7 Best Running Boards For Ford F150 Reviews

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Stepping into an f150 can be hard without running boards, as the vehicle floor is pretty high.

Running boards will also protect the sides of the vehicle against any impacts. However, suppose you’re thinking of purchasing running boards for your F150.

In that case, it might be quite a confusing task with the many different products in the market, especially if you don’t know what exactly to look for in a good quality running board.

If you’re thinking of buying them, I have a list of the best running boards for F150 to help you choose.

All products mentioned here are very high quality, popular among customers, and have received great feedback.

7 Top Rated Ford F-150 Running Boards Comparisons

IMAGEPRODUCTEDITOR'S RATINGPRICE
TOP PICK
APS iBoard Running Boards 4in Black

APS iBoard Running Boards 4in Black

9.7
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Tyger Auto TG-RS5F50117 Riser

Tyger Auto TG-RS5F50117 Riser

9.5
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AMP Research 76151-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards

AMP Research 76151-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards

9.1
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Tyger Auto TG-AM2F20548 Star Armor Kit

Tyger Auto TG-AM2F20548 Star Armor Kit

8.8
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AMP Research 76235-01A PowerStep Running Boards

AMP Research 76235-01A PowerStep Running Boards

8.6
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Raptor Series 1703-0366BT 6 inch OEM Style Black Textured Running Boards

Raptor Series 1703-0366BT 6 inch OEM Style Black Textured Running Boards

8.2
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BEST BUDGET
TAC Black Nerf Bars Running Boards

TAC Black Nerf Bars Running Boards

8
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1. APS iBoard Running Boards 4in Black

TOP PICK
APS iBoard Running Boards 4in Black
$199.95
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11/09/2023 11:58 am GMT

Let’s start with the best one and the most popular set of boards; the APS iBoard Running Boards 4in Black.

This particular product has been custom-made for the Ford F series and will fit these cars well.

The material is also very strong and sturdy, which makes it handle a lot of weight. The load capacity is 300 lbs. In addition; the surface of these running boards is corrosion-resistant.

Therefore these will not wear off after a short time. The solid black aluminum design not only looks good, but these running boards perform well.

A corrugated rubber is also included in the build, which will help these running boards be non-slip.

This is great for different situations, for example, the rain, which might make the surface quite slippery, but that will not be an issue with these running boards.

The low profile design, in addition, does not make this product stand out and therefore ruins the look of your Ford F150, so you don’t have to be hesitant about installing them.

The product is available in three different sizes, so suit yourself. These are 4, 5, and 6 inches for the width, and all of these are pretty comfortable to step in.

However, the 6 inches one gives the best stepping experience. Being UV resistant, this product will perform well in all sorts of weather without wearing off.

In addition, these boards are also very lightweight, so they will not weigh down your vehicle or affect speed or fuel efficiency.

However, these running boards do not have any grille opening in the pads.

This means that water, ice, and dirt can easily enter. This shouldn’t be too much of a problem for as long you’re maintaining them frequently.

PROS
  • 300 lbs weight capacity
  • Solid black aluminum low profile design
  • Non-slip stepping experience
  • Available in three different width sizes
  • Lightweight
CONS
  • No grille opening in the pads leading to dirt ice and water entering

These are the most popular item for the f150, and the feedback has been so positive these are definitely worth the purchase.

2. Tyger Auto TG-RS5F50117 Riser

Tyger Auto TG-RS5F50117 Riser
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The next product I have is the Tyger Auto TG-RS5F50117 Riser.

These running boards have a very sleek design and, despite that, are also very sturdy, therefore able to withstand a lot of weight without breaking, bending, or deforming.

The weight capacity is 220 – 400 lbs. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about this product getting damaged under a lot of weight. In addition, these boards come in two different colors.

This is the stainless steel metallic option and the black option. So, you can choose whichever you think will suit your F-150’s looks best.

The design is also very sleek and stylish, which enhances the look of the F150 instead of ruining it.

The material used is a steel alloy. Because of this reason, these running boards are very durable and also very resistant to any corrosion.

This will help them to perform well in the long term without ever wearing off. Since these boards are a bit triangulated, ground clearance will be improved.

The ends also have rectangular end caps. This makes these running boards look a lot more defined. The bracket, on the other hand, has an aggressive kind of look.

Moreover, the side steps are non-slip and made of rubber. Because of this, the stepping experience is non-slip and therefore safe and convenient.

You can get them in two width sizes, the 4 inches, and the 5-inch width.

Lastly, the installation is also very easy and can be done at home easily even if you do not have much experience, so you don’t have to blow money by going to a professional.

