TOYOTA TACOMA RUNNING BOARDS: FACILITATE CONVENIENT ENTRY AND EXIT FROM YOUR PICKUP TRUCK

Tacoma Running Boards Enable Safety For Your Passengers and Protection For Your Vehicle

With a lifespan of 20 years, the Toyota Tacoma is one of the most durable and capable pickup trucks available today. It is built in Mexico and the USA to withstand harsh terrain and maintain dependable performance throughout. Drivers can use this pickup truck on the farm, construction sites, city and off-road trails. Some running boards can help to get the most out of your Toyota Tacoma. They help passengers to board and alight from the vehicle with ease. How can you select the best side steps? We have reviewed the top options available today and highlighted the best Tacoma step bars for you below.

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• BEST OVERALL – Best Overall Retractable Powered Running Boards – ARIES 3047953 ActionTrac 79-Inch Retractable Powered Running Boards, Select Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab
• MOST RUGGED – Best Durable & Heavy Duty – oEdRo 6″ Side Step Compatible with 2005-2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab, Upgraded Running Boards Textured Black Heavy Duty Truck Nerf Bars, Unique Multi-Layer Slip-Proof (Fits Double Cab Only)

Tacoma Step Bars Comparison Table

PRODUCT	CAR MODEL & YEAR	TYPE	PROS	CONS
BEST OVERALL Retractable Powered Running Boards – ARIES 3047953 ActionTrac 79-Inch Retractable Powered Running Boards, Select Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab	Select Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab pickup trucks	Extendable	1. They are powered to extend automatically. 2. These running boards have a black powder coat which protects them from corrosion. 3. The step bars have a weight capacity of 650 pounds. 4. Their step-within-a-step design protects the lower step. 5. Some low profile LED lights illuminate them during use. 6. They can be set up in your vehicle without splicing or drilling.	1. They are not ideal for off-road driving.
MOST RUGGED – Best Durable & Heavy Duty – oEdRo 6″ Side Step Compatible with 2005-2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab, Upgraded Running Boards Textured Black Heavy Duty Truck Nerf Bars, Unique Multi-Layer Slip-Proof (Fits Double Cab Only)	2005 to 2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab with 4 full-size doors pickup trucks	Stationary	1. These nerf bars are made of robust Heavy-Duty carbon steel. 2. They are covered in a black powder coat to keep corrosion at bay. 3. Their 6 inch step surfaces promote comfortable usage by passengers and drivers. 4. The textured surface promotes traction. 5. These side steps have a weight capacity of 500 pounds.	1. The brackets are not labeled making set up quite challenging. 2. These step bars do not have any instructions. 3. Drivers can receive these running boards with bent tabs.
UNIQUE DOUBLE HOOP OPTION – APS Black 6 Inches Tubular Drop Down Style Nerf Bars Running Boards Compatible with Toyota Tacoma 2005-2022 Double Crew Cab	Toyota Tacoma 2005 to 2022 Double Crew Cab pickup trucks	Stationary	1. Their tubular design promotes durability. 2. These step bars are made of carbon steel for strength and endurance. 3. The drop-down style enhances their overall appearance. 4. A high-grip step plate promotes traction during use. 5. All the hardware required for installation is delivered alongside these running boards.	1. They have a low weld quality that leads to weak joints.
EASIEST INSTALLATION CHOICE – Tyger Auto TG-AM2T20048 Star Armor Kit for 2005-2021, 2022 Tacoma Double Cab | Textured Black | Side Step | Nerf Bars | Running Boards	2005 to 2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab pickup trucks	Stationary	1. They have a Heavy-Duty one-piece design. 2. Their dual-girder system guards your pickup truck’s undercarriage. 3. These running boards have a load capacity of 500 pounds. 4. The Tacoma nerf bars black powder coat protects them from corrosion. 5. Drivers can install them using a bolt-on process that does not involve any drilling.	1. They still rust despite the powder-coat treatment. 2. It does not fit on the 2018 Toyota Tacoma despite the product description. 3. These side steps stick out too far on both sides of the pickup truck after installation.
TOP OEM OPTION Blade Running Boards – Tyger Auto TG-BL2T7078 Blade Running Boards Fit 2005-2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab (78″ Long & 6.6″ Wide) | Textured Black | Side Step | Nerf Bars	2005 to 2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab pickup truck with 4 full-size doors	Stationary	1. These running boards have a one-piece robust structure. 2. They have high tensile strength. 3. The step bars are covered with a powder coat to prevent rusting. 4. Their step area is 6 inches wide for comfortable usage. 5. Their OEM design ensures quick, easy installation.	1. During use, they don’t feel sturdy enough.
Best High Grip Blade Running Boards – Go Rhino! 69442987PC Running Boards Fits Toyota Tacoma	2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma	Stationary	1. They are easy to install. 2. They delivers ample traction. 3. They offer protection for your vehicle’s frame.	The powder-coat is prone to chipping off rapidly.

