Top 15 Best Ford F150 Running Boards: Review & Buying Guide[2023]

If you are planning to upgrade your ford F150, running boards and Nerf bars are an option worth considering.

Both auto parts fall among the best car upgrade products and will offer your vehicle an aesthetic appeal.

When you are out shopping for F150 running boards, we urge that you take the time to find the best there is.

You need to focus on finding a running board that is tough enough to hold a lot of weight.

The design and appearance should also be a consideration bearing in mind this auto part will be an important part of your truck and will greatly influence your vehicle’s appearance.

Contents

Comparison Table of Running Boards For F150/F250/F350  

PREVIEWBRANDDETAIL
APS
Tyger Auto
AMP Research
AMP Research
AMP Research
Auto Dynasty
APS
Auto Dynasty
APS
Auto Dynasty
Ionic Automotive
Tyger Auto
APS
MOSTPLUS
TAC

In this post, we are going to take you through the best ford f150 running boards on the market right now and offer you guides on how to pick the right product for you in our buying guide and frequently asked questions sections.

Best Running Boards For Ford F150/F250/F350 SuperCrew Cab super Duty

01. APS iBoard Running Boards:Overall best nerf bars for f150

 

Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: iBoard by APS
  • Brand: APS
  • Item weight: 18.14 kg
  • Package Dimensions: 36.61 x 3.94 x 2.95 inches
  • Color: aluminum black
  • Size: large

Design: The innovative patented design of the iBoard that has been stimulated in smartphone style offers an outstanding, unique as well as functional appearance in your motorcar.

It contains one-piece solid Boards of around 5-inch-wide that is crucial to provide a massive stepping area to enhance security during footing.

Also, the running board is strong, durable, and protected from corrosion. The footing area is ridged with rubber to make it non-slippery in case it is watery.

Performance: The aluminum grade iBoard of aircraft can offer support to heavy-duty brackets of up to 300 lbs. without winding.

Most of the other models are oval in shape, but APS iBoard is flat shaped since it is clean and modern, providing a distinct look to your truck.

Installation: The package is easy to install in your car since it is compatible with the SuperCrew Cab of Ford F150 2015-2020.

Also, the installation manual is provided to assist even the individuals who are mechanically inclined to install it in their motorcars within a short period easily.

Cleaning them is also very easy since you have to use the garden hose to make them look new.

Pros

  • Very easy to install.
  • Ridged with rubber for safety stepping.
  • Very solid and sturdy.
  • Easy to clean.

Cons

  • It is not powdery coated hence highly vulnerable to rust.

02. TC-BL2F7068 Blade Running Board Fit:Budget friendly and durable

 

Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: Tyger Auto
  • Brand: Tyger Auto
  • Model: TG-RS2F40118
  • Item Weight: 57 pounds
  • Dimensions: 95.67 x 6.3 x 15.35 inches
  • Color: black
  • Size: 4 inch

Installation: The product is relatively easy to install since there is no requirement for drilling.

Also, the instructions sheet is included in the manual that is very substantial for offering the guidance required for installation.

Also, this installation manual provides clear strategies to fit the pads in your vehicle without more struggles since it has an easy bolt-on for installation

Design: If you are looking for the pads that will offer the best security for your passengers.

The TC-BL2F7068 Blade Running Board Fit provides non-slippery pads that guarantee the passenger’s total safety during the entrance and exit of the vehicle.

Also, they are made up of heavy-duty steel tubing, which is wide, and they are UV resistant; thus, the occurrence of discoloration is limited.

Additionally, they comprise triangular tubing that is effective for high durability and strength, thereby accommodating the increased ground clearance needs.

Materials: The fits are structured using the double-sided brackets with the capability of holding up to 500 pounds.

Also, it comprises of one piece that is powdery coated, which is black textured to enhance a stylish look in your motor. It also has two rear doors, which are suicide.

