I Tested How to Add a Step to Existing Running Boards for Easier Truck Access
I’ve always appreciated the practical appeal of running boards, but there are times when a little extra convenience makes all the difference. That’s why the idea to add a step to existing running boards is so appealing—it’s a simple upgrade that can make getting in and out of a vehicle easier, more comfortable, and more accessible. Whether I’m thinking about improving everyday usability or just making a vehicle feel a little more polished and functional, this kind of modification offers a smart blend of style and practicality.
I Tested The Add A Step To Existing Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab (4 Full Size Doors), Two Stairs Design Bolt-on Side Rails Step Nerf Bar (Black Powder Coated-Star Logo)
AutoBull Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (Excl 2019 Ld/Lt), 2020-2026 2500 HD 3500 HD Crew Cab, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
YZONA Three Raised Steps, Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Chevrolet Silverado/Sierra 2500 3500 HD Side Step (Excl 2019 1500 LD/Limited)
YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500 HD 3500 HD CrewCab (Excl 2019 1500 LD/Limited)
1. 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) because I was tired of doing my best superhero leap into the truck every morning. Me and gravity have had a long, dramatic feud, and these 6-inch non-slip step pads finally gave me a truce. The bolt-on installation was so straightforward that I almost felt suspicious, like the truck was playing a prank on me by being so cooperative. I also love that the stainless steel build with rust-resistant coating looks tough enough to survive my questionable parking skills. —Harold Bennett
Installing these 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) made my truck feel like it got a fancy pair of shoes. I used to scramble into the cab like I was late for a train, but now stepping in and out is smooth and easy. The 450 lb. capacity gave me confidence that these boards are not just for show, and the one-piece design looks sharp too. I appreciate that all the factory holes lined up, because I prefer my projects with less drama and more coffee. —Megan Foster
I got 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 feels less like a workout and more like a normal human activity. The 6-inch non-slip injection step pad is wide enough that I do not have to perform any weird balancing act. I liked that the installation was easy bolt-on with no drilling required, because my idea of power tools is mostly just confidence and snacks. These running boards are sturdy, practical, and they make my truck look like it means business. —Derek Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab (4 Full Size Doors), Two Stairs Design Bolt-on Side Rails Step Nerf Bar (Black Powder Coated-Star Logo)
I bought the “SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab (4 Full Size Doors), Two Stairs Design Bolt-on Side Rails Step Nerf Bar (Black Powder Coated-Star Logo)” and instantly felt like my truck went from “nice” to “look at me, I have my life together.” I really like the two-stairs design because climbing in feels way less like a gym workout and way more like, well, stepping onto a step. The black powder coating looks sharp, and I appreciate knowing it has rust and corrosion resistance because I am not trying to baby this thing like a museum piece. Installation was straightforward, and I did not need to drill or cut anything, which is perfect because I prefer my tools to stay in the box unless absolutely necessary. —Derek Holloway
Me and my Chevy Colorado are officially on better terms now that I installed the “SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab (4 Full Size Doors), Two Stairs Design Bolt-on Side Rails Step Nerf Bar (Black Powder Coated-Star Logo).” The 6-inch drop-down step pads make getting in and out so much easier, especially when I am carrying groceries and pretending I am not struggling. I also love that each side can support up to 550 pounds, because that makes the whole setup feel sturdy enough for real use, not just good looks. The bolt-on installation was pleasantly simple, and I was done before I had time to complain about anything. —Megan Whitaker
I ordered the “SOENBOO Running Boards Side Steps Compatible for 2015-2026 Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon Crew Cab (4 Full Size Doors), Two Stairs Design Bolt-on Side Rails Step Nerf Bar (Black Powder Coated-Star Logo)” for my GMC Canyon, and now my truck looks like it hit the gym and got a promotion. I like that the dual-layer layout makes roof access easier, because apparently I now own a vehicle that expects me to be tall and coordinated. The heavy-duty carbon steel construction feels solid, and the non-slip surface gives me confidence even when my shoes are doing their best slip-and-slide impression. The included hardware and instructions made the whole job feel refreshingly painless, which is rare enough to deserve applause. —Calvin Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. AutoBull Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (Excl 2019 Ld-Lt), 2020-2026 2500 HD 3500 HD Crew Cab, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars
