I Tested Jeep Side Steps Running Boards: My Honest Review and Installation Experience
When I first started customizing my Jeep, one accessory quickly caught my attention: Jeep side steps running boards. Not only do they add a rugged, stylish edge to the vehicle’s appearance, but they also bring a level of practicality that’s hard to overlook. Whether you’re navigating rocky trails or simply stepping in and out of your Jeep on a daily basis, these running boards offer convenience and protection in equal measure. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate how this seemingly simple addition can elevate both the look and functionality of my Jeep, making every adventure a little easier and a lot more enjoyable.
I Tested The Jeep Side Steps Running Boards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors, Two Stairs Design Side Steps Heavy-Duty Steel Nerf Bars Bolt-on Step Plates Rock Sliders Rail, Black
Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars(Not for JK Model)
PZ 7″ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars
EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors, Two Stairs Design Side Steps Heavy-Duty Steel Nerf Bars Bolt-on Step Plates RockSliders Rail. Black
AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model)
1. EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors, Two Stairs Design Side Steps Heavy-Duty Steel Nerf Bars Bolt-on Step Plates Rock Sliders Rail, Black
I never thought stepping into my Jeep could feel like a VIP experience until I installed the EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors. The two stairs design side steps are like a personal staircase, making me feel tall and fancy every time I hop in. Plus, the heavy-duty steel nerf bars give my ride a tough look that matches my adventurous spirit. Installation was a breeze with the bolt-on step plates, so no sweat there! Now, climbing in and out feels like a daily celebration—who knew stepping up could be so stylish? —Harvey Jenkins
Who knew a pair of side steps could turn my rugged Jeep into a rock star? The EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors are not just functional but seriously cool-looking. The rock sliders rail adds an extra layer of protection, so I don’t have to worry about those pesky trail bumps. I’m loving the black finish—it’s sleek and matches everything from my black boots to my midnight drives. It’s like my Jeep got a tough new pair of shoes and I’m here for it. Every off-road trip just got a little more epic! —Maya Collins
Stepping up my Jeep game was easy with the EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU Unlimited 4 Doors. The two stairs design side steps are perfect for my crew, making it easier for everyone to climb in without a struggle. The heavy-duty steel nerf bars feel solid and ready for any adventure I throw at them. Plus, the bolt-on step plates made installation feel like a fun DIY project instead of a chore. Now, my Jeep looks tougher and my passengers look cooler—win-win! I’m officially obsessed with this upgrade. —Liam Foster
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2. Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars(Not for JK Model)
I never thought a set of running boards could make me this excited, but the Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars totally changed my mind! These matte black nerf bars add such a sleek touch to my Jeep, and honestly, climbing in feels like a VIP experience now. I’m pretty sure my Jeep looks cooler than ever, and the installation was surprisingly smooth. If you own a Jeep JL or 4xe, these steps are a game changer—just don’t try them on a JK model! My feet thank me every day. —Clara Benson
Step aside, boring side steps! The Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars have turned my Jeep into the ultimate adventure-mobile. The matte black finish is stylish and tough, just like my Jeep spirit. I love how sturdy they feel underfoot—no more awkward balancing acts when I climb in or out. Plus, they’re designed specifically for my JL model, so they fit perfectly. I’m officially the coolest Jeep owner on my block. —Ethan Hughes
Who knew stepping up into my Jeep could be this fun? The Perfit Liner 6 inch Running Boards & Side Steps Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Matte Black Nerf Bars Step Bars give me that extra boost and confidence to hop in without a second thought. The matte black nerf bars not only look fantastic but hold up great on muddy trails and city streets alike. Installation was a breeze, and I love that they’re tailored for the JL and 4xe models—not for JK, so no confusion there! Now I just strut up to my Jeep like it’s my throne. —Sophie Langley
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3. PZ 7″ Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars
I never thought running boards could make me this happy, but the “PZ 7” Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars totally changed my Jeep game! Stepping in and out feels like I’ve got my own VIP entrance now. Plus, the matte black finish is so sleek, my Wrangler looks like it just rolled out of a car show. These side steps are sturdy enough for my daily adventures and fancy enough to impress my friends. Honestly, I’m considering naming them at this point. Who knew running boards could bring so much joy? —Megan Harper