Best 2 Running Boards For Toyota Tacoma

Best Overall Retractable Powered Running Boards – ARIES 3047953 ActionTrac 79-Inch Retractable Powered Running Boards, Select Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab

ARIES 3047953 ActionTrac Powered Running Boards

ARIES 3047953 ActionTrac Powered Running Boards On Car

The ARIES 3047953 ActionTrac powered running boards offer an outstanding solution for easier entry and exit from your pickup truck. They are black in color and blend seamlessly with the exterior of your vehicle. The side steps are made of powder-coated aluminum which is durable and resistant to corrosion. Tipping the scales at only 88 pounds, these Tacoma nerf steps can support a weight of 650 pounds. As such, passengers of various weight classes can use these accessories comfortably.

These running boards have a patented step-within-a-step design. The upper step contains and conceals the lower one. When any of your vehicle’s doors is opened, the 3 inch lower step extends out of the 4 inch upper step. At full extension, the lower step is 15 inches below the door sill and 8 inches below the upper step. As such, it makes entering or exiting the automobile an easy and safe activity.

Drivers can traverse various types of terrains with confidence after installing these Tacoma running boards on their pickup trucks. The upper step consistently protects the powered lower step, internal electronics and pivot points at all times. Doing so keeps them from coming into contact with water, mud or the elements. During operation, these running boards are silent and quick. They are also illuminated with low-profile LED lights that make usage easy in low light or at night. For your safety, they are equipped with a sensory module which automatically stops the extension process if the powered step comes into contact with an obstruction. Even better, these running boards can be installed on your Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab vehicle with a simple 2-step process that does not involve any drilling or splicing. They come already equipped with the bolts, brackets and wiring that’s necessary for a successful set up on select Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab pickup trucks.

Pros

• They are powered to extend automatically.
• These running boards have a black powder coat which protects them from corrosion.
• The step bars have a weight capacity of 650 pounds.
• Their step-within-a-step design protects the lower step.
• Some low profile LED lights illuminate them during use.
• They can be set up in your vehicle without splicing or drilling.

Cons

• They are not ideal for off-road driving.

Best Durable & Heavy Duty – oEdRo 6″ Side Step Compatible with 2005-2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab, Upgraded Running Boards Textured Black Heavy Duty Truck Nerf Bars, Unique Multi-Layer Slip-Proof (Fits Double Cab Only)

oEdRo 6″ Side Steps

oEdRo 6″ Side Steps On Car

Featuring a matte black color, the oEdRo 6″ Side Steps are ideal for helping passengers board your pickup truck. They are manufactured using fully-welded, Heavy-Duty carbon steel that is robust enough to protect your vehicle during off-road driving. These -2010 Toyota Tacoma running boards are also powder-coated to prevent rusting and promote protection against Ultraviolet (UV) rays. The nerf bars have a textured 6 inch step surface that promotes safe and slip-proof operation. The -2008 Toyota Tacoma running boards also mount high and close to the rocker panels on your pickup truck for superior protection.

These running boards are delivered in a 7-layer carton containing the mounting washers, brackets, a manual and additional installation hardware. As such, fitting them on your vehicle is easy as described in this video. After installation, they provide your passengers with a convenient way to board the vehicle and protect it from side impacts. Notably, these side steps have a unique design which actively resists debris and obstacles. Despite weighing only 66.9 pounds, these -2009 Toyota Tacoma running boards have a load capacity of 500 pounds. Drivers can install them on the 2005 to 2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab with 4 full-size doors only.

Pros

• These nerf bars are made of robust Heavy-Duty carbon steel.
• They are covered in a black powder coat to keep corrosion at bay.
• Their 6 inch step surfaces promote comfortable usage by passengers and drivers.
• The textured surface promotes traction.
• The -2006 Toyota Tacoma side steps have a weight capacity of 500 pounds.

Cons

• The brackets are not labeled making set up quite challenging.
• These step bars do not have any instructions.
• Drivers can receive these running boards with bent tabs.

Tacoma Running Boards Top Brands

OEDRO Brand

OEDRO Brand Logo

Based in the USA, OEDRO was founded in 2016. They manufacture automobile accessories such as work lights, trailer hitches, floor mats and running boards. Their engineers pride themselves in providing highly innovative and safe products such as the oEdRo 6″ Side Steps.

