The struggle is real; finding decent Toyota Tundra running boards OEM is no joke. There are countless threads online about them. And drivers only feel overwhelmed by the endless options.
Don’t worry! We got your back. We’ve done our research and found three perfect running boards for the Toyota Tundra.
And to top it off, you’ll also learn how to install them on your own. So, you won’t have to pay the dealer $500 for this simple job.
Contents
Why Are Running Boards Important?
If you’re not sure about getting running boards, the following reasons will change your mind for good:
Safety
You probably don’t have a hard time hopping in and out. But as time goes by, you’ll most likely notice that your passengers can’t quickly get in.
This might not that big of a deal if it’s just a one-time thing, but if that’s your family, you might want to look into getting running boards.
For instance, they are designed so that people can easily get inside the truck without spending an eternity.
Keep The Truck Clean
Ever noticed how dirty your boots get? Yeah, you wouldn’t want that inside your Tundra.
One of their main advantages is that they’re perfect for cleaning your boots. You can rub your boots against the rubbing boards to clean them off.
This is super helpful during winter or if you go off-road pretty often. That way, you wouldn’t have to worry about dirt getting inside.
Keep The Rocker Panels Safe
If you’ve had your truck for a while now, you’ve probably noticed just how annoying rock chips are.
Getting them out of your paint takes a lot of time, and it’s super obnoxious when you only have a few miles on the car.
On the other hand, running boards will keep your rocker panels safe from stone chips when going down the road.
They Look Cool
Now, this is up to you — but we think running boards look amazing on most trucks.
A truck without them doesn’t feel right. You’re giving up on many features, including safety, design, and protection.
Easy To Install
Most dealers charge a fortune for installing running boards, but they’re actually easy to install.
You could probably crack open a cold one with the boys, and you’d still be able to set them up within 30 minutes.
3 Best Toyota Tundra Running Boards Reviews 2021
Down below, you’ll find the 3 choices we think are the best for any Toyota Tundra driver:
01. Auto Dynasty AD-RNB-OEM-016-BK Running Boards – Best Overall
Highlighted Features
- Heavy-duty aluminum
- 5-inch running boards
- Wear-resistant
- Full-sized running boards
One of the easiest Toyota Tundra Crewmax running boards OEM you can install is this model from Auto Dynasty.
You don’t need to use a drill for this. Simply mount it on the truck, and it’ll snap right in.
You don’t need to feel concerned about the durability of this model. This brand has made it so that model can hold up to rust and other harmful chemicals.
Apart from that, this model adds some visual improvements to your truck.
For instance, it features two sizeable rubbers for both front and rear passengers. That alone makes the car stand out from miles away.
”But it’s not all flying colors. The biggest complaint we have is that if you step outside of those two sizeable rubbers, you’re pretty much out of luck. These areas are super slippery, so watch out for that.”
Besides that, this model is 5 inches. This is pretty much the ideal size since that length is more than enough to hold your feet.
What We Liked
- Super easy to set up
- Comfortable & secure
- Designed to match OEM
- Highlights the beauty of your truck
What We Didn’t Like
- Limited amount of space
02. AMP Research 75137-01A Running Boards – Best for Weight
Highlighted Features
- 600-pound capacity
- Maintenance-free
- Built-in LED light
- Heavy-duty hinge points
Now we have another popular running board, but this time from AMP Research.
If there’s one thing this model does better than anybody else is that it needs zero maintenance since it’s made of heavy-duty steel.
Unlike the previous model, which is pretty limited when it comes to space, this one goes from tip to tip.
That way, you won’t have to worry about accidentally stepping out of the rubber zone.
Furthermore, this model is designed to withstand plenty of weight. For instance, both the front and the rear side can handle up to 600 pounds.
Perhaps the biggest feature of this model is that this model has LED lights.
By running LED lights on the running boards, drivers will have an easy time getting in and out of the truck since they can clearly make out the running boards at night.
“You might spend a lot of time installing these running boards. You’ll need plenty of mechanical knowledge to install them. Other than that minor drawback, we don’t have much to say.”
What We Liked
- Have a lot of space
- Prevent corrosion
- Can handle up to 600 pounds
- Make your truck look gorgeous
What We Didn’t Like
- Super hard to install
03. TAC T3S-ACT119T Running Boards – Best for Scratches
Highlighted Features
- UV-resistant
- Anti-scratch coating
- Anti-slip design
- Heavy-duty brackets
These running boards made by TAC are one of our favorite models for anybody who wants simple but reliable running boards.
Furthermore, if you’re looking for something that allows you to get solid footing without hurting yourself, these running boards are perfect.
Better yet, they also feature a gorgeous scratch-resistant coating, meaning you can safely go off-road and know for sure your running boards will still be in great shape.
Apart from that, we love that they’re anti-slip. As you might have noticed, they don’t have much space, to begin with. But since they’re not slippery, this is not that big of a deal.