Pros

  • Durable since it is powdery coated.
  • Easy to install in the motor.
  • High quality and heavy-duty, giving an impressive look.

Cons

  • They are relatively hard to adjust.

03. AMP-Research-76151-01A-Running-PowerStep: Best power running boards for f150

 

Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: AMP Research
  • Brand: AMP Research
  • Model: 76151-01A
  • Item Weight: 51 pounds
  • Dimensions: 81 x 13 x 8 inches

Automatic and electric powered: The running power step automatically retracts and deploys, making the entrance and exit of the vehicle easier and safe, which helps in bolstering the confidence of the passengers in the motor.

They also extend when opening the doors and hide when the door is being closed.

Lighting: The lighting system is through the integrated LED lights

Black Textured Finish: The AMP research has both the PTFE spec that is military coated as well as step anodized finish that is resistant to corrosion along with wear and tear.

The PTFE specs are very strong components of aluminum alloys, which are die-cast to make the material extremely strong.

Also, its performance is highly bolstered by the self-lubricating bushings, which can endure all the weather conditions since they contain stainless steel to enhance their stability.

Installation: It comprises all the hardware required for installation since the product is accompanied by the specifications that make it easy for you to understand the vehicle installation procedures.

When you read the installations and follow them carefully, be sure the installation process shall walk over to you.

Compatibility: The product is compatible with other related products, for instance, the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 for most cabs, and the trimming is required for both regular and super cabs.

Pros

  • It performs
  • Have a perfect lighting system.

Cons

  • The installation is tedious.

04. AMP-Research-76141-01A-PowerStep-2009-2014

 

Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: AMP Research
  • Brand: AMP Research
  • Model: 76141-01A
  • Item weight: 52 pounds
  • Dimensions: 81 x 13 x 8 inches

Product performance: While getting into the truck, you feel like climbing one of the tallest mountains globally since the

product has the board running that is electric-powered to bolster the safety of the passenger when opening and closing the door.

It is designed handsomely to make its operations all weathered, thus enhancing its reliability.

The power step of the product has been proven to offer flawless long-term performance in various places, for instance, dust, snow, mud as well as ice.

Installation: When purchasing the product, the installation guidelines are provided in the installation sheets.

Reading the instructions carefully during the process makes the installation process more convenient and easier.

Drilling is required since the electric motor is designed as heavy duty.

Product Quality: These products are manufactured to shrug off the most unfavorable conditions since the boards are made from the airplanes’ grades that contain aluminum.

They are made to fit the Ford F-150 super cab, regular cab, and super crew, and they have built-in LED and have quality lighting courtesy.

Pros

  • The installation process is relatively simple
  • They retract very easily, saving your seats from tear and wear.

 

Cons

  • The power step is a bit pricey.

05. AMP-Research-76235-01A-Running-PowerStep

 

Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: AMP Research
  • Brand: AMP Research
  • Model: Powerstep
  • Item weight: 54 pounds
  • Dimensions: 81 x 13 x 8 inches
  • Style: PowerStep

Product strength: The product is manufactured using the die-cast containing the components of aluminum alloys that are very substantial in resisting the corrosion of the product.

Additionally, the precision stainless steel offers support to the pins for enhancing the rock-solid stability and maintaining self-lubricating bushing to enhance performance during different weather conditions.

OEM Quality electric motors: The package has a quality driving system and wiring harness that is waterproof, thus making it to be long-lasting.

Also, it is sensitive to pressure and pinches proof technology.

PowerStep Override Switch Add-On: This allows you to retract and deploy your PowerStep running boards manually or position them automatically using the switch flip.

One should be free to add the PowerStep override switch to enhance the vehicle’s comfortability.

Product compatibility: The product is compatible with various models of crew cab varying from 2017-2019 F250/F350/F450; thus, it is operational with all cabs.

Also, the package is integrated with an LED lighting system.