Because no hole drilling is required and a bolt-on process is required in pre-drilled holes, the process takes quite a short time and less effort.

Tyger Auto trusts the product so much that it comes with a five-year warranty, so you never have to worry about whether it will last you long or if you’re going to get a defective product.

The downside to this is the load capacity. It is sufficient, but not very impressive, especially if compared to other products in the market.
PROS
  • Steel alloy construction
  • Durable and rust-resistant
  • Non-slip side steps
  • Easy installation
  • Five-year warranty
CONS
  • Load capacity isn’t that impressive

This product should last you very long without any issues, so you don’t have to repurchase after a short while.

3. AMP Research 76151-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards

AMP Research 76151-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards
$1,596.60
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11/10/2023 10:03 am GMT

The next product is the AMP Research 76151-01A PowerStep Electric Running Boards. These are automatic and electricity-powered running boards which makes them very convenient.

The power steps will retract and deploy automatically whenever someone has to exit and enter, making leaving and entering a great experience.

In addition, these running boards will extend when the doors are being opened and hide when it is closed.

An integrated LED light system makes these running boards look much better, enhancing the overall look of your F150 and improving night vision.

The black textured finishing, military coating is corrosion resistant as well as very durable.

This will help it stand very well against wearing and tearing, therefore helping the running boards last long.

The PTFE specs are made of aluminum alloys. These are die-cast which makes these boards very strong and sturdy.

Moreover, self-lubricated bushings will help these running boards to resist all sorts of weather conditions.

The stainless steel makes them able to withstand all weather conditions without breaking down.

The packaging comes with all of the required hardware for the installation process. An installation manual will make everything much easier and simpler.

All the important specifications are described in an easy-to-understand way, so even if you don’t have any experience installing running boards, you don’t have to worry about it too much.

The installation will also not take a long time, so you can easily do so at home without needing to go to a professional to get them to install, which might cost you a lot of extra money.

This set of running boards is also compatible with the 2015-2020 Ford F-150. You have to trim the boards a little bit for the regular and super cabs to install them.

However, the installation is a bit hard, especially if you’re not aware of the process.
PROS
  • Automatic electricity-powered boards
  • Integrated LED light system
  • Aluminum alloy materials
  • Stand well against wear and tear
  • All-weather resistant
CONS
  • Installation isn’t very easy 

Overall after installing this product, you will not be let down, especially as they are automatic and will be a much cooler addition to your cab than regular ones.

4. Tyger Auto TG-AM2F20548 Star Armor Kit

Tyger Auto TG-AM2F20548 Star Armor Kit
$379.00


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Next are the Tyger Auto TG-AM2F20548 Star Running Boards. These meet and even exceed the original equipment standards.

These will fit the Super crew cabs with four full-sized doors. The double girder bridge in these running boards will give extra support.

At the same time, the powdered black finish makes these running boards very durable, and these will last you a pretty long time without getting damaged from the surface or anywhere else.

An advantage of these running boards is that the installation is very easy. You won’t have to make huge efforts to install his set, saving you time.

As no drilling is required, much time and effort will be saved, and the packaging also comes with all the instructions, which are pretty easy to understand and follow.

The five-year warranty ensures that these running boards will last you a very long time.

And in case you do get a defective product, the warranty will back you up, so you don’t have to think you’re blowing your money away.

Being very sturdy, these boards will withstand a lot of weight without breaking or deforming.

These boards are also pretty stylish, so you don’t have to hesitate before installing them, as they will not ruin the look of your F150 in most conditions.

However, these running boards are higher than the factory ones, which is not convenient for shorter individuals.
PROS
  • Powdered black finish
  • Durable
  • Easy installation
  • Five-year warranty
  • Sturdy
CONS
  • A bit too high for shorter people

Overall, these boards have performed well after all the tests and therefore are very high quality.

5. AMP Research 76235-01A PowerStep Running Boards

AMP Research 76235-01A PowerStep Running Boards
$1,716.63


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11/10/2023 01:59 pm GMT

These AMP Research 76235-01A PowerStep Running Boards are another great set of automatic running boards.

These are black and very durable; therefore, they will last you pretty long without being replaced. The dimensions are 81, 13, and 8 inches.

As the width is so wide; the stepping becomes so much more comfortable, and you can also have more than one person simultaneously, and these will not break or deform or anything of that sort.

Being electric-powered, these will extend themselves whenever you open the door, making it a very cool addition for your F150.

Also, when the door is closed, these will go out of sight; therefore, they won’t be seen when you don’t need them, so you don’t have to worry if you don’t want to change the look by adding these.

