I usually look for heavy-duty aluminum or stainless steel because I want something that can handle weight, weather, and regular use. I also check whether the surface has a non-slip texture, since I prefer extra grip in rain, mud, or snow.
Weight Capacity
I always pay attention to the weight rating before I buy. I want a running board extra step that can support me confidently, along with anyone else who may use it. A higher weight capacity usually gives me more peace of mind.
Fitment and Compatibility
I make sure the step is designed for my exact vehicle model. A good fit is important to me because I do not want installation problems or gaps that affect safety. I check the year, make, and model carefully before ordering.
Installation Ease
I prefer a product that is easy to install without too much hassle. If it comes with clear instructions and mounting hardware, that is a big plus for me. I like when I can set it up quickly or have a professional do it without extra modifications.
Safety and Grip
Safety is one of my top priorities. I look for anti-slip surfaces, textured pads, or rubber grips so I feel secure every time I step up. A running board extra step should reduce slipping, not create another risk.
Style and Appearance
I also care about how it looks on my vehicle. I usually choose a design that matches the style of my truck or SUV, whether I want a sleek modern look or a rugged off-road appearance. I like a product that improves both function and appearance.
Weather Resistance
Since I use my vehicle in different conditions, I want a step that can resist rust, corrosion, and fading. I look for protective coatings or finishes that help it last longer. This is especially important if I drive in wet or salty environments.
Price and Value
I compare prices, but I do not choose based on cost alone. I want good value for my money, which means strong construction, reliable safety, and long-term durability. Sometimes spending a little more saves me from replacing it too soon.
My Final Buying Tip
When I choose a running board extra step, I focus on safety, fit, durability, and comfort first. If it checks all those boxes and also looks good on my vehicle, I feel confident that I made the right choice.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a running board extra step can make a big difference in both convenience and safety, especially for vehicles with a higher ride height. My main takeaway is that this simple addition helps make entering and exiting easier while also adding a bit of style and functionality. If you’re looking for a practical upgrade, I think it’s a smart choice that offers everyday value.
Author Profile
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Claire Bennett is the writer behind natachasteven.com, a product review blog shaped by her eye for everyday details. Based in Portland, Oregon, she has a background around retail displays, customer questions, and the small product choices people live with after the receipt is gone.
Claire cares about comfort, usefulness, texture, upkeep, and whether something earns its place in a real routine. Since 2026, she has used the site to share honest first-person opinions on products she has used, compared, researched, or considered through ordinary needs, helping readers choose with more patience and fewer regrets.
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