Installation: All the necessities for installations are included since you are provided with the installation procedures, thus installing the product in the vehicle.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • They smoothly retract

Cons

  • The gearbox is not sealed, making the water from entering, and is unprotected from road debris.

06. 4 inches Black Oval Tubing running board.

 

Specifications:

  • Brand: Auto Dynasty
  • Manufacturer: Auto Dynasty
  • Color: Black
  • Material: stainless steel
  • Size: 4 inches

Durability: This running board is made from stainless steel, a perfect material that lasts for a long period.

The exterior part of the oval tubing running board has a powder coating.

The powder coating protects the running boards from rusting; therefore, no fear of harsh weather conditions.

Fit for the task: For the 4 inches oval tubing running board to function properly in ensuring easiness in boarding and alighting,

the stepping pads are free from slipping.

Since it is an aftermarket part, Auto Dynasty offers a perfect match in designing such that it fits in your vehicle in the exact manner of the factory product.

The provided brackets are strong, holding a maximum weight capacity of 500 LBS.

Easy to install: The installation process has been eased for the customers since the bolt holes are already made.

These holes are designed to align those of the manufacturers of the vehicle.

The mounting brackets are also provided, making the fixing simple. The whole installation process spends a short time, about an hour.

Pros

  • Easy to install.
  • It has an appealing design.
  • High performance, holds up to 500 LBS weight capacity.
  • Highly resistant to corrosion
  • Safety is guaranteed, slipping free stepping pads

Cons

  • It has No gaskets

07. 4 inches silver APS iBoard Running Boards

 

Specifications:

  • Brand: APS
  • Color: Aluminum silver
  • Exterior part: Polished finish
  • Size: 4 inches
  • Item dimensions: 88.6 by 11.8 by 7.7 inches
  • Product weight: 43.1 pounds
  • Material: Aluminum

High quality: If you are an everyday driver and are looking for quality performance running boards, here is good news for you.

The APS has made a running board from aluminum, a corrosion-free material, and this is ascertained after performing a standardized salt spray test.

The iBoard is also resistant to slip and does not allow UV penetrations.

We are sure of these aspects by conducting relevant tests on each. Choose iBoard today, and you will appreciate its excellent quality. No regret.

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) processing: Use of CNC machines has facilitated the fabrication of the aluminum unibody of the iBoard.

The initial solid aluminum goes through several processes.

First, it is processed using machines, then smoothened, and its surfaces are polished, achieving the final product.

No plastics are used in designing this running Board.

Simple design: The silver iBoard design is not complicated, but it is attractive to the views. It’s just simple and works best.

It has a large stepping space that comfortably servers the users. It’s capable of holding 300 LBS on any side.

Don’t go for complex styles; choose the functionality. Simple design, perfect functionality describes silver iBoard.

Compatibility: This iBoard is compatible with 2015-2020 F150 & 2017-2020 F350 F250 SuperCrew Cab.

Easy to install: This can take you a maximum of 60 minutes to do all the fixing as it has a hardware kit, bracket mounts, two iBoard running boards, and rocker board mounting.

Besides, DIY instructions are also provided.

Pros

  • Assured quality
  • Easy to install
  • Sturdy
  • Good looking
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Painting may be required after sometime.

08. 5 inches Chrome Oval Tubing Running Board

 

Specifications:

  • Brand: Auto Dynasty
  • Color: Chrome
  • Material: stainless steel
  • Size: 5 inches
  • Compatibility: 2009-2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab

Easy to install: The brackets and bolts are all that you need to install the nerf bars, and they are all provided in your package except the necessary mechanical devices.

You are to put the bars in an aligned manner such that it is hooked on the rocker board, and the bracket lies directly over the holes.

Then screw the bolts and put in nuts rightly in their place, after which the bars are tightened.

Remember, the holes have already been drilled for you, making it easier for you to install. Nothing more.

Durability: If you are looking for a running board free from rusting, 5 inches oval tubing running board qualifies your preference.