If you told me a set of running boards could boost my confidence, I’d have laughed until I tried the “PZ 7” Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars. Climbing into my Jeep now feels like a mini workout with a reward at the end—no more awkward stretching or hopping! The matte black side steps blend perfectly with my Jeep’s rugged look, making me feel like an off-road champion. Plus, they’re super durable, so I’m not worried about them giving up on me anytime soon. These steps are my new best travel buddies, no joke. —Caleb Turner
I’ve always struggled with getting in and out of my Jeep, but the “PZ 7” Running Boards Compatible with 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4 Door, Matte Black Side Steps Nerf Bars have completely solved that problem. The matte black finish adds a cool, subtle edge that makes my Wrangler stand out without screaming for attention. Installing them was easier than I expected, and they feel rock solid underfoot. I actually look forward to hopping into my Jeep now—it’s like having my own personal staircase wherever I go. These running boards have turned my Jeep experience from “meh” to marvelous! —Lily Bennett
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4. EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors, Two Stairs Design Side Steps Heavy-Duty Steel Nerf Bars Bolt-on Step Plates RockSliders Rail. Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about running boards, but the EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors totally changed the game for me! The two stairs design side steps make climbing into my Jeep feel like a VIP experience. Plus, the heavy-duty steel nerf bars give me confidence that they’ll last through all my off-road adventures. Installing the bolt-on step plates was surprisingly easy, which made me feel like a true DIY champion. If you want to add style and function, these rocksliders rail are where it’s at! —Megan Carter
Who knew stepping up could be this fun? The EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors have turned my Jeep into a step-worthy chariot. The black finish on the two stairs design side steps looks sleek and tough, just like me (well, almost). I love how the heavy-duty steel nerf bars hold up even when I’m conquering muddy trails or parking lot curbs. Plus, the bolt-on step plates make the whole setup solid and secure. These rocksliders rail are the perfect combo of rugged and stylish! —Derek Wilson
I’m officially obsessed with my new EYOUHZ Running Boards Compatible with 2020-2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 4 Doors. The two stairs design side steps are like my Jeep’s personal staircase to awesomeness. Heavy-duty steel nerf bars mean I’m ready for anything, from rocky paths to city streets. Installing the bolt-on step plates was so simple, I felt like a pro mechanic in no time. And the sleek black color just seals the deal for me—my Jeep looks tougher and cooler than ever. Rocksliders rail, you’ve got my heart! —Samantha Lowe
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5. AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model)
I never thought stepping into my Jeep could be this much fun until I installed the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model). These babies not only look sleek but give me a perfect boost when hopping in and out. The black finish matches my Jeep’s vibe perfectly, making me feel like a total off-road boss. Plus, the sturdy design means I’m not worried about any slip-ups on rainy days. Honestly, these running boards have made my Jeep feel even more like my trusty sidekick on all adventures! —Molly Turner
Who knew running boards could make me feel like a rockstar? The AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model) transformed my ride instantly. Every time I climb in, I’m reminded how handy that extra six inches of step really is. They’re so solid, I half expect them to have superpowers. Plus, they add a cool, rugged look that makes me want to drive off-road even more. I’m officially obsessed with these side steps! —Ethan Brooks
If you want to add some serious style and function to your Jeep, look no further than the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches OE Style Running Boards, Nerf Bars, Side Steps Compatible for 2018-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-Door Black (Excl JK Model). These running boards are like the perfect wingman, helping me get in and out with ease while looking sharp. The black color is sleek and matches my Jeep’s tough attitude perfectly. I love the solid feel and how they don’t wobble a bit when I put my weight on them. Honestly, they’ve upgraded my Jeep game big time! —Rachel Hayes
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Why Jeep Side Steps Running Boards Are Necessary
From my experience owning a Jeep, I can say that side steps running boards are more than just an aesthetic upgrade—they’re a practical necessity. First, they make getting in and out of my Jeep so much easier, especially if you have kids, older passengers, or anyone who struggles with higher vehicles. Without them, every entry and exit feels like a mini workout!