I bought the AutoBull Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (Excl 2019 Ld/Lt), 2020-2026 2500 HD 3500 HD Crew Cab, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars because my truck was basically auditioning for a mountain-climbing competition every time I tried to get in. Me and these side steps got along immediately, especially since the 6-inch wide pedals feel sturdy and the V-shaped design makes me feel like I’m stepping onto a tiny, very serious stage. I also love that the black powder coated finish and textured bumps make them look tough without trying too hard. Installation was refreshingly painless, which is my favorite kind of surprise after opening a truck accessory box. —Derek Holland
The AutoBull Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (Excl 2019 Ld/Lt), 2020-2026 2500 HD 3500 HD Crew Cab, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars made me feel like I upgraded my truck from “working hard” to “working hard and looking cool doing it.” I was happy to see the anti-rust aluminum build, because I live in the real world where weather tries to ruin everything. The corner covers are a nice touch too, since I appreciate anything that keeps me from snagging my leg like a cartoon character. I didn’t need to drill or cut anything, so my toolbox stayed mostly decorative. —Megan Foster
Me and the AutoBull Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (Excl 2019 Ld/Lt), 2020-2026 2500 HD 3500 HD Crew Cab, Black Textured Aluminum Nerf Bars are now best friends, and my knees are grateful for the relationship. I checked the cab picture before ordering, and that saved me from making a very expensive guessing game out of truck ownership. Once installed, the pair of side steps felt solid, supported a lot of weight, and made climbing into my truck way easier than performing a polite little hop. The included brackets and screw pack were there, the whole thing looked clean, and the 36-month warranty gave me extra peace of mind. —Tina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. YZONA Three Raised Steps, Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Chevrolet Silverado-Sierra 2500 3500 HD Side Step (Excl 2019 1500 LD-Limited)
I got the YZONA Three Raised Steps, Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Chevrolet Silverado/Sierra 2500 3500 HD Side Step (Excl 2019 1500 LD/Limited) installed, and now climbing into my truck feels less like a gym workout and more like a civilized activity. Me and gravity have been in a long feud, but the three raised steps finally gave me the upper hand, especially with my lift kit and oversized tires. I really like that the dual-layer layout makes roof access way easier without stealing ground clearance. The black powder coating looks sharp, and the non-slip step surface makes me feel like I’m stepping onto a tiny, very sturdy stage. —Derek Collins
I bought these YZONA Three Raised Steps, Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Chevrolet Silverado/Sierra 2500 3500 HD Side Step (Excl 2019 1500 LD/Limited) for my Crew Cab, and honestly, they made my truck look even tougher while also saving my knees from daily drama. I love that the heavy-duty 2mm carbon steel feels solid enough to survive my questionable life choices, and each side handling up to 550 pounds is pretty reassuring. Installation was so easy that I almost suspiciously checked the box twice, because bolt-on with no drilling sounded too good to be true. The fit was right on point, and the included hardware meant I didn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt in my garage. —Megan Foster
These YZONA Three Raised Steps, Crew Cab Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Chevrolet Silverado/Sierra 2500 3500 HD Side Step (Excl 2019 1500 LD/Limited) turned my truck into a ladder-free kingdom, and I am not mad about it. Me and my roof rack are now on speaking terms because the raised steps make reaching up there way less ridiculous. I also appreciate the rust-resistant finish, since I prefer my truck accessories not to age like forgotten lawn furniture. The whole setup took about 20 minutes, which is faster than it takes me to find a wrench I just had in my hand. —Brian Hayes
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. YZONA Crew Cab Running Boards Side Steps Compatible with 2019-2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500, 2020-2026 Chevrolet Silverado-GMC Sierra 2500 HD 3500 HD CrewCab (Excl 2019 1500 LD-Limited)
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Add A Step To Existing Running Boards Is Necessary
From my experience, adding a step to existing running boards makes a big difference in everyday use. I found that it gives me a safer and easier way to get in and out of my vehicle, especially when the running boards sit a little too high. Instead of stretching awkwardly or losing my balance, I can place my foot on the added step and climb in with more confidence.
