As someone who frequently uses their truck for both daily commutes and weekend adventures, I often found myself in a predicament: the sheer height of my vehicle. Getting in and out, especially for shorter passengers or when carrying gear, was becoming a genuine hassle. This wasn’t just a minor inconvenience; it posed a safety concern and made accessing the cabin less comfortable. I knew I needed a reliable solution to improve accessibility, and had I discovered the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards Compatible with 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab earlier, it would have significantly alleviated these challenges, preventing unnecessary strain and enhancing my truck’s utility.
Essential Considerations Before Acquiring Truck Side Steps
Truck running boards, often referred to as nerf bars or side steps, primarily solve the common problem of difficult vehicle entry and exit for taller trucks. They provide a stable, intermediary step, making it far easier for drivers, passengers, and particularly children or elderly individuals to get in and out comfortably and safely. Furthermore, they offer a degree of side protection against road debris and can even assist with roof access for cleaning or loading cargo.
The ideal customer for running boards is an owner of a high-clearance truck, especially those who frequently transport passengers of varying heights, or those who utilize their truck’s roof for storage. If you own a 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab (New Body Style), these accessories are a practical and aesthetic upgrade. However, if your vehicle is a 2019-2024 Ram 1500 Classic, or if you primarily drive off-road where ground clearance is paramount and side steps could get snagged, this specific product may not be for you. Off-road enthusiasts might prefer rock sliders or alternative protection that prioritizes maximum ground clearance.
Before making a purchase, prospective buyers should consider several factors:
* Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure the running boards are a precise fit for your truck’s make, model, year, and cab style.
* Material and Durability: Look for materials that offer strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity, especially given exposure to elements.
* Weight Capacity: Verify the step’s ability to safely support the weight of users.
* Installation Ease: Consider if you prefer a bolt-on solution without drilling, or if you’re comfortable with more complex modifications.
* Step Surface: A non-slip surface is crucial for safety in all weather conditions.
* Aesthetics: Choose a design and finish that complements your truck’s overall look.
Unveiling the AUTOSAVER88 6-inch Running Boards
The AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards are robust, black-finished side steps designed to enhance the accessibility and aesthetic of compatible Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab trucks. These running boards promise a blend of sturdy functionality and sleek appearance, providing a secure stepping platform for effortless entry and exit. When you purchase this product, the package includes two running boards, six robust brackets, all necessary hardware, and comprehensive detailed installation instructions, ensuring a complete setup right out of the box.
Compared to some OEM running boards or higher-priced aftermarket alternatives, these Ram Nerf Bars offer a highly competitive value without compromising on key features like material quality and weight capacity. While previous versions or generic steps might have offered less durable finishes or more complex installations, these are a clear step up, focusing on user convenience and lasting performance.
These specific running boards are tailor-made for owners of the 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab with four full-size doors. They are an excellent fit for families, individuals who frequently have passengers, or anyone who finds their truck’s height a challenge. They are specifically *not* for the 2019-2024 Ram 1500 Classic models, nor are they ideal for off-road enthusiasts who might frequently scrape the underside of their vehicle.
Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
* Exceptional Fitment: Designed specifically for 2019-2025 Ram 1500 Crew Cab (New Body Style), ensuring perfect alignment.
* Effortless Installation: Bolt-on design requires no drilling, allowing for quick and straightforward setup.
* Superior Durability: Constructed from anti-corrosion aluminum with a rust-resistant black powder coating, built to last.
* High Weight Capacity: Supports up to 450 pounds, providing a secure step for various users.
* Enhanced Safety: Features a 6-inch wide non-slip injection step pad, crucial for stability in all conditions.
* Improved Accessibility: Makes getting in and out of the tall truck significantly easier for everyone.
Cons:
* Bolt Color Inconsistency: Some users reported receiving silver nuts and bolts that don’t match the black finish, requiring extra effort to paint them.
* Potential for Rattling: A few users experienced a slight rattling sound when stepping on the boards, despite proper installation.
* Not for Classic Models: Strictly incompatible with 2019-2024 Ram 1500 Classic models, which might confuse some buyers.
In-Depth Look at Performance and Advantages
Having used these AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards for a considerable period, I can confidently share insights into their real-world performance and the tangible benefits they provide. Each feature contributes significantly to both the utility and the user experience, truly addressing the core problems of truck accessibility and protection.
Robust Construction and Material Quality
The first thing you notice about these AUTOSAVER88 running boards is their solid build. Made from top-grade anti-corrosion aluminum, they feel remarkably sturdy and durable. The exterior finish, a rust-resistant black powder coating, not only looks sleek but also provides an essential layer of protection against the elements. Living in an area with varied weather, I’ve seen countless vehicle accessories succumb to rust and wear, but these boards have held up exceptionally well. The one-piece design further reinforces their structural integrity, minimizing weak points and ensuring great performance for years to come. This robust construction means they don’t flex or creak under weight, providing a confidence-inspiring platform. The benefit here is clear: longevity and consistent performance, saving you from premature replacements and maintaining your truck’s appearance. It directly solves the problem of unreliable or short-lived aftermarket steps, giving you peace of mind that your investment will last.