Still, even when these boards are open, they are very sleek and stylish and will make the F150 look even better.

The stainless steel and aluminum used in its construction ensure that the running boards are very resistant to corrosion; therefore, these will not get damaged for as long as possible.

Since these boards can withstand all weather conditions, these running boards will stay the same even after being exposed to harsh weather, for example, heavy rains or the scorching summer sun.

Another great thing about the product is that it does not require a lot of maintenance.

This is great because, with some running boards, you have to maintain them to keep them clean and working properly.

The best part about this set of running boards is its load capacity. With an impressive load capacity of 60 lbs, these boards stand out among all other products in the market.

This capacity will keep them safe even at very extreme weight is put on them.

Tests confirm the load capacity. A five-year warranty means the product is very reliable, and you don’t have to worry about getting a defective one.

The only issue is with the installation, as it is a little bit hard if you’re not experienced, so you might feel like needing to go somewhere to have them installed, which will cost extra money.
PROS
  • Durable
  • Wide step
  • Will open and close automatically
  • Stainless steel and aluminum build
  • 600 lbs load capacity
CONS
  • Installation is hard

These automatic running boards, with their amazing load capacity, will make the stepping experience so much better in your F150.

6. Raptor Series 1703-0366BT 6 inch OEM Style Black Textured Running Boards

Raptor Series 1703-0366BT 6 inch OEM Style Black Textured Running Boards
$464.99
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11/09/2023 02:23 pm GMT

The Raptor Series 1703-0366BT 6 inch OEM Style Black Textured Running Boards is another great set you could purchase.

These feature a rectangular structure along with a black textured powdered coat finish. Along with angled end caps, the overall look of the product is not very bad.

After installing these in your Ford F150, it will look much more classic instead of ruining the look with rugged edges. This product is, therefore, the perfect addition to your F150.

As these are six inches wide, the stepping experience will be very comfortable, and you will not have to face anyone slipping off.

This makes entering and exiting the F150 a lot more convenient. The step pads are also anti-slip, which will prevent anyone from slipping off.

Furthermore, this is perfect for the rainy weather and if you have children, or for example, if you’re in a rush as you will be completely safe.

The high-grade aluminum build makes these running boards very strong and sturdy. For this reason, each of these boards will perform well and has a load capacity of 400 lbs.

You can also stand on the step when getting inside the truck as it will not get damaged by that. Being 32 inches, these running boards are also pretty lightweight for 6-inch boards.

All hardware and brackets needed for installation are included in the packaging, so you don’t have to worry about purchasing that.

However, there are complaints about the hardware in the packaging being very poor quality, as it might break during the installation, so you might have to purchase replacements.
PROS
  • Black textured powdered coat finish
  • Six inches wide steps
  • Anti-slip
  • High-grade aluminum build
  • 400 lbs load capacity
CONS
  • Hardware is not very reliable

With wide steps and a good load capacity, this is another great set of running boards for your truck.

7. TAC Black Nerf Bars Running Boards

TAC Black Nerf Bars Running Boards
$164.99
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11/10/2023 05:18 am GMT

So finally the last product on the list is the TAC Black Nerf Bars Running Boards.

These are more like nerf bars because of their narrow structure. These will, therefore, not support the entire foot but are more like a support bar to enter the truck easily.

However, these are still not inconvenient for use. In addition, the product is very reliable, strong and will last you long.

The step pads are UV resistant; therefore, these will not get damaged due to harsh weather conditions.

In addition to this, they are also non-slip, making them very safe for children, the elderly, or in rainy conditions.

Even though the stepping is on a very narrow place, the grip will be sufficient for anyone not to fall off, so you don’t have to worry about their safety.

These slip pads have a black powdered finish for a classy look.

The installation is also pretty simple and easy. With a bolt-on process, you will not need to drill any holes or cut anything, making the installation pretty simple and therefore fast to do.

All of the mounting hardware also comes with the packaging.

For these reasons, you can easily install these at home, and you don’t have to spend money at a professional to get them installed. The company also ensures quality.

The three-year warranty will aid you in any manufacturing defects and ensure that the product is of great quality and is built to last you long.

The only issue is that the stepping surface is not very wide. Now, some users may not prefer this, but it all comes down to your preference.
PROS
  • Sturdy
  • UV resistant
  • Non-slip step pads
  • Easy installation
  • 3-year warranty
CONS
  • The stepping surface is not very wide 

With very strong materials, these steps will last you long without getting damaged at all.