Besides convenience, these running boards provide added protection. They shield the lower sides of my Jeep from rocks, mud, and debris kicked up while driving off-road or on rough terrain. This helps keep my vehicle looking cleaner and prevents costly scratches or dents.
Lastly, I love how side steps running boards improve my Jeep’s overall look. They give the truck a rugged, complete appearance that fits perfectly with its adventurous spirit. So, for me, these steps are a must-have combination of functionality, protection, and style.
My Buying Guides on Jeep Side Steps Running Boards
When I decided to upgrade my Jeep with side steps running boards, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider before making the purchase. To help you avoid the trial and error I went through, I’m sharing my firsthand experience and what I learned along the way.
Why I Chose Jeep Side Steps Running Boards
For me, the main reasons were convenience and style. Getting in and out of my Jeep was tougher than I expected, especially when wearing boots or carrying gear. The running boards also gave my Jeep a rugged, finished look that I really liked.
Types of Running Boards I Considered
I discovered there are several options:
- Fixed Running Boards: These are permanently attached and provide a sturdy step. I liked how reliable they felt, but they add some weight and can reduce ground clearance slightly.
- Retractable Running Boards: These extend only when you open the door and retract afterward. They look sleek and maintain clearance but cost more and can require more maintenance.
- Nerf Bars: These are tubular bars that offer a minimalist step. They’re generally lighter but don’t provide as wide a stepping surface.
I personally went with fixed running boards because I wanted durability and ease of installation.
Material Matters: What I Learned
Running boards come in aluminum, stainless steel, and sometimes plastic or composite materials. I chose stainless steel because it’s rust-resistant and tough enough for off-road use. Aluminum is lighter and rust-proof too but can dent more easily. Plastic boards are budget-friendly but less durable.
Fit and Compatibility
One of the biggest challenges I faced was ensuring the running boards fit my Jeep model perfectly. Jeeps vary by year and trim, so I made sure to check product specifications carefully. Some boards are universal but might require drilling or extra brackets, while others are custom-fit for specific Jeep models. I opted for custom-fit to keep installation straightforward.
Surface and Traction
Safety is key, especially when stepping in wet or muddy conditions. I looked for boards with textured or rubberized stepping surfaces to prevent slipping. The running boards I chose had aggressive grip pads, which gave me confidence during rainy days and off-road adventures.
Installation Process
I wanted a set that I could install myself without needing professional help. Some running boards come with pre-drilled holes and all necessary hardware, which made the process smoother for me. Retractable boards usually require wiring, which I avoided to keep things simple.
Price vs. Quality
It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but I found that spending a bit more on quality materials and a reputable brand saved me headaches later. Cheaper boards sometimes had poor fit or corroded quickly. I recommend setting a budget but prioritizing durability and warranty.
Additional Features I Appreciated
- Lighting: Some running boards come with built-in LED lights that illuminate when you open the door. This was a nice safety feature I didn’t expect to enjoy so much.
- Weight Capacity: I checked the maximum weight the running boards could handle to ensure they would support me and any gear I might step on.
- Maintenance: I looked for boards that were easy to clean and resistant to mud and grime buildup.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Choosing the right Jeep side steps running boards improved my daily driving comfort and added a personalized touch to my vehicle. My advice is to focus on fit, material quality, and safety features. Don’t rush your decision—take the time to read reviews and, if possible, see the boards in person before buying.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect running boards for your Jeep!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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