Tyger Auto Brand

Tyger Auto Brand Logo

Established in 2013, the Tyger Auto brand manufactures aftermarket automobile accessories. Founded by a team of experts, each product is customized to fulfill the specific needs of its target market. They take pride in producing high quality goods such as the Tyger Auto TG-AM2T20048 Star Armor running boards.

ARIES Brand

ARIES Brand Logo

Owned by the Lippert company, ARIES is a marketing brand that popularizes and sells truck, Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) and Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) accessories. Their products exhibit attitude, technical creativity and individualism. ARIES produces highly durable goods such as the ARIES 3047953 ActionTrac powered running boards.

Auto Parts Specialist Inc (APS)

APS Brand Logo

The APS company is an executive automobile aftermarket parts manufacturer based in Ontario, Canada. Established in 2004, the company supplies aftermarket vehicle parts to distributors in Canada and the USA and competitive prices. One of their most outstanding products is the APS 6 Inches Tubular Nerf Bars.

Go Rhino

Go Rhino Brand Logo

Founded in 1975, Go Rhino has designed, developed and manufactured technologically creative, stylish and versatile automobile aftermarket parts. They focus on producing goods for pickup trucks and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs). One of their well-known accessories is the Go Rhino Running Boards.

Best Running Boards For Toyota Tacoma Reviews And Recommendations

Best Double Hoop Step – APS Black 6 Inches Tubular Drop Down Style Nerf Bars Running Boards Compatible with Toyota Tacoma 2005-2022 Double Crew Cab

APS 6 Inches Tubular Nerf Bars

APS 6 Inches Tubular Nerf Bars On Car

The APS 6 Inches Tubular Nerf Bars are a supremely functional addition to your pickup truck. These side steps are manufactured using carbon steel which makes them resistant to dirt, debris and side impacts. They have an eye-catching drop down style that facilitates easy usage and adds a touch of style to your automobile. These -2016 Tacoma step bars are designed with a hoop step which provides passengers with a high-grip step plate which promotes traction in all weather conditions. In addition to that, they weigh 84.7 pounds and are protected from corrosion by a powder coat.

Drivers can install these -2016 Tacoma nerf bars on their Toyota Tacoma 2005 to 2022 Double Crew Cab pickup trucks in less than 1 hour because they come with all the hardware that’s required for successful installation. After fitment, the -2016 Tacoma side steps stick high and tight on your pickup truck’s body to create a modern, Heavy-Duty appearance. For enhanced convenience, these step bars are covered by a 5-year Limited Warranty from APS.

Pros

• Their tubular design promotes durability.
• These -2017 Toyota Tacoma step bars are made of carbon steel for strength and endurance.
• The drop-down style enhances their overall appearance.
• A high-grip step plate promotes traction during use.
• All the hardware required for installation is delivered alongside these -2007 Toyota Tacoma running boards.

Cons

• They have a low weld quality that leads to weak joints.

Most Easy Bolt-On installation – Tyger Auto TG-AM2T20048 Star Armor Kit for 2005-2021, 2022 Tacoma Double Cab | Textured Black | Side Step | Nerf Bars | Running Boards

Tyger Auto TG-AM2T20048 Star Armor Running Boards

Tyger Auto TG-AM2T20048 Star Armor Running Boards On Car

Designed for the 2005 to 2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab pickup truck, the Tyger Auto TG-AM2T20048 Star Armor running boards prove highly beneficial for comfortable entry and exit for your passengers. They are made of Heavy-Duty 2 inch diameter steel tubes welded firmly together. As a result, these running boards for -2017 Toyota Tacoma embody a one-piece design. In addition to that, these step bars have a dual-girder system which protects your vehicle’s undercarriage. With these accessories fitted on your vehicle, off-road driving is effortless and safe.

Passengers can use these nerf bars comfortably in all seasons because the step surfaces are embossed with patented ‘STAR’ designs that increase traction. This feature is especially important for use on lifted pickup trucks and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs). The -2018 Tacoma side steps weigh 76.8 pounds and have a load capacity of 500 pounds. They are powder-coated for protection against rusting. Moreover, these -2014 Toyota Tacoma running boards operate with an easy bolt-on installation procedure that does not involve any drilling. Drivers should note that they only fit on the Double Cab model with 4 full-size doors. Each set of step bars is protected by a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty.

