Side Steps & Running Boards: Choosing the Right Option for Your Vehicle
Side Steps & Running Boards Guide
Discover how Mopar® side steps and running boards can improve vehicle accessibility, enhance style and provide added convenience for everyday driving and off-road adventures.
Find the Right Mopar® Side Steps TO INCLUDE RUNNING BOARDS.
What are side steps and running boards?
Side steps and running boards are exterior accessories designed to make entering and exiting your vehicle easier. Commonly found on trucks, SUVs and off-road vehicles, they provide an intermediate step between the ground and the vehicle cabin.
In addition to improving accessibility, side steps and running boards can enhance your vehicle's appearance, assist passengers and make it easier to access roof-mounted cargo. Whether you drive a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep® or Ram Brand vehicle, these accessories can add both functionality and style.
Modern side steps and running boards are available in a variety of designs, materials and finishes, allowing owners to select an option that matches their vehicle and lifestyle.
Side steps vs. Running boards
While the terms are often used interchangeably, side steps and running boards offer different designs and benefits.
Side steps
Side steps typically feature individual stepping pads positioned beneath one or more doors. They often use a tubular design that complements trucks and off-road vehicles.
Side steps are especially popular among Jeep® Brand vehicle owners, truck owners and drivers of lifted vehicles who want easier cabin access without sacrificing as much ground clearance as a full-length running board. They can also be helpful for passengers, children and older adults who may appreciate an intermediate step when entering or exiting a taller vehicle.
Side steps are best for:
- Off-road enthusiasts
- Lifted vehicles
- Drivers seeking a rugged appearance
- Vehicles that benefit from additional ground clearance
The benefits of side steps include:
- Sporty, aggressive styling
- Individual stepping locations
- Typically lighter construction
- Greater ground clearance than full-length running boards
Choose side steps if you want a rugged look while maintaining maximum clearance for off-road use.
Running boards
Running boards provide a continuous stepping surface that spans much of the vehicle's cabin length. The name comes from the long platforms found on early automobiles and today the term refers to a full-length step that runs beneath the vehicle's doors.
The benefits of running boards include:
- Larger stepping area
- Easier access for passengers
- Enhanced convenience for families
- Integrated appearance along the vehicle body
Running boards are especially popular among families, fleet operators and owners who prioritize accessibility and everyday convenience. The larger stepping area can make entry and exit easier for children, older adults and anyone who appreciates additional footing when getting into taller trucks and SUVs. They can also be helpful for drivers who regularly access roof-mounted cargo, bike racks or storage carriers.
Choose running boards if you regularly transport passengers or want the largest possible stepping surface.
What makes good side steps or running boards?
A quality side step or running board should provide more than appearance alone. The best options combine durability, fitment, traction and long-term reliability.
Proper vehicle-specific fit
Side steps and running boards should be designed specifically for your vehicle's make, model and year.
Genuine Mopar® side steps and running boards are engineered to integrate with factory mounting locations and complement the styling of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep® and Ram Brand vehicles.
Durable materials
Exterior accessories must withstand daily exposure to the elements.
Quality side steps and running boards should be able to withstand:
- Rain and moisture
- Road salt
- Mud and dirt
- UV exposure
- Temperature fluctuations
- Daily foot traffic
Premium materials help maintain appearance and performance throughout changing driving conditions.
Slip-resistant stepping surfaces
Traction is especially important during wet, snowy or muddy conditions.
A well-designed stepping surface should:
- Provide secure footing
- Resist excessive wear
- Help shed water and debris
- Remain usable in varying weather conditions
Strong mounting systems
Side steps and running boards should remain securely attached throughout years of use.
Properly engineered systems are designed to work with factory mounting locations and provide stable support during both entry and exit.
OEM vs. aftermarket side steps
When shopping for side steps or running boards, many owners compare OEM and aftermarket options.
OEM side steps & running boards
OEM accessories are designed specifically by the vehicle manufacturer.