What To Look For When Buying Running Boards For Your Ford F150

Getting on your Ford F150 can be a hassle for some people, and this is the same if they want to get off it.

These people would find it much easier to travel using a Ford F150 if running boards were installed.

If your Ford F150 does not have running boards, you can get them yourself, but you should be aware of the features that should be a priority when browsing them.

Here are the features that you should think over when buying running boards:

  1. Type Of Running Board
  2. Ease Of Installation
  3. Rust And Corrosion Resistance
  4. Weight And Durability

If you are confused about any of the above features, then do not worry. I will go over all of them in the guide below.

1. Type Of Running Board

You should know that there are various running boards to choose from.

Here are a few examples:

  • Nerf Bars
  • Side Steps
  • Grip Bars
  • Double Tubes
  • Power Steps

Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so you should look into them thoroughly and see which is better for you.

2. Ease Of Installation

Installing the bars will depend on the type of bar that you are getting. That being said, you should aim to get bars that are easy to install and require minimal effort.

Unless you plan on getting them installed by a professional, this can save you a lot of labor.

3. Rust And Corrosion Resistance

You will also have to manage and take care of the running boards.

No one wants to deal with rust and corrosion, so you should attempt to get running boards that offer a good amount of rust resistance.

Read up on the reports and see if they are prone to rust or not as well.

4. Weight And Durability

The installation will also depend on the actual weight of the running bars. Bars that offer good durability are often very heavy.

This can make them very hard to install. You should aim to get running boards that are both lightweight and durable.

Whether you want them for aesthetic or practical reasons, running boards can help those who tend to use them the most.

Toddlers, the elderly and short people can all benefit from them. However, the lack of them should only cause minor annoyance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are Running Boards Easy To Install On My Ford F150?

Usually, installing running boards will be a very simple process. However, most running boards are pretty heavy, so you may feel like asking a friend to help you carry them.

Most aftermarket side steps, nerf bars, and running boards for the F150 will come along with instructions about their installation which should be pretty simple to understand.

If you still don’t get the installation process, you can always use a tutorial to help you out, no need to go to a professional.

Most running boards do not require any drilling or cutting and have an easy bolt-on process to install them; therefore, it should be very easy even for beginners.

Q2. How Much Does It Cost To Install Running Boards On My Ford F150?

The cheapest running boards will cost you $100 to $300. The better ones with more weight capacities for the F150 will cost around $500.

Even though these come with instruction manuals on how to install them yourself, you’ll need to go to a professional to get them installed if you cannot figure it out.

Now, this can cost you anywhere $50 to $150. However, this is an unnecessary cost as long as the installation can be done at home.

Q3. How Do I Turn Off Automatic Running Boards On My Ford F150?

To disable automatic running boards, you should first put your F150 in position while having the engine off. Within 20 seconds after this, you should toggle the disable switch.

However, if you wish to disable the automatic running boards long-term, you should remove the fuse going into the motors.

Another way to disable them is using the settings on the touchscreen. After pressing the features button, press the power running board.

After this, press the running boards (modes). Then you should select between the off and auto out.

Q4. How Much Weight Can Running Boards Hold On My Ford F150?

Running boards can usually carry a lot of weight, and their weight capacities vary from one to another. These can be between 300 to 400 lbs for most running boards.

The better-performing ones can also have weight capacities of up to 500 lbs so that you can have more than one person simultaneously without any issues.

Some amazing performing ones can also have a capacity of up to 600 lbs, but this is rare.

Q5. Do I Need Running Boards On My Ford F150?

Running boards are not a necessity for the Ford F150. Many people can operate the car without them quite easily.

While you do not need them, they can be a helpful tool to aid people getting in the car who would have otherwise struggled to do so.

It may not be a need, but it can make the lives of others much easier.

Q6. Do Running Boards Affect Gas Mileage On My Ford F150?

Running boards can slightly reduce the aerodynamics of your Ford F150.

While this is only a slight reduction, it can affect the gas mileage. Alternatively, you can get aerodynamic running boards which may do the opposite of this.

Conclusion

Getting the right running boards for a Ford150 is a difficult task to do. Get an idea of what to pick through my guide

When purchasing running boards for your F150, it is very important to check the fitment with your truck and whether they are compatible with your make and model or not.

Another thing to be wary of is the durability, and if they are rust-resistant, for example, no one wants their running boards to look old after just a short time.

All of the products mentioned here will not let you down after purchasing them; however, the best running boards for F150 out of all of them are the APS iBoard Running Boards 4in Black.

These are highly recommended by many customers and a top pick of a lot of F150 owners.