Getting value for your money when it comes to your car means protecting your car from damages, and it's especially a good move if you plan on driving across different terrains. With the best electric running boards, you can do exactly that, and to add to this, you will make your car more versatile and functional.
Which Is The Best Electric Running Board?
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What are Electric Running Boards?
Electric running boards, also known as power running boards, use electric power to detract or retract. They swing out of the way and below your vehicle when not in use while the best power running boards tuck away to prevent you from losing ground clearance. These electric running boards activate when a door is opened and the car is unlocked, and they can be programmed to work when a leg moves past the sensor.
Electric running boards are a perfect way of getting in and out of your truck without using the traditional step-up. These can be installed on any vehicle with side steps, and this means most trucks are the way to go if you want an easy entryway every time. The electric running board automatically rises when you approach it with one foot on the lower step, and all you have to do is hop onto it and then into your truck or car.
If you go off-roading and don't like the look of the running boards, there is the option of retractable running boards, which will solve the issue. However, if you opt for the standard running boards, you will get fixed running boards that will not include the same feature. Read on to know more about the best electric running boards.
1. AMP Research 76154-01A PowerStep Electric Running Board
AMP Research 76154-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards Plug N' Play System for 2014-2018 Silverado...
- Automatic, electric-powered running boards instantly extend when...
- High-strength, die-cast aluminum alloy components with an...
- Precision stainless steel pivot pins for rock-solid stability and...
- Weatherproof, OEM Quality electric motors, drive system and...
- Made in the USA and backed by a 5-year limited warranty
AMP 76154-01A running board has a powder-coat finish that offers anti-slip characteristics with maximum durability and a grip. The plug and play kit is made with a strong die-cast with aluminum-alloy linkage components making it strong. The material combination offers extreme durability regardless of the frequency of use and conditions.
Image Credit: amazon.com
AMP Research 76154-01A running boards are corrosion-resistant since they use an anodized military-grade Teflon finish, and this means you won't have to worry about if your running boards are dirty or wet. In addition, these power running boards have stainless-steel pivot pins with self-lubrication, meaning they need zero maintenance.
As one of the best power running boards, they support a 600lbs load on each side and support several GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado manufactured between 2014 and 2019.
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2. Bestop 7515115 PowerBoard Electric Retractable Running Board
Bestop 7515115 PowerBoard Electric Retractable Running Board Set for Jeep 2007-2017 Wrangler 2-Door...
- Powerboard
- Automatic
- Running Boards
Bestop is another quality brand with a long history of pioneering new products in the automotive industry. The 7515115 running board includes mounting brackets, step extrusions, motors and a wiring bundle. In addition, the running board has an in-built safety feature that detects pressure that stops the running board from retracting on your hands or feet.
Image Credit: amazon.com
With the retractable running boards, you get a die-cast aluminum build and OEM quality sealed motors designed to weather any climate. It gives a sturdy performance and an ultra-durable, non-slip and powder-coated surface.
The Bestop 7515115 manufacturer also adds an integrated LED light system that helps you have an easy time getting in and out of your car, especially when it's dark. In addition, this product drops down to form a stair-step that will facilitate getting into your car.
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3. AMP Research 76254-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards
Sale
AMP Research 76254-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards Plug, 1 Pack , Black
- Your purchase includes One pack of two AMP Research PowerStep...
- Compatible Vehicles – 2019/2020 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew or...
- Weight capacity – 600 lbs. each side | Drop – 6”
- Precision stainless steel pivot pins for rock-solid stability and...
- Automatic, electric-powered running boards instantly extend when...
AMP Research 76254-01A running boards are lightweight and will not weigh down your car to affect the speed and fuel efficiency. It includes an automated platform that uses engine electricity and so it will open whether someone is inside or outside the cab.
These AMP Research running boards feature an LED light system that makes it better but improves the nighttime visibility. In addition, it is made with aluminum and stainless steel, meaning it will give you an amazing performance all year round.
Image Credit: summitracing.com
In addition, the running boards will give you a great rip even during the rainy season when the pads become slippery. The high weight capacity means two or three people can stand on it simultaneously, and it will deform or break at all making it reliable.
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4. Aries Offroad ActionTrac Running Boards
Sale
ARIES 3047912 ActionTrac 79-Inch Retractable Powered Running Boards, Select Dodge, Ram 1500, 2500,...
- STEP-WITHIN-A-STEP. These power steps offer easier access to your...
- EXTRA PROTECTION. These power running boards are built for the...
- HIGHLY CORROSION-RESISTANT. With a highly durable powder-coated...
- SAFE OPERATION. These retractable truck steps operate quickly,...
- SIMPLE-2-INSTALL. No bracket drilling! No splicing! These steps...
Aries Offroad ActionTrac running boards are also worth mentioning. It features a step-within-a-step design that allows you to take two steps before entering the truck. This is especially useful for tall people that don't need a second step but can also help short people who need all the steps they can get.
Image Credit: ariesautomotive.com
Although this running board is cheaper and not military-grade material, it is rock-solid, durable aluminum. In addition, the Aries power running board features an LED lighting system that activates on deployment, and thanks to the light, you won't trip over and injure yourself.
Aries Offroad running boards have a single rotatory motor with a quiet, fast and maintenance-free operation. In addition, it has overwhelming car support, where the running boards support over one hundred vehicles.