It is made from stainless steel, a well-known material for its ability to resist rust.

Besides, stainless steel is resistant to wear and tear, which guarantees a longer service. Please give it a trial and enjoy the durability benefits.

Excellent performance: The brackets fixed on the bars are strong such that they can hold a maximum of 500 LBS. Are you worried about slipping?

This running board boosts your confidence in and out of your vehicle since it has stepping pads that are 100% resistant to slipping regardless of changes in the weather.

More to that, it is designed so that the lower part of the truck is secure from damage, adapted from the factory running boards.

Pros

  • Installation is easy
  • Offer safety
  • Durable
  • High performance, up to 500 LBS weight capacity.

Cons

  • The bolts are not painted black; hence they are visible.

09. 4 inches APS iBoard Running Boards

 

Specifications:

  • Brand: APS
  • Colour: Aluminium silver
  • Material: aluminum
  • Size: 4 inches
  • Product weight: 66.7 pounds
  • Product dimensions: 88.0 by 8.0 by 10.0 inches
  • Compatibility: 2015-2020 F150 SuperCrew Cab, 20 17-2020F350 F250 SuperCrew Cab

Excellent performance: The stepping pads of this iBoard are made of rubber, which offers proper grip, thereby preventing slipping.

The entire running board is made from aluminum material that is resistant to corrosion.

Moreover, it is a durable material, which is a key consideration in purchasing any running board.

The brackets are strong enough to accommodate a maximum load of 300 LBS.

Easy to install: APS iBoard is easy to install since its package contains two similar running boards, brackets for mounting purposes, and a kit that contains all the additional components that aid in the installation process.

You only need minimal mechanical skills and very few mechanical tools such as a ratchet and sockets.

Then, keenly follow the outlined instructions, and within a short time, you will be done with this process.

Special design: The iBoard has an updated, distinctive and simple design.

It safely accommodates our customers by offering a maximum stepping space, making it comfortable to get in and out of your vehicle without strain.

This running board design is also appealing and easily kept clean. Want to look unique on your running Boards? Go for 4 inches APS iBoard.

Pros

  • Easily installed
  • Fantastic looking
  • Durable
  • High performance of up to 300 LBS.

Cons

  • Produces a little noise when rainwater falls on it while driving

10.  6″ Black Coated Running Board

 

Specifications:

  • Brand: Auto Dynasty
  • Color: black
  • Product weight: 44 pounds
  • Exterior part: powder-coated
  • Material: aluminum
  • Size: 6 inches
  • Compatibility: F350, F250, F150 2015-2020 SuperCrew cab

Perfect in performance: If you are concerned about the weight capacity it can accommodate, this running board is strong,

capable of holding 500 LBS. Also, the step pads are covered with ABS plastic that is 100% resistant to slip.

They are also flexible such that their position can be easily adjusted either backward or forward.

Long-lasting: Aluminum is a hard-wearing material that lasts for a longer time as compared to other materials.

Go for this running board and save huge amounts of money.

The outer part of 6 inches Running Board is coated with powder.

This is quality assurance evidence since powder coating is associated with corrosion resistance ability.

Time-saving installation: The installation process cannot take you hours, interrupting the whole day undertakings.

Only less than or an hour, and the strain in and out of your truck will be fully sorted. The time for drilling holes is saved for you.

The drilled holes fit those of the vehicle since they are designed according to the vehicle’s specifications. The necessary mounting tools are all provided.

Pros

  • Comfortably serves all age groups
  • The installation process is simple and easy
  • Nice looking
  • It’s durable

Cons

  • It does not utilize all three mounting points by providing two brackets.

11. Ionic 3″ Black (Fits) 1999-2016 running boards

 

Specifications:

  • Brand: Ionic automotive
  • Color: Black
  • Product weight: 500 pounds
  • Item dimensions:0 by 4.0 by 12.0 inches
  • Size: 3 inches
  • Material: carbon steel
  • Compatibility: F350 F250 Supercrew Cab Ford model

High performance: Are you looking for the best running boards and nerf bars?