“The only thing that’s a little bit disappointing is that these running boards are not stainless-steel. So, there’s a high chance they’ll get corroded down the line”.
Finally, they are UV-resistant, meaning you won’t have to worry about the sunlight possibly damaging your running boards.
What We Liked
- Easy to install
- Hold up pretty well to sunlight
- Work just like OEM
- Gorgeous finish
What We Didn’t Like
- They can get corroded
How to Choose The Perfect Running Boards for Toyota Tundra
Toyota Tundra running boards OEM can be hard to choose. So, you’re probably feeling confused right now. If so, the following tips will help you make the right purchase:
Material
The first thing you should keep in mind is the material. Most running boards are made of ABS plastic, heavy-duty stainless steel, and aluminum.
If you were to get one, we’d suggest choosing heavy-duty stainless steel over any other material. This material will not rust or corrode since it’s made of stainless steel.
You do pay a premium price for that, but it’s worth the money if you don’t want to swap out your running boards constantly.
Space
Upon doing research, we’ve noticed how common it is to find running boards with sizeable plastic tractions. However, they don’t cover the entire running boards.
This is somewhat problematic as these areas tend to be pretty slippery during winter.
To avoid that, make sure to get a model that covers the running boards. But if you don’t have to deal with snow, it’s to get the first one.
Diameter
By now, you’ve probably realized that you can get running boards in a 3-inch, 4-inch, and 5-inch diameter.
However, there’s no final answer as to which size you should go for. This is up to the consumer.
Just keep in mind that the short ones might make it hard for some people to step on them.
But the bigger the running boards are, the easier it’ll be for everybody in your family to step on.
You should also know that some drivers hate it when their running boards stick out too much, especially if they go past the wheels. So, if you’re one of those drivers, watch out for that.
How to Install Running Boards on Toyota Tundra
You’ve finally purchased your first set of OEM running boards for Toyota Tundra. But there’s only one thing left: you must install them.
Don’t worry, though. With our tips, you’ll quickly install them. Ready to learn more? Let’s take a look!
1. What You Will Need
For this simple job, you’ll need the following tools:
- A 10mm socket and a 14mm socket—to install the running boards on your own, get these two sockets
- An impact gun—this is the easiest way to set up the running boards without spending that much time.
2. Identify The Mounting Brackets
Before getting started, you should know that this installation process will work for most Toyota Tundras.
The Toyota Tundra’s body has barely changed over the years. So, even if you have a 2020 Tundra, these steps will still work.
That being said, unbox your kit. After doing that, you probably noticed that the brackets are marked.
But if they’re not, spend some time identifying the passenger side rear, the passenger side center, and the passenger side front.
3. Get Underneath The Truck
Now that you’ve become familiar with all the parts, crawl underneath the truck.
If you take a closer look, you’ll probably notice that there are quite a few bolts for you to mount. But here’s the thing, you must take them off.
After that, begin to install the brackets. When doing this, please do not tighten them up all the way.
Instead, leave them loose. This is super helpful as you’ll be able to wiggle things around if needed.
4. Toyota OEM Running Boards Installation
Once you’ve installed all the mounting brackets, set up the running boards. Next up, get the bolts on the running boards.
Again, do not tighten the bolts just yet. You might have to move the running boards around if you didn’t get them right on your first try.
After installing the running boards and putting the bolts, tighten everything up. Finally, do the other side.
And that’s all there’s to it. Even if you’ve never done it before, it’ll take 30 minutes per side. Once you’ve got the first side down, you’ll breeze through the other one.
That being said, if you’d much rather watch a YouTube video, here’s one we suggest watching:
How to install running boards on a Toyota Tundra – YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Couldn’t find what you were looking for? Well, here’s some information about running boards, which you might find helpful:
What’s the purpose of running boards?
Some people might struggle to get in and out of your truck without running boards.
Having the comfort and convenience of owning running boards will make your life so much easier as well as your passenger’s.
Do trucks look better with running boards?
You’ve probably noticed just how many drivers have running boards on their trucks.
And there’s a reason for that: they make your vehicle look better, and they make it easier for your family to get in.
Some trucks come with them, but most drivers replace them for aftermarket ones.
How much do running boards cost?
Basic running boards can cost anywhere from $139 all the way up to $300. The premium ones with fancy features can easily go over $1,000.
Do running boards affect gas mileage?
They do add some weight to your vehicle. But there’s a good chance you won’t even notice the MPG difference.
Conclusion
Some drivers take their running boards off, while some wish their truck would’ve come with them.
Either way, we made sure to choose the best Toyota Tundra running boards OEM so you wouldn’t end up pulling them out.
Honestly, it’s just a matter of choice. You might not like your running boards, but they’re super helpful for anybody in your family.
That said, whichever one you choose will live up to your expectations.
