You’ve spotted them gleaming in the sunlight while cruising through the grocery store parking lot and admired them effortlessly deploying from your buddy’s truck. Electric running boards seem to be everywhere these days, gently mocking your own truck’s worn-out side steps with their sleek styling and stealthy operation. But a quick online search reveals more than just top-name brands and 5-star reviews; it also delivers a hefty dose of sticker shock.
It’s true: accessories like the AMP Research Power Step and Westin Pro-e aren’t your standard running boards—and their pricing reflects that. So, the real question isn’t just “Are they worth the investment?” but rather, “Are they worth the investment for YOUR truck?”
Parts Via can help. Let’s run through the pros and cons of these popular truck accessories and explore some of the factors you should consider before purchasing. We’ll also recommend quality brands, so you know which names should be at the top of your list.
Electric vs Fixed Running Boards
Electric running boards, also known as power running boards, are motorized side steps that automatically extend when you open your vehicle’s door and retract when the door is closed. Unlike traditional fixed running boards, electric running boards offer a sleek, streamlined appearance when not in use, since they tuck neatly against the vehicle’s cab. This not only adds aesthetic appeal, but also helps preserve ground clearance.
Electric running boards are equipped with small electric motors and sensors. When you open the vehicle’s door, the sensors detect the motion and send a signal to the electric motor, which then extends the running board. Closing the door repeats the action, just in reverse.
Traditional running boards are always present and ready for use without any mechanical action, but their fixed height can compromise accessibility for some people. Electric running boards can extend further down (up to 10 inches in some cases), making entry and exit easier, especially for lifted vehicles.
That said, there is value in a traditional running board’s simple and straightforward design—namely, an easier installation and less overall complexity. So, let’s run through some of the pros and cons of electric running boards so you can better determine if they’re right for you.
Pros & Cons of Power Running Boards
Now that we've covered the basics, let's dive into the advantages and potential drawbacks of electric running boards. Understanding these pros and cons will help you decide if they're the right choice for your truck.
Pros
- Convenience: Automatic deployment for easy entry and exit.
- Aesthetics: Hidden when not in use, enhancing the truck's appearance with a sleek, high-tech modern look.
- Safety: Stable step with wide, textured surface to reduce slipping.
- Accessibility: Some models, like the AMP Research Power Step, drop lower than stationary boards, benefiting more passengers.
- Ground Clearance: Retract fully, preserving clearance while driving.
- Protection: Retraction provides more protection from dirt, debris, and weather elements compared to exposed, fixed boards.
- Additional Features: Some models offer optional lighting for better nighttime visibility or obstruction detection to prevent damage.
Cons
- Complexity: More moving parts mean potential for more points of failure.
- Weather Sensitivity: Motorized components may malfunction in extreme conditions, especially cold or icy weather.
- Installation: The process is more complex, requiring proper wiring and attachment, which may call for professional help.
- Maintenance: May require more regular maintenance due to moving parts and electrical components, especially in harsh climates or salty air environments.
- Weight: Heavier than fixed boards, potentially affecting vehicle handling if not properly installed.
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Cost: Significantly pricier than traditional options, ranging from $1,000 up to $2,500 for premium models.
Factors to Consider
While the pros and cons list above can give you a better overall picture of how electric running boards compare to more traditional offerings, deciding whether they’re right for your truck comes down to five main considerations: purpose, vehicle usage, installation, maintenance, and cost.
Purpose
What’s motivating your decision? Are you looking for ergonomic accessibility due to age or mobility issues? Do you have family members—like children or elderly passengers—who would benefit from easier access? Or perhaps you simply like the look of electric running boards, and want a modern upgrade? Narrow down why you're drawn to these accessories in the first place.
Vehicle Usage
Next, think about how you primarily use your truck. Consider whether it’s for daily commuting, off-roading, towing, family transport, or a combination of all these scenarios. Your truck's primary function can influence your choice of running boards, determining what features are most important—like durability for off-pavement adventures or easy access for daily driving.
Installation
Consider if this is an upgrade your vehicle can accommodate, and whether you can complete the installation safely and accurately by yourself. There's no shame in having a professional tackle the job, and you'll likely have some extra guarantee in case something goes wrong. However, you'll need to factor this added expense into the overall cost.
Maintenance
Do you live in a climate where maintenance might take on more importance? If so, consider how likely you are to commit to keeping this equipment in fighting form. Additionally, think about the availability of parts and service in your area.
Cost
Weigh all these factors—and the points raised in the pros and cons list—against your budget. Electric running boards can be a great addition, both stylistically and functionally, but they might not make financial sense for your specific truck, especially if you need something with lower maintenance requirements or stronger weather resistance.
Discover Top Brands at Parts Via!
When it comes to choosing electric running boards, selecting a reputable brand is crucial for ensuring quality, durability, and performance. Check out these top brands available at Parts Via:
- AMP Research: Pioneers of electric running boards, AMP Research offers models like the PowerStep, PowerStep XL, and PowerStep Xtreme. Designed to provide excellent durability and functionality, they feature a die-cast aluminum construction and optional integrated LED lights. The company’s newest model, the PowerStep Vision, sports full-length lighting and color-changing functionality.
- Go Rhino: A newer entrant in the power-step market but well-established in the automotive industry, Go Rhino offers robust and stylish options like the E1 Electric Running Boards. Known for their heavy-duty construction, Go Rhino products are designed to withstand rough and rugged conditions.
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Westin Automotive: Also new to the segment, Westin offers the Pro-E steps, which feature two waterproof IP68 rated motors per side, integrated LED lights, and a weight capacity of up to 300 lbs. per side.
Remember, ensuring compatibility with your specific make and model of truck is crucial! If you're unsure about fitment, don't hesitate to reach out to the experts at Parts Via for guidance.
Want to save BIG? Parts Via offers a convenient FREE “Ship to Store” option—ideal for large, bulky purchases like electric running boards. Simply select "Ship to Store" at checkout, and your items will be sent to a nearby Parts Via Network Dealer for easy pickup. If you're not the DIY type, you can schedule installation services right at the dealer's shop, ensuring professional installation without any hassle.