Ionic automotive has produced quality bars recommendable for your vehicle.

It is wide enough to enhance safe boarding and alighting.

The recessed stepping pad on the bars ensures no missing steps by preventing sliding.

Long-lasting: 3 inches black ionic running boards are made from carbon steel.

The durability certain since the carbon steel bars has been dipped into acid to boost its permanency.

The bars are strong and also coated with a thick powder and hence the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.

These factors, in turn, results in a lasting ability, thus appreciating its service.

Suitable: Very little labor is needed to install in most vehicles since no cutting is required, and the holes are readily made.

You just use your effort in placing bolts and tightening the nuts for the stability of the bars.

The brackets for mounting purposes are specially made to fit your vehicle perfectly depending on the model, making installation simple and convenient.

This takes you a few minutes, less than or almost an hour, depending on your speed.

Pros

  • Easily installable
  • Perfect look
  • Convenient
  • Sturdy

Cons

  • Relatively light.

12. TG-ST2F50038 Tyger Step

 

Specifications:

  • Brand: Tyger Auto
  • Color: Black
  • Material: Al
  • Product weight: 28.0 pounds
  • Product dimensions: 88.0 by 14.0 by 6.0 inches
  • Compatibility: F150 2009-2014 SuperCrew Cab- Ford model

Easy installation: the package contains a hardware kit, DIY instructions, brackets mounts, and rocker panel mounting, thus facilitating an easy installation process without wasting time.

Putting the bolts in place is just simple since drilling is already done for you.

Take less than one hour to complete your installation process and continue with your daily activities.

Durability: The nerf bars are an aluminum product whose resistivity to corrosion is superb.

This extends its lifespan, the number one factor to put into consideration.

Aluminum is a popular material for its super ability to survive all road environments encountered by regular drivers.

Faultless design: The Tyger step is spacious, a width of 4.75 inches to allow room for stepping comfortably.

No fear of sliding since the steps are entirely made of slippery free material, thus boosts your self-confidence in and out of the truck.

The silver trimming on the aluminum steps not only leads to an attractive look but also protects the vehicles. Purchase Tyger step to make a different look on your running board. Nice look!

Pros

  • Wonderful in appearance
  • Easy to install
  • Durable and reliable
  • High performance

Cons

  • The compatibility is limited.

13. Drop Steps Running Boards Rocker by APS

 

Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: APS
  • Brand: APS
  • Item weight: 54.9 pounds
  • Dimensions: 88 x 11 x 7 inches
  • Exterior: Matte Black Powder Coated Finish

Easy to install:  If you are not sure which is the best ford f150 running board to go for as you want to do the installation by yourself, one should not look further than the APS Drop Steps running boards rocker.

This running board is classified among the easiest to install as it comes with all mounting hardware and do it yourself instructions.

Durable: The Drop Steps Running Boards from APS are made of aluminum drop step pads and square tubes and have a triple layer black powder coat finish for an aggressive and tough look.

This running board is toughened and can support 300 lbs. weight capacity.

Compatible: This running board will is compatible with Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab 2015- 2020 and the super duty 2017-2020 Crew Cab.

What this means is that you do not have to worry whether the running board will fit in your Ford car or not.

APS unique patented design: The patented design allows for light-duty urban use that combines with fuel functioning and efficiency.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Highly durable
  • Comes with all mounting hardware
  • DIY installation manual available
  • Triple-layer black coated finish

Cons

  • Offers less step room

14. MOSTPLUS Nerf Bar Running Board

 

Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: Mostplus
  • Brand: Mostplus
  • Weight: 42.9 pounds
  • Dimensions: 85.83 x 9.45 x 8.66 inches
  • Additional features: 6 inches in width
  • Includes: two steps with mounting hardware and brackets

Highly durable: Most buyers are concerned whether the running board they will opt to buy will last long without the need to replace it.