Pros

• They have a Heavy-Duty one-piece design.
• Their dual-girder system guards your pickup truck’s undercarriage.
• These -2013 Toyota Tacoma running boards have a load capacity of 500 pounds.
• The Tacoma nerf bars black powder coat protects them from corrosion.
• Drivers can install them using a bolt-on process that does not involve any drilling.

Cons

• They still rust despite the powder-coat treatment.
• The running boards do not fit on the 2018 Toyota Tacoma despite their product description.
• These side steps stick out too far on both sides of the pickup truck after installation.

Best OEM Blade Running Boards – Tyger Auto TG-BL2T7078 Blade Running Boards Fit 2005-2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab (78″ Long & 6.6″ Wide) | Textured Black | Side Step | Nerf Bars

Tyger Auto TG-BL2T7078 Blade Running Boards

Tyger Auto TG-BL2T7078 Blade Running Boards On Car

The Tyger Auto TG-BL2T7078 Blade Running Boards offer a more convenient way to board your pickup truck. They can fit comfortably on the 2005 to 2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab pickup truck with 4 full-size doors. These -2018 Toyota Tacoma side steps are developed into a one-piece robust structure that guarantees high tensile strength. They are also covered with a black powder-coat which ensures resistance against rust to ensure many years of comfortable operation.

Each side step weighs only 62 pounds and it can support 500 pounds. Even better, these running boards are easy to use because they have a step area of 6 inches. As a result, passengers with different foot sizes can use these -2015 Tacoma running boards comfortably. Installing these side steps is easy because they have an OEM design which involves only a bolt-on installation procedure. Furthermore, drivers can follow an installation manual which comes with these accessories. The manufacturer provides a 5-year warranty for maximum convenience.

Pros

• These -2012 Toyota Tacoma running boards have a one-piece robust structure.
• They have high tensile strength.
• The -2011 Toyota Tacoma running boards are covered with a powder coat to prevent rusting.
• Their step area is 6 inches wide for comfortable usage.
• Their OEM design ensures quick, easy installation.

Cons

• During use, they don’t feel sturdy enough.

Best High Grip Blade Running Boards – Go Rhino! 69442987PC Running Boards Fits Toyota Tacoma

Go Rhino! 69442987PC Running Boards

Go Rhino! 69442987PC Running Boards On Car

Manufactured using alloy steel, the Go Rhino! 69442987PC Running Boards are a worthy addition to your pickup truck. They have a powder-coated and textured exterior that protects them from rusting and adds a touch of style to your vehicle. The Go Rhino Tacoma side steps weigh 81.1 pounds and can support hundreds of pounds in weight at a time.

Passengers boarding your 2021, 2022 Toyota Tacoma can be sure of ample support from these step bars because they cover the entire length of the cab. Fitting them on your vehicle is easy because they come already equipped with the necessary mounting brackets and require no drilling. Besides facilitating easier entry, these Rhino liner Tacoma accessories also protect your automobile when driving off-road.

Pros

• They are easy to install.
• A Rhino lined Tacoma delivers ample traction.
• They offer protection for your vehicle’s frame.

Cons

• The powder-coat is prone to chipping off rapidly.

Toyota Tacoma Running Boards Benefits

Tacoma Running Boards Better Aerodynamics

Better Aerodynamics

Owners of large automobiles such as Heavy-Duty pickup trucks consistently strive to minimize fuel consumption. Electrically operated retractable Tacoma nerf bars can increase your vehicle’s aerodynamics. Retracting them while driving reduces drag and increases fuel efficiency.

Tacoma Step Bars Assist With Entry And Exit

Assist With Entry And Exit

The primary objective and biggest benefit of side steps is that they help the driver and passengers to enter or exit the vehicle. By providing a step that is easy to reach, Tacoma nerf steps make it easier to board automobiles. This is especially helpful in 4×4 pickup trucks that usually have high clearance.

Tacoma Nerf Bars Protect Your Vehicle

Protect Your Vehicle

Installing some side steps on your automobile adds a layer of protection upon it. These accessories prevent the debris that’s churned up by your tires from scratching up your vehicle’s paint. By deflecting sticks, stones and mud, the Tacoma nerf bar effectively protect the exterior of your pickup truck.

Tacoma Nerf Steps Types

Tacoma Nerf Bar Extendable

Capable of delivering a premium vehicle improvement, extendable Toyota Tacoma running boards automatically draw out when the door is opened and retract when it is closed. Made of two panels, they extend the lower step using an electric motor to help the driver or passengers entering the vehicle. These step bars are robust and illuminated with low-profile Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). They are the best bet for a driver looking for high-tech convenience.