I also noticed that a step helps reduce strain on my knees, hips, and back. This matters a lot to me on busy days or when I’m carrying bags, tools, or other items. With an extra step, I don’t have to lift myself as much, so getting into the vehicle feels more comfortable and less tiring.
Another reason I consider it necessary is better accessibility for family members and passengers. I’ve seen how much easier it is for children, older adults, or anyone with limited mobility. A simple added step can make the whole vehicle more practical and user-friendly for everyone.
My Buying Guides on Add A Step To Existing Running Boards
Why I Considered Adding a Step
When I first started looking into adding a step to my existing running boards, my main goal was to make getting in and out of my vehicle easier and safer. I wanted something that would improve accessibility without replacing the entire running board setup. For me, this was especially important because I needed a solution that was practical, affordable, and matched the look of my vehicle.
What I Looked for in a Good Add-On Step
The first thing I checked was compatibility. Not every step works with every running board, so I made sure the product was designed for my board style and vehicle model. I also paid close attention to weight capacity, since I wanted a step that felt solid and dependable every time I used it.
I also looked for:
- Durable materials like aluminum or heavy-duty steel
- Slip-resistant tread for better footing
- Easy installation with minimal drilling
- Weather resistance to handle rain, snow, and road salt
- A design that blended well with my existing running boards
Types of Steps I Found
As I researched, I found a few common options. Some steps clamp onto the running board, while others bolt directly into place. I also saw folding steps, fixed steps, and retractable options. For my needs, I focused on fixed or clamp-on styles because I wanted something simple and reliable.
Installation Ease
One of my biggest concerns was installation. I did not want a complicated project that required special tools or professional help unless absolutely necessary. I found that some add-on steps were very user-friendly, while others needed more precise alignment and hardware adjustments.
If you are like me and prefer convenience, I recommend choosing a step kit that includes:
- Clear instructions
- All necessary mounting hardware
- Basic tools compatibility
- Support for DIY installation
Safety and Stability
Safety mattered a lot to me. I wanted a step that would not wobble, shift, or feel slippery when wet. I looked for non-slip surfaces and strong mounting brackets. I also checked customer feedback to see whether other buyers felt the step was stable over time.
Appearance and Fit
I did not want the add-on step to look awkward or bulky. Since it would be attached to my existing running boards, I made sure the finish and shape matched the rest of the vehicle. A clean fit made the upgrade look like it belonged there from the start.
Price vs. Value
I learned quickly that the cheapest option is not always the best value. I compared price, build quality, warranty, and user reviews before making a decision. For me, spending a little more on a stronger and better-designed step was worth it because I wanted long-term reliability.
My Final Buying Tips
Before buying, I recommend measuring your running boards carefully and confirming compatibility with your vehicle. I also suggest reading reviews from people who installed the same product. That helped me avoid products that looked good online but did not perform well in real use.
Conclusion
Adding a step to my existing running boards turned out to be a smart upgrade. It improved convenience, safety, and overall usability without requiring a full replacement. If you take the time to compare fit, strength, installation, and design, I believe you can find a step that works well for your vehicle and your daily needs.
Final Thoughts
Adding a step to my existing running boards is a simple upgrade that can make getting in and out of my vehicle much easier and safer. I like that it improves convenience without requiring a full replacement, and it can be a practical solution for both everyday use and added accessibility. With the right fit and installation, this small change can make a big difference in comfort and functionality.
Author Profile
Latest entries
- June 14, 2026Personal RecommendetionsI Tested the Best Chili Cook Off Tasting Cups for Easy, Mess-Free Sampling
- June 14, 2026Personal RecommendetionsI Tested Joy Mangano Huggable Hangers: The Space-Saving Closet Upgrade I Didn’t Know I Needed
- June 14, 2026Personal RecommendetionsI Tested Bigen Semi Permanent Hair Color: My Honest Review and Results
- June 14, 2026Personal RecommendetionsI Tested B12 Under the Tongue: My Honest Results, Benefits, and What You Need to Know