Mostplus understands this concern, and that is why they took the time to build this running board with a superior material for longer usage.

The material used is also anti-corrosion.

Easy to install: This running board is easy to install as it comes with two steps and mounting brackets and hardware.

This means you don’t have to hire a mechanic or visit an auto body shop for installation.

Upon installation, you do not require to drill holes in your car.

Compatible with Ford F150:  If you are looking for a running board that is compatible with your car model, one should look no further than the MOSTPLUS Nerf Bar Running Board.

This auto part is compatible with Ford F150, meaning you will not require to drill holes during installation.

Pros

  • Built out of superior material for longer usage
  • Easy installation
  • Anti-corrosion
  • Powder-coated

Cons

  • mounting hardware could be stronger

15. TAC Side Steps Running Board Fit

 

Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: TAC
  • Brand: TAC TRUCK ACCESSORIES COMPANY
  • Model: Automotive Step Rails
  • Item weight: 61.9 pounds
  • Dimensions: 89 x 10.75 x 8 inches
  • Manufacturer part number: T3S-ACF112T

Solicitous Design:  TAC understands the need to offer customers a considerate running board, and this is why they designed this product in 3 inches round tube with non-slip wide step pads to offer a wide stepping area.

The non-slip step pad guarantees safety.

East to install: TAC Side Steps Running Board Fit is easy to bold on during installation.

Upon purchase, one received all mounting hardware and installation instructions.

Perfect fit: This running board from TAC TRUCK ACCESSORIES COMPANY perfectly fits for the 2015-2020 Ford F150.

In case you have any questions about this, the manufacturer is always available to offer clarification.

OE Quality Made: This running board is made from heavy-duty mild steel with an A+ grade heavy texture black powder for anti-scratch and rust-resistant.

Pros

  • Considerate design
  • Quality assured
  • Fits perfectly
  • Easy to install
  • Non-slip wide step pads

Cons

  • Bracelet alignment is slightly off

 How To Pick The Best Running Boards For F150/F250/F350 

There are various reasons why you should install a running board or side steps in your truck.

In this section, we are going to look at reasons why you should have a running board and essential features one should look into when buying one.

Having running boards or side steps make it easier to enter and exit your car.

Irrespective of whether you own a lifted pickup truck or overlander, having running boards in place made it easier to enter and exit your vehicle.

Once installed, these boards offer a lower step to offer you a boost into the driver’s seat.

Also, when exiting your car, the running board helps one step out instead of sliding out, thus saving your seats.

Additionally, running boards offer additional protection from debris and rocks.

When driving down rough roads and off-roading, rocks and debris constantly shoot at your car’s body causing chips.

Running boards block rocks from shooting up.

Also, running boards help keep your car interior clean.

To help understand how one should think of running boards as the front door welcome mat in your home.

Before you step into your home, one wipes their shoes off on the mat to get rid of mud and dirt.

Similarly, running boards are no-slip grip meant to clean off your shoes before boarding the vehicle.

Finally, installing the best Ford F150 Running boards give your truck an aesthetic look.

Running Boards For Ford F150 Supercab: Buyer’s Guide

These are the best Ford F150 running boards available in the market today.

In this section, we are going to look into features one should be on the look-out for when buying a running board.

Read on to understand essential features you should look into when selecting running boards.

Step construction material:

Before you look at the cost of the running board and what people have to say about the product, one should start by looking at what the board is made of.

In our review, we have discussed running boards that are either made of stainless steel or aluminum.

We greatly urge buyers to choose metal boards as they offer the best strength and keep weigh down at the same time.

If you do not consider this feature when buying running a running board, there is a high chance you might end up buying one made of plastic.

Such running boards may look good and go at lower prices, but one should avoid them at all costs as they tend to be weak and cannot hold much weight.

They are also vulnerable to scrapes and bumps and scrapes.