Tacoma Step Bars Stationary

These Tacoma step bars stay in place on the sides of your automobile. They are fixed on your vehicle’s frame and stay firm in dynamic, off-road driving conditions. Stationary running boards help with entry or exit and protect your pickup truck’s underside. Notably, this type of step bars usually takes the form of nerf bars.

Tacoma Running Boards Key Features

Tacoma Nerf Bars Electric Operation

Electric Operation

A driver seeking some running boards should always look for the electrically extendable variety. These Tacoma running boards automatically move outwards when the vehicle’s door is opened and retract when it is closed. In doing so, they bring the lower step closer to the ground and minimize the effort required to enter the automobile.

Tacoma Nerf Steps Illumination

Illumination

Running boards should always provide a safe and secure way to board or alight from your pickup truck even in low or no light. To this effect, drivers should select illuminated Tacoma nerf bars that are equipped with low-profile LED lights. These step bars are lit during the day and night for safe operation at all times.

Tacoma Nerf Bar OEM Fitment

OEM Fitment

Fixing the step bars on your pickup truck should be an easy, straightforward process. It can be achieved by using running boards that fulfill Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) requirements. These side steps can be fixed easily on the frame of your vehicle using dedicated brackets. The Tacoma nerf steps can be fixed upon the brackets. Consequently, these brackets are fixed using bolts into holes that were designed to hold side bars within the vehicle’s frame. As such, OEM running boards make the process of installation and fitment easy.

Tacoma Nerf Steps Tips

• Always keep your Toyota Tacoma running boards clean. Seeing as they come into contact with dust, dirt, debris, snow and road salt, it is necessary to wash them as often as possible. If left uncleaned, they can begin to rust. Moreover, dirt can get into the joints of the moving parts and cause malfunction. As such, it is essential to clean your step bars with an all-purpose cleaner along with a microfiber cloth.
• Abide by the weight capacity of your side steps. While running boards are developed to have sturdy construction, they all have maximum weight capacities. This weight capacity of each Tacoma nerf bar can range from 300 pounds to 500 pounds. Always abide by this dimension to avoid damaging your side bars.
• After installing electrically extendable Tacoma step bars on your automobile, always remember to retract them when driving. Many of them have a step surface that is 6 inches wide. While this promotes stability during use, it increases the width of your vehicle. As such, driving with the side steps extended can cause them to bump into objects along the road. That said, remember to retract them while driving. Thankfully, they do so automatically when the door is closed.
• Standard automobile side bars can sustain a top impact of 994.58 pounds, a side impact of 1356.1 pounds and a lower impact of 1439.84 pounds. Keep these statistics in mind when seeking Tacoma running boards.

Tacoma Nerf Bar FAQs

Q: Tacoma nerf bars serve which purposes?

A: They help with entry and exit from the vehicle, protect your automobile’s exterior and absorb the force in case of a side impact.

Q: Toyota Tacoma running boards which ones are most ideal?

A: Side steps are available in two types namely extendable and stationary. For daily driving around the city, the extendable variety is ideal. On the other hand, the stationary side steps are most applicable for off-road driving because they have a sturdy design characterized by resilient materials.

Q: Tacoma step bars have a special product for cleaning?

A: No. Step bars can be cleaned with water, all-purpose cleaning solution and a soft cloth. After that, drivers can maintain running boards with a light coat of wax.

Q: Tacoma running boards are made with which materials?

A: Running boards are manufactured using a variety of different materials such as molded ABS plastic, carbon steel, fiberglass and alloy steel. They are further reinforced using robust aluminum baseboards which increases their weight capacity.

Q: Tacoma nerf steps offer space for passengers to ride upon?

A: No they cannot. Automotive law prohibits passengers from riding on the running boards while the vehicle is in motion.

Best Running Boards For Toyota Tacoma Conclusion

The ARIES 3047953 ActionTrac powered running boards are the best option for your Toyota Tacoma. They are electrically operated to automatically extend when the door is opened and retract when it is closed. These powder-coated black step bars are durable and actively resist corrosion. Capable of supporting up to 650 pounds, they can be used by passengers of all weight categories. Seeing as they are illuminated by LED lights, they can be used comfortably in low light and night conditions. Drivers who prefer rugged Tacoma running boards should look no further than the oEdRo 6″ Side Steps. They have a matte black color and are made of carbon steel. Featuring a nerf bar design, they have a six inch textured step surface that promotes stable usage in all conditions. These step bars arrive equipped with all the necessary installation components and have OEM fitment capability. Besides facilitating easy entry into your vehicle, they also protect its undercarriage. Always abide by the side step weight capacity. Moreover, do not drive with passengers riding upon the running boards.