Advantages include:
- Precision fitment
- Vehicle-specific engineering
- Factory-style appearance
- Compatibility with factory mounting locations
- Tested fit and durability
Genuine Mopar® side steps and running boards are designed specifically for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep® and Ram Brand vehicles.
Aftermarket side steps & running boards
Aftermarket products are manufactured by third-party companies and often fit multiple vehicle applications.
Potential drawbacks may include:
- Universal mounting systems
- Less precise fitment
- Additional installation modifications
- Varying material quality
- Inconsistent appearance
While aftermarket products may offer a wider range of styles, they may not provide the same level of vehicle-specific integration as OEM accessories.
Side steps & seasonality
Different seasons and climates can impact how side steps and running boards perform and how frequently they require maintenance.
Spring
Mud, rain and debris can accumulate on stepping surfaces, making regular cleaning important.
Summer
Road trips, camping adventures and outdoor activities often increase the use of side steps and running boards as drivers access roof racks and cargo carriers.
Fall
Leaves, moisture and dirt can build up around mounting areas and stepping surfaces.
Winter
Winter conditions are particularly demanding.
Side steps and running boards are frequently exposed to:
- Snow
- Ice
- Road salt
- Slush
- Moisture accumulation
Routine cleaning can help preserve appearance and reduce corrosion caused by winter road treatments.
How to clean and maintain side steps
Routine maintenance can help extend the life of your side steps and preserve their appearance.
How to clean side steps & running boards
- Rinse away loose dirt and debris.
- Wash with mild soap and water.
- Use a soft brush to clean textured stepping surfaces.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Dry with a microfiber towel.
Inspect mounting hardware
Periodically inspect mounting brackets, bolts and attachment points for signs of looseness, damage or corrosion.
Remove road salt promptly
During winter months, regular rinsing can help prevent corrosion and buildup caused by road salt and other contaminants.
Regular maintenance helps keep side steps looking their best and functioning properly throughout the year.
When to replace side steps or running boards
Even durable accessories eventually wear out or become damaged.
Signs it may be time for replacement include:
- Excessive corrosion
- Damaged mounting brackets
- Cracked step pads
- Structural bending
- Loose or unstable mounting
- Significant impact damage
- Reduced traction on stepping surfaces
Replacing damaged side steps helps maintain safe vehicle access and preserve your vehicle's appearance.
What to do with old car side steps or running boards
When replacing side steps or running boards, consider responsible disposal options.
Repurpose them
Depending on their condition, old side steps may be useful in:
- Garages
- Workshops
- Utility trailers
- Storage areas
- Outdoor projects
Recycle when possible
Many metal side steps contain recyclable materials that may be accepted by local recycling facilities.
Dispose responsibly
Follow local disposal guidelines if recycling options are unavailable.
Genuine Mopar® side steps & accessories
Enhancing accessibility starts with accessories designed specifically for your vehicle. For even greater functionality, consider pairing side steps or running boards with other genuine Mopar® accessories such as:
Using genuine Mopar® accessories helps ensure compatibility, quality and fit across your vehicle's interior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are side steps and running boards the same thing?
Not exactly. Side steps typically feature individual stepping pads, while running boards provide a continuous stepping surface along much of the vehicle's side.
Are side steps worth it?
Many owners install side steps to improve accessibility, assist passengers and enhance their vehicle's appearance, especially on lifted trucks and SUVs.
Do running boards affect ground clearance?
Running boards generally sit lower than side steps and may slightly reduce ground clearance. Side steps are often preferred by drivers who prioritize off-road capability.
How often should side steps be replaced?
Replacement depends on usage, climate and maintenance. Significant corrosion, structural damage or worn stepping surfaces may indicate it's time for replacement.
Do side steps improve vehicle accessibility?
Yes. Side steps and running boards can make it easier for drivers and passengers to enter and exit taller vehicles.