Effortless Installation Experience
One of the standout features of these Ram Nerf Bars is the incredibly easy bolt-on installation. There is absolutely no drilling required, which is a massive relief for anyone who prefers a straightforward DIY project. All factory holes on the Ram 1500 New Body Style Crew Cab perfectly align with the mounting brackets. The instructions provided are detailed and easy to follow, making the process smooth. I was genuinely surprised at how quickly I could install them – it took me less than an hour working solo, though having a torque wrench is highly recommended for proper tightening. This ease of installation is a huge benefit, saving significant time and money that would otherwise be spent on professional installation. It empowers truck owners to upgrade their vehicles without specialized tools or advanced mechanical skills, removing a common barrier to enhancing truck accessibility.
Secure and Spacious Stepping Surface
The 6-inch wide non-slip injection step pad is a critical safety feature that truly shines. The generous width provides ample space for comfortable foot placement, reducing the risk of slips, especially in wet or muddy conditions. The injection-molded pad offers excellent grip, making stepping in and out feel secure and stable, even when wearing work boots or slippery shoes. With a robust weight limit of 450 pounds (200 kg), these side steps accommodate a wide range of users, from children to adults, with complete confidence. This feature directly addresses the core problem of difficult access, making entry and exit a breeze for everyone, including my shorter family members or when I’m carrying cumbersome items. It turns a precarious climb into a simple step.
Vehicle Specific Fitment and Design Integration
The precise vehicle-specific fitment for the 2019-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab New Body Style is crucial. This is not a universal step; it’s engineered to integrate seamlessly with the truck’s lines and existing mounting points. This precision fit means that the running boards don’t just function well, they also enhance the truck’s overall aesthetic. They complement the modern design of the Ram 1500, particularly those with blackout packages, as the black finish ties in beautifully. It’s important to note the exclusion of the 2019-2024 Ram 1500 Classic models – this specificity ensures optimal performance and appearance for the intended vehicle. The benefit here is twofold: perfect functionality and a factory-like, integrated look that boosts your truck’s curb appeal, rather than detracting from it with an ill-fitting aftermarket part.
Enhanced Vehicle Protection and Utility
Beyond simply providing a step, these AUTOSAVER88 running boards offer additional protective benefits. They extend out far enough to shield the lower side panels and door sills from road debris, splashes, and minor impacts, preventing scratches and dings that would otherwise affect the paintwork. For truck owners who venture onto dirt roads, this provides invaluable protection against kicked-up rocks and brush, which can otherwise leave the underside surprisingly exposed. Furthermore, these side steps grant convenient access to the truck’s roof, making tasks like cleaning the top, tying down cargo, or installing a luggage rack significantly easier and safer. This multi-faceted utility transforms the running boards from a simple accessibility aid into a protective and functional extension of your truck, solving both aesthetic preservation and practical access challenges.
Voices from the Road: User Experiences
After sifting through numerous online discussions and customer feedback, it’s clear that the AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards are widely praised. Many users expressed absolute delight with how these running boards enhanced the look of their Ram 1500, especially complementing blackout packages. A recurring theme was the surprising sturdiness and straightforward installation, with many managing to complete the setup solo in under two hours. Owners frequently highlighted how much easier these steps made truck access for shorter family members and children. Beyond convenience, the added protection against road debris was a significant plus for many. Despite minor issues like bolt color or occasional rattling reported by a few, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, citing great value for the price and solid build quality comparable to factory options.
Final Thoughts: Stepping Up Your Truck’s Utility
The challenge of comfortably entering and exiting a tall truck is a common one, and it’s a problem that needs a robust solution to prevent unnecessary strain, potential falls, and daily frustration. If left unaddressed, the inconvenience can detract significantly from the ownership experience of an otherwise capable vehicle.
The AUTOSAVER88 6 inches Running Boards stand out as an excellent solution for several compelling reasons. First, their durable aluminum construction and anti-corrosion finish ensure long-lasting performance and aesthetic appeal, even in harsh conditions. Second, the straightforward, no-drill installation means you can upgrade your truck quickly and easily without professional help. Finally, the wide, non-slip step pad and high weight capacity provide reliable and safe accessibility for everyone, from children to adults, making your truck more user-friendly. These running boards are a wise investment that combines practicality, protection, and style. For a hassle-free upgrade to your Ram 1500, Click here to check them out and experience the difference yourself.