With this, it’s evident if you buy a plastic board, there is a high chance you will have to replace them within a month or two.

This is a waste of time and money, and that is why we urge the buyer to choose the best running boards as they made either made of aluminum or stainless steel.

Step pad material:

One should also pay close attention to the stepping area is made of.

In most cases, you will find running boards have a plastic stepping pad, which tends to be durable.

Rubber is also an option worth considering as it hardly wears off.

Rubber stepping pad offers a lot of grips, making it ideal for both trucks and SUVs. If you live in a poor weather area, choose rubber over plastic.

Width:

It’s also important that you look at the width of the running board, considering it dictates how much protection is offered to your vehicle’s paintwork and generally provides a wider footpad are for stepping.

However, one should not choose a board with a width that exceeds 6 inches as it can restrict access to your vehicles underneath.

Furthermore, if you have a good jack or car ramps, this should not be a concern.

Ease of installation:

individuals who are planning to complete the task by themselves should ensure they go for a running board that is easy to install.

The ease of installation greatly depends on what the board is made of and the size.

Make sure you buy a board that is a perfect fit so that you will not have to drill holes.

Checking whether the board comes with a mounting kit and installation instructions is also vital.

Only choose to buy a running board that comes with mounting instructions as this makes the installation process much easier.

Durability:

One should also invest time in finding a running board that is built to last. Steel boards are rigid and best for off-road driving.

However, you need to consult a mechanic on whether they are the best option or not, considering they add a lot of weight to the rig.

Alternatively, one can go for aluminum running boards as they are also durable for everyday use.

These ones are the most preferred among buyers as they are lighter and thus help save on gas.

The lightness also makes it easy to install them.

The finish:

Also, pay close attention to the finish as it also determines how long the running board will last. The most common options are polished chrome or matte black.

There is more to the finish than just-style. With the right coating in place, a running board tends to be more durable.

Weight capacity:

Different running boards are made to support the different weights. For best results, one should choose a board that is designed to support at least 300lbs.

With such a capacity, most drivers are safe. In case you have special needs, one should go for a board that can support up to 600lbs.

Type of running board:

Before you make up your mind on which running board to purchase, it is vital to understand they occur in different types.

First, there are the size step bars, which are easy to install and can be placed anywhere you want.

Additionally, there are the tread running boards that run the entire length of your vehicle.

These ones tend to be bulky, and you may require a mechanic during installation if you are not a car enthusiast.

The other types available include the full-sized step bars and power step running boards.

When making a choice on which type to buy, one should seek consultation from friends and skilled mechanics.

DIY: Installation Guides

If you buy any of the best Ford F150 Running Boards discussed in this guide, installation should not be a concern as all of them are easy to install.

Before you take the step to install any running board, it’s important that you read the following information guide to do the job right.

First, one should make sure they have the right tools at hand.  In this case, you will require safety glasses, gloves, a creeper, wrenches, and a socket set.

With these tools at hand, one is good to go. Start by installing a bolt plate amid the factory dents located at the undercarriage of your bodywork.

In most instances, you do not require to drill holes as it is already done for you.

However, if the holes are not present, you will have to drill them by yourself.

The next thing one should do is attaching brackets in the front.

Make use of the hardware components that come with the running board to attach the bracket’s finger tight.

From here, proceed to the center brackets and the rear ones. This is a preparation for your running boards.

As you know, the board you choose to install should be a perfect fit, and the only way to determine this is by checking specifications on vehicle make, the size of the can, and the model year the running board is designed for when buying.

After the three brackets are installed tight, it’s now time to add your running board. Make use of the treaded positions to know which side should face down.

Once you are sure, place the board on the brackets and tighten using bolts.

One of the ways you can know whether the running boards are installed correctly is by checking whether they are installed tight.

Finally, once you are done with the installation, one should try out the running boards from time to time.