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5. AMP Research PowerStep Electric Running Boards
AMP Research PowerStep Electric Running Boards | Plug N' Play System | For 2018/2019 Ram (1500,...
- Your purchase includes One AMP Research PowerStep Electric...
- Compatible Vehicles (Ram): 2018 – 1500 | 2018 – 2500/3500 Gas...
- High-strength, die-cast aluminum alloy components with an...
- Precision stainless steel pivot pins for rock-solid stability and...
- Automatic, electric-powered running boards instantly extend when...
AMP Research 76239-01A power running boards come with an LED lighting system, a bonus for all the hardware you may need for the installation process, including mounting brackets. Thanks to the first-rate die-cast aluminum alloy components, this is among the power running boards you will always appreciate. In addition, it is coated with an anodized finish for rust resistance.
Image Credit: amazon.com
AMP Research power running boards include stainless steel pivot pins to deliver stability and self-lubricating bushings to give the best performance under all weather conditions. The running will also automatically extend when you open your car door, and it will revert safely out of sight when you close the door.
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Why are Running Boards Called Running Boards?
Image Credit: partcatalog.com
Running boards are narrow step pads that fit on your trolley's side, jeep wrangler, ram truck and SUV, meaning it's useful for the high vehicles. They are known as running boards because they run the whole length of your car. However, the origin of the name is unknown, and they don't have similarities with nerf bars in terms of origin.
Unlike nerf bars mounted on race cars as a means of protection against your opponent's car when it comes to a collision. However, as much as running boards are similar to nerf bars, they come from a different place.
How Long Do Power Running Boards Last?
Power running boards are also known as power steps, and they last for about five years, giving you 60000 miles. Since the average manufacturer's warranty covers the first three or five years of operation, you can figure out it should last around that. Notably, the longevity of your power running boards depends on the quality and how frequently you use them.
Some users have reported that it lasted longer, but others have claimed that their power running boards got one stuck down and the other side refused to extend, meaning they were stuck with one half. Luckily, you could peg one up or down until you can get it fixed, but most running boards users report that AMP Research running boards work well and last for years.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing the Best Electric Running Boards
The best electric running boards should have several features such as:
1. Quality Build
This is among the most important factors you will need to consider when shopping for your vehicle's power running board. You will want to think of it as purchasing new clothes or shoes. Some materials usually hold better than others, but they come up at an extra cost.
Steel and aluminum are some metals that you will come across so many times, and this is because they are sturdy and durable. However, another thing about these materials is that they are lightweight, and this is something you will appreciate.
2. Electric vs. Traditional
You may want to check the difference between electric and traditional running boards, and you may guess the traditional will cost less. Also, traditional running boards remain mounted in place or will fold into your vehicle, and in case of an accident, your car won't incur too much damage. The running boards will take the hit.
On the contrary, electric-powered running boards will cost more since they are mechanical and fold down when you open your vehicle's door. However, they will automatically fold back into place when you close the door.
The mechanical system will wear down after a while, but you can ensure that electrical power steps give you the functionality you need.
3. Padding Materials
You should also think about the stepping pad as you look for the perfect running board. Most are made from plastic, but the issue is that plastic usually wears down over time.
This leaves you with rubber as the next suitable option. When used as a padding material, you will get remarkable traction that will be handy, especially when driving in poor weather.
4. Board Width
It can be easy to disregard the running board's width, but it's an important factor you should consider. The correct width will protect your car's paint job if it experiences a bashing.
In addition, the right width will provide a larger surface for you to step on. Ensure you don't get a big footpad, as it will hinder your ability to get under a car to fix something or change the oil.
You don't want to go the extra mile to get a jack to lift your four-wheel drive or a ramp to get underneath. A lift kit will come at a price you may want to avoid.
5. Running Board Types
There are several kinds of running boards you can choose from since running boards offer a wide stepping surface than most nerf bars in a variety of designs and options to get a perfect style.
There are size step bars that you can position wherever and this could be a great pick if your major interest is easy to access when getting in and out of your truck or in a crew cab.
There are tread boards that will fit your car's entire length, and although these give you full coverage, they are quite bulky. Also, there are powered running boards that open automatically when you open your vehicle's door.
Some of these power running boards have LED lights that will help you navigate low steps in low light conditions, and we would prefer you choose these.
6. The Finish
When it comes to the finish of your aftermarket running board, you will need to pick from a variety where the most popular options will be chrome, anodized aluminum and powder coated. Of course, all these finishes have their pros and cons. For instance, polished and black powder-coated finishes are reasonably priced and will still protect the best power running boards.
On the other hand, the chrome powder-coated running boards will offer the same but at a higher price. Painted and anodized aluminum are not popular because they are not very durable.
7. Warranty
When purchasing automatic running boards, you should never outlook warranties as warranties would matter for every electronic gadget. Instead, you will want to purchase an electric-powered running board from a company offering a trial period to decide whether the product will serve your interests well.
Most running boards serve for up to five years which is quite a reasonable price, while others work with the mileage you will cover over some time. Normally, this is enough time for the power running board to last as long as you own your car.
Nevertheless, always opt for a warranty in your best interest if you plan to drive your car for a while. If you have the finances, it can be better off purchasing a running board that comes with an additional warranty.
However, if you are looking for cheap power running boards to use for a short period, you will not have to worry too much about the warranty.
Image Credit: amp-research.com/