Take time to check if they are well bolted down or not. If they are not well bolted down, one should retighten to be sure they will not develop any problems.

For a better understanding, of how to install running boards by yourself, one should watch this

video.

Frequently Asked Questions For Ford F150/F250/F350 Running Boards

In this section, we are going to look at commonly asked questions about running boards.

We took the time to research and offer you professional answers before you dive into the process.

Question: What are running boards, and what are they used for?

Answer: A running board is an auto part used to stretch the length of your car by providing a continuous step for car users i.e., front and back passengers.

Question: How much weight do running boards support?

Answer: how much weight a running board can hold varies from one brand to another.  There are some that can hold up to 500 pounds.

Others hold less than this, but we urge that settle for one with a weight capacity of 350 pounds.

It is vital that buyers read through the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications before cashing out to be certain of the weight capacity.

Question: Can I install a running board myself?

Answer: installing a running board is not a difficult task as long as you got the right tools at hand and an installation guide.

Most manufacturers offer users a DIY guide on how to install running boards.

Alternatively, you can choose to visit an auto body shop to help you with the installation if you do not have an idea on how to go about it.

This will, however, cost you a few dollars.

Question: Are running boards interchangeable?

Answer: There are running boards that are interchangeable while others are not. Before you buy a running board, make sure you check whether they are interchangeable or not.

Question: Are running boards a must in Ford models?

Answer: No. Running boards are optional, although they offer various benefits.

Some of the common reasons why people install them include enjoying safe entry, and exit into your car, added protection from rocks and debris when driving on rocky roads, and to enhance the appearance of your car.

Question: does running boards affect gas mileage?

Answer: Yes, running boards affect gas mileage depending on their weight. Lighter running boards have a negligible effect on gas mileage.

However, heavy running boards decrease fuel economy. Bearing this in mind, one should opt for a board that is lightweight as you do not want to spend more on fuel.

Question: What are running boards made of?

Answer: The lower part of most running boards are either made of aluminum or steel.  The upper part, on the other hand, which is usually the footpad, is normally made up of plastic or rubber.

Aluminum running boards are light compared to those made of steel.

Question: How do I install a running board?

Answer: This is a common question among most buyers as they do not know how to go about it. We understand the struggle, and that is why we prepared these four simple steps;

  • Remove the running board and mounts it out of the package.
  • On the holes in your truck, mount the brackets and bolt them tight. If your truck does not have pre-drilled holes, you will have to drill holes. Here you need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to drill.
  • Once you have fitted the brackets, connect the running board to the bracket.
  • If the package had lights, connect the wiring harness.

Question: When we’re running boards first created?

Answer: Running boards were first created after World War II and have gained popularity on vehicles ever since. Initially, running boards were used in defense vehicles, such as tanks.

The concept was embraced in SUVs, and years later, here we are. Over the years, running boards have revolved due to upgrades from different manufacturers.

Currently, there are various brands available in the market, and your choice should be based on compatibility.

Question: Are electric running boards better than traditional ones?

Answer: There is a huge difference between traditional and electric running boards. Traditional running boards cost less than the electric ones and either fold or remain intact.

When traditional running boards remain mounted on the side of your vehicle, in case of a crash, the side of your vehicle will not be damaged in any way.

On the other hand, electric running boards are expensive since they use a mechanical system.

These boards unfold when they open the car’s door.

As you close the door, these running boards fold back.

After a prolonged period of time, the mechanical system may start to fail, but electric running boards remain a favorite among most car owners due to their functionality.

Conclusion of Ford F150 Running Boards OEM

When choosing your next Ford running board, it is vital that you consider the guidelines offered in this review.

We urge that you choose one of the best Ford F150 running boards reviewed in this guide for the best results.

We went a step further to offer you the pros and cons of each of these running boards in this guide based on customer reviews.

Despite cost being a major buying factor, when choosing a running board, one should concentrate more on durability, ease of installation, and compatibility.

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